Psychiatrists in 07871
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.
We believe that medical and psychological problems are intertwined and can be addressed in one session. We provide integrated and balanced healthcare to address primary care issues, especially weight loss & obesity, sleep, and diabetes while addressing psychiatric mental health issues. We help you cope with school/ work stress. We provide psychiatric and prescription treatment of obesity & binge eating with weight loss plans to keep you on track. We deliver psychotherapeutic techniques to help you reduce stress and cope with challenges. Our treatment modality may improve your quality of life and reduce stress from work and school.
We believe that medical and psychological problems are intertwined and can be addressed in one session. We provide integrated and balanced healthcare to address primary care issues, especially weight loss & obesity, sleep, and diabetes while addressing psychiatric mental health issues. We help you cope with school/ work stress. We provide psychiatric and prescription treatment of obesity & binge eating with weight loss plans to keep you on track. We deliver psychotherapeutic techniques to help you reduce stress and cope with challenges. Our treatment modality may improve your quality of life and reduce stress from work and school.
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.
I earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Quinnipiac University, and Bachelor of Science and a Masters of Science in nursing from Northeastern University. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing since 2016. I have experience working in outpatient practices, residential settings, inpatient hospital units, partial hospital and intensive outpatient programs. I specialize in adolescents and adults as well as new or expecting moms. I offer tele-health services for medication management of depression, anxiety, mood lability and perinatal and postpartum mood changes.
I earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Quinnipiac University, and Bachelor of Science and a Masters of Science in nursing from Northeastern University. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing since 2016. I have experience working in outpatient practices, residential settings, inpatient hospital units, partial hospital and intensive outpatient programs. I specialize in adolescents and adults as well as new or expecting moms. I offer tele-health services for medication management of depression, anxiety, mood lability and perinatal and postpartum mood changes.
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my page! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a holistic approach to mental health care. With a background in critical care, I help patients achieve wellness by integrating mind and body. As a yoga instructor and fitness enthusiast, I guide clients in harnessing the mind-body connection to enhance their mental health. My goal is to help you achieve and maintain good mental health by treating and guiding you in integrating your mind and body. I love educating my patients on the benefits of mindfulness and movement to strengthen the powerful mind-body connection.
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my page! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a holistic approach to mental health care. With a background in critical care, I help patients achieve wellness by integrating mind and body. As a yoga instructor and fitness enthusiast, I guide clients in harnessing the mind-body connection to enhance their mental health. My goal is to help you achieve and maintain good mental health by treating and guiding you in integrating your mind and body. I love educating my patients on the benefits of mindfulness and movement to strengthen the powerful mind-body connection.
Peacefully Rooted Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGNP-C, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Magnolita Philip-Rousseau, and I am a dually-certified Nurse Practitioner in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care and Psychiatric Mental Health, and the heart behind Peacefully Rooted Psychiatric Services, L.L.C. With nearly a decade of experience, I created this practice with a clear purpose: to help individuals find peace and stay rooted in it, despite the ever-changing challenges of life. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, stress, grief, postpartum changes, loneliness, or the emotional shifts that come with aging, I meet each client with deep compassion, understanding, and respect.
My name is Magnolita Philip-Rousseau, and I am a dually-certified Nurse Practitioner in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care and Psychiatric Mental Health, and the heart behind Peacefully Rooted Psychiatric Services, L.L.C. With nearly a decade of experience, I created this practice with a clear purpose: to help individuals find peace and stay rooted in it, despite the ever-changing challenges of life. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, stress, grief, postpartum changes, loneliness, or the emotional shifts that come with aging, I meet each client with deep compassion, understanding, and respect.
Book with me now by clicking in my website. As a dedicated mental health professional, my ideal client is someone who is seeking a safe and supportive environment. They may be dealing with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or life transitions. My ideal client is someone who is ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. They are open to exploring new perspectives and willing to engage in therapeutic processes that promote mental and emotional well-being. Together, we will work towards creating a life that is not only manageable but also rich and fulfilling.
Book with me now by clicking in my website. As a dedicated mental health professional, my ideal client is someone who is seeking a safe and supportive environment. They may be dealing with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or life transitions. My ideal client is someone who is ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. They are open to exploring new perspectives and willing to engage in therapeutic processes that promote mental and emotional well-being. Together, we will work towards creating a life that is not only manageable but also rich and fulfilling.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I completed a residency training in General and Adult Psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York, an affiliate program of the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York. My treatment approach is based on the understanding that every individual is unique in their experience and needs. After a careful assessment of your symptoms, I will work with you in creating the treatment plan that suits you best.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I completed a residency training in General and Adult Psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York, an affiliate program of the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York. My treatment approach is based on the understanding that every individual is unique in their experience and needs. After a careful assessment of your symptoms, I will work with you in creating the treatment plan that suits you best.
I am extremely happy to be a part of the Specialized Therapy Associates team. STA has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Paramus, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. For Example, I to specialize in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
I am extremely happy to be a part of the Specialized Therapy Associates team. STA has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Paramus, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. For Example, I to specialize in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult and geriatric psychiatry. I have 13 years of clinical experience. I completed residency at NS-LIJ Zucker Hillside Hospital followed by a fellowship in Consultation Liaison/Psychosomatic medicine at Long Island Jewish Katz Hospital. I specialize in a broad range of psychiatric disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a particular focus in geriatric psychiatry and offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of dementia.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult and geriatric psychiatry. I have 13 years of clinical experience. I completed residency at NS-LIJ Zucker Hillside Hospital followed by a fellowship in Consultation Liaison/Psychosomatic medicine at Long Island Jewish Katz Hospital. I specialize in a broad range of psychiatric disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a particular focus in geriatric psychiatry and offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of dementia.
I am extremely happy to be a part of the Specialized Therapy Associates team. STA has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Paramus, Ramsey. The issues are always varied but their goals are aligned with a desire to achieve the best that they can be. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.
I am extremely happy to be a part of the Specialized Therapy Associates team. STA has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Paramus, Ramsey. The issues are always varied but their goals are aligned with a desire to achieve the best that they can be. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.
Dr. Olubunmi Adetule DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC with a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. I provide culturally competent care across-the-lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, couples, seniors) to clients with diverse mental health needs including substance abuse treatment and management, with the aim of improving their overall state of affairs. I am compassionate and devoted to my patients, I am a skilled and an experienced healthcare provider who will evaluate and manage your case with the utmost care and high regard for confidentiality standards.
Dr. Olubunmi Adetule DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC with a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. I provide culturally competent care across-the-lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, couples, seniors) to clients with diverse mental health needs including substance abuse treatment and management, with the aim of improving their overall state of affairs. I am compassionate and devoted to my patients, I am a skilled and an experienced healthcare provider who will evaluate and manage your case with the utmost care and high regard for confidentiality standards.
Meet Dr. Michael Sanya, DNP, PMHNP-BC, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in NY, NJ, and VT. With over 10 years of experience, he provides compassionate, evidence-based care for children, teens, and adults. Dr. Sanya’s holistic approach blends expertise with empathy, helping patients navigate challenges, find balance, and achieve emotional well-being. If you’ve been searching for a provider who truly listens and cares, your journey begins here—schedule your appointment today.
Meet Dr. Michael Sanya, DNP, PMHNP-BC, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in NY, NJ, and VT. With over 10 years of experience, he provides compassionate, evidence-based care for children, teens, and adults. Dr. Sanya’s holistic approach blends expertise with empathy, helping patients navigate challenges, find balance, and achieve emotional well-being. If you’ve been searching for a provider who truly listens and cares, your journey begins here—schedule your appointment today.
Wellness Direct LLC (Dr. Winful)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PHMNP, APRNBC, DNP
1 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Linda Winful serves as a goal oriented Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for Wellness Direct private practice office. Linda functions with over seven years of experience in mental health services using many modality of treatments and also specializes in substance abuse. Linda works to accommodate individual patient's schedules, such as weekends and late nights. She provides evaluation, treatment planning, pharmacologic management, and referrals as needed for patients. Linda, teaches Patient's and others about intended effects and potential adverse effects of treatment options.
Linda Winful serves as a goal oriented Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for Wellness Direct private practice office. Linda functions with over seven years of experience in mental health services using many modality of treatments and also specializes in substance abuse. Linda works to accommodate individual patient's schedules, such as weekends and late nights. She provides evaluation, treatment planning, pharmacologic management, and referrals as needed for patients. Linda, teaches Patient's and others about intended effects and potential adverse effects of treatment options.
Please see my website for more info and to inquire about becoming a new client. Intake sessions must be held in-person, follow-up sessions can be in-person or virtual (clients must be physically located in NJ for telehealth).
Please see my website for more info and to inquire about becoming a new client. Intake sessions must be held in-person, follow-up sessions can be in-person or virtual (clients must be physically located in NJ for telehealth).
Olukayode Agunbiade offers psychiatry and counseling services both in-person and via Telehealth in Newark and Jersey City areas. I am a board certified nurse practitioner who offers assessment, counseling and medication management to children, adolescents and adults as may be required. My goal is to take good care of mentally-ill patients, assist clients in the journey of life, and foster a safe environment for all patients.
Olukayode Agunbiade offers psychiatry and counseling services both in-person and via Telehealth in Newark and Jersey City areas. I am a board certified nurse practitioner who offers assessment, counseling and medication management to children, adolescents and adults as may be required. My goal is to take good care of mentally-ill patients, assist clients in the journey of life, and foster a safe environment for all patients.
I’m a Masters prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of mental health experience, and over 2 years of working as a practitioner. I am passionate about the level of care rendered to my clients, only the best is good enough. I provide care to clients with Schizophrenia; Anxiety disorders; Bipolar Disorder; Depression; PTSD; Addiction; and Insomnia. Come to my nonjudgmental, patient centered facility and discover an experience that leaves you not just mentally fulfilled but holistically.
I’m a Masters prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of mental health experience, and over 2 years of working as a practitioner. I am passionate about the level of care rendered to my clients, only the best is good enough. I provide care to clients with Schizophrenia; Anxiety disorders; Bipolar Disorder; Depression; PTSD; Addiction; and Insomnia. Come to my nonjudgmental, patient centered facility and discover an experience that leaves you not just mentally fulfilled but holistically.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have over 40 years of experiencein conducting psychiatric evaluation and medication management as well as helping clients cope with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and adjustment to life cycle changes. I work collaboratively with clients to establish a trusting, mutually respectful and supportive relationship, set goals, build upon strengths to increase confidence self-esteem, and work toward solving issues which often cause people to feel stuck. Medication is a major tool to address the psychiatric diagnoses and addiction.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have over 40 years of experiencein conducting psychiatric evaluation and medication management as well as helping clients cope with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and adjustment to life cycle changes. I work collaboratively with clients to establish a trusting, mutually respectful and supportive relationship, set goals, build upon strengths to increase confidence self-esteem, and work toward solving issues which often cause people to feel stuck. Medication is a major tool to address the psychiatric diagnoses and addiction.
Hello, my name is Michael Lozovatsky, MD, and I am a psychiatrist with more than 8 years of experience in the psychiatric field. I’m currently accepting new patients and would be glad to work with you if you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia, or ADHD. You deserve to feel more focused, calm, and in control. Together, we’ll uncover what’s holding you back, develop effective strategies, and create a path toward greater balance, clarity, and peace of mind—helping you move closer to the life you want. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and always tailored to your unique needs.
Hello, my name is Michael Lozovatsky, MD, and I am a psychiatrist with more than 8 years of experience in the psychiatric field. I’m currently accepting new patients and would be glad to work with you if you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia, or ADHD. You deserve to feel more focused, calm, and in control. Together, we’ll uncover what’s holding you back, develop effective strategies, and create a path toward greater balance, clarity, and peace of mind—helping you move closer to the life you want. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and always tailored to your unique needs.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in the states of New Jersey and New York, with extensive clinical and practical experience in mental health care management. I provide compassionate, evidence-based, and holistic care to clients across the lifespan. With an open-minded and client-centered approach, I am dedicated to promoting mental wellness, fostering resilience, and supporting individuals in achieving their optimal mental health outcomes.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in the states of New Jersey and New York, with extensive clinical and practical experience in mental health care management. I provide compassionate, evidence-based, and holistic care to clients across the lifespan. With an open-minded and client-centered approach, I am dedicated to promoting mental wellness, fostering resilience, and supporting individuals in achieving their optimal mental health outcomes.
See more therapy options for 07871
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 07871
< 10
Psychiatrists in 07871 who prioritize treating:
| 100% | Depression |
| 100% | Anxiety |
| 71% | ADHD |
| 71% | Medication Management |
| 57% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 57% | Stress |
| 43% | Spirituality |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 86% | Aetna |
| 86% | Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield |
| 71% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 07871 see their clients
| 57% | Online Only | |
| 43% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
| 83% | Female | |
| 17% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 07871?
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.


