Psychiatrists in 08755

Photo of Felix Geller - Modern Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD, LCSW, LMFT, PMHNP
Modern Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, LCSW, LMFT, PMHNP
Toms River, NJ 08755
Now Accepting New Patients- - Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - At Modern Psychiatry, our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, therapists, case managers, and primary care physicians provides comprehensive mental health care across multiple states, both in-person and virtually. We address a range of concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety, and depression, matching clients with the right provider. We offer neuropsychological testing for Autism, ADHD, and academic challenges. We also offer executive function coaching to enhance skills like organization, time management, and emotional regulation.
Now Accepting New Patients- - Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - At Modern Psychiatry, our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, therapists, case managers, and primary care physicians provides comprehensive mental health care across multiple states, both in-person and virtually. We address a range of concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety, and depression, matching clients with the right provider. We offer neuropsychological testing for Autism, ADHD, and academic challenges. We also offer executive function coaching to enhance skills like organization, time management, and emotional regulation.
(908) 638-1374 View (908) 638-1374
Photo of Nicholas LaCorte, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, MSN, PMHNPBC, RN, LCSW
Nicholas LaCorte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, MSN, PMHNPBC, RN, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Imagine what your life could be after taking a leap of faith. The first step is always the hardest but if it changes your life for the better why not see where it leads you. Whether you suffer from depression and anxiety, ADHD or codependency issues I can help. I have helped build confidence, improve assertion and self esteem. I have helped decrease co-dependence and build independence. Reach out to me if you're ready for change, or even if you're contemplating it and are anxious or unsure about what to expect.
Imagine what your life could be after taking a leap of faith. The first step is always the hardest but if it changes your life for the better why not see where it leads you. Whether you suffer from depression and anxiety, ADHD or codependency issues I can help. I have helped build confidence, improve assertion and self esteem. I have helped decrease co-dependence and build independence. Reach out to me if you're ready for change, or even if you're contemplating it and are anxious or unsure about what to expect.
(848) 222-3963 View (848) 222-3963
Photo of Felix Geller, Psychiatrist, MD
Felix Geller
Psychiatrist, MD
Toms River, NJ 08755
After completing training in 2012 at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center of Shreveport, I began practicing psychiatry. have experience practicing in multiple settings including emergency room, hospital, medical wards, outpatient programs, outpatient offices, correctional facilities, research substance use programs and teaching programs.
After completing training in 2012 at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center of Shreveport, I began practicing psychiatry. have experience practicing in multiple settings including emergency room, hospital, medical wards, outpatient programs, outpatient offices, correctional facilities, research substance use programs and teaching programs.
(908) 224-4095 View (908) 224-4095
Photo of Fatmata Raymond, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fatmata Raymond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, Do you feel stressed, less motivated, tired and struggling to keep up with life's challenges? It's okay not to be okay, your struggles do not define you. Taking the first step towards improving your mental well-being can feel daunting, but by reaching out, you've already displayed tremendous courage. I understand that finding the right path to recovery can be overwhelming, which is why I am here to help you.
Hello, Do you feel stressed, less motivated, tired and struggling to keep up with life's challenges? It's okay not to be okay, your struggles do not define you. Taking the first step towards improving your mental well-being can feel daunting, but by reaching out, you've already displayed tremendous courage. I understand that finding the right path to recovery can be overwhelming, which is why I am here to help you.
(609) 451-7786 View (609) 451-7786
Photo of Alexander Iofin, Psychiatrist, MD
Alexander Iofin
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Feeling unfocused, anxious, or disorganized? I am dedicated to providing quality psychiatric care so that you can achieve the life you have always wanted. I specialize in Adult ADHD, ADD, and Anxiety disorders. I look at the whole individual, not just your symptoms, to better understand underlying components that may be affecting your mental health. Many adults who suffer from ADHD don't know they have the condition. Currently, it’s thought that only 10.9% of adults with ADHD are getting the necessary treatment. Don't let Anxiety or ADHD keep you from living your best life.
Feeling unfocused, anxious, or disorganized? I am dedicated to providing quality psychiatric care so that you can achieve the life you have always wanted. I specialize in Adult ADHD, ADD, and Anxiety disorders. I look at the whole individual, not just your symptoms, to better understand underlying components that may be affecting your mental health. Many adults who suffer from ADHD don't know they have the condition. Currently, it’s thought that only 10.9% of adults with ADHD are getting the necessary treatment. Don't let Anxiety or ADHD keep you from living your best life.
(848) 281-3842 View (848) 281-3842
Photo of Ngozi Nwobi - OCA Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B, APN
OCA Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B, APN
Toms River, NJ 08755
I am dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, I help my clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. I team up with my clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively.
I am dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, I help my clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. I team up with my clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively.
(732) 365-4207 View (732) 365-4207
Photo of Catherine “Kasia” Bodnar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Catherine “Kasia” Bodnar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your well-being! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring to my practice not only clinical expertise but also compassion, empathy, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. My journey in mental health care has been driven by a deep-rooted passion to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals facing various mental health challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia or other mental illness I am here to offer my help.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your well-being! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring to my practice not only clinical expertise but also compassion, empathy, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. My journey in mental health care has been driven by a deep-rooted passion to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals facing various mental health challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia or other mental illness I am here to offer my help.
(908) 895-6131 View (908) 895-6131
Photo of Dr. Madeleine R. Eugene - Relax Your Mind Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C
Relax Your Mind Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C
12 Endorsed
Serves Area
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - -
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - -
(732) 800-5920 View (732) 800-5920
Photo of Kamsi Obu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Kamsi Obu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling to find balance? As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, personalized care across the lifespan. My practice focuses on medication management with supportive, brief therapy as needed—always grounded in partnership and mutual respect. I believe that healing involves the whole person: body, mind, and spirit. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or substance use challenges, my goal is to walk alongside you in your recovery, not direct it for you.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling to find balance? As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, personalized care across the lifespan. My practice focuses on medication management with supportive, brief therapy as needed—always grounded in partnership and mutual respect. I believe that healing involves the whole person: body, mind, and spirit. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or substance use challenges, my goal is to walk alongside you in your recovery, not direct it for you.
(908) 495-7742 View (908) 495-7742
Photo of Robert White - Psychiatric and Behavioral Services of New Jersey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, BC
Psychiatric and Behavioral Services of New Jersey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, BC
Serves Area
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services of New Jersey is a private psychiatric practice that provides a full range of outpatient mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual, family and group psychotherapy for clients at all stages of life; children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services of New Jersey is a private psychiatric practice that provides a full range of outpatient mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual, family and group psychotherapy for clients at all stages of life; children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
(732) 491-8710 View (732) 491-8710
Photo of Ngozi Nwobi - OCA Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B, APN
OCA Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B, APN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
OCA Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively. Evaluation & Follow-up is now available via Telehealth due to The COVID-19 Health Crisis.
OCA Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively. Evaluation & Follow-up is now available via Telehealth due to The COVID-19 Health Crisis.
(732) 907-8786 View (732) 907-8786
Rivky Sklar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC, BSN, RN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Rivky is the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Empower Health Center. Rivky treats a wide range of mental health conditions. She is passionate and committed to helping her clients attain quality of life and achieve their goals. Mental health conditions can be challenging and can negatively impact the lives of clients and their loved ones. Rivky uses evidence-based practice in medication management and psychotherapy. She provides a safe, confidential, non-judgmental environment, giving clients the tools to help improve outcomes and successes.
Rivky is the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Empower Health Center. Rivky treats a wide range of mental health conditions. She is passionate and committed to helping her clients attain quality of life and achieve their goals. Mental health conditions can be challenging and can negatively impact the lives of clients and their loved ones. Rivky uses evidence-based practice in medication management and psychotherapy. She provides a safe, confidential, non-judgmental environment, giving clients the tools to help improve outcomes and successes.
(732) 666-9898 View (732) 666-9898

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Resilience Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Providing mental health services specializing in geriatrics. Addressing the many complex issues that can cause psychological disorders. Assisting in finding ways to cope more effectively with family and every day stressors. Grief counseling for the loss of a loved one. Helping to achieve a well balanced mental state and assisting in finding inner peace and happiness. Solution oriented and will work with the client to identify issues so that a resolution may be obtained.
Providing mental health services specializing in geriatrics. Addressing the many complex issues that can cause psychological disorders. Assisting in finding ways to cope more effectively with family and every day stressors. Grief counseling for the loss of a loved one. Helping to achieve a well balanced mental state and assisting in finding inner peace and happiness. Solution oriented and will work with the client to identify issues so that a resolution may be obtained.
(732) 414-6413 View (732) 414-6413
Photo of Bradford Bobrin, Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FACLP
Bradford Bobrin
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FACLP
Jackson, NJ 08527
I don't have an ideal client, except they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are 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 they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are 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.
(908) 495-7941 View (908) 495-7941
Photo of Robert White - Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APN
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APN
Howell, NJ 07731
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services of New Jersey is a private psychiatric practice that provides a full range of outpatient mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual, family and group psychotherapy for clients at all stages of life; children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services of New Jersey is a private psychiatric practice that provides a full range of outpatient mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual, family and group psychotherapy for clients at all stages of life; children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
(848) 289-1485 View (848) 289-1485
Photo of Dr. Tony Issac, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Tony Issac
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
(201) 371-4044 View (201) 371-4044
Photo of Nicole Rosenthal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Nicole Rosenthal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
My ideal client is open to healing, even if they don't feel “ready.” You may feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, obsessional thinking, thoughts that loop, OCD, focus struggles, or wonder if life will ever get better. You may be battling suicidal thoughts or feeling stuck. I work with teens and young adults facing identity, school, and relationship stress, as well as bipolar disorder, ADHD, and disordered eating. I offer trauma-informed psychiatric evaluation and medication management to support you through even the hardest moments. Healing is possible.
My ideal client is open to healing, even if they don't feel “ready.” You may feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, obsessional thinking, thoughts that loop, OCD, focus struggles, or wonder if life will ever get better. You may be battling suicidal thoughts or feeling stuck. I work with teens and young adults facing identity, school, and relationship stress, as well as bipolar disorder, ADHD, and disordered eating. I offer trauma-informed psychiatric evaluation and medication management to support you through even the hardest moments. Healing is possible.
(609) 739-7811 View (609) 739-7811
Photo of Abir Marcus - Brain Mind Harmony, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Brain Mind Harmony
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Red Bank, NJ 07701
All Services are offered in person and via Tele Health. We are specialized in depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, addictions and sexuality issues. Our psychiatrist combines medication, supplements and bio identical hormones in order to address the symptoms and their origin. We will match you with the best therapeutic approach based on your symptoms, preferences and personality. We are in Network with most BCBS plans directly , Aetna, United and Oxford Through a third party.
All Services are offered in person and via Tele Health. We are specialized in depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, addictions and sexuality issues. Our psychiatrist combines medication, supplements and bio identical hormones in order to address the symptoms and their origin. We will match you with the best therapeutic approach based on your symptoms, preferences and personality. We are in Network with most BCBS plans directly , Aetna, United and Oxford Through a third party.
(732) 587-5715 View (732) 587-5715
Photo of Deanna Maiorino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Deanna Maiorino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Deanna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Binge Eating, Burnout, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Anger Management, Bipolar, Depression, Religion & Spirituality, Stress Management and Women's Issues.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Deanna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Binge Eating, Burnout, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Anger Management, Bipolar, Depression, Religion & Spirituality, Stress Management and Women's Issues.
(973) 319-8862 View (973) 319-8862
Photo of Shandel Douglas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, PMHNP
Shandel Douglas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, PMHNP
Serves Area
Hi, I’m a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience as an NP and more than 13 years in nursing. I’m board-certified in both Adult-Gerontology Primary Care and Psychiatric-Mental Health, which allows me to take a well-rounded, integrative approach to care—supporting both your physical and emotional well-being. What drives me most is compassion and the belief that mental and physical health are deeply connected. That’s why I pursued advanced training in psychiatry—to help bridge that gap and offer truly holistic care.
Hi, I’m a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience as an NP and more than 13 years in nursing. I’m board-certified in both Adult-Gerontology Primary Care and Psychiatric-Mental Health, which allows me to take a well-rounded, integrative approach to care—supporting both your physical and emotional well-being. What drives me most is compassion and the belief that mental and physical health are deeply connected. That’s why I pursued advanced training in psychiatry—to help bridge that gap and offer truly holistic care.
(856) 408-1368 View (856) 408-1368

See more therapy options for 08755

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 08755

10+

Average cost per session

$137

Psychiatrists in 08755 who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
92% ADHD
92% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Anger Management
67% Addiction
67% Dissociative Disorders (DID)

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
91% Aetna
73% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 08755 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 08755?

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.