Psychiatrists in 08871

Photo of Emad Mounir, Psychiatrist, MD
Emad Mounir
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Are you struggling with mood problems, anxiety, or difficulties with attention, concentration, focusing, organizing, & prioritizing your daily activities and executive functioning? Are you having difficulties coping with daily stressors, loss, or interpersonal problems? You’ve come to the right place to start your journey of healing. With over 24 years in practice, I’ve worked in various capacities including outpatient, inpatient, & partial hospitalization programs, and have treated adult and elder patients with emotional and mental issues. I provide space to improve the capacity in which you function day-to-day by working with you.
Are you struggling with mood problems, anxiety, or difficulties with attention, concentration, focusing, organizing, & prioritizing your daily activities and executive functioning? Are you having difficulties coping with daily stressors, loss, or interpersonal problems? You’ve come to the right place to start your journey of healing. With over 24 years in practice, I’ve worked in various capacities including outpatient, inpatient, & partial hospitalization programs, and have treated adult and elder patients with emotional and mental issues. I provide space to improve the capacity in which you function day-to-day by working with you.
(908) 224-5328 View (908) 224-5328
Photo of Marina Moshkovich, Psychiatrist, MD
Marina Moshkovich
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry and have had training and experience in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have practiced psychiatry in different settings. My professional knowledge and interests include treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric disorders, including mood, anxiety, psychotic, impulse control and substance abuse. I focuse on stabilization of patient's condition with medication and educate patients about their disorder and available treatments. I work with patients and their families in order to improve patients' adjustment and functioning in community. I help my patients build up confidence and enable them to change their lives for better.
I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry and have had training and experience in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have practiced psychiatry in different settings. My professional knowledge and interests include treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric disorders, including mood, anxiety, psychotic, impulse control and substance abuse. I focuse on stabilization of patient's condition with medication and educate patients about their disorder and available treatments. I work with patients and their families in order to improve patients' adjustment and functioning in community. I help my patients build up confidence and enable them to change their lives for better.
(732) 387-3076 View (732) 387-3076

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Hannah Nsiah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, BC
Hannah Nsiah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, BC
Online Only
My ideal client is someone facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or low self-esteem. They may struggle with relationships, emotional regulation, or managing daily stressors. Their goal is to feel empowered, build resilience, and improve coping skills. They seek understanding, tailored solutions, and a safe space to explore their feelings and experiences. They want clarity and tools to navigate life with confidence, driven by the need for balance, well-being, and personal growth.
My ideal client is someone facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or low self-esteem. They may struggle with relationships, emotional regulation, or managing daily stressors. Their goal is to feel empowered, build resilience, and improve coping skills. They seek understanding, tailored solutions, and a safe space to explore their feelings and experiences. They want clarity and tools to navigate life with confidence, driven by the need for balance, well-being, and personal growth.
(551) 230-4253 View (551) 230-4253
Photo of Dr. Althea Andrade, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP-B
Dr. Althea Andrade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP-B
Freehold, NJ 07728
Althea Andrade is a PMHNP-BC with years of experience in treating children, adolescence adults and geriatric population with various mental illnesses not limited to ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, mood disorders, Gender identity disorders, eating disorder etc. Currently licensed in NJ, NY, and FL. Graduated with Presidential honor at Chamberlain University and honors at Walden University . Strongly believe mental health is wealth, and with a dynamic treatment of medication combined with psychotherapy client will benefit a great deal and be able to function effectively in society. Strongly believe in the well-being of my patient
Althea Andrade is a PMHNP-BC with years of experience in treating children, adolescence adults and geriatric population with various mental illnesses not limited to ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, mood disorders, Gender identity disorders, eating disorder etc. Currently licensed in NJ, NY, and FL. Graduated with Presidential honor at Chamberlain University and honors at Walden University . Strongly believe mental health is wealth, and with a dynamic treatment of medication combined with psychotherapy client will benefit a great deal and be able to function effectively in society. Strongly believe in the well-being of my patient
(732) 243-0765 View (732) 243-0765
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including 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 providers.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including 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 providers.
(973) 506-2436 View (973) 506-2436
Photo of Ann Elizabeth Nolan - Mentis Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Mentis Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Princeton, NJ 08540
Accepting NJ & PA insurance. Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Treating a broad spectrum of mental health diagnoses. All screening, ADHD and Autism spectrum testing and screening "included in the initial evaluation." Office & Online- Tele-health psychiatric services. 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. Her training has prepared her to treat patients across the lifespan -offering consultation, evaluation, and medication management for ages six through seniors.
Accepting NJ & PA insurance. Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Treating a broad spectrum of mental health diagnoses. All screening, ADHD and Autism spectrum testing and screening "included in the initial evaluation." Office & Online- Tele-health psychiatric services. 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. Her training has prepared her to treat patients across the lifespan -offering consultation, evaluation, and medication management for ages six through seniors.
(267) 570-9133 View (267) 570-9133
Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
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 Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
(718) 550-7860 View (718) 550-7860
Photo of Justine Bello, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Justine Bello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I treat ages 18 to 55 living with a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders. I specialize in personalized medication management and brief psychotherapy tailored to each individual's distinctive needs.
I treat ages 18 to 55 living with a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders. I specialize in personalized medication management and brief psychotherapy tailored to each individual's distinctive needs.
(332) 334-8138 View (332) 334-8138
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Jackson, NJ 08527
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) 503-5269 View (908) 503-5269
Photo of Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Caldwell, NJ 07006
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders, and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders, and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(973) 352-0635 View (973) 352-0635
Photo of Nilda L Chapema, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Nilda L Chapema
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
As a dedicated and experienced Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Care, I am here to guide you on your journey towards optimal mental health and overall well-being. With a decade of hands-on clinical expertise, I am committed to elevating the standard of mental healthcare through compassionate engagement, preventive strategies, and tailored treatments. My patient-centric approach ensures that your unique needs are met with the utmost care and attention. Together, we can achieve consistently high-quality outcomes, empowering you to lead a fulfilling and balanced life. Let's work together to break the stigma surrounding mental heal
As a dedicated and experienced Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Care, I am here to guide you on your journey towards optimal mental health and overall well-being. With a decade of hands-on clinical expertise, I am committed to elevating the standard of mental healthcare through compassionate engagement, preventive strategies, and tailored treatments. My patient-centric approach ensures that your unique needs are met with the utmost care and attention. Together, we can achieve consistently high-quality outcomes, empowering you to lead a fulfilling and balanced life. Let's work together to break the stigma surrounding mental heal
(732) 365-4542 View (732) 365-4542
Photo of Staci Barilari, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Staci Barilari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I'm Staci. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is dedicated to integrative care, specializing in anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health. I am committed to fostering holistic well-being and empowering individuals on their mental health journey. My appointments typically include medication management with talk therapy. I strive to create a strong relationship with my clients. Please send me an email to schedule an initial consultation. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
Hi! I'm Staci. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is dedicated to integrative care, specializing in anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health. I am committed to fostering holistic well-being and empowering individuals on their mental health journey. My appointments typically include medication management with talk therapy. I strive to create a strong relationship with my clients. Please send me an email to schedule an initial consultation. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
(848) 272-7153 View (848) 272-7153
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Morristown, NJ 07960
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.
(973) 791-9252 View (973) 791-9252
Photo of Valerie DeGirolamo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP, APN, RN
Valerie DeGirolamo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP, APN, RN
1 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
I am licensed in New Jersey and New York as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Tree of Life Counseling Center. I have worked in a variety of Mental Health settings throughout my career.
I am licensed in New Jersey and New York as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Tree of Life Counseling Center. I have worked in a variety of Mental Health settings throughout my career.
(732) 393-8391 View (732) 393-8391
Photo of Zaid Sika Iddrisu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Zaid Sika Iddrisu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Are you seeking a safe and supportive space to address challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or ADHD? Do you feel overwhelmed by your emotions, experience intrusive thoughts, or struggle with behaviors that affect your relationships, work, or overall well-being? Are you seeking to feel empowered to take control of your emotional and mental wellness? Together, we achieve these goals by creating a personalized care plan tailored to your needs while emphasizing your strengths and potential. I am here to listen and provide the tools to help clients achieve the stability, confidence, and peace they strive for.
Are you seeking a safe and supportive space to address challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or ADHD? Do you feel overwhelmed by your emotions, experience intrusive thoughts, or struggle with behaviors that affect your relationships, work, or overall well-being? Are you seeking to feel empowered to take control of your emotional and mental wellness? Together, we achieve these goals by creating a personalized care plan tailored to your needs while emphasizing your strengths and potential. I am here to listen and provide the tools to help clients achieve the stability, confidence, and peace they strive for.
(732) 385-0937 View (732) 385-0937
Photo of Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Online Only
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
(973) 657-5735 View (973) 657-5735
Photo of Dr. Periel Shapiro, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Periel Shapiro
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Edison, NJ 08817
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, mood swings, or other personal challenges? Are you looking for both immediate relief and long-term wellness? Our Integrative Virtual Clinic, which you can access from home via telehealth, offers psychiatric care that fuses cutting-edge modern medicine with ancient wellness practices. We'll create an individualized treatment plan for you that fits your needs and goals.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, mood swings, or other personal challenges? Are you looking for both immediate relief and long-term wellness? Our Integrative Virtual Clinic, which you can access from home via telehealth, offers psychiatric care that fuses cutting-edge modern medicine with ancient wellness practices. We'll create an individualized treatment plan for you that fits your needs and goals.
(732) 800-5117 View (732) 800-5117
Photo of Glenn Ludan - BirchWood Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
BirchWood Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Online Only
At BirchWood Health we have psychiatrist that accept NJ Medicaid. We envision our ideal client as someone courageously facing mental health challenges, seeking a nurturing environment to heal and grow. Whether grappling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other Mental Health hurdles, they long for understanding and relief. Their goal is to reclaim balance in their life, learn effective coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being. They yearn for a compassionate approach that honors their unique story, fostering a journey towards self-discovery, resilience, and a more enriching, fulfilling life.
At BirchWood Health we have psychiatrist that accept NJ Medicaid. We envision our ideal client as someone courageously facing mental health challenges, seeking a nurturing environment to heal and grow. Whether grappling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other Mental Health hurdles, they long for understanding and relief. Their goal is to reclaim balance in their life, learn effective coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being. They yearn for a compassionate approach that honors their unique story, fostering a journey towards self-discovery, resilience, and a more enriching, fulfilling life.
(862) 306-1180 View (862) 306-1180
Photo of Amanda Decker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Amanda Decker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
13 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Are you navigating a major life transition & feeling like your mind, body, & spirit are all trying to catch up? Maybe you’re in the thick of perimenopause, a divorce, a new job—or all three at once. You may look like you’re holding it together on the outside, but inside you’re tired, anxious, & craving deeper healing than just a prescription. I’m a integrative psychiatric nurse practitioner who blends traditional psychiatry with holistic & functional approaches. My practice is designed for adult women in New Jersey who are ready to feel heard, supported, & treated as a whole person. I also am highly experienced in child psychiatry!
Are you navigating a major life transition & feeling like your mind, body, & spirit are all trying to catch up? Maybe you’re in the thick of perimenopause, a divorce, a new job—or all three at once. You may look like you’re holding it together on the outside, but inside you’re tired, anxious, & craving deeper healing than just a prescription. I’m a integrative psychiatric nurse practitioner who blends traditional psychiatry with holistic & functional approaches. My practice is designed for adult women in New Jersey who are ready to feel heard, supported, & treated as a whole person. I also am highly experienced in child psychiatry!
(908) 498-5447 View (908) 498-5447

See more therapy options for 08871

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 08871

< 10

Psychiatrists in 08871 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

39 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
50% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 08871 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 08871?

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.