Psychiatrists in Cedar Knolls, NJ

Photo of Matthew E Barnas - Pelorus Elder & Behavioral Health and Pelorus TMS, Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
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
Merritt Hubsher
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Specializes in the treatment of all child and adolescent emotional, behavioral, social and academic disorders. He possesses an expertise in the treatment of mood disorders in children, adolescents and adults, (such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and OCD Disorders), behavior disorders (such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder), as well as Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Specializes in the treatment of all child and adolescent emotional, behavioral, social and academic disorders. He possesses an expertise in the treatment of mood disorders in children, adolescents and adults, (such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and OCD Disorders), behavior disorders (such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder), as well as Autism Spectrum Disorders.
(973) 233-4109 View (973) 233-4109
Photo of Merritt Hubsher - ADHD, Mood & Behavior Center, Psychiatrist, MD
ADHD, Mood & Behavior Center
Psychiatrist, MD
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 Nanda Orissa Muthusawmy, Psychiatrist, MD
Nanda Orissa Muthusawmy
Psychiatrist, MD
Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927
Nanda Muthusawmy, MD, is a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of ADHD, mood regulation disorders, behavior disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, OCD, and Tic Disorders.
Nanda Muthusawmy, MD, is a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of ADHD, mood regulation disorders, behavior disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, OCD, and Tic Disorders.
(862) 236-3219 View (862) 236-3219
Photo of Tamara Weisman, Psychiatrist, DO
Tamara Weisman
Psychiatrist, DO
Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927
Dr. Tamara Weisman is a board certified adult psychiatrist with more than fifteen years experience in the diagnosis and treatment of all major psychiatric disorders. During the first visit, Dr. Weisman performs a comprehensive initial evaluation. As part of the evaluation, Dr. Weisman collaborates with outside providers, primary care physicians and the patient's primary support system. This will allow for enhanced communication which will effectively improve outcomes. Based on symptomatology, the necessary medication is prescribed. Dr. Weisman provides close and frequent follow up to manage ongoing psychiatric issues and potential medication side effects. Evening office hours are available.
Dr. Tamara Weisman is a board certified adult psychiatrist with more than fifteen years experience in the diagnosis and treatment of all major psychiatric disorders. During the first visit, Dr. Weisman performs a comprehensive initial evaluation. As part of the evaluation, Dr. Weisman collaborates with outside providers, primary care physicians and the patient's primary support system. This will allow for enhanced communication which will effectively improve outcomes. Based on symptomatology, the necessary medication is prescribed. Dr. Weisman provides close and frequent follow up to manage ongoing psychiatric issues and potential medication side effects. Evening office hours are available.
(908) 493-5292 View (908) 493-5292

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of David Goldbloom, Psychiatrist, MD
David Goldbloom
Psychiatrist, MD
4 Endorsed
Wayne, NJ 07470
Thank you for viewing my profile. I completed a general psychiatry residency program and then additional specialty training in addiction psychiatry. As such, I treat patients with common psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, as well as drug, alcohol, and behavioral addictions. I utilize evidence-based psychotherapies including cognitive behavioral therapy, relapse prevention, and motivational enhancement as well as medication when indicated. I regard mental illness and addiction for the impairments and negative consequences they create in the client's life and work to involve all those affected including clients and their family and friends.
Thank you for viewing my profile. I completed a general psychiatry residency program and then additional specialty training in addiction psychiatry. As such, I treat patients with common psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, as well as drug, alcohol, and behavioral addictions. I utilize evidence-based psychotherapies including cognitive behavioral therapy, relapse prevention, and motivational enhancement as well as medication when indicated. I regard mental illness and addiction for the impairments and negative consequences they create in the client's life and work to involve all those affected including clients and their family and friends.
(973) 786-3215 View (973) 786-3215
Photo of Meg Sosnow, Psychiatrist, MD
Meg Sosnow
Psychiatrist, MD
Summit, NJ 07901
As a board certified psychiatrist, I can help you with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and relationship problems among other psychiatric issues. My treatment philosophy involves looking at all the factors that may be affecting your mental health, including biological, psychological and even environmental ones.
As a board certified psychiatrist, I can help you with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and relationship problems among other psychiatric issues. My treatment philosophy involves looking at all the factors that may be affecting your mental health, including biological, psychological and even environmental ones.
(908) 878-5954 View (908) 878-5954
Photo of Mona Maaty, Psychiatrist, MD
Mona Maaty
Psychiatrist, MD
Caldwell, NJ 07006
My goal is to help you remember your truest essence - the core of who you are and who you know you were meant to be. I am a holistic psychiatrist focused on deep healing. Together, we embark on an inner journey of self-exploration in which sometimes I guide you and other times I am guided by you. My approach is collaborative and often includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication. I am an IFS (Internal Family System) level 1 trained therapist, certified schema therapist, and integrate a somatic approach.
My goal is to help you remember your truest essence - the core of who you are and who you know you were meant to be. I am a holistic psychiatrist focused on deep healing. Together, we embark on an inner journey of self-exploration in which sometimes I guide you and other times I am guided by you. My approach is collaborative and often includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication. I am an IFS (Internal Family System) level 1 trained therapist, certified schema therapist, and integrate a somatic approach.
(862) 254-8911 View (862) 254-8911
Photo of Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Wayne, NJ 07470
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(973) 545-7567 View (973) 545-7567
Photo of Elina Kay, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Elina Kay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Florham Park, NJ 07932
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed by challenges that seem to hold you back from achieving your goals—whether personal, professional, or relational? As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience I have seen how mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, OCD, personality difficulties and ADHD can disrupt life. My passion lies in helping adults regain clarity, balance, and a sense of purpose.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed by challenges that seem to hold you back from achieving your goals—whether personal, professional, or relational? As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience I have seen how mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, OCD, personality difficulties and ADHD can disrupt life. My passion lies in helping adults regain clarity, balance, and a sense of purpose.
(973) 577-5563 View (973) 577-5563
Photo of Amy C Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Amy C Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Flemington, NJ 08822
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 Nancy Cursi-Vogle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Nancy Cursi-Vogle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Montville, NJ 07045
Mental illness is not a choice but Recovery is. You can believe in yourself and make changes with the right support. I have been working with people who have mental health issues for a long time. I enjoy helping people improve their mental health and their overall wellbeing. I believe I have been blessed with the character and skills needed to help others. I provide an integrative approach to improving mental health. I focus on you as a whole person - Mind, Body, & Spirit. I provide psychotherapy, medication management, herbal supplements, nutritional changes, movement/exercise and meditation/relaxation techniques.
Mental illness is not a choice but Recovery is. You can believe in yourself and make changes with the right support. I have been working with people who have mental health issues for a long time. I enjoy helping people improve their mental health and their overall wellbeing. I believe I have been blessed with the character and skills needed to help others. I provide an integrative approach to improving mental health. I focus on you as a whole person - Mind, Body, & Spirit. I provide psychotherapy, medication management, herbal supplements, nutritional changes, movement/exercise and meditation/relaxation techniques.
(973) 840-7257 View (973) 840-7257
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Morristown, NJ 07960
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(973) 453-0843 View (973) 453-0843
Photo of Cristian D Ciora, Psychiatrist, MD
Cristian D Ciora
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Englewood, NJ 07631
People who benefit most from working with me—and with whom I work best—are seeking more than medication management or prescription renewals. They are - or become in the therapeutic process - inquisitive, curious about their minds, eager to explore and discover the many layers of inner complexity and to solve the puzzles within. (Psychodynamic therapy is both supportive and exploratory). I’ve helped patients diagnosed with chronic, so-called “lifetime” conditions achieve lasting mental well-being. They became free from the need for ongoing medication or therapy, despite the prognosis for the illness.
People who benefit most from working with me—and with whom I work best—are seeking more than medication management or prescription renewals. They are - or become in the therapeutic process - inquisitive, curious about their minds, eager to explore and discover the many layers of inner complexity and to solve the puzzles within. (Psychodynamic therapy is both supportive and exploratory). I’ve helped patients diagnosed with chronic, so-called “lifetime” conditions achieve lasting mental well-being. They became free from the need for ongoing medication or therapy, despite the prognosis for the illness.
(201) 569-6100 View (201) 569-6100
Photo of Amanda Lee Williams - Paths Psychiatric Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Paths Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Clinton, NJ 08809
Please see my website for more info and to inquire about becoming a new client. Intake sessions must be held in-person, follow-up sessions can be in-person or virtual (clients must be physically located in NJ for telehealth).
Please see my website for more info and to inquire about becoming a new client. Intake sessions must be held in-person, follow-up sessions can be in-person or virtual (clients must be physically located in NJ for telehealth).
(908) 676-6729 View (908) 676-6729
Photo of Lily Yang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Lily Yang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Pine Brook, NJ 07058
At Bright Path Mental Health, my mission is to empower individuals through empathic and compassionate care. Mental health services offered include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy for adults and adolescents. My approach is centered on understanding your unique story and tailoring treatment to meet your specific needs. I work with individuals who are ready to take the first step towards better mental health. Whether you’re seeking to manage a specific mental health condition or navigate a challenging life event, I’m here to guide and support you through every step of the process.
At Bright Path Mental Health, my mission is to empower individuals through empathic and compassionate care. Mental health services offered include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy for adults and adolescents. My approach is centered on understanding your unique story and tailoring treatment to meet your specific needs. I work with individuals who are ready to take the first step towards better mental health. Whether you’re seeking to manage a specific mental health condition or navigate a challenging life event, I’m here to guide and support you through every step of the process.
(917) 317-8510 View (917) 317-8510
Photo of Joseph Stricker, Psychiatrist, MD
Joseph Stricker
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Hello! I am a double board certified psychiatrist in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Adult Psychiatry. I have trained and worked at leading hospital systems across the United States in many treatment settings. I opened this practice to offer the highest quality mental healthcare to patients and families. I believe that a strong and trusting treatment relationship forms the basis of successful care. My clinic is open on Saturdays to be minimally disruptive to work and school schedules.
Hello! I am a double board certified psychiatrist in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Adult Psychiatry. I have trained and worked at leading hospital systems across the United States in many treatment settings. I opened this practice to offer the highest quality mental healthcare to patients and families. I believe that a strong and trusting treatment relationship forms the basis of successful care. My clinic is open on Saturdays to be minimally disruptive to work and school schedules.
View
Photo of Ayodele Green, Psychiatrist, MD
Ayodele Green
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist. After I completed Medical School at Temple University in PA, I matriculated to a Psychiatry Residency at Harlem Hospital, NY and a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in Newark, NJ. I have been seeing both adults, Children and Adolescents providing psychotherapy as well as medication management.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist. After I completed Medical School at Temple University in PA, I matriculated to a Psychiatry Residency at Harlem Hospital, NY and a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in Newark, NJ. I have been seeing both adults, Children and Adolescents providing psychotherapy as well as medication management.
(862) 375-4992 View (862) 375-4992
Photo of Linda Chuang, Psychiatrist, MD
Linda Chuang
Psychiatrist, MD
Hoboken, NJ 07030
I am a Cornell and NYU educated board certified psychiatrist with extensive training in both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Because of my belief in the connection between mind and body, I trained in both psychiatry and internal medicine. I approach patients from a humanistic and holistic view, with an awareness of the interactions of stress and it's impact on the body. My practice is eclectic and I see patients with a variety of psychiatric disorders or patients who simply want to achieve greater happiness and satisfaction in their lives.
I am a Cornell and NYU educated board certified psychiatrist with extensive training in both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Because of my belief in the connection between mind and body, I trained in both psychiatry and internal medicine. I approach patients from a humanistic and holistic view, with an awareness of the interactions of stress and it's impact on the body. My practice is eclectic and I see patients with a variety of psychiatric disorders or patients who simply want to achieve greater happiness and satisfaction in their lives.
(201) 820-0658 View (201) 820-0658
Photo of Oyebola Asenuga - Oyebola Asenuga, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN-BC
Oyebola Asenuga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN-BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Nice to meet you! I'm Oyebola, the founder and owner of Restore Ark Healthcare. I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New Jersey with over 13 years of clinical experience working in different types of mental healthcare settings. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive services to all patients in need.
Nice to meet you! I'm Oyebola, the founder and owner of Restore Ark Healthcare. I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New Jersey with over 13 years of clinical experience working in different types of mental healthcare settings. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive services to all patients in need.
(908) 293-9535 View (908) 293-9535

See more therapy options for Cedar Knolls

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Cedar Knolls, NJ

< 10

Psychiatrists in Cedar Knolls, NJ who prioritize treating:

80% Depression
80% Anxiety
80% ADHD
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Medication Management
60% Relationship Issues
60% Psychosis

Average years in practice

23 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Cedar Knolls, NJ see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Male
33% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Cedar Knolls?

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.