Psychiatrists in 07960
Hi, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health provider/prescriber with years of experience managing and treating both acute and chronic mental health issues across the lifespan. I have worked in multiple health settings, both acute and chronic, which has helped build a foundation for both diagnosing and treating a wide variety of mental health illnesses. You are not defined by your diagnoses; let us work together to find what makes you your best self.
Hi, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health provider/prescriber with years of experience managing and treating both acute and chronic mental health issues across the lifespan. I have worked in multiple health settings, both acute and chronic, which has helped build a foundation for both diagnosing and treating a wide variety of mental health illnesses. You are not defined by your diagnoses; let us work together to find what makes you your best self.
ONE STOP SHOPPING. That is right! You can see me for all of your mental health and wellness needs vs seeing a separate doctor for medications, another therapist for psychotherapy and possibly even a third person as a coach or for basic nutrition/fitness. One appointment/one hour per week vs 3-4?! What a time saver and ultimately, what a money saver, especially in the long run!!! If you are ready to start on a path of healing or self-discovery, with a practitioner who is warm and caring yet firm when needed, please call. You deserve it!!
ONE STOP SHOPPING. That is right! You can see me for all of your mental health and wellness needs vs seeing a separate doctor for medications, another therapist for psychotherapy and possibly even a third person as a coach or for basic nutrition/fitness. One appointment/one hour per week vs 3-4?! What a time saver and ultimately, what a money saver, especially in the long run!!! If you are ready to start on a path of healing or self-discovery, with a practitioner who is warm and caring yet firm when needed, please call. You deserve it!!
I am board-certified in both adult and child/adolescent psychiatry, and do my best work with adolescent clients, and their families. I am intensively trained in DBT, and its principles inform my practice, even when the full model is not applied. I am also trained in medical acupuncture, and have practiced martial arts and meditative systems for over two decades. By virtue of this unique training, I am dedicated to an integrative approach which both addresses symptoms and problems, while also seeking to maximize the capacity for attaining and sustaining wellbeing. I am equally fluent in English and Spanish.
I am board-certified in both adult and child/adolescent psychiatry, and do my best work with adolescent clients, and their families. I am intensively trained in DBT, and its principles inform my practice, even when the full model is not applied. I am also trained in medical acupuncture, and have practiced martial arts and meditative systems for over two decades. By virtue of this unique training, I am dedicated to an integrative approach which both addresses symptoms and problems, while also seeking to maximize the capacity for attaining and sustaining wellbeing. I am equally fluent in English and Spanish.
Many of my patients have battled symptoms for years. Some have been in psychotherapy and some have tried psychiatric medications. Few have been able to work with one care provider in both modalities simultaneously. I offer this possibility- the option that many research studies have shown to be the most effective.
I also offer medication focused treatment for those who are already working productively with a theraspist. As a physician I will take your overall health and nutritional status into account in formulating an approach to your care. I will make sure you are totally comfortable with our plan.
Many of my patients have battled symptoms for years. Some have been in psychotherapy and some have tried psychiatric medications. Few have been able to work with one care provider in both modalities simultaneously. I offer this possibility- the option that many research studies have shown to be the most effective.
I also offer medication focused treatment for those who are already working productively with a theraspist. As a physician I will take your overall health and nutritional status into account in formulating an approach to your care. I will make sure you are totally comfortable with our plan.
My practice is best suited for adults who are seeking a thoughtful, individualized approach to mental health care. Many of my patients are high-functioning individuals who may appear to be managing well on the outside, but are struggling internally with anxiety, depression, burnout, or significant life transitions such as divorce, career changes, or midlife shifts.
They are often looking for more than quick symptom relief. They want to understand themselves better, feel more stable, and make meaningful, lasting changes in how they think, feel, and function.
My practice is best suited for adults who are seeking a thoughtful, individualized approach to mental health care. Many of my patients are high-functioning individuals who may appear to be managing well on the outside, but are struggling internally with anxiety, depression, burnout, or significant life transitions such as divorce, career changes, or midlife shifts.
They are often looking for more than quick symptom relief. They want to understand themselves better, feel more stable, and make meaningful, lasting changes in how they think, feel, and function.
In my practice, I bring a very broad set of experiences from inpatient psychiatry on the vanguard of psychopharmacological medication treatment, psychoanalytic and psychodynamic talk therapy, all in one place offering safe, tele-health as well as in-person consultations and expertly tailored treatment for those suffering from mood, anxiety, or interpersonal difficulties. There is never a better time than now to begin the process of connecting and working upon your health, wellness, and improving your mental wellbeing than now.
In my practice, I bring a very broad set of experiences from inpatient psychiatry on the vanguard of psychopharmacological medication treatment, psychoanalytic and psychodynamic talk therapy, all in one place offering safe, tele-health as well as in-person consultations and expertly tailored treatment for those suffering from mood, anxiety, or interpersonal difficulties. There is never a better time than now to begin the process of connecting and working upon your health, wellness, and improving your mental wellbeing than now.
I combine my decades of experience in academic psychiatry and my extensive knowledge of psychotherapeutic methods and psychopharmacology with empathy, focused listening and a caring responsiveness to provide personalized care to the patients in my practice, Pegasus Psychiatry Associates (www.PegasusPsych.com). I was Chair of the Dept. of Psychiatry at Morristown Medical Center (NJ's #1 rated hospital) for 21 years and am a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Thomas Jefferson University's Medical School. I am widely published, have national recognition for my research and have served on state-wide mental health committees.
I combine my decades of experience in academic psychiatry and my extensive knowledge of psychotherapeutic methods and psychopharmacology with empathy, focused listening and a caring responsiveness to provide personalized care to the patients in my practice, Pegasus Psychiatry Associates (www.PegasusPsych.com). I was Chair of the Dept. of Psychiatry at Morristown Medical Center (NJ's #1 rated hospital) for 21 years and am a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Thomas Jefferson University's Medical School. I am widely published, have national recognition for my research and have served on state-wide mental health committees.
At NuLeaf Psychiatric Care, I provide thoughtful, evidence-based psychiatric care for adolescents and adults. My approach is grounded in careful diagnostic evaluation, personalized treatment planning, and a commitment to helping each patient achieve meaningful and sustainable improvement in their daily functioning and overall well-being.
At NuLeaf Psychiatric Care, I provide thoughtful, evidence-based psychiatric care for adolescents and adults. My approach is grounded in careful diagnostic evaluation, personalized treatment planning, and a commitment to helping each patient achieve meaningful and sustainable improvement in their daily functioning and overall well-being.
When mental health concerns keep you from the things you enjoy or from being with the people who matter most to you, finding a provider who can offer support to allow you to take control of your mental health and live your best life is essential. Driven by experience, guided by empathy, Pegasus Psychiatry Associates’ mission is to provide personalized, evidence-based care, and a compassionate understanding of your needs in a warm and welcoming environment. As a specialized practice, we embrace our role as a trusted partner on your journey to a more satisfying, inspired and productive life. Your care will be tailored to your needs.
When mental health concerns keep you from the things you enjoy or from being with the people who matter most to you, finding a provider who can offer support to allow you to take control of your mental health and live your best life is essential. Driven by experience, guided by empathy, Pegasus Psychiatry Associates’ mission is to provide personalized, evidence-based care, and a compassionate understanding of your needs in a warm and welcoming environment. As a specialized practice, we embrace our role as a trusted partner on your journey to a more satisfying, inspired and productive life. Your care will be tailored to your needs.
Greetings! I am Murla,
Do you experience lack of motivation, hopelessness and sadness? Do you feel overwhelmed with tasks? Are you dealing with anxiety that leaves you incapacitated? Are mood swings keeping you from reaching your best potential?
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. I am also dual-certified in Adult Gerontology. I have a passion for helping others and strive to empower individuals in their journey towards mental well-being.
Greetings! I am Murla,
Do you experience lack of motivation, hopelessness and sadness? Do you feel overwhelmed with tasks? Are you dealing with anxiety that leaves you incapacitated? Are mood swings keeping you from reaching your best potential?
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. I am also dual-certified in Adult Gerontology. I have a passion for helping others and strive to empower individuals in their journey towards mental well-being.
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.
Dr. Cidambi is board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine (ABAM). She completed her residency in Psychiatry from Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn and a Fellowship in Addiction Medicine from NYU/Bellevue. Dr. Cidambi was the Director of Chemical Dependency at New Jersey's oldest inpatient mental health/substance abuse hospital. In 2010, Dr. Cidambi started her own substance abuse treatment facility, Center for Network Therapy (RecoveryCNT.com), providing outpatient detoxification from alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates and suboxone, and partial care and IOP programs. All payments in cash only - no insurance accpeted.
Dr. Cidambi is board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine (ABAM). She completed her residency in Psychiatry from Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn and a Fellowship in Addiction Medicine from NYU/Bellevue. Dr. Cidambi was the Director of Chemical Dependency at New Jersey's oldest inpatient mental health/substance abuse hospital. In 2010, Dr. Cidambi started her own substance abuse treatment facility, Center for Network Therapy (RecoveryCNT.com), providing outpatient detoxification from alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates and suboxone, and partial care and IOP programs. All payments in cash only - no insurance accpeted.
I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP‑BC) with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals through depression, anxiety, mood instability, and recovery. My work centers around creating a safe, respectful space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered to heal.
I specialize in treating mental health, substance use disorders, and complex mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, using a mix of evidence-based medication management and psychotherapeutic techniques. Whether you’re facing emotional burnout, postpartum depression, or life-long struggles with mood shifts, I’m here to help.
I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP‑BC) with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals through depression, anxiety, mood instability, and recovery. My work centers around creating a safe, respectful space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered to heal.
I specialize in treating mental health, substance use disorders, and complex mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, using a mix of evidence-based medication management and psychotherapeutic techniques. Whether you’re facing emotional burnout, postpartum depression, or life-long struggles with mood shifts, I’m here to help.
We provide the highest quality of care in prescribing mental health medications. CCSNJ is a beautiful and established facility that individualizes ALL our patients. You will have direct access to your prescriber and can contact them at any time. New medication, Side effects, text us! We are flexible to accommodate you offering Tele-health and flexible hours for treatment. The turn around time for appointments can be anywhere from 4-48 hours. We also have a staff of specialists offering comprehensive treatment if you are in need of psychotherapy ,kids, couples,or family counseling, in addition to your medication.
We provide the highest quality of care in prescribing mental health medications. CCSNJ is a beautiful and established facility that individualizes ALL our patients. You will have direct access to your prescriber and can contact them at any time. New medication, Side effects, text us! We are flexible to accommodate you offering Tele-health and flexible hours for treatment. The turn around time for appointments can be anywhere from 4-48 hours. We also have a staff of specialists offering comprehensive treatment if you are in need of psychotherapy ,kids, couples,or family counseling, in addition to your medication.
Hello, I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist, a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and co-founder of Elevium Health, an interventional psychiatry practice located in Florham Park, NJ. Alongside traditional medication management and psychotherapy, I specialize in cutting-edge neuromodulation treatments, including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Spravato, and Ketamine therapy, to provide personalized, transformative care that fosters deep healing. Whatever you are going through, my goal is helping to empower you to overcome mental health challenges, and achieve lasting well-being.
Hello, I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist, a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and co-founder of Elevium Health, an interventional psychiatry practice located in Florham Park, NJ. Alongside traditional medication management and psychotherapy, I specialize in cutting-edge neuromodulation treatments, including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Spravato, and Ketamine therapy, to provide personalized, transformative care that fosters deep healing. Whatever you are going through, my goal is helping to empower you to overcome mental health challenges, and achieve lasting well-being.
Hello, my name is Donna and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. One of the very important things I have learned through my years in practice is that the relationship and connection formed between a client and their provider is paramount. It is the solid foundation from which someone can truly move forward with their mental health goals. I will provide the time you need to listen to your story, evaluate your situation, and then devise options for your treatment including medication if needed. I will collaborate with you in making treatment decisions every step of the way.
Hello, my name is Donna and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. One of the very important things I have learned through my years in practice is that the relationship and connection formed between a client and their provider is paramount. It is the solid foundation from which someone can truly move forward with their mental health goals. I will provide the time you need to listen to your story, evaluate your situation, and then devise options for your treatment including medication if needed. I will collaborate with you in making treatment decisions every step of the way.
At the core of Vineyard Psychiatry is a profound commitment to patient-centered care. The practice understands that mental health treatment is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor but a deeply personal journey. This commitment translates into an environment where patients are not merely recipients of care but active participants in their own healing process. Here, patients are heard, their perspectives respected, and their unique stories considered with the utmost reverence. www.vineyardpsychnp.com
At the core of Vineyard Psychiatry is a profound commitment to patient-centered care. The practice understands that mental health treatment is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor but a deeply personal journey. This commitment translates into an environment where patients are not merely recipients of care but active participants in their own healing process. Here, patients are heard, their perspectives respected, and their unique stories considered with the utmost reverence. www.vineyardpsychnp.com
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 11 years of psychiatric inpatient nursing experience caring for individuals from diverse backgrounds and across the lifespan. My work has included supporting clients with a wide range of mental health conditions in acute and complex settings. I value building genuine, trusting relationships and believe that feeling heard and understood is the foundation of effective mental health care. I strive to provide culturally sensitive, compassionate, and respectful care in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 11 years of psychiatric inpatient nursing experience caring for individuals from diverse backgrounds and across the lifespan. My work has included supporting clients with a wide range of mental health conditions in acute and complex settings. I value building genuine, trusting relationships and believe that feeling heard and understood is the foundation of effective mental health care. I strive to provide culturally sensitive, compassionate, and respectful care in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Now offering psychiatric medication services in addition to psychotherapy.
At Inner Healing, we’ve always been deeply committed to the emotional well-being of our clients and our community. Over time, we’ve noticed a growing need for more comprehensive, wraparound mental health care- care that not only supports emotional growth through therapy, but also addresses psychiatric needs when appropriate.
That’s why we’re so pleased to include psychiatric medication management with our highly skilled Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Maria Karmina Cartasano, PMHNP.
Now offering psychiatric medication services in addition to psychotherapy.
At Inner Healing, we’ve always been deeply committed to the emotional well-being of our clients and our community. Over time, we’ve noticed a growing need for more comprehensive, wraparound mental health care- care that not only supports emotional growth through therapy, but also addresses psychiatric needs when appropriate.
That’s why we’re so pleased to include psychiatric medication management with our highly skilled Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Maria Karmina Cartasano, PMHNP.
Angelic Helpers Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-C, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Life is full of challenges, obstacles, and disequilibrium. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or given up hope about a better future? Utilizing a holistic approach that combines treating the physical and emotional, I am able to help you maximize your potential, and live a life that is fulfilling and rewarding. Have you been diagnosed or are you a survivor of a life-changing illness? I am able to help you emotionally while you recover physically.
Life is full of challenges, obstacles, and disequilibrium. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or given up hope about a better future? Utilizing a holistic approach that combines treating the physical and emotional, I am able to help you maximize your potential, and live a life that is fulfilling and rewarding. Have you been diagnosed or are you a survivor of a life-changing illness? I am able to help you emotionally while you recover physically.
See more therapy options for 07960
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 07960
50+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in 07960 who prioritize treating:
| 93% | Depression |
| 90% | Anxiety |
| 81% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
| 79% | Medication Management |
| 76% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 72% | ADHD |
| 59% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
16 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 97% | Aetna |
| 92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 75% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in 07960 see their clients
| 66% | In Person and Online | |
| 34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 62% | Female | |
| 38% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 07960?
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.


