Psychiatrists in 07860
My ideal client may be a child, teen, or adult navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or the challenges of chronic medical issues. They might be struggling with sleep, focus, or emotional regulation, seeking clarity, balance, and relief. Their goals are to feel understood, gain self-awareness, and build resilience. They want to improve relationships and daily functioning—not just to feel better, but to live more fully. With a personalized, compassionate approach, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space and thoughtful medication management to support each step toward meaningful, lasting change.
My ideal client may be a child, teen, or adult navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or the challenges of chronic medical issues. They might be struggling with sleep, focus, or emotional regulation, seeking clarity, balance, and relief. Their goals are to feel understood, gain self-awareness, and build resilience. They want to improve relationships and daily functioning—not just to feel better, but to live more fully. With a personalized, compassionate approach, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space and thoughtful medication management to support each step toward meaningful, lasting change.
Heart, Mind, Body LLC: Maria Manzano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP-
Newton, NJ 07860
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care that respects each individual’s unique background, culture, and experiences. I believe in building strong, trusting relationships with my clients and creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and understood.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care that respects each individual’s unique background, culture, and experiences. I believe in building strong, trusting relationships with my clients and creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and understood.
Jacqueline Hunterton-Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Newton, NJ 07860
During the many changes and challenges we face in life it is essential at times to seek help. This can be a tedious venture and finding the right provider can be complicated. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am able to not only provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications but also become a part of your support system. Using psychotherapy and medication management I can help you gain the tools needed to move past the hard times. As a team we will be able to assess what your needs are and what the best possible treatment plan and outcomes can be obtained.
During the many changes and challenges we face in life it is essential at times to seek help. This can be a tedious venture and finding the right provider can be complicated. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am able to not only provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications but also become a part of your support system. Using psychotherapy and medication management I can help you gain the tools needed to move past the hard times. As a team we will be able to assess what your needs are and what the best possible treatment plan and outcomes can be obtained.
Before becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I began my career as a registered nurse at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where I spent four years caring for patients with complex medical needs.
In combination with my depth of clinical experience, I bring a personal understanding to my work. Navigating my own mental health challenges has sharpened my attunement to and empathy for the patients I serve. I strive to use what I have learned both professionally and personally to tailor my care in a way that suits each patient and addresses their unique needs.
Before becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I began my career as a registered nurse at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where I spent four years caring for patients with complex medical needs.
In combination with my depth of clinical experience, I bring a personal understanding to my work. Navigating my own mental health challenges has sharpened my attunement to and empathy for the patients I serve. I strive to use what I have learned both professionally and personally to tailor my care in a way that suits each patient and addresses their unique 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.
I have significant experience working with individuals struggling with substance use disorders, including detoxification and early recovery. I understand the complexity of addiction and the close connection between substance use and underlying mental health conditions. My approach emphasizes both safety and long-term stability, integrating evidence-based medication management with supportive, patient-centered care.
I have significant experience working with individuals struggling with substance use disorders, including detoxification and early recovery. I understand the complexity of addiction and the close connection between substance use and underlying mental health conditions. My approach emphasizes both safety and long-term stability, integrating evidence-based medication management with supportive, patient-centered care.
Heart-Mind-Body LLC, D. Leigh Geffken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC, NE-BC
Newton, NJ 07860
I take a holistic approach to mental and emotional wellbeing, integrating traditional psychiatric care with alternative and energy-based therapies. My guiding question is: What disrupts your connection with yourself and the world around you?
I take a holistic approach to mental and emotional wellbeing, integrating traditional psychiatric care with alternative and energy-based therapies. My guiding question is: What disrupts your connection with yourself and the world around you?
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.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 11 years of psychiatric inpatient nursing experience caring for individuals from diverse backgrounds and across the lifespan. My work has included supporting clients with a wide range of mental health conditions in acute and complex settings. I value building genuine, trusting relationships and believe that feeling heard and understood is the foundation of effective mental health care. I strive to provide culturally sensitive, compassionate, and respectful care in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 11 years of psychiatric inpatient nursing experience caring for individuals from diverse backgrounds and across the lifespan. My work has included supporting clients with a wide range of mental health conditions in acute and complex settings. I value building genuine, trusting relationships and believe that feeling heard and understood is the foundation of effective mental health care. I strive to provide culturally sensitive, compassionate, and respectful care in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.
Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.
At InSite Health, I understand that reaching out for support can feel like a significant first step, and I offer personalized care that respects your individuality and unique circumstances. With a variety of therapeutic techniques—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and more—I tailor our sessions to meet your needs and provide the support that fosters meaningful change.
At InSite Health, I understand that reaching out for support can feel like a significant first step, and I offer personalized care that respects your individuality and unique circumstances. With a variety of therapeutic techniques—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and more—I tailor our sessions to meet your needs and provide the support that fosters meaningful change.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or unsure where to begin, but is open to support and healing. They may be dealing with anxiety, depression, mood changes, ADHD, trauma-related stress, or significant life transitions. I work with those who want a provider that truly listens and collaborates with them to create a personalized plan that fits their life. Clients looking for compassionate, collaborative care in a space where they feel safe, respected, & free from judgment. Many have been carrying a heavy load on their own for a long time, balancing family, work, school, or personal challenges.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or unsure where to begin, but is open to support and healing. They may be dealing with anxiety, depression, mood changes, ADHD, trauma-related stress, or significant life transitions. I work with those who want a provider that truly listens and collaborates with them to create a personalized plan that fits their life. Clients looking for compassionate, collaborative care in a space where they feel safe, respected, & free from judgment. Many have been carrying a heavy load on their own for a long time, balancing family, work, school, or personal challenges.
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.
My clients should know that I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who values compassion, respect, and collaboration. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported. I recognize that each person’s experiences, strengths, and challenges are unique, and I honor the courage it takes to seek mental health care. My goal is to build a trusting therapeutic relationship and to meet clients where they are in their journey.
My clients should know that I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who values compassion, respect, and collaboration. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported. I recognize that each person’s experiences, strengths, and challenges are unique, and I honor the courage it takes to seek mental health care. My goal is to build a trusting therapeutic relationship and to meet clients where they are in their journey.
Welcome to my practice!
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with decades of experience in the psychiatric field, I specialize in psychopharmacology & provide supportive psychotherapy for a variety of mental health conditions at request. I work with the patient to develop an individualized, evidence-based care plan that prioritizes their goals.
I strive to provide a safe, empathetic, & non-judgmental space to help those struggling. If you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out. My goal is to assist in facilitating overall wellness & quality of life by utilizing psychotropic medication with a holistic approach.
Welcome to my practice!
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with decades of experience in the psychiatric field, I specialize in psychopharmacology & provide supportive psychotherapy for a variety of mental health conditions at request. I work with the patient to develop an individualized, evidence-based care plan that prioritizes their goals.
I strive to provide a safe, empathetic, & non-judgmental space to help those struggling. If you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out. My goal is to assist in facilitating overall wellness & quality of life by utilizing psychotropic medication with a holistic approach.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
At Bright Path Mental Health, our mission is to empower individuals through empathic and compassionate care. Mental health services offered include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy for children, teens, and adults. My approach is centered on understanding your unique story and tailoring treatment to meet your specific needs. I work with individuals who are ready to take the first step towards improving their mental health. Whether you’re looking to manage a specific mental health condition or navigate a challenging life event, I’m here to guide and support you through every step of the process.
At Bright Path Mental Health, our mission is to empower individuals through empathic and compassionate care. Mental health services offered include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy for children, teens, and adults. My approach is centered on understanding your unique story and tailoring treatment to meet your specific needs. I work with individuals who are ready to take the first step towards improving their mental health. Whether you’re looking to manage a specific mental health condition or navigate a challenging life event, I’m here to guide and support you through every step of the process.
As a board-certified psychiatric provider, I specialize in working with adults navigating mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. My approach blends evidence-based care with deep empathy, ensuring each client feels heard, supported, and empowered throughout their treatment journey.
As a board-certified psychiatric provider, I specialize in working with adults navigating mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. My approach blends evidence-based care with deep empathy, ensuring each client feels heard, supported, and empowered throughout their treatment journey.
Maryanna Vrettos Domenic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CSN-NJ
1 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930
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.
Dr. Seth Dorsky is a Harvard trained child and adolescent psychiatrist. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Boston Children's Hospital where he held 2 academic appointments: one as a clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School and one as fellow in child and adolescent psychiatry at Boston Children's Hospital. Dr. Dorsky received his undergraduate degree from Brown University, attended medical school at the University of Vermont, and completed his adult psychiatry residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Dr. Dorsky is dual board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry.
Dr. Seth Dorsky is a Harvard trained child and adolescent psychiatrist. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Boston Children's Hospital where he held 2 academic appointments: one as a clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School and one as fellow in child and adolescent psychiatry at Boston Children's Hospital. Dr. Dorsky received his undergraduate degree from Brown University, attended medical school at the University of Vermont, and completed his adult psychiatry residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Dr. Dorsky is dual board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry.
I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan who struggle with the stigma surrounding their mental health diagnoses. Many face the emotional burden of misunderstanding and judgment, and my goal is to empower clients with effective coping strategies that support functioning at their highest level in daily life. I strive to reduce the impact of stigma, build resilience, and promote overall well-being by recognizing mental health as an essential component of holistic health.
I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan who struggle with the stigma surrounding their mental health diagnoses. Many face the emotional burden of misunderstanding and judgment, and my goal is to empower clients with effective coping strategies that support functioning at their highest level in daily life. I strive to reduce the impact of stigma, build resilience, and promote overall well-being by recognizing mental health as an essential component of holistic health.
See more therapy options for 07860
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 07860
10+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in 07860 who prioritize treating:
| 93% | Depression |
| 80% | ADHD |
| 73% | Anxiety |
| 73% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 67% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 60% | Medication Management |
| 47% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 93% | Aetna |
| 93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 71% | Oxford |
How Psychiatrists in 07860 see their clients
| 87% | In Person and Online | |
| 13% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 92% | Female | |
| 8% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 07860?
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.


