Psychiatrists in Basking Ridge, NJ

Photo of Huma Ansari - Mind Matters Psychiatry, LLC, MD, APN, Psychiatrist
Mind Matters Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, APN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
At Mind Matters Psychiatry LLC, we offer truly individualized care for your psychiatric needs. We listen to your story, understand your struggles and then, together we develop a treatment plan that is uniquely individual to your needs. We are also happy to include your support system in your care, if you so desire as well as incorporate your religious/ spiritual beliefs, if that is important to you. With your permission, we will work closely with your PCP/ therapist to ensure a holistic approach in achieving complete well being. We offer treatment to adults and teenagers ages 14 and above.
At Mind Matters Psychiatry LLC, we offer truly individualized care for your psychiatric needs. We listen to your story, understand your struggles and then, together we develop a treatment plan that is uniquely individual to your needs. We are also happy to include your support system in your care, if you so desire as well as incorporate your religious/ spiritual beliefs, if that is important to you. With your permission, we will work closely with your PCP/ therapist to ensure a holistic approach in achieving complete well being. We offer treatment to adults and teenagers ages 14 and above.
(973) 304-5695 View (973) 304-5695
Photo of William Chu, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
William Chu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
Are you experiencing any of the following: Struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health concerns; feel like your mental health has plateaued; feel confused by all the contradictory health information out there? My philosophy is to identify the root cause of your issues and address it with holistic, nutrition-based treatments that solve the problem from the bottom up—not simply bombard you with medications so I can check you off my list.
Are you experiencing any of the following: Struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health concerns; feel like your mental health has plateaued; feel confused by all the contradictory health information out there? My philosophy is to identify the root cause of your issues and address it with holistic, nutrition-based treatments that solve the problem from the bottom up—not simply bombard you with medications so I can check you off my list.
(908) 544-5775 View (908) 544-5775
Photo of Sandra Gomez, APN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandra Gomez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC
Verified Verified
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
I'm a New Jersey, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I practice utilizing up-to-date evidence-based guidelines, clinical expertise, and professional experience. I diagnose, manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADD/ADHD, mild substance use disorders, and others.
I'm a New Jersey, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I practice utilizing up-to-date evidence-based guidelines, clinical expertise, and professional experience. I diagnose, manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADD/ADHD, mild substance use disorders, and others.
(973) 339-7021 View (973) 339-7021
Photo of Meghan Carr Albanese, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Meghan Carr Albanese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I customize care to meet the unique needs of each individual. Appointments include assessment, motivational interviewing, personalized talk therapy, and medication management. Care is offered to patients in the comfort of a private office and also through a secure tele-medicine platform. I treat patients with varying diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, post traumatic stress, focus/concentration disorders and more.
I customize care to meet the unique needs of each individual. Appointments include assessment, motivational interviewing, personalized talk therapy, and medication management. Care is offered to patients in the comfort of a private office and also through a secure tele-medicine platform. I treat patients with varying diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, post traumatic stress, focus/concentration disorders and more.
(908) 638-1493 View (908) 638-1493
Photo of Brook Evans, PA-C, MSPAS, Physician Assistant
Brook Evans
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MSPAS
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts? Is your goal to tune down the impulsive, negative talk and to be able to cope and manage daily anxiety? I am here to help. I am fully transparent with my patients about my own mental health struggles. I believe sharing my own experiences allows patients to better relate and recognize that I am able to understand what they are experiencing.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts? Is your goal to tune down the impulsive, negative talk and to be able to cope and manage daily anxiety? I am here to help. I am fully transparent with my patients about my own mental health struggles. I believe sharing my own experiences allows patients to better relate and recognize that I am able to understand what they are experiencing.
(848) 600-5437 View (848) 600-5437
Photo of Caren Goldstein, MSN, APN, PMHNP, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Caren Goldstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Family Psychiatric Advanced Nurse Practitioner, with many years in the field, treating children, adolescents, adults and families. I perform psychiatric evaluations, design comprehensive treatment plans, prescribes medication and provides brief therapy. I have experience reinforcing DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) skills as well as behavior modification. I have a passion for working with youth on the autistic spectrum as well as with ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders and behavior problems. Experience working with Child Study Teams as well as working with schools and guidance counselors to recommend accommodations for 504 plans and IEPs.
I am a Family Psychiatric Advanced Nurse Practitioner, with many years in the field, treating children, adolescents, adults and families. I perform psychiatric evaluations, design comprehensive treatment plans, prescribes medication and provides brief therapy. I have experience reinforcing DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) skills as well as behavior modification. I have a passion for working with youth on the autistic spectrum as well as with ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders and behavior problems. Experience working with Child Study Teams as well as working with schools and guidance counselors to recommend accommodations for 504 plans and IEPs.
(973) 963-9446 View (973) 963-9446
Photo of Padma Palvai - Mindspace Psychiatry , MD, Psychiatrist
Mindspace Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults 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 depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
(908) 913-7531 View (908) 913-7531

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Matthew E Barnas - Pelorus Elder & Behavioral Health and Pelorus TMS, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Pelorus Elder & Behavioral Health and Pelorus TMS
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927
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 Letisha Hogans Evolve N Change, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Letisha Hogans Evolve N Change
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Threat Assessments. Accepting New Clients. We will work with you to help you develop the strategies you need to get back on the path that leads to happiness, joy and success. Together, we will work to address the issues you are facing and come through on the other side with a new way of thinking, and confidently take on a new direction in life. We will work closely together to analyze what struggles you are facing and their underlying causes and try to change the behaviors and thought patterns that are keeping you from being the person you want to be.
Threat Assessments. Accepting New Clients. We will work with you to help you develop the strategies you need to get back on the path that leads to happiness, joy and success. Together, we will work to address the issues you are facing and come through on the other side with a new way of thinking, and confidently take on a new direction in life. We will work closely together to analyze what struggles you are facing and their underlying causes and try to change the behaviors and thought patterns that are keeping you from being the person you want to be.
(856) 249-7071 View (856) 249-7071
Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
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 Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
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!
(908) 808-5635 View (908) 808-5635
Photo of Gabriell Budoff, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gabriell Budoff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
Raritan, NJ 08869
I am a board-certified behavioral health nurse practitioner, specializing in the mental health needs of adults and older adults. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Brandeis University and a Master’s Degree in Nursing from Boston College William F. Connell School. I provide a nurturing and safe space, in which you can express yourself freely without fear of judgment. I practice with patience and compassion and promise to take the time to get to know who you are as an individual and your unique needs and strengths. I will work with you to come up with a treatment plan you are comfortable with.
I am a board-certified behavioral health nurse practitioner, specializing in the mental health needs of adults and older adults. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Brandeis University and a Master’s Degree in Nursing from Boston College William F. Connell School. I provide a nurturing and safe space, in which you can express yourself freely without fear of judgment. I practice with patience and compassion and promise to take the time to get to know who you are as an individual and your unique needs and strengths. I will work with you to come up with a treatment plan you are comfortable with.
(908) 224-5598 View (908) 224-5598
Photo of Merritt Hubsher - ADHD, Mood & Behavior Center, MD, Psychiatrist
ADHD, Mood & Behavior Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927
ADHD, Mood & Behavior Center is a comprehensive Child, Adolescent & Adult psychotherapy center, available ONLINE throughout NJ & NY, from the comfort of your home, and in person in northern NJ. Our three board certified child, adolescent & adult psychiatrists are devoted to the evaluation and treatment of emotional, behavioral, social, academic & employment difficulties, including ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Autism Spectrum Disorder, OCD, learning issues, bullying & video game addiction, and collaborate with our highly trained therapists to find solutions and bring stability to the child, adult or family.
ADHD, Mood & Behavior Center is a comprehensive Child, Adolescent & Adult psychotherapy center, available ONLINE throughout NJ & NY, from the comfort of your home, and in person in northern NJ. Our three board certified child, adolescent & adult psychiatrists are devoted to the evaluation and treatment of emotional, behavioral, social, academic & employment difficulties, including ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Autism Spectrum Disorder, OCD, learning issues, bullying & video game addiction, and collaborate with our highly trained therapists to find solutions and bring stability to the child, adult or family.
(973) 679-7936 View (973) 679-7936
Photo of Dr. Luiza Triolo, PsyD, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Luiza Triolo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Somerset, NJ 08873
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or going through a challenging time? Have you trialed numerous medications without any success, and continue to have symptoms? I am Dr. Triolo, the founder of Oasis Beyond Health, working with clients to manage symptoms through psychopharmacology and supportive psychotherapy. We offer a conservative, individualized approach to medications. Specializations include Depression, Anxiety, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, Postpartum Depression, Obesity Medicine, and medication-assisted weight loss and counseling. See why we have over 200 5-star Reviews! Check our website
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or going through a challenging time? Have you trialed numerous medications without any success, and continue to have symptoms? I am Dr. Triolo, the founder of Oasis Beyond Health, working with clients to manage symptoms through psychopharmacology and supportive psychotherapy. We offer a conservative, individualized approach to medications. Specializations include Depression, Anxiety, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, Postpartum Depression, Obesity Medicine, and medication-assisted weight loss and counseling. See why we have over 200 5-star Reviews! Check our website
(732) 561-5605 View (732) 561-5605
Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
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.
(973) 620-2326 View (973) 620-2326
Photo of Adetutu Ogunmefun - Anchor Care: Adetutu Ogunmefun DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anchor Care: Adetutu Ogunmefun DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Green Brook Township, NJ 08812
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 Amy C Johnson, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy C Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
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 Farheen Fahim - livingston heathcare llc, MD, Psychiatrist
livingston heathcare llc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Raritan, NJ 08869
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, MSN, PMHNP, APN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Blessing Nwele Apn-Bc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
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 Amanda Guarnere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
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.
(973) 828-8285 View (973) 828-8285

See more therapy options for Basking Ridge

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Basking Ridge, NJ

< 10

Psychiatrists in Basking Ridge, NJ who prioritize treating:

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

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Basking Ridge, NJ see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Basking Ridge?

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.