Psychiatrists in 08028

Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Glassboro, NJ 08028
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.
(856) 672-7263 View (856) 672-7263
Photo of Amanda Guarnere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Glassboro, NJ 08028
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.
(856) 699-6328 View (856) 699-6328
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Glassboro, NJ 08028
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
(856) 856-4353 View (856) 856-4353
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Glassboro, NJ 08028
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(856) 485-3007 View (856) 485-3007
Photo of Eronmwon Balogun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Eronmwon Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Glassboro, NJ 08028
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) 326-5508 View (856) 326-5508
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Glassboro, NJ 08028
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(856) 372-1011 View (856) 372-1011
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Glassboro, NJ 08028
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
(856) 681-9412 View (856) 681-9412
Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Glassboro, NJ 08028
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
(856) 770-2182 View (856) 770-2182
Photo of Pattie James, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Pattie James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Glassboro, NJ 08028
My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.
My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.
(856) 523-3711 View (856) 523-3711
Photo of Dr. Bradford Bobrin, Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FACLP
Dr. Bradford Bobrin
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FACLP
Glassboro, NJ 08028
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.
(856) 485-4428 View (856) 485-4428
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Glassboro, NJ 08028
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.
(856) 617-5868 View (856) 617-5868
Photo of Leona Nobles-Harrington, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Leona Nobles-Harrington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, medication management, brief supportive therapy, medication-assisted weight loss, active wellness support and GeneSight pharmacogenomic testing. I attended Widener University for Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing, Walden University for Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner, and Wilkes University for Post-Masters Certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
I am Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, medication management, brief supportive therapy, medication-assisted weight loss, active wellness support and GeneSight pharmacogenomic testing. I attended Widener University for Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing, Walden University for Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner, and Wilkes University for Post-Masters Certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(856) 363-3029 View (856) 363-3029
Photo of Alexis Holmes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-NP
Alexis Holmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-NP
Online Only
My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.
My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.
(640) 231-0441 View (640) 231-0441
Photo of Doris Chukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN-C
Doris Chukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Top Choice Medical Consult provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health services to a diverse client population. With over 10 years experience in psychiatric and mental health, my experience and educational background have prepared me in providing the required services for mental health needs. I utilize a comprehensive approach in formulating a patient's diagnosis and treatment plan. Our services includes providing detailed psychiatric evaluation, establishing appropriate diagnosis, working with the client in choosing individualized suitable treatment and therapy.
Top Choice Medical Consult provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health services to a diverse client population. With over 10 years experience in psychiatric and mental health, my experience and educational background have prepared me in providing the required services for mental health needs. I utilize a comprehensive approach in formulating a patient's diagnosis and treatment plan. Our services includes providing detailed psychiatric evaluation, establishing appropriate diagnosis, working with the client in choosing individualized suitable treatment and therapy.
(732) 733-6745 View (732) 733-6745
Photo of Danielle Berju - Healing Tree Holistic Psychiatry (Danielle Berju), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Healing Tree Holistic Psychiatry (Danielle Berju)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Online Only
Hello! I'm Danielle Berju, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and the owner of Healing Tree Holistic Psychiatry. I focus on helping you find the right medications or stopping ones that don't work. However, medications are just a part of my approach. I also offer therapy and holistic wellness to help you feel your best. Whether it's anxiety, depression, mood swings, focus issues, or motivation, I'm here to support you. My goal is to make you feel safe, heard, and informed in every treatment decision. Please note: As a telehealth-only practice, we do not prescribe controlled medications like stimulants or benzodiazepines.
Hello! I'm Danielle Berju, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and the owner of Healing Tree Holistic Psychiatry. I focus on helping you find the right medications or stopping ones that don't work. However, medications are just a part of my approach. I also offer therapy and holistic wellness to help you feel your best. Whether it's anxiety, depression, mood swings, focus issues, or motivation, I'm here to support you. My goal is to make you feel safe, heard, and informed in every treatment decision. Please note: As a telehealth-only practice, we do not prescribe controlled medications like stimulants or benzodiazepines.
(640) 224-4702 View (640) 224-4702
Photo of Paula Hasenauer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN, FNP
Paula Hasenauer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN, FNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a pediatric, psychiatric nurse practitioner with a private practice located in Swedesboro NJ. I care for children, adolescents and young adults ages 2-24 years old. My services include comprehensive psychiatric assessments and testing, medication management, individualized treatment plans, personalized 504 plans and ADHD coaching. I collaborate with schools, pediatricians, therapists and other social support systems in an effort to provide holistic care. My goal is to work together with children and their families to improve the resilience and overall well-being of each child.
I am a pediatric, psychiatric nurse practitioner with a private practice located in Swedesboro NJ. I care for children, adolescents and young adults ages 2-24 years old. My services include comprehensive psychiatric assessments and testing, medication management, individualized treatment plans, personalized 504 plans and ADHD coaching. I collaborate with schools, pediatricians, therapists and other social support systems in an effort to provide holistic care. My goal is to work together with children and their families to improve the resilience and overall well-being of each child.
(856) 420-7141 View (856) 420-7141
Photo of Dr. Tony Issac, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Tony Issac
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
(201) 482-3451 View (201) 482-3451
Tina Pryor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Glassboro, NJ 08028
(856) 684-4595 View (856) 684-4595

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Nicole Ibe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Nicole Ibe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Lumberton, NJ 08048
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction or any other behavioral health concern, Nicole is here to help. Her mission is committed to helping individuals achieve emotional well-being, navigate life's unique challenges, and develop the skills and resilience needed for a happier and more fulfilling life.
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction or any other behavioral health concern, Nicole is here to help. Her mission is committed to helping individuals achieve emotional well-being, navigate life's unique challenges, and develop the skills and resilience needed for a happier and more fulfilling life.
(609) 542-2295 View (609) 542-2295
Photo of Dr. Mona Ismail, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Mona Ismail
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Ismail is double board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from Cairo University, where she also completed her neurology residency at Cairo University Hospitals. Following this, she pursued psychiatric training at New York Medical College at St. Vincent’s Hospitals, where she was appointed Chief Resident and recognized as Resident of the Year.
Dr. Ismail is double board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from Cairo University, where she also completed her neurology residency at Cairo University Hospitals. Following this, she pursued psychiatric training at New York Medical College at St. Vincent’s Hospitals, where she was appointed Chief Resident and recognized as Resident of the Year.
(856) 792-7290 View (856) 792-7290

See more therapy options for 08028

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 08028

10+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in 08028 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
78% Trauma and PTSD
78% Bipolar Disorder
72% Medication Management
67% Addiction
67% Stress

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
94% Aetna
94% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 08028 see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 08028?

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.