Psychiatrists in 08807

Photo of Bianca K. Robinson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , MSN , APN
Bianca K. Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , MSN , APN
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Masters degree as a PMHNP-BC from Rutgers University in 2018. Since working under the umbrella of mental health since I was an RN (Hampton University graduate) having overall experience for 15yrs including 5 years and current as an APN, I believe with a pinch of mustard seed faith, time, patience and effort, the road to improving mental illness becomes less cluttered and more clear.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Masters degree as a PMHNP-BC from Rutgers University in 2018. Since working under the umbrella of mental health since I was an RN (Hampton University graduate) having overall experience for 15yrs including 5 years and current as an APN, I believe with a pinch of mustard seed faith, time, patience and effort, the road to improving mental illness becomes less cluttered and more clear.
(908) 409-3134 View (908) 409-3134
Photo of Natasha Carew, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Natasha Carew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
With almost 20 years of experience as a nurse practitioner managing primary care, psychiatric, and geriatric clients, my focus has shifted in the past year to specialize more in psychiatric. Although my primary focus is on anxiety and depression, I also work extensively with older adults, individuals managing chronic illnesses, those experiencing grief, and clients with ADHD. My holistic approach enables me to address a wide range of mental health challenges, ensuring that care is personalized and tailored to each client’s specific needs. By combining therapy, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments, I empower clients.
With almost 20 years of experience as a nurse practitioner managing primary care, psychiatric, and geriatric clients, my focus has shifted in the past year to specialize more in psychiatric. Although my primary focus is on anxiety and depression, I also work extensively with older adults, individuals managing chronic illnesses, those experiencing grief, and clients with ADHD. My holistic approach enables me to address a wide range of mental health challenges, ensuring that care is personalized and tailored to each client’s specific needs. By combining therapy, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments, I empower clients.
(732) 217-7676 View (732) 217-7676
Photo of Emmanuel Ameyibor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Emmanuel Ameyibor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Emmanuel is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has over 6 years of mental health nursing experience caring for patients across the lifespan. He graduated from Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and earned his master’s degree (Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Emmanuel is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has over 6 years of mental health nursing experience caring for patients across the lifespan. He graduated from Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and earned his master’s degree (Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
(848) 208-7483 View (848) 208-7483
Photo of Matthew E Barnas - Pelorus Elder & Behavioral Health and Pelorus TMS, Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Pelorus Elder & Behavioral Health and Pelorus TMS
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Serves Area
My practice specializes in Geriatric and Adult Psychiatry. We offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of cognitive disorders (i.e. Alzheimer's, Lewy Body, Vascular, and Frontotemporal Dementias), mood and anxiety disorders (i.e. Depression, Bipolar Disorder, GAD, Panic DO, etc), Insomnia, and "Behavioral Disturbances" associated with Dementia (including agitation, delusions, and hallucinations).
My practice specializes in Geriatric and Adult Psychiatry. We offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of cognitive disorders (i.e. Alzheimer's, Lewy Body, Vascular, and Frontotemporal Dementias), mood and anxiety disorders (i.e. Depression, Bipolar Disorder, GAD, Panic DO, etc), Insomnia, and "Behavioral Disturbances" associated with Dementia (including agitation, delusions, and hallucinations).
(973) 295-6335 View (973) 295-6335
Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Serves Area
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
(908) 490-6503 View (908) 490-6503
Photo of Amy C Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Amy C Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Your mental health journey is unique, and your care should be too. I aim to provide comprehensive, holistic, and personalized mental health care. The priority in caring for my patients is to develop a safe treatment plan while recognizing and honoring where they are in their journey. I provide medication management via telehealth, providing ease and comfort of care.
Your mental health journey is unique, and your care should be too. I aim to provide comprehensive, holistic, and personalized mental health care. The priority in caring for my patients is to develop a safe treatment plan while recognizing and honoring where they are in their journey. I provide medication management via telehealth, providing ease and comfort of care.
(908) 503-5842 View (908) 503-5842
Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Serves Area
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
(908) 498-9388 View (908) 498-9388
Photo of Mary Jo Lamb - Mary Jo Lamb APN-C Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse, RNC, MSN, APN, C
Mary Jo Lamb APN-C Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse, RNC, MSN, APN, C
Serves Area
Psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 30 years experience. I treat ages late adolescent to geriatric ages. Majority of my practice is psychopharmacology ( prescribing psychiatric medications) and individual/ family counseling.I treat a variety of mental health disorders such as depression, post traumatic stress disorder , obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. In private practice for over 25 years and have had a wide range of experience in treating addiction and mental health co occurring issues.
Psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 30 years experience. I treat ages late adolescent to geriatric ages. Majority of my practice is psychopharmacology ( prescribing psychiatric medications) and individual/ family counseling.I treat a variety of mental health disorders such as depression, post traumatic stress disorder , obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. In private practice for over 25 years and have had a wide range of experience in treating addiction and mental health co occurring issues.
(908) 428-4017 View (908) 428-4017
Photo of Selam Koch - OneStep Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
OneStep Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Picking the right provider can feel like a maze, but you don’t have to figure it out solo. OneStep Clinic offers customized medication management and caring support shaped to fit your personal journey, paving the way to calm and clarity. Selam Koch, PMHNP-BC, brings more than a decade of know-how to OneStep Clinic, focusing on a wide range of mental health concerns like depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorder, co-occurring substance use disorders, and psychotic disorders.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Picking the right provider can feel like a maze, but you don’t have to figure it out solo. OneStep Clinic offers customized medication management and caring support shaped to fit your personal journey, paving the way to calm and clarity. Selam Koch, PMHNP-BC, brings more than a decade of know-how to OneStep Clinic, focusing on a wide range of mental health concerns like depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorder, co-occurring substance use disorders, and psychotic disorders.
(848) 371-0597 View (848) 371-0597
Photo of Natasha Carew - Brain Ways , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Brain Ways
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Serves Area
I’m a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with 20+ years of experience. I provide medication management for children, adolescents, and adults dealing with ADHD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. My approach is supportive, evidence-based, and focused on helping clients feel empowered.
I’m a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with 20+ years of experience. I provide medication management for children, adolescents, and adults dealing with ADHD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. My approach is supportive, evidence-based, and focused on helping clients feel empowered.
(732) 605-6011 View (732) 605-6011
Universal Behavioral Health Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Many people today are faced with mental health challenges that could prevent them from achieving their dreams. I understand that we all have goals and aspirations and everyone should be given the opportunity to reach their highest potential in life and impact their generation. I have been privileged to work with clients experiencing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, fear, low self-esteem, psychosis and drug addiction to ensure that they get back to a state of emotional well-being and mental health. I worked with clients using psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy interventions with excellent results.
Many people today are faced with mental health challenges that could prevent them from achieving their dreams. I understand that we all have goals and aspirations and everyone should be given the opportunity to reach their highest potential in life and impact their generation. I have been privileged to work with clients experiencing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, fear, low self-esteem, psychosis and drug addiction to ensure that they get back to a state of emotional well-being and mental health. I worked with clients using psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy interventions with excellent results.
(973) 510-2076 View (973) 510-2076
Photo of Padma Palvai - Mindspace Psychiatry LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Mindspace Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with autism, depression, or anxiety? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults in both the United States and India, I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with autism, depression, or anxiety? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults in both the United States and India, I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
(908) 224-4074 View (908) 224-4074
Photo of Adetutu Ogunmefun - Anchor Care: Adetutu Ogunmefun DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Anchor Care: Adetutu Ogunmefun DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a compassionate and patient-focused practitioner with over ten years of experience in the healthcare field. Through active listening, I offer a combination of diverse clinical backgrounds in delivering high-quality patient care. I hold a doctorate in nursing from Rutgers University and am board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
I am a compassionate and patient-focused practitioner with over ten years of experience in the healthcare field. Through active listening, I offer a combination of diverse clinical backgrounds in delivering high-quality patient care. I hold a doctorate in nursing from Rutgers University and am board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(908) 895-5484 View (908) 895-5484
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(908) 373-5545 View (908) 373-5545
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Serves Area
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(908) 676-6592 View (908) 676-6592
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
(908) 554-4016 View (908) 554-4016
Photo of Julian Fils, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Julian Fils
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you often find yourself questioning whether your feelings are normal? You might be grappling with forgetfulness, having difficulty focusing, or feeling easily distracted. If you dread waking up in the morning or feel a sense of disconnection from life, it's important to know you're not alone. Perhaps you've noticed that you feel tearful without any clear reason or struggle to fall asleep at night, only to wake up multiple times and feel worn out the next day. If you've experienced trauma that lingers in your mind, creating feelings of hopelessness. It’s important to remember that these challenges you don’t have to face alone.
Do you often find yourself questioning whether your feelings are normal? You might be grappling with forgetfulness, having difficulty focusing, or feeling easily distracted. If you dread waking up in the morning or feel a sense of disconnection from life, it's important to know you're not alone. Perhaps you've noticed that you feel tearful without any clear reason or struggle to fall asleep at night, only to wake up multiple times and feel worn out the next day. If you've experienced trauma that lingers in your mind, creating feelings of hopelessness. It’s important to remember that these challenges you don’t have to face alone.
(908) 739-6299 View (908) 739-6299
Photo of Farheen Fahim - livingston heathcare llc, Psychiatrist, MD
livingston heathcare llc
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
My philosophy of working with my patients is to first and foremost clarify the diagnosis. It can take few visits to do so and I like to spend time with you going over few things from past history. I believe in the importance of a Bio-psycho-social profile and getting to know different facets of your life - It is very important for me to get to know you as a person not just someone with symptoms of a disorder . I like to stay in touch with other treatment providers such as medical doctors and Psychotherapists as I believe coordination of care is very important.
My philosophy of working with my patients is to first and foremost clarify the diagnosis. It can take few visits to do so and I like to spend time with you going over few things from past history. I believe in the importance of a Bio-psycho-social profile and getting to know different facets of your life - It is very important for me to get to know you as a person not just someone with symptoms of a disorder . I like to stay in touch with other treatment providers such as medical doctors and Psychotherapists as I believe coordination of care is very important.
(908) 791-5960 View (908) 791-5960
Photo of Blessing Nwele Apn-Bc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN, BC
Blessing Nwele Apn-Bc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN, BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My Name is Blessing Nwele and I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. Psychiatric/mental health disorders and behavioral health have been the focal point of my professional life for a decade, culminating in my opening of a mental health private practice. The Positive Touch Behavioral Health Services was born out of almost a decade entirely dedicated to promoting a culture of health and health equity.
My Name is Blessing Nwele and I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. Psychiatric/mental health disorders and behavioral health have been the focal point of my professional life for a decade, culminating in my opening of a mental health private practice. The Positive Touch Behavioral Health Services was born out of almost a decade entirely dedicated to promoting a culture of health and health equity.
(908) 509-6114 View (908) 509-6114
Photo of Dr. Christian Meriscar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BA, PMHNP
Dr. Christian Meriscar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BA, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a psychiatric board-certified doctor of nursing practice (DNP) with over fifteen (15+) years of experience in behavioral healthcare in differing capacities (residential counselor, registered nurse, and now doctor). I enjoy working with patients from diverse backgrounds (including LGBTQ+, substance use, trauma, eating disorders, grief and loss, crises, & psych concerns). My practice helps motivated clients handle life’s challenges by strategizing with them to gain the tools to lead successful and healthy lives.
I am a psychiatric board-certified doctor of nursing practice (DNP) with over fifteen (15+) years of experience in behavioral healthcare in differing capacities (residential counselor, registered nurse, and now doctor). I enjoy working with patients from diverse backgrounds (including LGBTQ+, substance use, trauma, eating disorders, grief and loss, crises, & psych concerns). My practice helps motivated clients handle life’s challenges by strategizing with them to gain the tools to lead successful and healthy lives.
(908) 569-1524 View (908) 569-1524

See more therapy options for 08807

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 08807

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 08807 who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
93% Anxiety
85% Bipolar Disorder
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Medication Management
74% Trauma and PTSD
70% ADHD

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield
88% Cigna and Evernorth
84% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 08807 see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
19% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 08807?

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.