Psychiatrists in Belleville, NJ

Photo of Morgan Edward Bardall, DNP, BSN, BA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Morgan Edward Bardall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BSN, BA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belleville, NJ 07109
With experience in an array of psychiatric conditions, my goal at my all virtual practice is to help you to function at your best, with the idea that medications, if indicated, should start low and go slow. I may have a doctorate but all of my patients call me by my first name Morgan. My goal is to get to know you so that we can partner together to find what works best for you, safely and effectively. When working with me, I hope to create a connection that helps to help you to function at your best and find your new normal.
With experience in an array of psychiatric conditions, my goal at my all virtual practice is to help you to function at your best, with the idea that medications, if indicated, should start low and go slow. I may have a doctorate but all of my patients call me by my first name Morgan. My goal is to get to know you so that we can partner together to find what works best for you, safely and effectively. When working with me, I hope to create a connection that helps to help you to function at your best and find your new normal.
(732) 385-3819 View (732) 385-3819
Photo of Maria Karmina Cartasano, PMHNP, APN-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maria Karmina Cartasano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with persistent sadness, or experiencing mood swings that impact your daily life? You’re not alone, and support is available. As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges. My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with persistent sadness, or experiencing mood swings that impact your daily life? You’re not alone, and support is available. As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges. My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
(973) 604-2891 View (973) 604-2891
Photo of Ubong Udofia - Ofmeme Psychiatric Care, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ofmeme Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you are experiencing symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorders, ADHD, PTSD and substance use disorder, let Ofmeme Psychiatric Care provide you with services that are specific to your needs. Dr. Udofia offers comprehensive assessment, medication management and a range of treatment opportunities aimed at restoring patients back to optimal health. At Ofmeme Psychiatric Care, we also provide psychiatric evaluation for bariatric surgery.
If you are experiencing symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorders, ADHD, PTSD and substance use disorder, let Ofmeme Psychiatric Care provide you with services that are specific to your needs. Dr. Udofia offers comprehensive assessment, medication management and a range of treatment opportunities aimed at restoring patients back to optimal health. At Ofmeme Psychiatric Care, we also provide psychiatric evaluation for bariatric surgery.
(973) 891-4333 View (973) 891-4333
Alexander R Babayants
Psychiatrist, MD PhD
Verified Verified
Belleville, NJ 07109
I am a Psychiatrist, Diplomat of American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I am practicing for 20 + years and I will evaluate you comprehensively, with the best of my knowledge and experience. I might be able to assist you with short and long-term disability as well. Please email or may call my office Thank you for reviewing my profile.
I am a Psychiatrist, Diplomat of American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I am practicing for 20 + years and I will evaluate you comprehensively, with the best of my knowledge and experience. I might be able to assist you with short and long-term disability as well. Please email or may call my office Thank you for reviewing my profile.
(973) 218-6240 View (973) 218-6240

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ketnie Aristide, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ketnie Aristide
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoboken, NJ 07030
I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals from all backgrounds. My approach to care is holistic, focusing on the needs of the whole person while integrating mindfulness and psychopharmacological practices.
I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals from all backgrounds. My approach to care is holistic, focusing on the needs of the whole person while integrating mindfulness and psychopharmacological practices.
(551) 363-4233 View (551) 363-4233
Photo of Veronica M Jensen, DNP, MSN, APNC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Veronica M Jensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APNC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
Hello, my name is Veronica Jensen, DNP, MSN, APNC, PMHNP-BC. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. I am the founder of Pathway to Wellness LLC. I have over 8 years of experience in prescribing psychotropic medications and over 15 years in the psychiatric field. I am very comfortable with complex, acute, and chronic cases. I have worked in various settings of mental health such as inpatient psychiatric units, emergency rooms, outpatient, acute outpatient services, and nursing home Dementia/Alzheimer units. I also provide consultation services for area nursing homes.
Hello, my name is Veronica Jensen, DNP, MSN, APNC, PMHNP-BC. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. I am the founder of Pathway to Wellness LLC. I have over 8 years of experience in prescribing psychotropic medications and over 15 years in the psychiatric field. I am very comfortable with complex, acute, and chronic cases. I have worked in various settings of mental health such as inpatient psychiatric units, emergency rooms, outpatient, acute outpatient services, and nursing home Dementia/Alzheimer units. I also provide consultation services for area nursing homes.
(908) 867-0284 View (908) 867-0284
Photo of Nancy Frederic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nancy Frederic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
My ideal client is open minded and ready to see a positive change in their lives. By working with me, clients gain additional insight and tools to help target specific issues that they may be struggling with.
My ideal client is open minded and ready to see a positive change in their lives. By working with me, clients gain additional insight and tools to help target specific issues that they may be struggling with.
(862) 366-4952 View (862) 366-4952
Photo of Christina Silvaria, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christina Silvaria
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I treat adolescent and adult patients who are looking for comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
I treat adolescent and adult patients who are looking for comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
(201) 690-2596 View (201) 690-2596
Photo of Christine Naungayan - Total Wellness Center, M, D, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Total Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, M, D
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Total Wellness Center provides expert mental health care through a comprehensive range of services, including individual therapy, couples therapy, marriage counseling, family therapy, and medication management. Our team of experienced psychiatric nurse practitioners and therapists tailors each treatment plan to meet the unique needs of every patient. Whether in-person or via telehealth, we prioritize compassionate care, ensuring that patients feel supported on their journey to improved mental well-being. We accept major insurance plans and offer private pay options.
Total Wellness Center provides expert mental health care through a comprehensive range of services, including individual therapy, couples therapy, marriage counseling, family therapy, and medication management. Our team of experienced psychiatric nurse practitioners and therapists tailors each treatment plan to meet the unique needs of every patient. Whether in-person or via telehealth, we prioritize compassionate care, ensuring that patients feel supported on their journey to improved mental well-being. We accept major insurance plans and offer private pay options.
(862) 263-7056 x1 View (862) 263-7056 x1
Photo of Adedoyin (Aka Asim) Hezekiah Asimolowo, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adedoyin (Aka Asim) Hezekiah Asimolowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Irvington, NJ 07111
Adedoyin Asimolowo MSN, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC who specializes in psychiatric mental health with a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. The most inspiring part of my career has been the ability to make an impact in my patients' lives, meet them at their point of need and help them make positive changes in their lives. . I offer extensive mental health services for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and problems, such as ADHD, Mood, and Anxiety disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, and PTSD.
Adedoyin Asimolowo MSN, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC who specializes in psychiatric mental health with a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. The most inspiring part of my career has been the ability to make an impact in my patients' lives, meet them at their point of need and help them make positive changes in their lives. . I offer extensive mental health services for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and problems, such as ADHD, Mood, and Anxiety disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, and PTSD.
(973) 314-4254 View (973) 314-4254
Photo of Alison Weiner - Alison Weiner MD PC, MD, Psychiatrist
Alison Weiner MD PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Dr. Weiner is a board-certified psychiatrist based in Montclair, New Jersey. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Weiner specializes in diagnosing and treating adults with mental, psychiatric, and behavioral health disorders. Dr. Weiner’s expertise in psychopharmacology allows her to manage depression, anxiety, ADD, psychosis, and OCD. Dr. Weiner is an in-network provider with Cigna (Evernorth), and her office can assist in billing out-of-network insurance benefits.
Dr. Weiner is a board-certified psychiatrist based in Montclair, New Jersey. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Weiner specializes in diagnosing and treating adults with mental, psychiatric, and behavioral health disorders. Dr. Weiner’s expertise in psychopharmacology allows her to manage depression, anxiety, ADD, psychosis, and OCD. Dr. Weiner is an in-network provider with Cigna (Evernorth), and her office can assist in billing out-of-network insurance benefits.
(973) 671-1266 View (973) 671-1266
Photo of Sinead Sobers - Cedarview Health - Sinead Sobers, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cedarview Health - Sinead Sobers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.cedarview.health
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.cedarview.health
(862) 829-3368 View (862) 829-3368
Photo of Kathryn Tarpey Balsamo, PMHNP, CPNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathryn Tarpey Balsamo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
Oakland, NJ 07436
I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (CPNP), with over 30 years of experience in healthcare, dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. My background includes extensive work in both inpatient and outpatient settings, where I have had the privilege of treating children, families, adolescents, and adults navigating a wide range of mental health challenges. I believe in creating a warm and collaborative environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered.
I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (CPNP), with over 30 years of experience in healthcare, dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. My background includes extensive work in both inpatient and outpatient settings, where I have had the privilege of treating children, families, adolescents, and adults navigating a wide range of mental health challenges. I believe in creating a warm and collaborative environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered.
(551) 218-1156 View (551) 218-1156
Photo of Michael Enwere - St. Michael Mental Care Consult, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
St. Michael Mental Care Consult
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Have you encountered challenges in locating a service provider who is dedicated to thoroughly understanding and assisting you? The task of finding a qualified professional capable of genuinely perceiving and acknowledging your needs can prove arduous. You may be grappling with depression, anxiety, or residual effects of past trauma. My expertise lies in aiding individuals to conquer such symptoms, alongside navigating an array of mental health and wellness obstacles. Above all, my role is to listen and facilitate your self-awareness, by providing utmost care and improving lifestyle betterment.
Have you encountered challenges in locating a service provider who is dedicated to thoroughly understanding and assisting you? The task of finding a qualified professional capable of genuinely perceiving and acknowledging your needs can prove arduous. You may be grappling with depression, anxiety, or residual effects of past trauma. My expertise lies in aiding individuals to conquer such symptoms, alongside navigating an array of mental health and wellness obstacles. Above all, my role is to listen and facilitate your self-awareness, by providing utmost care and improving lifestyle betterment.
(973) 447-9286 View (973) 447-9286
Photo of Violina Frenkel, MD, Psychiatrist
Violina Frenkel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Summit, NJ 07901
My treatment philosophy involves operating from a biopsychosocial framework to implement the most comprehensive treatment plan for each patient. I believe psychopharmacological interventions are an important part of a treatment plan, but are most efficacious in conjunction with other non-pharmacological interventions such as psychodynamic or cognitive behavioral psychotherapy as well as integrative medicine. My services include consultation, medication management and TMS. I work very closely with a number of therapists who I refer to if therapy is essential to your treatment.
My treatment philosophy involves operating from a biopsychosocial framework to implement the most comprehensive treatment plan for each patient. I believe psychopharmacological interventions are an important part of a treatment plan, but are most efficacious in conjunction with other non-pharmacological interventions such as psychodynamic or cognitive behavioral psychotherapy as well as integrative medicine. My services include consultation, medication management and TMS. I work very closely with a number of therapists who I refer to if therapy is essential to your treatment.
(908) 325-5292 View (908) 325-5292
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
Photo of Edward Franklin, APN, RN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edward Franklin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, RN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I treat adolescent and adult patients who are looking for comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
I treat adolescent and adult patients who are looking for comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
(862) 465-8920 View (862) 465-8920
Photo of Maribel Abbate, MD, Psychiatrist
Maribel Abbate
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Please visit my personal website for all details and fees by clicking on the link to the left. With the privacy and convenience of videoconferencing, my focus is treating non emergent psychiatric issues, such as depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, adjustment and mood disorders. I work to understand the biological, psychological, social issues affecting every patient and will make recommendations which may include nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, meditation, light therapy, psychotherapy, supplements and/or medications. The goal is to provide private and comprehensive care in order to get every patient to better health.
Please visit my personal website for all details and fees by clicking on the link to the left. With the privacy and convenience of videoconferencing, my focus is treating non emergent psychiatric issues, such as depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, adjustment and mood disorders. I work to understand the biological, psychological, social issues affecting every patient and will make recommendations which may include nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, meditation, light therapy, psychotherapy, supplements and/or medications. The goal is to provide private and comprehensive care in order to get every patient to better health.
(973) 261-8641 View (973) 261-8641
Photo of Elizabeth (Beth) Teal, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth (Beth) Teal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Focusing on medication prescribing and management, I have experience utilizing non narcotic, non addicting medications to treat anxiety, trauma, PTSD, sleep disturbance/insomnia, and in the non stimulant treatment of ADHD/ADD. Due to DEA regulations I cannot prescribe or continue stimulant medications such as Adderall, vyanse, concerta, ritalin.
Focusing on medication prescribing and management, I have experience utilizing non narcotic, non addicting medications to treat anxiety, trauma, PTSD, sleep disturbance/insomnia, and in the non stimulant treatment of ADHD/ADD. Due to DEA regulations I cannot prescribe or continue stimulant medications such as Adderall, vyanse, concerta, ritalin.
(640) 500-2017 View (640) 500-2017
Photo of Antonio Pedulla - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting New Patients. I'm a dual certified FNP/ PMHNP. Taking a holistic approach is important to me and I feel this approach is of most benefit for my clients. I enjoy helping all types of clients but I gravitate towards working with individuals who are reaching out for help for the first time. This is because I feel I offer a positive initial encounter that will encourage them to continue seeking help in order to reach their goals but I will work with any client that needs assistance. We offer affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting New Patients. I'm a dual certified FNP/ PMHNP. Taking a holistic approach is important to me and I feel this approach is of most benefit for my clients. I enjoy helping all types of clients but I gravitate towards working with individuals who are reaching out for help for the first time. This is because I feel I offer a positive initial encounter that will encourage them to continue seeking help in order to reach their goals but I will work with any client that needs assistance. We offer affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting some insurances.
(201) 212-6834 View (201) 212-6834

See more therapy options for Belleville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Belleville, NJ

< 10

Psychiatrists in Belleville, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Psychosis
75% Medication Management
50% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Belleville, NJ see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Male
34% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Belleville?

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.