Psychiatrists in 08502

ADHD, Mood & Behavior Center is a comprehensive Child, Adolescent & Adult psychotherapy center, available ONLINE throughout NJ & NY, from the comfort of your home, and in person in northern NJ. Our three board certified child, adolescent & adult psychiatrists are devoted to the evaluation and treatment of emotional, behavioral, social, academic & employment difficulties, including ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Autism Spectrum Disorder, OCD, learning issues, bullying & video game addiction, and collaborate with our highly trained therapists to find solutions and bring stability to the child, adult or family.
ADHD, Mood & Behavior Center is a comprehensive Child, Adolescent & Adult psychotherapy center, available ONLINE throughout NJ & NY, from the comfort of your home, and in person in northern NJ. Our three board certified child, adolescent & adult psychiatrists are devoted to the evaluation and treatment of emotional, behavioral, social, academic & employment difficulties, including ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Autism Spectrum Disorder, OCD, learning issues, bullying & video game addiction, and collaborate with our highly trained therapists to find solutions and bring stability to the child, adult or family.

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.

I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey and has been in the mental health/psychiatric field for 0ver 10 years. I have extensive inpatient and outpatient experience working with individuals with mental health issues. I have worked with adolescents and adults with psychiatric disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorders and other mental health issues.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey and has been in the mental health/psychiatric field for 0ver 10 years. I have extensive inpatient and outpatient experience working with individuals with mental health issues. I have worked with adolescents and adults with psychiatric disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorders and other mental health issues.
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I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Healt Health Nurse Practitioner with a diverse cultural background, with over 20 years' experience and extensive background in both in-person and outpatient settings. I am very dependable and reliable provider with varied experience in mental health services. I am ready to work with patients in realizing their goals.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Healt Health Nurse Practitioner with a diverse cultural background, with over 20 years' experience and extensive background in both in-person and outpatient settings. I am very dependable and reliable provider with varied experience in mental health services. I am ready to work with patients in realizing their goals.

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.

Cedarview Health - Dr. Sinead Sobers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.cedarview.health
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.cedarview.health

Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Gileen and I'm a board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety and Depression. I offer both medication management & brief aspects of therapy. Pairing therapy and medication to treat depression and anxiety can help you feel better faster. I aim to teach you how to manage your symptoms and develop effective and healthy coping skills. In every session, you will be met with kindness, warmth and open-mindedness.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Gileen and I'm a board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety and Depression. I offer both medication management & brief aspects of therapy. Pairing therapy and medication to treat depression and anxiety can help you feel better faster. I aim to teach you how to manage your symptoms and develop effective and healthy coping skills. In every session, you will be met with kindness, warmth and open-mindedness.

Hello — I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who enjoys helping my clients overcome anxiety, depression, behavioral disturbances, ADHD, eating disorders, and life transitions. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not like yourself, support is within reach.
I will bring a compassionate and holistic approach to your care. My background spans psychiatry, medical/surgical, cardiovascular, and emergency medicine; allowing me to understand both the emotional and physical sides of mental health.
Hello — I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who enjoys helping my clients overcome anxiety, depression, behavioral disturbances, ADHD, eating disorders, and life transitions. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not like yourself, support is within reach.
I will bring a compassionate and holistic approach to your care. My background spans psychiatry, medical/surgical, cardiovascular, and emergency medicine; allowing me to understand both the emotional and physical sides of mental health.

At institute for better living we believe, that a strong mind in a weak body can strive against difficulties in a better way than a diseased mind in a strong body. Dr. Usman Ahmed is licensed in NY, NJ & PA and is a suboxone certified prescriber. Dr. Ahmed specializes in the medication management of mental health conditions in adults, and adolescents, as well as psychotherapy, depending on needs and preference of his patients. Dr. Ahmed is affiliated with Hackensack Meridian and work as Medical Director Psychosomatic Medicine and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry.
At institute for better living we believe, that a strong mind in a weak body can strive against difficulties in a better way than a diseased mind in a strong body. Dr. Usman Ahmed is licensed in NY, NJ & PA and is a suboxone certified prescriber. Dr. Ahmed specializes in the medication management of mental health conditions in adults, and adolescents, as well as psychotherapy, depending on needs and preference of his patients. Dr. Ahmed is affiliated with Hackensack Meridian and work as Medical Director Psychosomatic Medicine and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry.

I believe change happens most easily when we do not feel judged. I aim for a warm and compassionate stance towards the challenges life brings on.
I focus on individual challenges such as relationship difficulties, life transitions, personal fulfillment, and identity, in addition to addressing psychiatric issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder and sleep disturbances.
I use a collaborative approach, combining medication management with supportive therapy to address the root causes of mental health challenges. I prioritize patient education and shared decision-making. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space
I believe change happens most easily when we do not feel judged. I aim for a warm and compassionate stance towards the challenges life brings on.
I focus on individual challenges such as relationship difficulties, life transitions, personal fulfillment, and identity, in addition to addressing psychiatric issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder and sleep disturbances.
I use a collaborative approach, combining medication management with supportive therapy to address the root causes of mental health challenges. I prioritize patient education and shared decision-making. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space

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.

Glorious Dawn Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP, -BC
Springfield, NJ 07081
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey and New York. My passion is driven by my desire to see everyone do well. I have always been guided by my belief that I will only be judged by the success/recovery of my patients. My goal is to foster healing and provide quality evidence-based mental health care services for patients and their families. The core focus of our care is patient-driven.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey and New York. My passion is driven by my desire to see everyone do well. I have always been guided by my belief that I will only be judged by the success/recovery of my patients. My goal is to foster healing and provide quality evidence-based mental health care services for patients and their families. The core focus of our care is patient-driven.

Dr. Ihab Ibrahim is a dedicated and caring psychiatrist, specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, serving the community of New York and New Jersey.He complete his residency in psychiatry at Delaware Psychiatric Center. He also completed a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at North Shore-LIJ Health System. He is certified in General Psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is a member of American Psychiatric association and AACAP.
Dr. Ihab Ibrahim is a dedicated and caring psychiatrist, specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, serving the community of New York and New Jersey.He complete his residency in psychiatry at Delaware Psychiatric Center. He also completed a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at North Shore-LIJ Health System. He is certified in General Psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is a member of American Psychiatric association and AACAP.

So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.

As an APN I have a strong conviction in the Mind Body connection which has led me to a holistic approach to care. My extensive experience in medical nursing as well as behavioral health nursing gives me a unique perspective, enabling me to identify the biopsychosocial needs of the client.My practice includes not only psychotherapy but also medication monitoring. In my prescriptive practice I work closely and collaborate with behavioral health clinicians and pschologists.
As an APN I have a strong conviction in the Mind Body connection which has led me to a holistic approach to care. My extensive experience in medical nursing as well as behavioral health nursing gives me a unique perspective, enabling me to identify the biopsychosocial needs of the client.My practice includes not only psychotherapy but also medication monitoring. In my prescriptive practice I work closely and collaborate with behavioral health clinicians and pschologists.

We specialize in the Evaluation and Management of Adults with Psychiatric conditions. Aroga offer specialized treatment for medication resistant depressed patients such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Intranasal Ketamine and Spravato. We are the only center in the area to offer QB Test, a FDA cleared test to assess treatment optimization in ADHD. We also offer treatment for Eating disorders and Obesity, as well as Office-based treatment of opioid dependence and Addiction. Our therapies provide multiple psychotherapy techniques to help our patients to achieve complete treatment success.
We specialize in the Evaluation and Management of Adults with Psychiatric conditions. Aroga offer specialized treatment for medication resistant depressed patients such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Intranasal Ketamine and Spravato. We are the only center in the area to offer QB Test, a FDA cleared test to assess treatment optimization in ADHD. We also offer treatment for Eating disorders and Obesity, as well as Office-based treatment of opioid dependence and Addiction. Our therapies provide multiple psychotherapy techniques to help our patients to achieve complete treatment success.

Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Denise and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Burnout, Binge Eating Disorder, Chronic Illness, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Family Issues, Insomnia- Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+, Gender & Sexuality Topics, Loss, Grief, and Bereavement, OCD, PTSD, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Denise and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Burnout, Binge Eating Disorder, Chronic Illness, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Family Issues, Insomnia- Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+, Gender & Sexuality Topics, Loss, Grief, and Bereavement, OCD, PTSD, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.

Tri America is thrilled to introduce Andrew Kuiken, a certified physician assistant with over 12 years of clinical experience and is accepting new clients for in-person or online in NJ and online in NY and FL. PA Kuiken recently earned his Doctorate of Medical Science degree from Rocky Mountain University, showcasing his unwavering commitment to staying at the forefront of medical knowledge. In addition to Psychiatry, PA Kuiken has in neurosurgical and intensive care services, giving him a well rounded background in complex medical problems and how they may interact with psychiatric conditions.
Tri America is thrilled to introduce Andrew Kuiken, a certified physician assistant with over 12 years of clinical experience and is accepting new clients for in-person or online in NJ and online in NY and FL. PA Kuiken recently earned his Doctorate of Medical Science degree from Rocky Mountain University, showcasing his unwavering commitment to staying at the forefront of medical knowledge. In addition to Psychiatry, PA Kuiken has in neurosurgical and intensive care services, giving him a well rounded background in complex medical problems and how they may interact with psychiatric conditions.

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.

Are you struggling with focus, low mood, anxiety, or past trauma? I'm here to help.
I specialize in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, and bipolar disorder—exclusively for adults 18 and over. Whether you're overwhelmed at work, stuck in cycles of stress, or just not feeling like yourself, you're not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer convenient, compassionate telepsychiatry that fits your schedule. You’ll receive personalized medication management with care that’s rooted in listening, understanding, and real solutions.
Are you struggling with focus, low mood, anxiety, or past trauma? I'm here to help.
I specialize in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, and bipolar disorder—exclusively for adults 18 and over. Whether you're overwhelmed at work, stuck in cycles of stress, or just not feeling like yourself, you're not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer convenient, compassionate telepsychiatry that fits your schedule. You’ll receive personalized medication management with care that’s rooted in listening, understanding, and real solutions.
See more therapy options for 08502
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 08502
< 10
Psychiatrists in 08502 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Substance Use |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Wellpoint | Amerigroup |
100% | AmeriHealth |
How Psychiatrists in 08502 see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
67% | Male | |
33% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 08502?
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.