Psychiatrists in 07748

Photo of Theresa Millerschoen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APN, PMHNP
Theresa Millerschoen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APN, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, there. Thanks for stopping by! If you are looking for a compassionate, understanding, and empathic provider, you've landed at the right place. I am an NYU-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in anxiety, depressive disorders, ADHD, Autism and developmental delays in children, adolescents, and young adults. Everyone's experience of life is unique and you or your child deserve an approach that is individualized and tailored to your unique needs. Together, we can create safety, connection, and a partnership to work through some of life's struggles.
Hi, there. Thanks for stopping by! If you are looking for a compassionate, understanding, and empathic provider, you've landed at the right place. I am an NYU-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in anxiety, depressive disorders, ADHD, Autism and developmental delays in children, adolescents, and young adults. Everyone's experience of life is unique and you or your child deserve an approach that is individualized and tailored to your unique needs. Together, we can create safety, connection, and a partnership to work through some of life's struggles.
(848) 361-4623 View (848) 361-4623
Photo of Bhavin Gajera, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Bhavin Gajera
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Serves Area
I am a board certified Psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. After completing my medical school education, I achieved a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Arcadia University. I completed my adult psychiatry residency training at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. During my training at AEMC, I was awarded the prestigious national Distinguished Laughlin Fellow Merit Award for professional achievement and scholarship. I completed my Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the Mount Sinai Health system - St Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center in Manhattan where I also served as a Chief Fellow.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. After completing my medical school education, I achieved a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Arcadia University. I completed my adult psychiatry residency training at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. During my training at AEMC, I was awarded the prestigious national Distinguished Laughlin Fellow Merit Award for professional achievement and scholarship. I completed my Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the Mount Sinai Health system - St Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center in Manhattan where I also served as a Chief Fellow.
(201) 820-0888 View (201) 820-0888
Photo of Stephen Jaeger, Psychiatrist, MD
Stephen Jaeger
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Yale University trained psychiatrist, Dr. Stephen Jaeger’s philosophy on psychiatric care is grounded in his belief that every client is entitled to the highest quality personalized care. His unique approach focuses on individualized treatment plans. His mission is to optimize every aspect of your life and the individualized treatment plans are designed to do just that. Clients play an active role in tailoring their personalized treatment plan with Dr. Jaeger.
Yale University trained psychiatrist, Dr. Stephen Jaeger’s philosophy on psychiatric care is grounded in his belief that every client is entitled to the highest quality personalized care. His unique approach focuses on individualized treatment plans. His mission is to optimize every aspect of your life and the individualized treatment plans are designed to do just that. Clients play an active role in tailoring their personalized treatment plan with Dr. Jaeger.
(732) 592-5410 View (732) 592-5410
Photo of Alexandra Ruane, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Alexandra Ruane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
As someone who has experienced the impact of mental health, I understand how it affects your life. You may have tried therapy or medication with some relief, but the journey to finding what works best for you is deeply individual. I see our relationship as a partnership, where we can explore treatment options together. My goal is to help you make informed decisions that align with your needs and goals. By listening to your treatment aspirations, we can create a path that best supports your success and well-being.
As someone who has experienced the impact of mental health, I understand how it affects your life. You may have tried therapy or medication with some relief, but the journey to finding what works best for you is deeply individual. I see our relationship as a partnership, where we can explore treatment options together. My goal is to help you make informed decisions that align with your needs and goals. By listening to your treatment aspirations, we can create a path that best supports your success and well-being.
(848) 375-1419 View (848) 375-1419
Photo of Maggie Vasto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Maggie Vasto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Having over 10 years of experience helping others on their journey to mental health wellness, Rx ReLeaf is committed to guiding you through YOUR journey to life’s fulfillment. Mental health doesn’t have to be a topic to shy away from. With the comfort of easy conversation, we can discuss what steps you take towards feeling your best self.
Having over 10 years of experience helping others on their journey to mental health wellness, Rx ReLeaf is committed to guiding you through YOUR journey to life’s fulfillment. Mental health doesn’t have to be a topic to shy away from. With the comfort of easy conversation, we can discuss what steps you take towards feeling your best self.
(732) 355-3986 View (732) 355-3986
Photo of Abir Marcus, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Abir Marcus
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Marcus and colleagues offer a comprehensive treatment addressing the whole person inside and outside. We combine the use of medications, bio identical hormones, nutritional supplements together with individual and family counseling. We will work with you in developing a treatment plan that best suits your needs and life style. Dr. Marcus is board certified in psychiatry, addiction psychiatry and addiction medicine. Our therapists are specialized in CBT, Mindfulness and Psychodynamic therapies. We accept Blue Cross, Aetna, United, Oxford and Tricare Insurances.
Dr. Marcus and colleagues offer a comprehensive treatment addressing the whole person inside and outside. We combine the use of medications, bio identical hormones, nutritional supplements together with individual and family counseling. We will work with you in developing a treatment plan that best suits your needs and life style. Dr. Marcus is board certified in psychiatry, addiction psychiatry and addiction medicine. Our therapists are specialized in CBT, Mindfulness and Psychodynamic therapies. We accept Blue Cross, Aetna, United, Oxford and Tricare Insurances.
(732) 410-6537 View (732) 410-6537
Photo of Shannon Parks - The Parks Center for Women's Wellness & Medicine, Psychiatrist, DO
The Parks Center for Women’s Wellness and Medicine treats women of all ages 18 years and older. We treat a broad range of mental heath issues including anxiety, depression, and bipolar illness in all phases of life. This includes, but is not limited too, comprehensive treatment of mood disorders during the reproductive years including mood disorders during the premenstrual period, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. www.theparkscenter.com
The Parks Center for Women’s Wellness and Medicine treats women of all ages 18 years and older. We treat a broad range of mental heath issues including anxiety, depression, and bipolar illness in all phases of life. This includes, but is not limited too, comprehensive treatment of mood disorders during the reproductive years including mood disorders during the premenstrual period, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. www.theparkscenter.com
(732) 945-8942 View (732) 945-8942
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
(732) 675-0011 View (732) 675-0011
Photo of Alexander Iofin, Psychiatrist, MD
Alexander Iofin
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Feeling unfocused, anxious, or disorganized? I am dedicated to providing quality psychiatric care so that you can achieve the life you have always wanted. I specialize in Adult ADHD, ADD, and Anxiety disorders. I look at the whole individual, not just your symptoms, to better understand underlying components that may be affecting your mental health. Many adults who suffer from ADHD don't know they have the condition. Currently, it’s thought that only 10.9% of adults with ADHD are getting the necessary treatment. Don't let Anxiety or ADHD keep you from living your best life.
Feeling unfocused, anxious, or disorganized? I am dedicated to providing quality psychiatric care so that you can achieve the life you have always wanted. I specialize in Adult ADHD, ADD, and Anxiety disorders. I look at the whole individual, not just your symptoms, to better understand underlying components that may be affecting your mental health. Many adults who suffer from ADHD don't know they have the condition. Currently, it’s thought that only 10.9% of adults with ADHD are getting the necessary treatment. Don't let Anxiety or ADHD keep you from living your best life.
(848) 281-3842 View (848) 281-3842
Photo of Colleen A Ryan, Psychiatrist, MD
Colleen A Ryan
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am offering in-person psychiatric care for adults seeking help from a psychiatrist skilled in medication management. I will provide an initial medical-psychiatric 90 minute evaluation during which we will discuss my assessment, and mutually agree upon the next steps. My recommended treatment course will likely include, but is not limited to, supportive type therapy and medication management follow-up appointments. The frequency and duration of our visits will vary depending on your needs.
I am offering in-person psychiatric care for adults seeking help from a psychiatrist skilled in medication management. I will provide an initial medical-psychiatric 90 minute evaluation during which we will discuss my assessment, and mutually agree upon the next steps. My recommended treatment course will likely include, but is not limited to, supportive type therapy and medication management follow-up appointments. The frequency and duration of our visits will vary depending on your needs.
(732) 629-9810 View (732) 629-9810
Photo of Sajid Baig, Psychiatrist, MD
Sajid Baig
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy for the general adult population. After finishing medical school, I completed my Psychiatric residency in 2016 at Howard University in Washington, DC where I served as chief resident in my senior year. Since then, I have worked in a variety of different settings including inpatient, outpatient, community center and forensics.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy for the general adult population. After finishing medical school, I completed my Psychiatric residency in 2016 at Howard University in Washington, DC where I served as chief resident in my senior year. Since then, I have worked in a variety of different settings including inpatient, outpatient, community center and forensics.
(201) 817-6230 View (201) 817-6230
Photo of Dr. Deepti Varma, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Deepti Varma
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have been in practice for over 10 years and specialize in medication treatments for ADHD, Oppositional defiant disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, Autism spectrum disorder and tic disorders. I pursue a working alliance with families, schools, therapists, and pediatricians, including the review of prior assessments, as the basis of the treatment plan. My approach is to start with a thorough diagnosis and formulate a plan that includes medications, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, sleep hygiene, lab work and other lifestyle modifications to provide an individual treatment plan for each of my patients.
I have been in practice for over 10 years and specialize in medication treatments for ADHD, Oppositional defiant disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, Autism spectrum disorder and tic disorders. I pursue a working alliance with families, schools, therapists, and pediatricians, including the review of prior assessments, as the basis of the treatment plan. My approach is to start with a thorough diagnosis and formulate a plan that includes medications, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, sleep hygiene, lab work and other lifestyle modifications to provide an individual treatment plan for each of my patients.
(732) 561-5282 View (732) 561-5282
Photo of Christian Meriscar - Dr. Christian M -All Inclusive, LGBTQ+, Med Mgmt, Psychiatrist
Dr. Christian M -All Inclusive, LGBTQ+, Med Mgmt
Psychiatrist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My practice helps motivated clients handle life’s challenges by strategizing with them to gain the tools to lead successful and healthy lives. I aim to identify your concerns, work through these obstacles together, and achieve solutions to support the best version of yourself. We will work together to help you understand how the biological (prescribed medications, where appropriate), psychological (psychotherapy, person-centered, and empowering approach), and lifestyles impact your well-being.
My practice helps motivated clients handle life’s challenges by strategizing with them to gain the tools to lead successful and healthy lives. I aim to identify your concerns, work through these obstacles together, and achieve solutions to support the best version of yourself. We will work together to help you understand how the biological (prescribed medications, where appropriate), psychological (psychotherapy, person-centered, and empowering approach), and lifestyles impact your well-being.
(732) 561-5844 View (732) 561-5844
Photo of Nirmal Sathaye, Psychiatrist, MD
Nirmal Sathaye
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist with additional certification in Geriatrics. I have 20 plus years of experience treating patients in an outpatient setting. I provide diagnostic evaluation and medication monitoring for adults. I treat patients with different symptoms including anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolarity and attentional issues. I believe in a collaborative and team approach to treatment. I like to understand the patient’s goals and needs and formulate a personalized treatment plan. I provide telepsychiatry to all my patients. “
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist with additional certification in Geriatrics. I have 20 plus years of experience treating patients in an outpatient setting. I provide diagnostic evaluation and medication monitoring for adults. I treat patients with different symptoms including anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolarity and attentional issues. I believe in a collaborative and team approach to treatment. I like to understand the patient’s goals and needs and formulate a personalized treatment plan. I provide telepsychiatry to all my patients. “
(908) 883-3879 View (908) 883-3879
Photo of Abby Otufale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Abby Otufale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am a dedicated Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 2 years of experience. I have a strong focus on providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and postpartum challenges. My ideal clients seek holistic, personalized treatment beyond medication, empowering them to achieve mental wellness, stability, and a higher quality of life. I am committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and equipped to navigate their mental health journey with confidence.
I am a dedicated Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 2 years of experience. I have a strong focus on providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and postpartum challenges. My ideal clients seek holistic, personalized treatment beyond medication, empowering them to achieve mental wellness, stability, and a higher quality of life. I am committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and equipped to navigate their mental health journey with confidence.
(848) 353-1643 View (848) 353-1643
Photo of Neha Naqvi, Psychiatrist, MD
Neha Naqvi
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
With empathy, patience, and an approachable style, Dr. Naqvi provides comprehensive mental health services to children, adults, and their families. Through the use of therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, she strives to help you reach your full wellness potential. She is a board-certified psychiatrist with training in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. While medical expertise forms the foundation of her treatment, her warmth, and sense of compassion are often cited by patients, families, and professionals as key motivating factors for success
With empathy, patience, and an approachable style, Dr. Naqvi provides comprehensive mental health services to children, adults, and their families. Through the use of therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, she strives to help you reach your full wellness potential. She is a board-certified psychiatrist with training in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. While medical expertise forms the foundation of her treatment, her warmth, and sense of compassion are often cited by patients, families, and professionals as key motivating factors for success
(732) 392-7421 View (732) 392-7421
Photo of Deepti Varma - Coastal Psychiatry, Psychiatrist
Coastal Psychiatry
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
Is your child or teen feeling overwhelmed or anxious? I believe in a holistic approach to mental health and committed to understanding the root causes of symptoms and providing personalized treatment plans to promote healing and long-term wellness. My mission is to empower individuals to achieve their optimal mental health and wellness through compassionate care, evidence-based treatments and a comprehensive understanding of the mind-body connection. My evaluations aim to understand each individual's unique needs, including medical history, lifestyle factors, and genetic predispositions.
Is your child or teen feeling overwhelmed or anxious? I believe in a holistic approach to mental health and committed to understanding the root causes of symptoms and providing personalized treatment plans to promote healing and long-term wellness. My mission is to empower individuals to achieve their optimal mental health and wellness through compassionate care, evidence-based treatments and a comprehensive understanding of the mind-body connection. My evaluations aim to understand each individual's unique needs, including medical history, lifestyle factors, and genetic predispositions.
(848) 301-2104 View (848) 301-2104

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Stephanie Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stephanie Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Ms. Stephanie Wilson is a highly qualified and accomplished Board-Certified Advance Practice Registered Nurse specializing in psychiatry. With expertise in diagnosing, treating, and prescribing medication for individuals across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, and adults, Ms. Wilson possesses a comprehensive understanding of various mental health conditions. Some of her areas of specialization encompass Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and Insomnia, among others. Stephanie demonstrates unwavering dedication in delivering exceptional mental health services, prioritizing quality, compassion, and comprehensive care.
Ms. Stephanie Wilson is a highly qualified and accomplished Board-Certified Advance Practice Registered Nurse specializing in psychiatry. With expertise in diagnosing, treating, and prescribing medication for individuals across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, and adults, Ms. Wilson possesses a comprehensive understanding of various mental health conditions. Some of her areas of specialization encompass Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and Insomnia, among others. Stephanie demonstrates unwavering dedication in delivering exceptional mental health services, prioritizing quality, compassion, and comprehensive care.
(848) 220-1621 View (848) 220-1621
Photo of Shandel Douglas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, PMHNP
Shandel Douglas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, PMHNP
Princeton, NJ 08540
Hi, I’m a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience as an NP and more than 13 years in nursing. I’m board-certified in both Adult-Gerontology Primary Care and Psychiatric-Mental Health, which allows me to take a well-rounded, integrative approach to care—supporting both your physical and emotional well-being. What drives me most is compassion and the belief that mental and physical health are deeply connected. That’s why I pursued advanced training in psychiatry—to help bridge that gap and offer truly holistic care.
Hi, I’m a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience as an NP and more than 13 years in nursing. I’m board-certified in both Adult-Gerontology Primary Care and Psychiatric-Mental Health, which allows me to take a well-rounded, integrative approach to care—supporting both your physical and emotional well-being. What drives me most is compassion and the belief that mental and physical health are deeply connected. That’s why I pursued advanced training in psychiatry—to help bridge that gap and offer truly holistic care.
(609) 631-3044 View (609) 631-3044
Photo of Cristina Lanzillotta, Psychiatrist, MD
Cristina Lanzillotta
Psychiatrist, MD
Hoboken, NJ 07030
Not accepting new clients
As a UPenn-trained psychiatrist, I work with you to craft a personalized treatment strategy, which may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. My commitment is to establish a lasting, trusted partnership with you aimed at enriching your overall well-being. Together, we collaborate to create a plan tailored to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
As a UPenn-trained psychiatrist, I work with you to craft a personalized treatment strategy, which may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. My commitment is to establish a lasting, trusted partnership with you aimed at enriching your overall well-being. Together, we collaborate to create a plan tailored to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
(484) 372-4599 View (484) 372-4599

See more therapy options for 07748

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07748

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 07748 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
94% Anxiety
82% ADHD
82% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
82% Medication Management
71% Trauma and PTSD
65% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth
56% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 07748 see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07748?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.