Psychiatrists in 07930

Photo of Maryanna Vrettos Domenic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CSN-NJ
Maryanna Vrettos Domenic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CSN-NJ
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 Kim A. Dolan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MS, MBA
Kim A. Dolan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MS, MBA
Chester, NJ 07930
I am NOT currently taking new patients at this time. Please check back later. I offer an integrative approach to psychiatric services, including traditional psychopharmacology & nutrient therapies. I treat adults. I'm a graduate of Columbia University with 25+ years experience working in various settings in the mental health field. New clients begin with a comprehensive mental health & medical evaluation, which may include gene testing, blood work, or other diagnostic testing. I value your overall wellbeing & partner with you to develop a treatment plan designed to meet your needs & goals.
I am NOT currently taking new patients at this time. Please check back later. I offer an integrative approach to psychiatric services, including traditional psychopharmacology & nutrient therapies. I treat adults. I'm a graduate of Columbia University with 25+ years experience working in various settings in the mental health field. New clients begin with a comprehensive mental health & medical evaluation, which may include gene testing, blood work, or other diagnostic testing. I value your overall wellbeing & partner with you to develop a treatment plan designed to meet your needs & goals.
(551) 231-7420 View (551) 231-7420
Photo of Chelsea Robbins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC-BC
Chelsea Robbins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC-BC
Chester, NJ 07930
My goal is to teach realistic coping skills and means to improve wellness. Treatment may include coping skills building, gaining insight, supportive therapy, and medications (when necessary). I have added experience in OCD, anxiety, and panic disorders as well as working with young adults and parents with children experiencing medical/health issues. I hope to assist individuals to wellness efficiently and believe both long-term and short-term active treatment can be successful.
My goal is to teach realistic coping skills and means to improve wellness. Treatment may include coping skills building, gaining insight, supportive therapy, and medications (when necessary). I have added experience in OCD, anxiety, and panic disorders as well as working with young adults and parents with children experiencing medical/health issues. I hope to assist individuals to wellness efficiently and believe both long-term and short-term active treatment can be successful.
(908) 768-3773 View (908) 768-3773
Photo of Danijela Ivelja-Hill, Psychiatrist, MD
Danijela Ivelja-Hill
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I treat depression, mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, stress, addictions, grief, life transitions, work-life balance issues, interpersonal and relationship problems, self esteem issues and more. With 17 years of experience in the field of psychiatry, and real passion and love for my field of work, I will take the time to get to know you and your individual needs and healing goals through compassionate and caring listening and exploration. My mission is to help you find your balance, regain and rediscover your strengths so that you can live your best life.
I treat depression, mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, stress, addictions, grief, life transitions, work-life balance issues, interpersonal and relationship problems, self esteem issues and more. With 17 years of experience in the field of psychiatry, and real passion and love for my field of work, I will take the time to get to know you and your individual needs and healing goals through compassionate and caring listening and exploration. My mission is to help you find your balance, regain and rediscover your strengths so that you can live your best life.
(973) 587-2934 View (973) 587-2934
Photo of Annette Allegra, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-C, MSN, PMHNP, LLC
Annette Allegra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-C, MSN, PMHNP, LLC
Serves Area
I enjoy helping clients work toward feeling their best by medically treating and coaching them toward their greatest potential to live a more rewarding life. Due to my background of working with critically ill clients, as well as acute psychiatric and co-morbid illnesses, I am prepared to assist my clients in their journey towards better health. I work collaboratively with health providers as needed, and welcome collateral support for my clients if available. My experience includes treating a wide spectrum of conditions, which include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
I enjoy helping clients work toward feeling their best by medically treating and coaching them toward their greatest potential to live a more rewarding life. Due to my background of working with critically ill clients, as well as acute psychiatric and co-morbid illnesses, I am prepared to assist my clients in their journey towards better health. I work collaboratively with health providers as needed, and welcome collateral support for my clients if available. My experience includes treating a wide spectrum of conditions, which include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
(862) 206-5391 View (862) 206-5391
Photo of Alex Mutia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APN
Alex Mutia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APN
Serves Area
I, along with everyone at Center for Assessment and Treatment, hope to help those who are among the most in need, regardless of income, background, or past history.
I, along with everyone at Center for Assessment and Treatment, hope to help those who are among the most in need, regardless of income, background, or past history.
(908) 258-6539 View (908) 258-6539
Photo of Dr. Lily Arora, Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Dr. Lily Arora
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My goal is to help you become your best self. I believe in personalized, holistic care taking into account not only your symptoms but their impact on your daily life in context of your relationship and career goals. My approach to treatment involves forming a partnership with you to not only work towards healing your symptoms but to help you recognize and implement modes of thinking and behavior that lend themselves to a more harmonious and fulfilling lifestyle.
My goal is to help you become your best self. I believe in personalized, holistic care taking into account not only your symptoms but their impact on your daily life in context of your relationship and career goals. My approach to treatment involves forming a partnership with you to not only work towards healing your symptoms but to help you recognize and implement modes of thinking and behavior that lend themselves to a more harmonious and fulfilling lifestyle.
(201) 512-5689 View (201) 512-5689
Photo of Danielle Trenelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Danielle Trenelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Online Only
I am currently accepting new patients at this time. My approach is collaborative and non-directive, and I act as someone who can help identify possible routes through the challenges of your life but will not insist that you must choose a particular path. I am a consultant for you and what troubles you, and together we can identify what it is you care about in life and makes it worth living, what is standing in the way, and how medications and psychotherapy might be able to help you pursue the former and overcome the later.
I am currently accepting new patients at this time. My approach is collaborative and non-directive, and I act as someone who can help identify possible routes through the challenges of your life but will not insist that you must choose a particular path. I am a consultant for you and what troubles you, and together we can identify what it is you care about in life and makes it worth living, what is standing in the way, and how medications and psychotherapy might be able to help you pursue the former and overcome the later.
(908) 388-9807 View (908) 388-9807

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ann Nolan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Ann Nolan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Princeton, NJ 08544
Accepting NJ & PA insurance. Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Treating a broad spectrum of mental health diagnoses ages 6 to 70 years old. All screening, ADHD and Autism spectrum testing and screening "included in the initial evaluation." Office & Online psychiatric services. Treating children, adolescents, and adults. Ann is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings many years of professional mental health experience to the care of her patients. She is currently a clinical preceptor for Yale School of Medicine and Yale School of Nursing for their NP and PA programs.
Accepting NJ & PA insurance. Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Treating a broad spectrum of mental health diagnoses ages 6 to 70 years old. All screening, ADHD and Autism spectrum testing and screening "included in the initial evaluation." Office & Online psychiatric services. Treating children, adolescents, and adults. Ann is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings many years of professional mental health experience to the care of her patients. She is currently a clinical preceptor for Yale School of Medicine and Yale School of Nursing for their NP and PA programs.
(215) 608-7659 View (215) 608-7659
Photo of Mohammad Waqas - Insightful Pathways, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Insightful Pathways
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Serves Area
Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it alone. At Insightful Pathways LLC, I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re seeking medication management, support for life’s challenges, or a path to greater stability, I offer a collaborative approach that puts you in control of your mental health. With convenient telehealth and in-person appointments, my goal is to help you regain balance, build resilience, and move forward with confidence. Let’s work together to create a treatment plan that empowers you.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it alone. At Insightful Pathways LLC, I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re seeking medication management, support for life’s challenges, or a path to greater stability, I offer a collaborative approach that puts you in control of your mental health. With convenient telehealth and in-person appointments, my goal is to help you regain balance, build resilience, and move forward with confidence. Let’s work together to create a treatment plan that empowers you.
(609) 604-6399 View (609) 604-6399
Photo of Howard Steven Rudominer - Howard S Rudominer, MD,PA, Psychiatrist, MD
Howard S Rudominer, MD,PA
Psychiatrist, MD
Livingston, NJ 07039
As a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist with over 45 years of experience, I have extensive experience treating patients with a wide range of psychiatric and psychological disorders. I have been listed as one of the best psychiatrists in the USA and Canada specializing in the treatment of people with Mood Disorders on a leading depression website. I have also been listed as a Top Doctor as well as a most compassionate doctor. In addition I received the Patient's Choice Award as one of New Jersey's favorite physicins. I am a former Clinical Assistant Profesor of Psychiatry at NYU Langone Medical Center.
As a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist with over 45 years of experience, I have extensive experience treating patients with a wide range of psychiatric and psychological disorders. I have been listed as one of the best psychiatrists in the USA and Canada specializing in the treatment of people with Mood Disorders on a leading depression website. I have also been listed as a Top Doctor as well as a most compassionate doctor. In addition I received the Patient's Choice Award as one of New Jersey's favorite physicins. I am a former Clinical Assistant Profesor of Psychiatry at NYU Langone Medical Center.
(862) 256-1915 View (862) 256-1915
Photo of Tony Issac - Anxiety and depression treatment - Psychiatrist NJ, Psychiatrist, MD
Anxiety and depression treatment - Psychiatrist NJ
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Issac is an experienced general and addiction psychiatrist in Ridgewood, NJ, with eight years of clinical expertise. He specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. Dr. Issac takes a holistic, evidence-based approach by evaluating medical, nutritional, and hormonal factors that may impact mental health. Combining medication management with psychotherapy, he creates personalized treatment plans to address each patient’s unique needs and promote lasting recovery and well-being.
Dr. Issac is an experienced general and addiction psychiatrist in Ridgewood, NJ, with eight years of clinical expertise. He specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. Dr. Issac takes a holistic, evidence-based approach by evaluating medical, nutritional, and hormonal factors that may impact mental health. Combining medication management with psychotherapy, he creates personalized treatment plans to address each patient’s unique needs and promote lasting recovery and well-being.
(201) 482-3451 View (201) 482-3451
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(856) 363-3075 View (856) 363-3075
Tina Pryor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cranford, NJ 07016
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety and/or depression and is seeking services to find balance.
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety and/or depression and is seeking services to find balance.
(856) 955-1829 View (856) 955-1829
Photo of Eronmwon Balogun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Eronmwon Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Serves Area
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
(856) 481-0681 View (856) 481-0681
Photo of Dana Denaris, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Dana Denaris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You’ve been carrying so much while balancing work, family, relationships, & the constant weight of expectations. From the outside, it may look like you “have it all together,” but inside you feel exhausted, anxious, or stuck in cycles you can’t seem to break. You long for more peace, clarity, & meaning, but instead find yourself questioning if you’re doing enough or if you’ll ever feel truly present. In my practice, I provide medication management to support your healing, but my work goes far beyond prescriptions. I take a whole-person approach.
You’ve been carrying so much while balancing work, family, relationships, & the constant weight of expectations. From the outside, it may look like you “have it all together,” but inside you feel exhausted, anxious, or stuck in cycles you can’t seem to break. You long for more peace, clarity, & meaning, but instead find yourself questioning if you’re doing enough or if you’ll ever feel truly present. In my practice, I provide medication management to support your healing, but my work goes far beyond prescriptions. I take a whole-person approach.
Carline F Archille
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Accepting New Clients- Hi, My name is Carline Archille, a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 23 years of experience caring for patients and four years of treating and managing individuals with various mental health disorders. My goal is that you are being heard, supported, and treated appropriately to improve your health and well-being.
Accepting New Clients- Hi, My name is Carline Archille, a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 23 years of experience caring for patients and four years of treating and managing individuals with various mental health disorders. My goal is that you are being heard, supported, and treated appropriately to improve your health and well-being.
(732) 217-7926 View (732) 217-7926
Photo of Tanya Monroe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tanya Monroe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083
Welcome to EmpowHer Psychiatry and Wellness, a space dedicated to compassionate, inclusive, and holistic psychiatric care for women. I’m Tanya Monroe, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in healthcare. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with women facing a wide range of mental health challenges, including those who have experienced sexual abuse and trauma. I understand the profound impact these experiences can have, and I am committed to providing a safe, supportive, and healing environment where every woman feels seen, heard, and empowered.
Welcome to EmpowHer Psychiatry and Wellness, a space dedicated to compassionate, inclusive, and holistic psychiatric care for women. I’m Tanya Monroe, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in healthcare. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with women facing a wide range of mental health challenges, including those who have experienced sexual abuse and trauma. I understand the profound impact these experiences can have, and I am committed to providing a safe, supportive, and healing environment where every woman feels seen, heard, and empowered.
(908) 543-7686 View (908) 543-7686
Photo of Sonali R Mahajan, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Sonali R Mahajan
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
2 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
At an early age, I began to enjoy working with children and adolescents, and that passion led me to becoming a board-certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. I have worked with clients from many different background experiences, cultures, and family systems. My work centers around helping children and adolescents with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, other behavior disorders, psychotic disorders, school and peer issues, and family conflict. At this time, I'm only providing treatment for children and adolescents who are less than 18 years old.
At an early age, I began to enjoy working with children and adolescents, and that passion led me to becoming a board-certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. I have worked with clients from many different background experiences, cultures, and family systems. My work centers around helping children and adolescents with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, other behavior disorders, psychotic disorders, school and peer issues, and family conflict. At this time, I'm only providing treatment for children and adolescents who are less than 18 years old.
(973) 791-9138 View (973) 791-9138
Photo of Patricia Gazzola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-C
Patricia Gazzola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-C
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience diagnosing mental health issues, prescribing psychotropic medications and counseling patients and their families. Specific areas of clinical interest include: child/teen/young adult mental health and wellness, the neurobiology and treatment of pediatric eating disorders and pharmacological approaches to the treatment of ADHD, including cases complicated by other mental health issues.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience diagnosing mental health issues, prescribing psychotropic medications and counseling patients and their families. Specific areas of clinical interest include: child/teen/young adult mental health and wellness, the neurobiology and treatment of pediatric eating disorders and pharmacological approaches to the treatment of ADHD, including cases complicated by other mental health issues.
(973) 587-2438 View (973) 587-2438

See more therapy options for 07930

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07930

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07930 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
88% Anxiety
88% Bipolar Disorder
88% Medication Management
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
63% Trauma and PTSD
63% Psychosis

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
50% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 07930 see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07930?

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.