Psychiatrists in 08102

Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(856) 481-7947 View (856) 481-7947
Photo of Joann Zanghi-Mace, BA, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joann Zanghi-Mace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client is a person who wants help. Whether it is Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, or Bipolar Disorder, I want my patients to strive to keep an open mind and are motivated to feel better. I am passionate about the creation of a therapeutic environment that fosters trust, safety, exploration, insight, strength, and direction as an integral aspect of your treatment.
My ideal client is a person who wants help. Whether it is Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, or Bipolar Disorder, I want my patients to strive to keep an open mind and are motivated to feel better. I am passionate about the creation of a therapeutic environment that fosters trust, safety, exploration, insight, strength, and direction as an integral aspect of your treatment.
(856) 492-6043 View (856) 492-6043
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(856) 363-3075 View (856) 363-3075
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for 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) 446-8981 View (856) 446-8981
Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Coyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(856) 248-3395 View (856) 248-3395
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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) 373-4892 View (856) 373-4892
Photo of Dr. Bradford Bobrin, MD, FASAM, FACLP, Psychiatrist
Dr. Bradford Bobrin
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FACLP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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) 579-6475 View (856) 579-6475
Photo of Henrietta Udeh, MSN, CSN-NJ, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Henrietta Udeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CSN-NJ, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client presents with anxiety; she has been experiencing a lot of panic attacks. She has been to the ER over three times in the past two months, where they ruled out cardiac problems. They always give her benzodiazepine and follow up with a psychiatrist. She does not want to be on medications, so she tried psychotherapy. She was then referred by her therapist. Her goal is to stay on medication for a short time. She prefers to use natural remedies. She is very fearful of science and the long-term effects of medications.
My ideal client presents with anxiety; she has been experiencing a lot of panic attacks. She has been to the ER over three times in the past two months, where they ruled out cardiac problems. They always give her benzodiazepine and follow up with a psychiatrist. She does not want to be on medications, so she tried psychotherapy. She was then referred by her therapist. Her goal is to stay on medication for a short time. She prefers to use natural remedies. She is very fearful of science and the long-term effects of medications.
(856) 363-0615 View (856) 363-0615
Photo of Amanda Guarnere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(844) 959-1689 View (844) 959-1689

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Michael Underriner, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Underriner
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Underriner is a board certified Staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He completed his residency at New York University. His approach to treatment is holistic, taking into account the entire person, and emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic bond to help people reduce suffering and achieve their goals. He works with people struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. Dr. Underriner has maintained an interest in teaching and remains connected to the psychiatry department at NYU. He has supervised and taught junior residents and medical students.
Dr. Underriner is a board certified Staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He completed his residency at New York University. His approach to treatment is holistic, taking into account the entire person, and emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic bond to help people reduce suffering and achieve their goals. He works with people struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. Dr. Underriner has maintained an interest in teaching and remains connected to the psychiatry department at NYU. He has supervised and taught junior residents and medical students.
(856) 396-9526 View (856) 396-9526
Photo of Constance Courduff - Mendful Minds, LLC, MHS, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mendful Minds, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHS, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Williamstown, NJ 08094
I am a highly skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping individuals overcome their mental health challenges and lead fulfilling lives. I'm passionate about empowering patients to take an active role in their mental health and well-being. I work collaboratively with patients to educate them about their conditions, help them develop coping skills, and encourage them to make positive lifestyle changes.
I am a highly skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping individuals overcome their mental health challenges and lead fulfilling lives. I'm passionate about empowering patients to take an active role in their mental health and well-being. I work collaboratively with patients to educate them about their conditions, help them develop coping skills, and encourage them to make positive lifestyle changes.
(856) 386-7974 View (856) 386-7974
Photo of Alexis Holmes, APN-NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexis Holmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-NP
Verified Verified
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 Karen Yeboah-Norment, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 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 Alexander Kwon, MD, Psychiatrist
Alexander Kwon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
I attended medical school in South Korea and moved to the US after graduation. I was involved in research for new treatment options for brain tumors in Radiation Oncology. After years of research, I decided to pursue psychiatry with the vision of a more holistic approach to mental health care rather than just focusing on the pathology of the human brain. I take a comprehensive approach to understand each individual's physical, mental, and social issues. I highly value the importance of psychopharmacology combined with psychotherapy and psychoanalytic assessment.
I attended medical school in South Korea and moved to the US after graduation. I was involved in research for new treatment options for brain tumors in Radiation Oncology. After years of research, I decided to pursue psychiatry with the vision of a more holistic approach to mental health care rather than just focusing on the pathology of the human brain. I take a comprehensive approach to understand each individual's physical, mental, and social issues. I highly value the importance of psychopharmacology combined with psychotherapy and psychoanalytic assessment.
(609) 891-3157 View (609) 891-3157
Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
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) 517-5342 View (856) 517-5342
Photo of Babatunde Adetunji - The Executive Center for Psychological Medicine, MD, Psychiatrist
The Executive Center for Psychological Medicine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
Dr. Adetunji is Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine and Psychological Medicine. He was trained in Psychiatry in England (At the prestigious Guys and St Thomas’s Hospital, London) as well as in USA (Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia). He completed fellowship training in Forensic Psychiatry at the New York University Medical Center. Dr Adetunji is well versed in addiction medicine and child and adolescent psychiatry. He is certified to prescribe Buprenorphine (Suboxone) for opioid addiction.
Dr. Adetunji is Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine and Psychological Medicine. He was trained in Psychiatry in England (At the prestigious Guys and St Thomas’s Hospital, London) as well as in USA (Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia). He completed fellowship training in Forensic Psychiatry at the New York University Medical Center. Dr Adetunji is well versed in addiction medicine and child and adolescent psychiatry. He is certified to prescribe Buprenorphine (Suboxone) for opioid addiction.
(856) 619-8540 View (856) 619-8540
Photo of Jingduan Yang, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Jingduan Yang
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Marlton, NJ 08053
Mental health issues are complex problems with the body, mind, and spirit. They demand a comprehensive evaluation to detect abnormal brain chemistry and physiology to employ an individualized and integrative approach to treat the root causes and relieve the symptoms. I have helped numerous people who are tired of the side effects and lack of efficacy of psychotropic medications and desire to achieve a healthier and happier life.
Mental health issues are complex problems with the body, mind, and spirit. They demand a comprehensive evaluation to detect abnormal brain chemistry and physiology to employ an individualized and integrative approach to treat the root causes and relieve the symptoms. I have helped numerous people who are tired of the side effects and lack of efficacy of psychotropic medications and desire to achieve a healthier and happier life.
(856) 802-6888 View (856) 802-6888
Photo of Maria Leotti, AHNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maria Leotti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AHNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Please do not hesitate to use the contact information provided here on Psychology Today. You may copy the following to the pre-screen form from my scheduling site.
Please do not hesitate to use the contact information provided here on Psychology Today. You may copy the following to the pre-screen form from my scheduling site.
(856) 406-2199 View (856) 406-2199
Photo of Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
(848) 289-1172 View (848) 289-1172
Psychiatric and Recovery Services
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Marlton, NJ 08053
Psychiatric and Recovery Services (formerly Psychiatric and Addiction Services or PASSNJ) treats: depression, opiate addiction, ADD, ADHD, OCD, and much more. We make sure to provide the safest, and most effective treatments in order to get back to their daily lives. We also offer forensic and clinical psychology in addition to our other services for children and adults. We also provide Suboxone or Buprenorphine, for those who are struggling with opiate addiction to help ease the withdrawal process.
Psychiatric and Recovery Services (formerly Psychiatric and Addiction Services or PASSNJ) treats: depression, opiate addiction, ADD, ADHD, OCD, and much more. We make sure to provide the safest, and most effective treatments in order to get back to their daily lives. We also offer forensic and clinical psychology in addition to our other services for children and adults. We also provide Suboxone or Buprenorphine, for those who are struggling with opiate addiction to help ease the withdrawal process.
(856) 872-2693 View (856) 872-2693

See more therapy options for 08102

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 08102

< 10

Psychiatrists in 08102 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
78% Trauma and PTSD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Sleep or Insomnia
67% Medication Management

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% AmeriHealth
100% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 08102 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 08102?

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.