Psychiatrists in 08107

**Currently taking new clients**. Your mental health should be a priority and it is often necessary to seek assistance through life's transitions and difficulties. I am a Board Certified Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I have years of experience as a psychiatric nurse in children and adolescent crisis interventions, adult crisis and psychiatric intensive care. My special areas of experience include Depression, Anxiety and Mood disorders. I am a careful listener, caring, knowledgeable and sincere to my patients.
**Currently taking new clients**. Your mental health should be a priority and it is often necessary to seek assistance through life's transitions and difficulties. I am a Board Certified Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I have years of experience as a psychiatric nurse in children and adolescent crisis interventions, adult crisis and psychiatric intensive care. My special areas of experience include Depression, Anxiety and Mood disorders. I am a careful listener, caring, knowledgeable and sincere to my patients.

I am currently scheduling new patients for initial psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We additionally have psychotherapists (within our network at Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates) whom we collaborate with if indicated. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field, including working as a mental health resource specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital (2003-2008), The Johns Hopkins Hospital in both clinical and supervisor roles (2009-2012) and have instructed at The University of Pennsylvania (where I completed my training including certification to prescribe psychiatric medications).
I am currently scheduling new patients for initial psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We additionally have psychotherapists (within our network at Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates) whom we collaborate with if indicated. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field, including working as a mental health resource specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital (2003-2008), The Johns Hopkins Hospital in both clinical and supervisor roles (2009-2012) and have instructed at The University of Pennsylvania (where I completed my training including certification to prescribe psychiatric medications).

KALM Behavioral Health Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am Dr Obinna Ezealor, DNP, PMHNP-BC, owner/founder of KALM Behavioral Health Inc. I have an extensive psychiatric experience, having worked for over 12 years in one of the NJ state-established long-term psychiatric hospital and experience in General and Addiction Psychiatry. I also have experience working both in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, and treating clients from various ethnic and cultural groups. I am a highly motivated and organized individual passionate about caring for the mental health and addiction population, and my philosophy is to tailor each client’s care to their need.
I am Dr Obinna Ezealor, DNP, PMHNP-BC, owner/founder of KALM Behavioral Health Inc. I have an extensive psychiatric experience, having worked for over 12 years in one of the NJ state-established long-term psychiatric hospital and experience in General and Addiction Psychiatry. I also have experience working both in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, and treating clients from various ethnic and cultural groups. I am a highly motivated and organized individual passionate about caring for the mental health and addiction population, and my philosophy is to tailor each client’s care to their need.

My clients are children, adolescents, and adults facing a range of challenges, from anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, to OCD, trauma, substance use, and psychotic disorders. They seek more than just symptom relief; they’re looking for a collaborative approach to regain control over their mental health. Together, we work toward goals like emotional stability, improved relationships, and resilience, with a focus on understanding their unique story and empowering them to thrive across all life stages.
My clients are children, adolescents, and adults facing a range of challenges, from anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, to OCD, trauma, substance use, and psychotic disorders. They seek more than just symptom relief; they’re looking for a collaborative approach to regain control over their mental health. Together, we work toward goals like emotional stability, improved relationships, and resilience, with a focus on understanding their unique story and empowering them to thrive across all life stages.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

InStride Health specializes in treating young patients whose anxiety or OCD is causing significant impairment in life (ie., school avoidance, social isolation, family disruption, and physical manifestations.) Practicing evidence-based treatment (CBT, ACT, components of DBT) with an emphasis on exposure, the InStride team empowers youth to face their fears and build resilience.
InStride Health specializes in treating young patients whose anxiety or OCD is causing significant impairment in life (ie., school avoidance, social isolation, family disruption, and physical manifestations.) Practicing evidence-based treatment (CBT, ACT, components of DBT) with an emphasis on exposure, the InStride team empowers youth to face their fears and build resilience.

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.

NJ Behavioral Health - A LifeStance Health Affilia
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.

April Adkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 25 years of healthcare experience working with patients. I work with clients aged 18 + who suffer from depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and grief. I also work with clients struggling with overwhelming life difficulties, such as the death of a loved one or the end of a relationship. My approach to care is tailored to your needs and may include medication, nutritional supplementation, and therapy. If you desire, we may incorporate your loved ones in your treatment to help them learn to support you on the pathway to recovery.
I am a Doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 25 years of healthcare experience working with patients. I work with clients aged 18 + who suffer from depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and grief. I also work with clients struggling with overwhelming life difficulties, such as the death of a loved one or the end of a relationship. My approach to care is tailored to your needs and may include medication, nutritional supplementation, and therapy. If you desire, we may incorporate your loved ones in your treatment to help them learn to support you on the pathway to recovery.

Founder and Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates - a network of over 20 psychiatric providers that are academically focused and utilize evidence based practice. In-office (Philadelphia, and The Main Line in Paoli, PA) and virtual Telehealth psychiatric appointments. We treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. Child and adolescent psychiatric appointments. Fee for service practice, treating moderate levels of psychiatric illness for safety purposes (we do not have admitting privileges or a 24 hour emergency line). Board Certified and licensed in PA, NJ, NY, MD, DE, FL, CA. Visit www.RittenhousePA.com.
Founder and Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates - a network of over 20 psychiatric providers that are academically focused and utilize evidence based practice. In-office (Philadelphia, and The Main Line in Paoli, PA) and virtual Telehealth psychiatric appointments. We treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. Child and adolescent psychiatric appointments. Fee for service practice, treating moderate levels of psychiatric illness for safety purposes (we do not have admitting privileges or a 24 hour emergency line). Board Certified and licensed in PA, NJ, NY, MD, DE, FL, CA. Visit www.RittenhousePA.com.

My name is Nadia Marcelin, I’m a long time resident of NJ where I live with my husband and my teenage daughter. I’m very passionate about providing care for my patients in an environment that is conducive to healing. I’m a compassionate provider with six years plus experiences in inpatients care with diverse mental issues. I pride myself in treating my patients as individuals and not as a case. I strongly believe that wellness and rehabilitation is a team effort between all parties involved. I value and seek to understand my patients’ needs so we can develop a working relationship based on trust, mutual respects and honesty.
My name is Nadia Marcelin, I’m a long time resident of NJ where I live with my husband and my teenage daughter. I’m very passionate about providing care for my patients in an environment that is conducive to healing. I’m a compassionate provider with six years plus experiences in inpatients care with diverse mental issues. I pride myself in treating my patients as individuals and not as a case. I strongly believe that wellness and rehabilitation is a team effort between all parties involved. I value and seek to understand my patients’ needs so we can develop a working relationship based on trust, mutual respects and honesty.

LACKA Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Loretta Oguonu, is a board-certified doctorate prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I maintain LACKA Behavioral Health, a private owned practice which specializes in the treatment of younger adults and older adults with a broad range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorders, impulsivity, and many more. I have 16 years’ experience as a nurse in mental health disorders and has been treating younger adults and older adults as a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner for 8 years.
Dr. Loretta Oguonu, is a board-certified doctorate prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I maintain LACKA Behavioral Health, a private owned practice which specializes in the treatment of younger adults and older adults with a broad range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorders, impulsivity, and many more. I have 16 years’ experience as a nurse in mental health disorders and has been treating younger adults and older adults as a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner for 8 years.

Dr. Ellis is a staff psychiatrist for Talkiatry. He has been practicing for more than 28 years. He is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. In addition, Dr. Ellis is certified by the American Board of Adolescent Psychiatry and is a member of the American Society for Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Ellis provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations. He offers follow-up medication management and incorporates supportive therapy and CBT in subsequent 30-minute visits. When indicated, Dr. Ellis encourages family involvement in the treatment process.
Dr. Ellis is a staff psychiatrist for Talkiatry. He has been practicing for more than 28 years. He is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. In addition, Dr. Ellis is certified by the American Board of Adolescent Psychiatry and is a member of the American Society for Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Ellis provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations. He offers follow-up medication management and incorporates supportive therapy and CBT in subsequent 30-minute visits. When indicated, Dr. Ellis encourages family involvement in the treatment process.

Do you often feel anxious, down, depressed, misunderstood, or hopeless? Are you having difficulty sleeping, concentrating, or staying on task? If any of this is true for you, I can help. I specialize in treating adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, insomnia and panic attacks through medication management.
Do you often feel anxious, down, depressed, misunderstood, or hopeless? Are you having difficulty sleeping, concentrating, or staying on task? If any of this is true for you, I can help. I specialize in treating adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, insomnia and panic attacks through medication management.

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.

KIC Behavioral & Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you seeking compassionate and comprehensive mental health care in New Jersey? Look no further. I'm Okechukwu Madu, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in various healthcare settings. My mission is to provide personalized and evidence-based treatment to individuals seeking support for their mental health concerns. Whether you're considering medication management, psychotherapy, or a combination of both, we are here to support you every step of the way. Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow by reaching out to schedule an appointment.
Are you seeking compassionate and comprehensive mental health care in New Jersey? Look no further. I'm Okechukwu Madu, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in various healthcare settings. My mission is to provide personalized and evidence-based treatment to individuals seeking support for their mental health concerns. Whether you're considering medication management, psychotherapy, or a combination of both, we are here to support you every step of the way. Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow by reaching out to schedule an appointment.

Get the care you need from the comfort of your own location at your convenience. Depression & Anxiety Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through treatment, Jules is able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.
Get the care you need from the comfort of your own location at your convenience. Depression & Anxiety Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through treatment, Jules is able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.

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.

Arise Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Visit ARISEW.ORG to self-schedule at your convenience. Offering med management for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Perinatal and Pregnancy, Trauma and PTSD, Sleep or Insomnia, incorporate brief as appropriate. Please note: This is a telehealth only practice. As such, we does not prescribe controlled medication (such as stimulants or benzodiazepines), in light of DEA regulations. Private Pay rate is $150 for follow-up visit and $275 for initial eval
Visit ARISEW.ORG to self-schedule at your convenience. Offering med management for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Perinatal and Pregnancy, Trauma and PTSD, Sleep or Insomnia, incorporate brief as appropriate. Please note: This is a telehealth only practice. As such, we does not prescribe controlled medication (such as stimulants or benzodiazepines), in light of DEA regulations. Private Pay rate is $150 for follow-up visit and $275 for initial eval

Lauren Antonison Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Lauren Antonison is a board-certified family nurse practitioner focused on providing quality mental health care for teens and adults. As an advanced practice nurse with over ten years’ experience providing psychiatric consulting for long-term care facilities and outpatient services, Lauren provides telehealth services primarily focused on medication management coupled with therapy and coaching.
Lauren Antonison is a board-certified family nurse practitioner focused on providing quality mental health care for teens and adults. As an advanced practice nurse with over ten years’ experience providing psychiatric consulting for long-term care facilities and outpatient services, Lauren provides telehealth services primarily focused on medication management coupled with therapy and coaching.
Ruth MacKenzie (adolescent/teen specialist)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
See more therapy options for 08107
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 08107
< 10
Psychiatrists in 08107 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Alcohol Use |
100% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 08107 see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 08107?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.