Psychiatrists in 07866

Photo of Obinna Anyanwu - Sunrise Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Sunrise Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Rockaway, NJ 07866
Obinna Anyanwu, MSN, APN, PMHNP-BC is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner and co-owner of Sunrise Behavioral Health Services LLC. With over seven years of experience in psychiatry, Obinna's approach to psychiatric care is deeply rooted in a holistic and client-centered philosophy, while maintaining evidenced based practices. His goal is to engage with each individual in a way that considers their overall well-being. By offering various treatment options and actively listening to concerns and preferences, he strives to build a partnership that respects the client's autonomy.
Obinna Anyanwu, MSN, APN, PMHNP-BC is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner and co-owner of Sunrise Behavioral Health Services LLC. With over seven years of experience in psychiatry, Obinna's approach to psychiatric care is deeply rooted in a holistic and client-centered philosophy, while maintaining evidenced based practices. His goal is to engage with each individual in a way that considers their overall well-being. By offering various treatment options and actively listening to concerns and preferences, he strives to build a partnership that respects the client's autonomy.
(862) 407-6017 View (862) 407-6017
Photo of Chioma E Agbo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Chioma E Agbo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Rockaway, NJ 07866
CEAN Mental Wellness Services LLC aims to address mental issues, promote self-care and awareness of all ages. Sometimes, the chains that prevent our freedom are more mental than physical. If you are diagnosed or experiencing any mental breakdown such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, dementia or mood disorder with psychotic features, we are here to help.
CEAN Mental Wellness Services LLC aims to address mental issues, promote self-care and awareness of all ages. Sometimes, the chains that prevent our freedom are more mental than physical. If you are diagnosed or experiencing any mental breakdown such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, dementia or mood disorder with psychotic features, we are here to help.
(973) 554-3814 View (973) 554-3814
Photo of Samuel Okechukwu - My Psych Provider., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
My Psych Provider.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Rockaway, NJ 07866
Dr. Samuel Okechukwu, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of My Psych Provider LLC. With over a decade of experience in acute care and psychiatry, he combines strong clinical skills with a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Dr. Okechukwu uses a personalized, evidence-based approach to deliver compassionate care, recognizing that every patient has a unique story. His goal is to enhance quality of life by providing comprehensive, high-quality mental health services.
Dr. Samuel Okechukwu, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of My Psych Provider LLC. With over a decade of experience in acute care and psychiatry, he combines strong clinical skills with a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Dr. Okechukwu uses a personalized, evidence-based approach to deliver compassionate care, recognizing that every patient has a unique story. His goal is to enhance quality of life by providing comprehensive, high-quality mental health services.
(201) 594-6782 View (201) 594-6782
Photo of Vaishali Desai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BA, PMHNP, PMHNPBC
Vaishali Desai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BA, PMHNP, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
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.
(862) 346-5841 View (862) 346-5841
Photo of Carla Fontange-Sanya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Carla Fontange-Sanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in the medical field. I am deeply passionate about helping individuals achieve mental well-being, emotional balance, and an improved quality of life. I currently practice at Sure Path Psychiatry in Union, NJ, where I provide compassionate, patient-centered mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. I offer personalized, evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and adults, addressing a wide range of mental health concerns with care and expertise.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in the medical field. I am deeply passionate about helping individuals achieve mental well-being, emotional balance, and an improved quality of life. I currently practice at Sure Path Psychiatry in Union, NJ, where I provide compassionate, patient-centered mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. I offer personalized, evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and adults, addressing a wide range of mental health concerns with care and expertise.
(973) 381-0797 View (973) 381-0797
Photo of Karmina Maria Cartasano - Inner Healing Therapy Center Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Inner Healing Therapy Center Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
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.
(862) 319-3100 View (862) 319-3100
Photo of Samuel Okechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Samuel Okechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Samuel Okechukwu, and I am a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare to individuals across the lifespan. My approach is collaborative and patient-centered, focusing on empowering patients to achieve their mental health goals through both psychotherapy and medication management when needed.
My name is Samuel Okechukwu, and I am a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare to individuals across the lifespan. My approach is collaborative and patient-centered, focusing on empowering patients to achieve their mental health goals through both psychotherapy and medication management when needed.
(908) 570-5792 View (908) 570-5792

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Violina Frenkel, Psychiatrist, MD
Violina Frenkel
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Summit, NJ 07901
My treatment philosophy involves operating from a biopsychosocial framework to implement the most comprehensive treatment plan for each patient. I believe psychopharmacological interventions are an important part of a treatment plan, but are most efficacious in conjunction with other non-pharmacological interventions such as psychodynamic or cognitive behavioral psychotherapy as well as integrative medicine. My services include consultation, medication management and TMS. I work very closely with a number of therapists who I refer to if therapy is essential to your treatment.
My treatment philosophy involves operating from a biopsychosocial framework to implement the most comprehensive treatment plan for each patient. I believe psychopharmacological interventions are an important part of a treatment plan, but are most efficacious in conjunction with other non-pharmacological interventions such as psychodynamic or cognitive behavioral psychotherapy as well as integrative medicine. My services include consultation, medication management and TMS. I work very closely with a number of therapists who I refer to if therapy is essential to your treatment.
(908) 325-5292 View (908) 325-5292
Photo of Judith I Barley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Judith I Barley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
When you're struggling with your mental health, finding the right care can feel overwhelming. I'm here to offer a compassionate and expert hand to help you navigate your journey toward healing. With many years of experience in psychiatric mental health care, I've had the privilege of working with individuals across all age groups, guiding them toward a brighter future. I provide comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, OCD, and various panic and mood disorders.
When you're struggling with your mental health, finding the right care can feel overwhelming. I'm here to offer a compassionate and expert hand to help you navigate your journey toward healing. With many years of experience in psychiatric mental health care, I've had the privilege of working with individuals across all age groups, guiding them toward a brighter future. I provide comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, OCD, and various panic and mood disorders.
(862) 453-9459 View (862) 453-9459
Photo of Can Buyukasik, Psychiatrist, MD
Can Buyukasik
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a psychotherapist and a psychiatrist board-certified in both child-adolescent and adult specialties. My expertise lies in talk and play based psychoanalytic psychotherapies for adults, children of all ages, families and couples in addition to medication-based psychiatric treatment and cognitive models of psychotherapy. My approach is based on tailoring treatment based on your individual needs, strengths and vulnerabilities.
I am a psychotherapist and a psychiatrist board-certified in both child-adolescent and adult specialties. My expertise lies in talk and play based psychoanalytic psychotherapies for adults, children of all ages, families and couples in addition to medication-based psychiatric treatment and cognitive models of psychotherapy. My approach is based on tailoring treatment based on your individual needs, strengths and vulnerabilities.
(646) 963-2472 View (646) 963-2472
Photo of Ramandeep Kaur, Psychiatrist, MD
Ramandeep Kaur
Psychiatrist, MD
Linden, NJ 07036
Welcome to my practice. I am a dual board-certified Adult and Child- Adolescent Psychiatrist. I completed my General Psychiatry residency and Fellowship in Child- Adolescent Psychiatry from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, where I was appointed as chief fellow. I have been working as an attending psychiatrist with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care, in the school-based programs, where I provide full range of psychiatric services to youths (5-21) in out of district therapeutic schools. I also work with Robert Wood Johnson- Barnabas Health, covering psychiatric emergency room and consultation services.
Welcome to my practice. I am a dual board-certified Adult and Child- Adolescent Psychiatrist. I completed my General Psychiatry residency and Fellowship in Child- Adolescent Psychiatry from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, where I was appointed as chief fellow. I have been working as an attending psychiatrist with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care, in the school-based programs, where I provide full range of psychiatric services to youths (5-21) in out of district therapeutic schools. I also work with Robert Wood Johnson- Barnabas Health, covering psychiatric emergency room and consultation services.
(732) 334-3281 View (732) 334-3281
Photo of Dr. Yetunde Adeola, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Yetunde Adeola
Psychiatrist, MD
Millburn, NJ 07041
I’ve been a Psychiatrist for 17 years. I treat Psychiatric and Addiction Disorders. Psychiatric Disorders including ADHD, Bipolar, Depression, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, OCD, Eating Disorders, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Gender Identity issues, Depersonalization Disorder, Personality Disorders to mention a few. I used to be the Medical Director for Methadone Clinic, Residential and Outpatient Substance Abuse Rehab Treatment Program at a VA Facility in NJ. I have experience in Detox & Maintenance Therapy. I treat Teenagers and Adults with multiple Psychiatric Problems. I provide Medication Management and Psychotherapy.
I’ve been a Psychiatrist for 17 years. I treat Psychiatric and Addiction Disorders. Psychiatric Disorders including ADHD, Bipolar, Depression, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, OCD, Eating Disorders, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Gender Identity issues, Depersonalization Disorder, Personality Disorders to mention a few. I used to be the Medical Director for Methadone Clinic, Residential and Outpatient Substance Abuse Rehab Treatment Program at a VA Facility in NJ. I have experience in Detox & Maintenance Therapy. I treat Teenagers and Adults with multiple Psychiatric Problems. I provide Medication Management and Psychotherapy.
(862) 397-7359 View (862) 397-7359
Michael John Magera
Psychiatrist, MD
Hoboken, NJ 07030
My typical patient is a working professional, single or married, seeking a higher degree of career and relationship satisfaction. Often he or she is seeking assistance with how to navigate significant life transitions, for instance, marriage, parenthood, a job change or promotion, or issues related to loss and bereavement. I address the emotional growing pains associated with major life change and role transitions, and also help my patients formulate both effective coping strategies and goals for their future. My clients are motivated to better understand themselves so as to achieve a greater degree of fulfillment in important areas of their lives.
My typical patient is a working professional, single or married, seeking a higher degree of career and relationship satisfaction. Often he or she is seeking assistance with how to navigate significant life transitions, for instance, marriage, parenthood, a job change or promotion, or issues related to loss and bereavement. I address the emotional growing pains associated with major life change and role transitions, and also help my patients formulate both effective coping strategies and goals for their future. My clients are motivated to better understand themselves so as to achieve a greater degree of fulfillment in important areas of their lives.
(201) 713-2997 View (201) 713-2997
Photo of Folake Bello Akintunde, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Folake Bello Akintunde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Hamburg, NJ 07419
My ideal client willingly engages in therapy, desiring a nurturing space to express themselves. They crave practical strategies for emotional management, obstacle navigation, and overall well-being improvement. Their objective is to gain mental health empowerment, adeptly tackle challenges, and foster healthier habits. Ultimately, they aim for personal growth and a fulfilling life congruent with their values.
My ideal client willingly engages in therapy, desiring a nurturing space to express themselves. They crave practical strategies for emotional management, obstacle navigation, and overall well-being improvement. Their objective is to gain mental health empowerment, adeptly tackle challenges, and foster healthier habits. Ultimately, they aim for personal growth and a fulfilling life congruent with their values.
(973) 319-7157 View (973) 319-7157
Photo of Joyce Manu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Joyce Manu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07108
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to clients across their lifespan. My practice specializes in treating a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma-related conditions. I focus on empowering my clients to achieve emotional balance and an improved quality of life.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to clients across their lifespan. My practice specializes in treating a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma-related conditions. I focus on empowering my clients to achieve emotional balance and an improved quality of life.
(973) 370-9753 View (973) 370-9753
Kevin Obi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Jersey City, NJ 07306
We are navigating a different world. Sometimes we need a professional to help guide us along the way. Here to help Navigate your journey
We are navigating a different world. Sometimes we need a professional to help guide us along the way. Here to help Navigate your journey
(201) 801-4431 View (201) 801-4431
Photo of Himansh Saxena, Psychiatrist, MD, MHA
Himansh Saxena
Psychiatrist, MD, MHA
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Dr. Saxena is a licensed Psychiatrist in New Jersey and New York, specializing in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Saxena has worked in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, Veterans population, and emergency settings. Additionally, he also has an extensive experience on the academic front training both medical students and Psychiatry resident physicians in NY and NJ. He is trained in multiple therapy approaches such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), psychotherapy, medication management, or combination.
Dr. Saxena is a licensed Psychiatrist in New Jersey and New York, specializing in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Saxena has worked in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, Veterans population, and emergency settings. Additionally, he also has an extensive experience on the academic front training both medical students and Psychiatry resident physicians in NY and NJ. He is trained in multiple therapy approaches such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), psychotherapy, medication management, or combination.
(551) 214-1019 View (551) 214-1019
Photo of Douglas Saphier - Saphier Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Saphier Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Englewood, NJ 07631
In my private practice I treat patients of all ages and at various stages of life. I have particular expertise in diagnosing and treating numerous neurodevelopmental disorders including ADHD, behaviors related to autism spectrum disorder as well as mood and anxiety disorders. I provide both medication management as well as supportive psychotherapy.
In my private practice I treat patients of all ages and at various stages of life. I have particular expertise in diagnosing and treating numerous neurodevelopmental disorders including ADHD, behaviors related to autism spectrum disorder as well as mood and anxiety disorders. I provide both medication management as well as supportive psychotherapy.
(917) 746-1421 View (917) 746-1421
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
(718) 550-7860 View (718) 550-7860
Photo of Zona Alabi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Zona Alabi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07105
Eagle Health Services provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health needs to a variety of clients. We offer psychiatry and counseling services both in-person and via Telehealth. We offer offices both in Northern and Central New Jersey. Nurse Practitioner Zona Alabi, a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse, offers assessment, therapy, and medication management. Every client is unique in their mental health needs and I strive to provide compassionate holistic care and treatment plan geared at improving the overall mental health and well being of all clients across the lifespan.
Eagle Health Services provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health needs to a variety of clients. We offer psychiatry and counseling services both in-person and via Telehealth. We offer offices both in Northern and Central New Jersey. Nurse Practitioner Zona Alabi, a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse, offers assessment, therapy, and medication management. Every client is unique in their mental health needs and I strive to provide compassionate holistic care and treatment plan geared at improving the overall mental health and well being of all clients across the lifespan.
(973) 381-2503 View (973) 381-2503

See more therapy options for 07866

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07866

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07866 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Bipolar Disorder
57% Trauma and PTSD
57% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 07866 see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07866?

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.