Psychiatrists in 07882

Photo of Adrienne Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C
Adrienne Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Currently ONLY accepting new Pediatric and Perinatal clients and ONLY offering in-person appointments. Whether your child is struggling with emotional problems or has difficulty with focus and concentration, or you are having your own challenges with anxiety, depression, mood swings, or even paranoia and psychosis. You can find help here at MindLight. We specialize in the pediatric and perinatal populations with many different kinds of challenges.
Currently ONLY accepting new Pediatric and Perinatal clients and ONLY offering in-person appointments. Whether your child is struggling with emotional problems or has difficulty with focus and concentration, or you are having your own challenges with anxiety, depression, mood swings, or even paranoia and psychosis. You can find help here at MindLight. We specialize in the pediatric and perinatal populations with many different kinds of challenges.
(908) 869-8333 View (908) 869-8333
Photo of Olusolape Akinyemi - Abake Health and Wellness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
Abake Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
Serves Area
Are you currently going through challenging times? are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or substance use ? Have you tried numerous medications without any success? I am a doctoral trained Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), the founder of Abake Health and Wellness LLC (behavioral health), working with clients to manage symptoms through psychopharmacology across the life span.
Are you currently going through challenging times? are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or substance use ? Have you tried numerous medications without any success? I am a doctoral trained Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), the founder of Abake Health and Wellness LLC (behavioral health), working with clients to manage symptoms through psychopharmacology across the life span.
(908) 388-9453 View (908) 388-9453

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Kwafo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for professionally, compassionately, and non-judgmentally. They should also be educated on their treatment options, including medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for professionally, compassionately, and non-judgmentally. They should also be educated on their treatment options, including medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
(908) 628-1922 View (908) 628-1922
Photo of Dr. Bradford Bobrin, Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FACLP
Dr. Bradford Bobrin
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FACLP
Morristown, NJ 07960
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
(973) 737-9657 View (973) 737-9657
Photo of Calvin George, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Calvin George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Online Only
Are you feeling anxious, unmotivated, overwhelmed, or just not like yourself? You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood swings, or past trauma — and you don’t have to manage it alone. I work with adults who are ready to feel better, think more clearly, and take control of their mental health with compassionate, evidence-based care. I'm Calvin George, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management with supportive brief therapy in a calm, judgment-free space. My care is culturally sensitive and personalized — we’ll focus on what’s most important to you and go at your pace.
Are you feeling anxious, unmotivated, overwhelmed, or just not like yourself? You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood swings, or past trauma — and you don’t have to manage it alone. I work with adults who are ready to feel better, think more clearly, and take control of their mental health with compassionate, evidence-based care. I'm Calvin George, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management with supportive brief therapy in a calm, judgment-free space. My care is culturally sensitive and personalized — we’ll focus on what’s most important to you and go at your pace.
(973) 241-1416 View (973) 241-1416
Photo of Manita Shrestha, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Manita Shrestha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Online Only
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health concerns. They seek clarity, balance, and effective strategies for managing their emotions and daily stressors. They want to regain control of their mental health through compassionate, evidence-based care in a safe, supportive environment.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health concerns. They seek clarity, balance, and effective strategies for managing their emotions and daily stressors. They want to regain control of their mental health through compassionate, evidence-based care in a safe, supportive environment.
(908) 379-0631 View (908) 379-0631
Photo of Dr. Oluwatosin Olunuga - Maxicare Healthcare Consult LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, HERBAL
Maxicare Healthcare Consult LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, HERBAL
1 Endorsed
Succasunna, NJ 07876
Trauma changes us; life stressors can cause our lives to unravel, it is all part of the normal human experience. Dr Tosin places emphasis on humans as we are. While incorporating psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, his passion encourages healing, and teaches coping skills. With years of experience in Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Schizophrenia, Clinical Depression, PTSD, and Substance Abuse, Dr Tosin has served as a guide to many families in both inpatient and out patient settings.
Trauma changes us; life stressors can cause our lives to unravel, it is all part of the normal human experience. Dr Tosin places emphasis on humans as we are. While incorporating psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, his passion encourages healing, and teaches coping skills. With years of experience in Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Schizophrenia, Clinical Depression, PTSD, and Substance Abuse, Dr Tosin has served as a guide to many families in both inpatient and out patient settings.
(973) 381-2689 View (973) 381-2689
Hasan Miraj
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
i want to be the doctor you never want to leave. this is the real relationship between the physician and the patient. Healthy minds inspire others. live longer and pass on the passion. help me achieve that.
i want to be the doctor you never want to leave. this is the real relationship between the physician and the patient. Healthy minds inspire others. live longer and pass on the passion. help me achieve that.
(732) 335-7502 View (732) 335-7502
Photo of Barbara Darko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, A-GNP
Barbara Darko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, A-GNP
Ledgewood, NJ 07852
My ideal client may be struggling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek understanding, support, and treatment options that empower them to regain control of their lives. Their goal is emotional stability, healing, and a better quality of life. They want to build coping strategies, improve emotional well-being, and develop healthier habits to move forward with confidence and resilience.
My ideal client may be struggling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek understanding, support, and treatment options that empower them to regain control of their lives. Their goal is emotional stability, healing, and a better quality of life. They want to build coping strategies, improve emotional well-being, and develop healthier habits to move forward with confidence and resilience.
(862) 829-3211 View (862) 829-3211
Photo of Susan Jackson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Susan Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Susan and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) / Trauma and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Susan and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) / Trauma and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(862) 386-2333 View (862) 386-2333
Photo of Immaculata Ada Emesue - Trinity Psychiatry (Immaculata Emesue), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP, BC
Trinity Psychiatry (Immaculata Emesue)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP, BC
Online Only
My name is Immaculata Emesue, I am a board-certified Mental Health and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience in psychiatry. I am well experienced in the management of various psychiatry/mental illness. We all aware that life could be extremely stressful and especially with the ongoing chaos in our world today. We are here to help you to navigate through your life struggles and optimize your quality of life. Our goal is to help our patient to achieve optimal serenity and to bring life back to normal once again. We offer medication management and counselling for coping with your daily mental stress.
My name is Immaculata Emesue, I am a board-certified Mental Health and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience in psychiatry. I am well experienced in the management of various psychiatry/mental illness. We all aware that life could be extremely stressful and especially with the ongoing chaos in our world today. We are here to help you to navigate through your life struggles and optimize your quality of life. Our goal is to help our patient to achieve optimal serenity and to bring life back to normal once again. We offer medication management and counselling for coping with your daily mental stress.
(732) 582-5713 View (732) 582-5713
Photo of Karen M. Lehr, Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Karen M. Lehr
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
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.
(551) 305-7717 View (551) 305-7717
Photo of Selam Koch - OneStep Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
OneStep Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Picking the right provider can feel like a maze, but you don’t have to figure it out solo. OneStep Clinic offers customized medication management and caring support shaped to fit your personal journey, paving the way to calm and clarity. Selam Koch, PMHNP-BC, brings more than a decade of know-how to OneStep Clinic, focusing on a wide range of mental health concerns like depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorder, co-occurring substance use disorders, and psychotic disorders.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Picking the right provider can feel like a maze, but you don’t have to figure it out solo. OneStep Clinic offers customized medication management and caring support shaped to fit your personal journey, paving the way to calm and clarity. Selam Koch, PMHNP-BC, brings more than a decade of know-how to OneStep Clinic, focusing on a wide range of mental health concerns like depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorder, co-occurring substance use disorders, and psychotic disorders.
(848) 371-0597 View (848) 371-0597
Photo of Meghan Carr Albanese, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN
Meghan Carr Albanese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN
Serves Area
I customize care to meet the unique needs of each individual. Appointments include assessment, motivational interviewing, personalized talk therapy, and medication management. Care is offered to patients in the comfort of a private office and also through a secure tele-medicine platform. I treat patients with varying diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, post traumatic stress, focus/concentration disorders and more.
I customize care to meet the unique needs of each individual. Appointments include assessment, motivational interviewing, personalized talk therapy, and medication management. Care is offered to patients in the comfort of a private office and also through a secure tele-medicine platform. I treat patients with varying diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, post traumatic stress, focus/concentration disorders and more.
(908) 638-1493 View (908) 638-1493
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(908) 540-6707 View (908) 540-6707
Photo of Maryanna Vrettos Domenic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CSN-NJ
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.
(908) 257-8291 View (908) 257-8291
Photo of Mary Jo Lamb - Mary Jo Lamb APN-C Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse, RNC, MSN, APN, C
Mary Jo Lamb APN-C Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse, RNC, MSN, APN, C
Warren, NJ 07059
Psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 30 years experience. I treat ages late adolescent to geriatric ages. Majority of my practice is psychopharmacology ( prescribing psychiatric medications) and individual/ family counseling.I treat a variety of mental health disorders such as depression, post traumatic stress disorder , obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. In private practice for over 25 years and have had a wide range of experience in treating addiction and mental health co occurring issues.
Psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 30 years experience. I treat ages late adolescent to geriatric ages. Majority of my practice is psychopharmacology ( prescribing psychiatric medications) and individual/ family counseling.I treat a variety of mental health disorders such as depression, post traumatic stress disorder , obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. In private practice for over 25 years and have had a wide range of experience in treating addiction and mental health co occurring issues.
(908) 428-4017 View (908) 428-4017
Photo of Dr. Tony Issac, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Tony Issac
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
(201) 482-3451 View (201) 482-3451
Photo of Alexis Holmes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-NP
Alexis Holmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-NP
Online Only
My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.
My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.
(201) 844-6316 View (201) 844-6316
Photo of Shilin R Pandya - Balance Psychiatry Services, Psychiatrist
Balance Psychiatry Services
Psychiatrist
Bedminster, NJ 07921
Hello, I am Dr. Shilin Pandya, Board Certified Psychiatrist. I have been helping people just like you for many years. I concentrate on treating the whole patient and not just the symptoms of a problem. This holistic approach takes into account any factors affecting you - culture, job, school, medical issues, family, religion, sleep, appetite, past trauma, etc. Issues that are unique to every human being and require individual attention and treatment. The goal of each visit is to leave you empowered to live a more content life.
Hello, I am Dr. Shilin Pandya, Board Certified Psychiatrist. I have been helping people just like you for many years. I concentrate on treating the whole patient and not just the symptoms of a problem. This holistic approach takes into account any factors affecting you - culture, job, school, medical issues, family, religion, sleep, appetite, past trauma, etc. Issues that are unique to every human being and require individual attention and treatment. The goal of each visit is to leave you empowered to live a more content life.
(908) 774-9372 View (908) 774-9372

See more therapy options for 07882

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07882

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07882 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Psychosis
100% Autism
100% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 07882 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07882?

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.