Psychiatrists in 07961

Catherine D'Aprix Heffner
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morristown, NJ 07961
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!!
(646) 760-6838 View (646) 760-6838
Photo of Darian Kopp, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Darian Kopp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07961
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Darian and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Chronic illness and Depression. 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 Darian and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Chronic illness and Depression. 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) 356-0796 View (862) 356-0796
Photo of Susan Jackson, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07961
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 Dr. Jeliah Akombe - Serenity Healthcare Associates (Dr. J Akombe), DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serenity Healthcare Associates (Dr. J Akombe)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morristown, NJ 07961  (Online Only)
Dr. Jeliah Akombe is a dual board-certified psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner and Family nurse practitioner. Dr. Akombe completed her undergraduate studies in Nursing at New Jersey State University. Dr. Akombe received her master’s degree in nursing from Walden University and a doctorate degree from Samford University. She later earned her post doctorate degree in psychiatric mental health from the University of Massachusetts. Dr. Akombe is licensed in 14 states including, Delaware, Maryland, Washington DC , New York and Pennsylvania among others.
Dr. Jeliah Akombe is a dual board-certified psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner and Family nurse practitioner. Dr. Akombe completed her undergraduate studies in Nursing at New Jersey State University. Dr. Akombe received her master’s degree in nursing from Walden University and a doctorate degree from Samford University. She later earned her post doctorate degree in psychiatric mental health from the University of Massachusetts. Dr. Akombe is licensed in 14 states including, Delaware, Maryland, Washington DC , New York and Pennsylvania among others.
(848) 276-6952 View (848) 276-6952

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Maribel Abbate, MD, Psychiatrist
Maribel Abbate
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, NJ 07940  (Online Only)
Please visit my personal website for all details and fees by clicking on the link to the left. With the privacy and convenience of videoconferencing, my focus is treating non emergent psychiatric issues, such as depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, adjustment and mood disorders. I work to understand the biological, psychological, social issues affecting every patient and will make recommendations which may include nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, meditation, light therapy, psychotherapy, supplements and/or medications. The goal is to provide private and comprehensive care in order to get every patient to better health.
Please visit my personal website for all details and fees by clicking on the link to the left. With the privacy and convenience of videoconferencing, my focus is treating non emergent psychiatric issues, such as depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, adjustment and mood disorders. I work to understand the biological, psychological, social issues affecting every patient and will make recommendations which may include nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, meditation, light therapy, psychotherapy, supplements and/or medications. The goal is to provide private and comprehensive care in order to get every patient to better health.
(973) 261-8641 View (973) 261-8641
Photo of Jeffrey Wolff, MD, Psychiatrist
Jeffrey Wolff
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
Many of my clients 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! 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 clients 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! 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.
(973) 536-2863 View (973) 536-2863
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(973) 798-9979 View (973) 798-9979
Photo of Omar Canosa, MD, Psychiatrist
Omar Canosa
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Madison, NJ 07940
Dr. Omar Canosa is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, OCD, depression and related disorders. As an integrative psychiatrist, Dr. Canosa focuses on addressing both immediate symptoms and the deeper-rooted challenges of anxiety/OCD. His practice draws from a variety of healing traditions, offering a multidimensional approach that goes beyond traditional symptom management. He is attuned to the developmental changes that occur during adolescence and young adulthood, recognizing the significant neurological shifts that influence emotional regulation and decision-making.
Dr. Omar Canosa is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, OCD, depression and related disorders. As an integrative psychiatrist, Dr. Canosa focuses on addressing both immediate symptoms and the deeper-rooted challenges of anxiety/OCD. His practice draws from a variety of healing traditions, offering a multidimensional approach that goes beyond traditional symptom management. He is attuned to the developmental changes that occur during adolescence and young adulthood, recognizing the significant neurological shifts that influence emotional regulation and decision-making.
(973) 506-2295 View (973) 506-2295
Photo of Danijela Ivelja-Hill, MD, Psychiatrist
Danijela Ivelja-Hill
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
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. 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. 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 Roy Bachar - Roy Bachar MD, MD, 3300001, Psychiatrist
Roy Bachar MD
Psychiatrist, MD, 3300001
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
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.
(973) 490-4727 View (973) 490-4727
Photo of Joseph Stricker, MD, Psychiatrist
Joseph Stricker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a double board certified psychiatrist in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Adult Psychiatry. I have trained and worked at leading hospital systems across the United States in many treatment settings. I opened this practice to offer the highest quality mental healthcare to patients and families. I believe that a strong and trusting treatment relationship forms the basis of successful care. My clinic is open on Saturdays to be minimally disruptive to work and school schedules.
Hello! I am a double board certified psychiatrist in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Adult Psychiatry. I have trained and worked at leading hospital systems across the United States in many treatment settings. I opened this practice to offer the highest quality mental healthcare to patients and families. I believe that a strong and trusting treatment relationship forms the basis of successful care. My clinic is open on Saturdays to be minimally disruptive to work and school schedules.
View
Tina Pryor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
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.
(973) 791-7369 View (973) 791-7369
Photo of Omar Canosa, MD, Psychiatrist
Omar Canosa
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
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.
(973) 552-2631 View (973) 552-2631
Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
(973) 620-2326 View (973) 620-2326
Photo of Melanie Fillian - Counseling & Consulting Services of North Jersey, PA, Physician Assistant
Counseling & Consulting Services of North Jersey
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
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.
(862) 212-1197 View (862) 212-1197
Photo of Indra Cidambi, MD, Psychiatrist
Indra Cidambi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
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.
(973) 358-4128 View (973) 358-4128
Photo of Dr. Bradford Bobrin, MD , FASAM , FACLP, Psychiatrist
Dr. Bradford Bobrin
Psychiatrist, MD , FASAM , FACLP
Verified Verified
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 Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(973) 352-0498 View (973) 352-0498
Photo of Amanda Guarnere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
(973) 828-8285 View (973) 828-8285
Photo of Tolga Taneli, MD, Psychiatrist
Tolga Taneli
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Madison, NJ 07940
Not accepting new clients
I'm a child & adolescent psychiatrist who trained physicians and medical students, as the Division Director for Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School for 13 years. I worked a busy emergency room and sub-specialty clinics. I specialize in medicine treatments for Tourette Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, mood disorders, learning disorders, and anxiety disorders. I am honored to have been recognized by the readers of NJ Family Magazine as one of "New Jersey's Favorite Kids' Docs" in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (2016 & 2022).
I'm a child & adolescent psychiatrist who trained physicians and medical students, as the Division Director for Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School for 13 years. I worked a busy emergency room and sub-specialty clinics. I specialize in medicine treatments for Tourette Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, mood disorders, learning disorders, and anxiety disorders. I am honored to have been recognized by the readers of NJ Family Magazine as one of "New Jersey's Favorite Kids' Docs" in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (2016 & 2022).
(973) 671-1259 View (973) 671-1259

See more therapy options for 07961

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07961

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07961 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Bipolar Disorder
75% Stress
50% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
75% Cigna and Evernorth
50% Medicare

How Psychiatrists in 07961 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07961?

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.