Psychiatrists in Bloomfield, NJ

Photo of Benneth Mekoba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Benneth Mekoba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
The ideal client at Daisy's Place struggles with personal and mood disorders, anger management, communication, coping skills, self esteem, anxiety, depression, and more. Clients identify their needs and goals with the providers within the office.
The ideal client at Daisy's Place struggles with personal and mood disorders, anger management, communication, coping skills, self esteem, anxiety, depression, and more. Clients identify their needs and goals with the providers within the office.
(973) 556-2523 View (973) 556-2523
Daisy's Place
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
My goal is to foster a supportive and empowering environment where individuals feel heard, valued, and understood. By establishing trusting relationships with patients, I collaborate with them to develop tailored treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals. Whether managing psychiatric disorders, supporting individuals through life transitions, or promoting overall well-being, I prioritize the holistic health of each person under their care.
My goal is to foster a supportive and empowering environment where individuals feel heard, valued, and understood. By establishing trusting relationships with patients, I collaborate with them to develop tailored treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals. Whether managing psychiatric disorders, supporting individuals through life transitions, or promoting overall well-being, I prioritize the holistic health of each person under their care.
(856) 997-2175 View (856) 997-2175
Photo of John R Cooke, MD, JD, Psychiatrist
John R Cooke
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
I graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University and am board-certified in psychiatry. My background in medicine is diverse; I have also been an emergency physician. It is my professional conviction that one can live a meaningful and fulfilling life only through addressing the health of both the mind and the body. Thus, effective psychiatry must assess all aspects of a patient's condition.
I graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University and am board-certified in psychiatry. My background in medicine is diverse; I have also been an emergency physician. It is my professional conviction that one can live a meaningful and fulfilling life only through addressing the health of both the mind and the body. Thus, effective psychiatry must assess all aspects of a patient's condition.
(973) 509-1500 View (973) 509-1500
Photo of Theresa Webster, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, NJ 07003  (Online Only)
Are you tired of your mental illness defining you? You may be unsure of the way forward, feeling anxious, fearful, angry, and hopelessness. You might not know how your mental illness overcame you. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to stop masking your suffering but instead break through it. You are ready to know stability. Most of all, you are ready to live your best life. Clients come to me looking for a provider who understands there is not one pathway to becoming overwhelmed by mental illness and the journey to wellness is not one size fits all.
Are you tired of your mental illness defining you? You may be unsure of the way forward, feeling anxious, fearful, angry, and hopelessness. You might not know how your mental illness overcame you. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to stop masking your suffering but instead break through it. You are ready to know stability. Most of all, you are ready to live your best life. Clients come to me looking for a provider who understands there is not one pathway to becoming overwhelmed by mental illness and the journey to wellness is not one size fits all.
(406) 413-9879 View (406) 413-9879
Photo of Oksana Libelt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oksana Libelt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, NJ 07003  (Online Only)
My name is Oksana Libelt. I have been in medicine almost 25 years. My clinical background include different varies of care from critical care to proctology. I have started my career in Russia and continued to peruse my profession in USA. I am living in Matawan, New Jersey with my husband and three children. Education has always been a big and important part of my life. My point of view is, as much as we know, the more we can offer for society and patients.
My name is Oksana Libelt. I have been in medicine almost 25 years. My clinical background include different varies of care from critical care to proctology. I have started my career in Russia and continued to peruse my profession in USA. I am living in Matawan, New Jersey with my husband and three children. Education has always been a big and important part of my life. My point of view is, as much as we know, the more we can offer for society and patients.
(908) 388-9197 View (908) 388-9197
Photo of Linda Logang, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Linda Logang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003  (Online Only)
I am Dr. Linda Logang a dual board-certified doctorate prepared Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) currently licensed to practice in the state of New Jersey. I completed my dual bachelor’s degree in biology and nursing with highest honors at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, AR. I then earned 2 Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) family focus and psychiatric mental health focus and Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) with honors at Rutgers School of Nursing in Newark, NJ and Wilkes University in PA.
I am Dr. Linda Logang a dual board-certified doctorate prepared Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) currently licensed to practice in the state of New Jersey. I completed my dual bachelor’s degree in biology and nursing with highest honors at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, AR. I then earned 2 Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) family focus and psychiatric mental health focus and Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) with honors at Rutgers School of Nursing in Newark, NJ and Wilkes University in PA.
(973) 791-7064 View (973) 791-7064
Photo of Kesha Cheron, PMHNP-B, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kesha Cheron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is broadly experienced both as nurse and nurse practitioner. She works closely with her patients to help them meet their treatment goals. Kesha believes in a holistic approach and encourages patients to be active in their treatment plan to ensure desired outcomes are met. She helps patients manage their anxiety, depression, and many other conditions with new patient appointments available within 1-2 weeks currently (oct 2023).
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is broadly experienced both as nurse and nurse practitioner. She works closely with her patients to help them meet their treatment goals. Kesha believes in a holistic approach and encourages patients to be active in their treatment plan to ensure desired outcomes are met. She helps patients manage their anxiety, depression, and many other conditions with new patient appointments available within 1-2 weeks currently (oct 2023).
(908) 774-2629 View (908) 774-2629
Photo of Joan D Palermo - Complete Integrative Healing, PMHNP-C, APN-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Complete Integrative Healing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, APN-C
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
My job is to work with my clients and support them in their journey toward achieving positive mental health. i work with the whole person and look at their past and present experiences and how they have shaped their "today." We examine their needs, goals and aspirations for the future. It is extremely possible to find balance, health, stability and happiness in life but it will take hard work through trust, examination, transparency, therapy and time. "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Neil Donald Walsh. I truly believe when we are challenged and made to feel uncomfortable via self journey healing begins naturally.
My job is to work with my clients and support them in their journey toward achieving positive mental health. i work with the whole person and look at their past and present experiences and how they have shaped their "today." We examine their needs, goals and aspirations for the future. It is extremely possible to find balance, health, stability and happiness in life but it will take hard work through trust, examination, transparency, therapy and time. "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Neil Donald Walsh. I truly believe when we are challenged and made to feel uncomfortable via self journey healing begins naturally.
(732) 466-7405 View (732) 466-7405
Photo of Sade Frazier, DO,  MS, Psychiatrist
Sade Frazier
Psychiatrist, DO, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003  (Online Only)
Hello, I am pleased to offer evening hours to my patients. I am Dr. Frazier, a board-certified Adult psychiatrist, who is completing fellowship training in Child & Adolescent psychiatry. I follow the biopsychosocial (biological, psychological and social determinants) model, as my approach to understanding a patient’s mental health needs and determining how best to treat each unique individual.
Hello, I am pleased to offer evening hours to my patients. I am Dr. Frazier, a board-certified Adult psychiatrist, who is completing fellowship training in Child & Adolescent psychiatry. I follow the biopsychosocial (biological, psychological and social determinants) model, as my approach to understanding a patient’s mental health needs and determining how best to treat each unique individual.
(908) 663-8836 View (908) 663-8836

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Michael Chung, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Michael Chung
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Glen Ridge, NJ 07028
Since I was 9 years old, I knew I wanted to be a psychiatrist. I was enthralled by how humans were influenced by emotions and wanted to better understand that within myself and others. I am a board-certified NYU-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, who uses a holistic approach to carefully understand an individual's needs. I use a mix of psychotherapy and psychiatric medicine to alleviate symptoms. My hope is that you will feel better each time we meet.
Since I was 9 years old, I knew I wanted to be a psychiatrist. I was enthralled by how humans were influenced by emotions and wanted to better understand that within myself and others. I am a board-certified NYU-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, who uses a holistic approach to carefully understand an individual's needs. I use a mix of psychotherapy and psychiatric medicine to alleviate symptoms. My hope is that you will feel better each time we meet.
(929) 447-0092 View (929) 447-0092
Photo of Udoka Jeremiah Ejiofor - Luminous Cares, LLC, PhD, MSN, MBA, APN-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Luminous Cares, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, MBA, APN-C
Verified Verified
East Orange, NJ 07019
Luminous Cares, LLC, is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Provider, an expertise in psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, psychotherapy, medication management, and consultation, from children to adults (including Geriatrics) with psychiatric-mental health concerns. We pride ourselves in providing care dedicated to the spirit, soul and body of the individual; placing compassion, empathy and immediate response to emerging recovery/wellness issues. We maintain a data base of referrals for special therapies and for clients with medical problems. To foster the mental health of our population, we accept other insurances, plus medicare.
Luminous Cares, LLC, is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Provider, an expertise in psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, psychotherapy, medication management, and consultation, from children to adults (including Geriatrics) with psychiatric-mental health concerns. We pride ourselves in providing care dedicated to the spirit, soul and body of the individual; placing compassion, empathy and immediate response to emerging recovery/wellness issues. We maintain a data base of referrals for special therapies and for clients with medical problems. To foster the mental health of our population, we accept other insurances, plus medicare.
(862) 505-2141 View (862) 505-2141
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
Belleville, NJ 07109
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
Photo of Dr. Michael Olukotun, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Michael Olukotun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
Mental illness can be debilitating and negatively impact the lives of individuals. I believe treatment and healing can occur, if individuals are given the proper care and support. My goal is that every individual receives care in a collaborative and supportive context, which will empower them and produce positive treatment outcomes.
Mental illness can be debilitating and negatively impact the lives of individuals. I believe treatment and healing can occur, if individuals are given the proper care and support. My goal is that every individual receives care in a collaborative and supportive context, which will empower them and produce positive treatment outcomes.
(609) 806-5527 View (609) 806-5527
Rehan Malik
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07043
It is not uncommon for people to notice something is off, for some maybe your heart is racing in certain situations, or maybe you may not want to go out with friends and family as much as before the pandemic, have you been isolating more, eating less, trouble sleeping. It's very easy to just chalk it up to an "off day" or "stressful week" at work "it'll get better next week", well now it is just as easy to call and request a free consultation and get help for any issues going on new or old. We offer Tele-Health/ TeleMedicine Services, which allows you to have your visit from your home to allow for convivence/discretion.
It is not uncommon for people to notice something is off, for some maybe your heart is racing in certain situations, or maybe you may not want to go out with friends and family as much as before the pandemic, have you been isolating more, eating less, trouble sleeping. It's very easy to just chalk it up to an "off day" or "stressful week" at work "it'll get better next week", well now it is just as easy to call and request a free consultation and get help for any issues going on new or old. We offer Tele-Health/ TeleMedicine Services, which allows you to have your visit from your home to allow for convivence/discretion.
(973) 348-3786 View (973) 348-3786
Photo of Tamer Wassef - Care First Psychiatry & TMS Center, MD, Psychiatrist
Care First Psychiatry & TMS Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Welcome to Care First TMS Center: Specialized in adult psychiatry and addiction medicine, Treatment and Counseling. Welcome to the website of Dr. Tamer Wassef, The founder of Care First Medical Group, TMS Center. Dr. Wassef is a board-certified Psychiatrist offering safe, confidential and effective Adult Psychiatry, Addiction medicine and recovery management programs at his conveniently located office in New Brunswick, NJ.
Welcome to Care First TMS Center: Specialized in adult psychiatry and addiction medicine, Treatment and Counseling. Welcome to the website of Dr. Tamer Wassef, The founder of Care First Medical Group, TMS Center. Dr. Wassef is a board-certified Psychiatrist offering safe, confidential and effective Adult Psychiatry, Addiction medicine and recovery management programs at his conveniently located office in New Brunswick, NJ.
(848) 200-1699 View (848) 200-1699
Photo of Erin Zerbo, MD, Psychiatrist
Erin Zerbo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am an open-minded practitioner and I feel strongly that it is every person’s birthright to be happy and to live a fulfilling life. I believe that every person is always doing their best; there is no such thing as laziness or a lack of motivation. I employ a client-centered approach to help people tackle the burdens that are holding them back. I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and only recommend medication cautiously and with clear intention.
I am an open-minded practitioner and I feel strongly that it is every person’s birthright to be happy and to live a fulfilling life. I believe that every person is always doing their best; there is no such thing as laziness or a lack of motivation. I employ a client-centered approach to help people tackle the burdens that are holding them back. I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and only recommend medication cautiously and with clear intention.
(908) 258-6075 View (908) 258-6075
Photo of Consolata Mulli - RIMU health and Wellness , FNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
RIMU health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07104
At RIMU Health we acknowledge the pandemic has greatly impacted mental and general health of our society. We strive to address these challenges by making mental and general health care easily accessible through tele health or tele medicine on our HIPPA compliant Platform. Our services are easily accessible on a computers, smartphones or tablets.
At RIMU Health we acknowledge the pandemic has greatly impacted mental and general health of our society. We strive to address these challenges by making mental and general health care easily accessible through tele health or tele medicine on our HIPPA compliant Platform. Our services are easily accessible on a computers, smartphones or tablets.
(609) 451-1960 View (609) 451-1960
Photo of Olivia Gibson-Delaney - Quality of Life Psychiatry, MD, MA, Psychiatrist
Quality of Life Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Welcome to Quality of Life Psychiatry, and what I hope will be your psychiatric home. Here, every individual session provides a combination of both medication management and therapeutic support. I focus on treating depression and anxiety, and have a special interest in providing care for those in caregiver roles, in comprehensive, empathic, and supportive ways. I work to help clients navigate life transitions and self-doubt, all while enhancing resiliency and ability to care for self in the process. Group therapy is also offered in an effort to contribute to a community of support, in addition to tailoring to individual needs.
Welcome to Quality of Life Psychiatry, and what I hope will be your psychiatric home. Here, every individual session provides a combination of both medication management and therapeutic support. I focus on treating depression and anxiety, and have a special interest in providing care for those in caregiver roles, in comprehensive, empathic, and supportive ways. I work to help clients navigate life transitions and self-doubt, all while enhancing resiliency and ability to care for self in the process. Group therapy is also offered in an effort to contribute to a community of support, in addition to tailoring to individual needs.
(973) 718-3665 View (973) 718-3665
Photo of Adutwumwaa Addo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adutwumwaa Addo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. I provide Adolescents and Adults mental health services. As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am passionate about enhancing the mental well-being of individuals and communities. With a strong educational background and years of clinical experience, I am committed to providing patient-centered comprehensive, compassionate care in the field of mental health. My areas of specialization encompass the treatment of mood disorders, depression, and anxiety disorders among many others.
Accepting New Clients. I provide Adolescents and Adults mental health services. As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am passionate about enhancing the mental well-being of individuals and communities. With a strong educational background and years of clinical experience, I am committed to providing patient-centered comprehensive, compassionate care in the field of mental health. My areas of specialization encompass the treatment of mood disorders, depression, and anxiety disorders among many others.
(973) 943-4462 View (973) 943-4462
Photo of Doris Chukwu, MSN, PMHNP, APN-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Doris Chukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
Top Choice Medical Consult provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health services to a diverse client population. With over 10 years experience in psychiatric and mental health, my experience and educational background have prepared me in providing the required services for mental health needs. I utilize a comprehensive approach in formulating a patient's diagnosis and treatment plan. Our services includes providing detailed psychiatric evaluation, establishing appropriate diagnosis, working with the client in choosing individualized suitable treatment and therapy.
Top Choice Medical Consult provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health services to a diverse client population. With over 10 years experience in psychiatric and mental health, my experience and educational background have prepared me in providing the required services for mental health needs. I utilize a comprehensive approach in formulating a patient's diagnosis and treatment plan. Our services includes providing detailed psychiatric evaluation, establishing appropriate diagnosis, working with the client in choosing individualized suitable treatment and therapy.
(732) 733-6745 View (732) 733-6745

See more therapy options for Bloomfield

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bloomfield, NJ

< 10

Psychiatrists in Bloomfield, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
89% Medication Management
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Trauma and PTSD
78% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

2 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
78% BlueCross and BlueShield
78% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Bloomfield, NJ see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bloomfield?

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.