Psychiatrists in 07840
More people are struggling to keep up with their mental health now more than in the past. The reasons are not far-fetched. Anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and increase illicit substance use have increased on a larger scale. People want to live well; approach their daily chores/activities without anxiety, depression or mood instability. A lot of us go through mild anxiety and depression and we can still function. But when we can no longer enjoy the activities we are use to, then we need to seek help.
More people are struggling to keep up with their mental health now more than in the past. The reasons are not far-fetched. Anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and increase illicit substance use have increased on a larger scale. People want to live well; approach their daily chores/activities without anxiety, depression or mood instability. A lot of us go through mild anxiety and depression and we can still function. But when we can no longer enjoy the activities we are use to, then we need to seek help.
You or your loved one may be struggling with anxiety that feels overwhelming, depression that won't lift, ADHD that's affecting school or work, or mood swings that disrupt daily life. Perhaps you're a parent worried about your child's emotional well-being, a teen feeling misunderstood, or an adult finally ready to prioritize your mental health. You're looking for a provider who truly listens, doesn't rush appointments, and treats you as a whole person-not just a diagnosis.
You or your loved one may be struggling with anxiety that feels overwhelming, depression that won't lift, ADHD that's affecting school or work, or mood swings that disrupt daily life. Perhaps you're a parent worried about your child's emotional well-being, a teen feeling misunderstood, or an adult finally ready to prioritize your mental health. You're looking for a provider who truly listens, doesn't rush appointments, and treats you as a whole person-not just a diagnosis.
Dr. Peter W Longa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Hackettstown, NJ 07840
My name is Dr. Longa. I provide in-person or telehealth management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum, and other mental/behavioral health challenges ranging from self-image, self-esteem/self-worth, accomplishment/career worries, drug/alcohol addictions, relationship conflicts, and stress in life. These are most often intertwined with a lot of mental illnesses. Please schedule your initial consultation through headway.co and go to the patient portal to set up your account and book an appointment.
My name is Dr. Longa. I provide in-person or telehealth management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum, and other mental/behavioral health challenges ranging from self-image, self-esteem/self-worth, accomplishment/career worries, drug/alcohol addictions, relationship conflicts, and stress in life. These are most often intertwined with a lot of mental illnesses. Please schedule your initial consultation through headway.co and go to the patient portal to set up your account and book an appointment.
I, along with everyone at Center for Assessment and Treatment, hope to help those who are among the most in need, regardless of income, background, or past history.
I, along with everyone at Center for Assessment and Treatment, hope to help those who are among the most in need, regardless of income, background, or past history.
Dr. Lynn Alison Bornfriend is an experienced Psychiatrist in Trenton, NJ, specializing in anxiety disorders and mood-related conditions across the lifespan. With over 30 years of experience, she provides individualized psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD-related conditions, trauma-related disorders, autism spectrum disorder, and complex developmental or family-related concerns. Her care includes careful evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy tailored to each patient’s needs.
Dr. Lynn Alison Bornfriend is an experienced Psychiatrist in Trenton, NJ, specializing in anxiety disorders and mood-related conditions across the lifespan. With over 30 years of experience, she provides individualized psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD-related conditions, trauma-related disorders, autism spectrum disorder, and complex developmental or family-related concerns. Her care includes careful evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy tailored to each patient’s needs.
As a board-certified provider in both Internal Medicine and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing, I’m deeply committed to compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers individuals on their mental health journey. I earned my BSN from William Paterson, MSN from Walden University, and Post-Master’s from Wilkes University.
With a strong clinical foundation and a holistic approach, I strives to reduce stigma, promote resilience, and deliver personalized treatment that fosters healing and long-term well-being. My mission is to be a trusted ally for all patient supporting their mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing.
As a board-certified provider in both Internal Medicine and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing, I’m deeply committed to compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers individuals on their mental health journey. I earned my BSN from William Paterson, MSN from Walden University, and Post-Master’s from Wilkes University.
With a strong clinical foundation and a holistic approach, I strives to reduce stigma, promote resilience, and deliver personalized treatment that fosters healing and long-term well-being. My mission is to be a trusted ally for all patient supporting their mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated by just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls? Do you hope that life could be better? Now more than ever all people are feeling uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated by just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls? Do you hope that life could be better? Now more than ever all people are feeling uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life.
I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner committed to empowering individuals of all ages to achieve mental wellness. When crafting personalized treatment plans, I emphasize open communication and collaborative decision-making to foster patients' overall well-being and resilience in addressing mental health concerns. I value collaboration & teamwork in my practice, actively involving patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams. I strive to provide holistic care by incorporating non-pharmacological interventions with traditional treatments, thereby promoting comprehensive mental wellness.
I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner committed to empowering individuals of all ages to achieve mental wellness. When crafting personalized treatment plans, I emphasize open communication and collaborative decision-making to foster patients' overall well-being and resilience in addressing mental health concerns. I value collaboration & teamwork in my practice, actively involving patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams. I strive to provide holistic care by incorporating non-pharmacological interventions with traditional treatments, thereby promoting comprehensive mental wellness.
Matthew Hylton is a licensed mental health professional in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, specializing in the treatment of anxiety and OCD. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, Matthew works collaboratively with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs. Drawing from evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), he helps clients manage symptoms, develop coping strategies, and improve overall well-being.
Matthew Hylton is a licensed mental health professional in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, specializing in the treatment of anxiety and OCD. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, Matthew works collaboratively with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs. Drawing from evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), he helps clients manage symptoms, develop coping strategies, and improve overall well-being.
At KaVaris Health and Wellness, we believe mental health is a crucial part of a person’s well-being and we are devoted to empowering our patients to achieve their optimal level of health and quality of life. We approach psychiatric treatments as a collaborative effort between the clinician and patient. We offer comprehensive psychological evaluations, diagnoses, and medication management. We utilize Evidence-based treatment modalities, which include supportive psychotherapy, complementary, holistic, and integrative treatment approach and healthy lifestyle recommendations. KaVaris Health & Wellness got you covered!
At KaVaris Health and Wellness, we believe mental health is a crucial part of a person’s well-being and we are devoted to empowering our patients to achieve their optimal level of health and quality of life. We approach psychiatric treatments as a collaborative effort between the clinician and patient. We offer comprehensive psychological evaluations, diagnoses, and medication management. We utilize Evidence-based treatment modalities, which include supportive psychotherapy, complementary, holistic, and integrative treatment approach and healthy lifestyle recommendations. KaVaris Health & Wellness got you covered!
Hello, my name is Sallie Lyndsy Jose. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized mental health care. My journey in healthcare has been shaped by years of clinical experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, where I have worked with people facing a wide range of emotional and psychiatric challenges.
Hello, my name is Sallie Lyndsy Jose. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized mental health care. My journey in healthcare has been shaped by years of clinical experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, where I have worked with people facing a wide range of emotional and psychiatric challenges.
Are you feeling anxious, unmotivated, overwhelmed, or just not like yourself? You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood swings, or past trauma — and you don’t have to manage it alone. I work with adults who are ready to feel better, think more clearly, and take control of their mental health with compassionate, evidence-based care.
I'm Calvin George, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management with supportive brief therapy in a calm, judgment-free space. My care is culturally sensitive and personalized — we’ll focus on what’s most important to you and go at your pace.
Are you feeling anxious, unmotivated, overwhelmed, or just not like yourself? You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood swings, or past trauma — and you don’t have to manage it alone. I work with adults who are ready to feel better, think more clearly, and take control of their mental health with compassionate, evidence-based care.
I'm Calvin George, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management with supportive brief therapy in a calm, judgment-free space. My care is culturally sensitive and personalized — we’ll focus on what’s most important to you and go at your pace.
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or ready for change but doesn’t know where to start. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, mood swings, or difficulty managing stress. Many of my clients have tried coping on their own but now realize they need extra support to feel like themselves again. They want to understand what’s happening in their mind and body, feel more in control of their emotions, and build healthy habits that support their overall well-being.
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or ready for change but doesn’t know where to start. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, mood swings, or difficulty managing stress. Many of my clients have tried coping on their own but now realize they need extra support to feel like themselves again. They want to understand what’s happening in their mind and body, feel more in control of their emotions, and build healthy habits that support their overall well-being.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
I'm a New Jersey, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I practice utilizing up-to-date evidence-based guidelines, clinical expertise, and professional experience. I diagnose, manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADD/ADHD, mild substance use disorders, and others.
I'm a New Jersey, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I practice utilizing up-to-date evidence-based guidelines, clinical expertise, and professional experience. I diagnose, manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADD/ADHD, mild substance use disorders, and others.
Doris Chukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN-C
3 Endorsed
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
Top Choice Medical Consult provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health services to a diverse client population. With over 10 years experience in psychiatric and mental health, my experience and educational background have prepared me in providing the required services for mental health needs. I utilize a comprehensive approach in formulating a patient's diagnosis and treatment plan. Our services includes providing detailed psychiatric evaluation, establishing appropriate diagnosis, working with the client in choosing individualized suitable treatment and therapy.
Top Choice Medical Consult provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health services to a diverse client population. With over 10 years experience in psychiatric and mental health, my experience and educational background have prepared me in providing the required services for mental health needs. I utilize a comprehensive approach in formulating a patient's diagnosis and treatment plan. Our services includes providing detailed psychiatric evaluation, establishing appropriate diagnosis, working with the client in choosing individualized suitable treatment and therapy.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed by challenges that seem to hold you back from achieving your goals—whether personal, professional, or relational? As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience I have seen how mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, OCD, personality difficulties and ADHD can disrupt life. My passion lies in helping adults regain clarity, balance, and a sense of purpose.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed by challenges that seem to hold you back from achieving your goals—whether personal, professional, or relational? As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience I have seen how mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, OCD, personality difficulties and ADHD can disrupt life. My passion lies in helping adults regain clarity, balance, and a sense of purpose.
Inner Healing Therapy Center Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Denville, NJ 07834
Now offering psychiatric medication services in addition to psychotherapy.
At Inner Healing, we’ve always been deeply committed to the emotional well-being of our clients and our community. Over time, we’ve noticed a growing need for more comprehensive, wraparound mental health care- care that not only supports emotional growth through therapy, but also addresses psychiatric needs when appropriate.
That’s why we’re so pleased to include psychiatric medication management with our highly skilled Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Maria Karmina Cartasano, PMHNP.
Now offering psychiatric medication services in addition to psychotherapy.
At Inner Healing, we’ve always been deeply committed to the emotional well-being of our clients and our community. Over time, we’ve noticed a growing need for more comprehensive, wraparound mental health care- care that not only supports emotional growth through therapy, but also addresses psychiatric needs when appropriate.
That’s why we’re so pleased to include psychiatric medication management with our highly skilled Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Maria Karmina Cartasano, PMHNP.
Many of us feel like we are struggling under the weight of anxiety, depression, trauma, or a sense of being different. It can feel overwhelming like we are disconnected from others or lost in a cycle of negative thoughts and feelings. You might want relief from persistent sadness or overwhelming stress, or perhaps you're seeking a way to understand yourself better and live more authentically. Whatever you're going through, you want to feel more grounded, more hopeful, and more in control of your mental health journey. As a neurodiverse provider, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, and PTSD.
Many of us feel like we are struggling under the weight of anxiety, depression, trauma, or a sense of being different. It can feel overwhelming like we are disconnected from others or lost in a cycle of negative thoughts and feelings. You might want relief from persistent sadness or overwhelming stress, or perhaps you're seeking a way to understand yourself better and live more authentically. Whatever you're going through, you want to feel more grounded, more hopeful, and more in control of your mental health journey. As a neurodiverse provider, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, and PTSD.
Dr. Shavar Chase, DNP, PMHNP-BC. I founded my practice to specialize in treating the family including children, adolescents, adults and older adults with or who believe they may have difficulty with Psychiatric and Mental Health challenges. I have practiced as a Registered Nurse in an array of specialties for over 34 years. I also have specialized in Psychiatric, Mental Health and Addictions treatment for the past 18 years. As a solution focused Psychiatric and Mental Health Advanced Nurse Practitioner, it's my goal to assist you in reducing symptoms that impact your ability to function at home, at work, at school or at play.
Dr. Shavar Chase, DNP, PMHNP-BC. I founded my practice to specialize in treating the family including children, adolescents, adults and older adults with or who believe they may have difficulty with Psychiatric and Mental Health challenges. I have practiced as a Registered Nurse in an array of specialties for over 34 years. I also have specialized in Psychiatric, Mental Health and Addictions treatment for the past 18 years. As a solution focused Psychiatric and Mental Health Advanced Nurse Practitioner, it's my goal to assist you in reducing symptoms that impact your ability to function at home, at work, at school or at play.
Advanced Behavioral Counseling of NNJ, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse, APNBC, CPCA
1 Endorsed
Newton, NJ 07860
To optimize your mental health, pharmacological medication may be necessary. In your first visit, we provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation to get a correct diagnosis. We know medications alone don't work well for mild-moderate depression or anxiety. I am also a trained herbalist and Aromatherapist. Numerous studies show that a combination of psychotropic medications (integrative medicine) and psychotherapy have synergistic effects - stronger than either alone. We have helped many of our clients who experience anxiety, mood and sleep disorders. We work as a team to optimize treatment.
To optimize your mental health, pharmacological medication may be necessary. In your first visit, we provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation to get a correct diagnosis. We know medications alone don't work well for mild-moderate depression or anxiety. I am also a trained herbalist and Aromatherapist. Numerous studies show that a combination of psychotropic medications (integrative medicine) and psychotherapy have synergistic effects - stronger than either alone. We have helped many of our clients who experience anxiety, mood and sleep disorders. We work as a team to optimize treatment.
See more therapy options for 07840
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 07840
10+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in 07840 who prioritize treating:
| 92% | Depression |
| 92% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 85% | ADHD |
| 85% | Anxiety |
| 85% | Medication Management |
| 69% | Psychosis |
| 69% | Behavioral Issues |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 100% | Aetna |
| 100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 82% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 07840 see their clients
| 62% | In Person and Online | |
| 38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 50% | Female | |
| 50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 07840?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.


