Psychiatrists in 08809

Photo of Amanda Lee Williams - Paths Psychiatric Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Paths Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Clinton, NJ 08809
Please see my website for more info and to inquire about becoming a new client. Intake sessions must be held in-person, follow-up sessions can be in-person or virtual (clients must be physically located in NJ for telehealth).
Please see my website for more info and to inquire about becoming a new client. Intake sessions must be held in-person, follow-up sessions can be in-person or virtual (clients must be physically located in NJ for telehealth).
(908) 676-6729 View (908) 676-6729
Photo of Richard Kleinmann, Psychiatrist, MD
Richard Kleinmann
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Clinton, NJ 08809
Dr. Richard Kleinmann has over 20 years of experience providing psychiatric care to children, adolescents and adults. He also provides independent psychiatric evaluations for elementary, middle and high schools. Areas of interest include depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (manic depression and psychotic disorders). Dr. Kleinmann believes in a collaborative approach when recommending utilization of medication. He recognizes that all medications have side effects and that it is therefore important to discuss the relative advantages and risks of any medication under consideration.
Dr. Richard Kleinmann has over 20 years of experience providing psychiatric care to children, adolescents and adults. He also provides independent psychiatric evaluations for elementary, middle and high schools. Areas of interest include depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (manic depression and psychotic disorders). Dr. Kleinmann believes in a collaborative approach when recommending utilization of medication. He recognizes that all medications have side effects and that it is therefore important to discuss the relative advantages and risks of any medication under consideration.
(973) 315-6025 View (973) 315-6025
Photo of Wendy Ann Reiss, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Wendy Ann Reiss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Wendy specializes in Depression, Anxiety and Addiction. She has been trained across lifespan, which allows her to treat patients of all ages. She will be your ally in your quest for well-being and balance. Wendy believes utilizing a holistic approach to wellness including emotional and physical health. She strives to provide culturally informed, and patient centered care tailored to each individual needs. Currently we are accepting new patients.
Wendy specializes in Depression, Anxiety and Addiction. She has been trained across lifespan, which allows her to treat patients of all ages. She will be your ally in your quest for well-being and balance. Wendy believes utilizing a holistic approach to wellness including emotional and physical health. She strives to provide culturally informed, and patient centered care tailored to each individual needs. Currently we are accepting new patients.
(908) 386-5112 View (908) 386-5112
Photo of Leslie Hay - Hay Mental Health, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Hay Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Accepting new patients ages 18 years and older. As a lifelong resident of beautiful Hunterdon County, I am passionate about providing quality mental health services to our community. My primary focus is on evidence based medication management. I offer genetic testing through Genomind to accurately pinpoint the most effective medication for you, avoiding the frustration of the trial and error medication management of the past. In addition, I offer skills based and homework intensive therapy to get you feeling your best quickly.
Accepting new patients ages 18 years and older. As a lifelong resident of beautiful Hunterdon County, I am passionate about providing quality mental health services to our community. My primary focus is on evidence based medication management. I offer genetic testing through Genomind to accurately pinpoint the most effective medication for you, avoiding the frustration of the trial and error medication management of the past. In addition, I offer skills based and homework intensive therapy to get you feeling your best quickly.
(908) 867-9507 View (908) 867-9507
Photo of Vivian Adiele, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGNP, PMHNP
Vivian Adiele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGNP, PMHNP
Online Only
I'm a healthcare professional with several years of experience as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. My passion for the medical field began during my teenage years. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in nursing from William Paterson University, New Jersey, and a master’s degree in Adult Geriatric Nursing from Rutgers University, New Jersey. I also obtained a post-master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Wilkes University. Over the years, I have worked in various areas, starting as a bedside nurse and later as a nurse practitioner, treating patients with chronic diseases.
I'm a healthcare professional with several years of experience as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. My passion for the medical field began during my teenage years. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in nursing from William Paterson University, New Jersey, and a master’s degree in Adult Geriatric Nursing from Rutgers University, New Jersey. I also obtained a post-master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Wilkes University. Over the years, I have worked in various areas, starting as a bedside nurse and later as a nurse practitioner, treating patients with chronic diseases.
(908) 774-1704 View (908) 774-1704
Photo of David Vining Holbrook, Psychiatrist, MD
David Vining Holbrook
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I like to think my practice offers something for everyone. I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, so I can prescribe medications, but I am also a therapist. Many patients like the idea of their psychopharmacologist also being their therapist, because it means that I understand my patients as whole persons, and can minimize the amount of medication necessary. In some cases problems can be addressed with therapy alone, by helping patients identify and manage their emotions. For patients who prefer to work with someone else as therapist, I can function solely as the psychopharmacologist.
I like to think my practice offers something for everyone. I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, so I can prescribe medications, but I am also a therapist. Many patients like the idea of their psychopharmacologist also being their therapist, because it means that I understand my patients as whole persons, and can minimize the amount of medication necessary. In some cases problems can be addressed with therapy alone, by helping patients identify and manage their emotions. For patients who prefer to work with someone else as therapist, I can function solely as the psychopharmacologist.
(908) 364-5823 View (908) 364-5823
Photo of Adrienne Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C
Adrienne Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Currently ONLY accepting new Pediatric and Perinatal clients and ONLY offering in-person appointments. Whether your child is struggling with emotional problems or has difficulty with focus and concentration, or you are having your own challenges with anxiety, depression, mood swings, or even paranoia and psychosis. You can find help here at MindLight. We specialize in the pediatric and perinatal populations with many different kinds of challenges.
Currently ONLY accepting new Pediatric and Perinatal clients and ONLY offering in-person appointments. Whether your child is struggling with emotional problems or has difficulty with focus and concentration, or you are having your own challenges with anxiety, depression, mood swings, or even paranoia and psychosis. You can find help here at MindLight. We specialize in the pediatric and perinatal populations with many different kinds of challenges.
(908) 869-8333 View (908) 869-8333

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Tazeen Azfar, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Tazeen Azfar
Psychiatrist, MD
Princeton, NJ 08540
Accepting new patients age range 5 -55. I am a Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist; I believe in a holistic approach, take time to understand each individual's needs and tailor a treatment plan accordingly. I practice evidence based medication treatment along with psychotherapy . Specialized in treating common issues like ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety disorders, phobias, major depressive disorder , OCD, oppositional defined disorder and mood disorders in child, adolescent as well as adult patients.
Accepting new patients age range 5 -55. I am a Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatrist; I believe in a holistic approach, take time to understand each individual's needs and tailor a treatment plan accordingly. I practice evidence based medication treatment along with psychotherapy . Specialized in treating common issues like ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety disorders, phobias, major depressive disorder , OCD, oppositional defined disorder and mood disorders in child, adolescent as well as adult patients.
(609) 228-9916 View (609) 228-9916
Photo of Amanda Guarnere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
West Windsor, NJ 08550
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
(609) 913-2970 View (609) 913-2970
Photo of Sunny H. Park, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Np
Sunny H. Park
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Np
Serves Area
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to providing optimal treatment with my expertise and experience. I bring over 10+ years as Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse at a state hospital before advancing and practicing as a PMH Nurse Practitioner for a year. Through active listening, I strive to build trust and rapport with my clients for a detailed assessment and support in their treatment My mission is to provide continuous care for my clients and their well-being.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to providing optimal treatment with my expertise and experience. I bring over 10+ years as Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse at a state hospital before advancing and practicing as a PMH Nurse Practitioner for a year. Through active listening, I strive to build trust and rapport with my clients for a detailed assessment and support in their treatment My mission is to provide continuous care for my clients and their well-being.
(862) 407-4465 View (862) 407-4465
Photo of Mesode Sobe-Uduaghan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Mesode Sobe-Uduaghan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
She is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner deeply committed to helping individuals achieve mental wellness and build resilience from pre-teen through adulthood. With over 20 years of nursing experience, she offers a compassionate, empathetic, and personalized approach to mental health care, ensuring that each individual receives the attention, understanding, and support they deserve. Her expertise spans assessment, diagnosis, relationship-building, and medication management, offering comprehensive care for various mental health concerns. Mesode creates personalized treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs.
She is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner deeply committed to helping individuals achieve mental wellness and build resilience from pre-teen through adulthood. With over 20 years of nursing experience, she offers a compassionate, empathetic, and personalized approach to mental health care, ensuring that each individual receives the attention, understanding, and support they deserve. Her expertise spans assessment, diagnosis, relationship-building, and medication management, offering comprehensive care for various mental health concerns. Mesode creates personalized treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs.
(609) 403-3055 View (609) 403-3055
Photo of Dr. Robert B. Marsh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN
Dr. Robert B. Marsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN
Summit, NJ 07901
Dr. Marsh has been serving those suffering with mental health disorders, including substance abuse for more than 25 years. His course of treatment is holistic in nature, treating both the physical symptoms as well as the emotional struggles via psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic intervention. He is a nationally board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
Dr. Marsh has been serving those suffering with mental health disorders, including substance abuse for more than 25 years. His course of treatment is holistic in nature, treating both the physical symptoms as well as the emotional struggles via psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic intervention. He is a nationally board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(908) 224-5374 View (908) 224-5374
Photo of Anne Huelbig, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Anne Huelbig
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Newton, NJ 07860
Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.
Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.
(862) 429-3208 View (862) 429-3208
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
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.
(640) 223-4130 View (640) 223-4130
Photo of Shirley Garcia Silva, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shirley Garcia Silva
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? I help individuals navigate life’s challenges by providing a safe, nonjudgmental space for healing and growth. I take a holistic, client-centered approach tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're dealing with past trauma, daily stress, or relationship struggles, we will work together to create meaningful change
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? I help individuals navigate life’s challenges by providing a safe, nonjudgmental space for healing and growth. I take a holistic, client-centered approach tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're dealing with past trauma, daily stress, or relationship struggles, we will work together to create meaningful change
(848) 213-9432 View (848) 213-9432
Photo of John G Wilson III, Psychiatrist, MD
John G Wilson III
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other emotional challenges. They seek balance in their lives, desiring not only symptom relief but also wellness. They want someone who listens, provides comprehensive care, and offers guidance through therapy and, when appropriate, medication. These clients are driven by a desire for a fuller life, improved relationships, and better mental health, knowing that physical health and psychological well-being are interconnected.
My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other emotional challenges. They seek balance in their lives, desiring not only symptom relief but also wellness. They want someone who listens, provides comprehensive care, and offers guidance through therapy and, when appropriate, medication. These clients are driven by a desire for a fuller life, improved relationships, and better mental health, knowing that physical health and psychological well-being are interconnected.
(267) 573-0575 View (267) 573-0575
Photo of Diane Jasmin, Psychiatrist, DO
Diane Jasmin
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Jasmin’s goal is to help individuals across improve the quality of their lives. She provides a range of client-centered services for adults, adolescents, and families treating a number of mental health disorders. Utilizing an environment that is supportive her ultimate goal is the promotion of healing and personal growth. Dr. Jasmin's experience enables her to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care.
Dr. Jasmin’s goal is to help individuals across improve the quality of their lives. She provides a range of client-centered services for adults, adolescents, and families treating a number of mental health disorders. Utilizing an environment that is supportive her ultimate goal is the promotion of healing and personal growth. Dr. Jasmin's experience enables her to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care.
(862) 707-2359 View (862) 707-2359
Photo of Shandel Douglas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, PMHNP
Shandel Douglas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, PMHNP
Princeton, NJ 08540
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.
(609) 631-3044 View (609) 631-3044
Photo of Seth Michael Dorsky, Psychiatrist, MD
Seth Michael Dorsky
Psychiatrist, MD
Chatham, NJ 07928
Dr. Seth Dorsky is a Harvard trained child and adolescent psychiatrist. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Boston Children's Hospital where he held 2 academic appointments: one as a clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School and one as fellow in child and adolescent psychiatry at Boston Children's Hospital. Dr. Dorsky received his undergraduate degree from Brown University, attended medical school at the University of Vermont, and completed his adult psychiatry residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Dr. Dorsky is dual board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry.
Dr. Seth Dorsky is a Harvard trained child and adolescent psychiatrist. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Boston Children's Hospital where he held 2 academic appointments: one as a clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School and one as fellow in child and adolescent psychiatry at Boston Children's Hospital. Dr. Dorsky received his undergraduate degree from Brown University, attended medical school at the University of Vermont, and completed his adult psychiatry residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Dr. Dorsky is dual board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry.
(973) 707-3696 View (973) 707-3696
Photo of Ann Nolan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Ann Nolan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
Accepting NJ & PA insurance and out-of-network. Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Treating a broad spectrum of mental health diagnoses, specializing in ADHD & Autism Spectrum Disorders. Office & Online psychiatric services available. Treating children, adolescents, and adults, Ann is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings many years of professional mental health experience to the care of her patients. The practice is affiliated with Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center and Princeton House.
Accepting NJ & PA insurance and out-of-network. Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Treating a broad spectrum of mental health diagnoses, specializing in ADHD & Autism Spectrum Disorders. Office & Online psychiatric services available. Treating children, adolescents, and adults, Ann is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings many years of professional mental health experience to the care of her patients. The practice is affiliated with Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center and Princeton House.
(215) 935-4133 View (215) 935-4133

See more therapy options for 08809

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 08809

< 10

Psychiatrists in 08809 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
86% Anxiety
86% Trauma and PTSD
71% Psychosis

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 08809 see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 08809?

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.