Psychiatrists in East Brunswick, NJ

Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve their mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stop socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and fail college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with your current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve their mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stop socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and fail college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with your current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
(848) 346-2881 View (848) 346-2881
Photo of Amanda A. Opoku, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Amanda A. Opoku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
As a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping high-functioning adults manage the mental and emotional weight of doing it all. Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD or the exhaustion of chronic insomnia, my approach is warm, personalized, and rooted in evidence-based care. I work with professionals, parents, students, and entrepreneurs who may look fine on the outside but feel overwhelmed, scattered, or burned out inside. You don’t have to power through it alone. I provide real psychiatric support that respects your time, your privacy, and your individual needs.
As a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping high-functioning adults manage the mental and emotional weight of doing it all. Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD or the exhaustion of chronic insomnia, my approach is warm, personalized, and rooted in evidence-based care. I work with professionals, parents, students, and entrepreneurs who may look fine on the outside but feel overwhelmed, scattered, or burned out inside. You don’t have to power through it alone. I provide real psychiatric support that respects your time, your privacy, and your individual needs.
(732) 479-7296 View (732) 479-7296
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for professionally, compassionately, and non-judgmentally. They should also be educated on their treatment options, including medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for professionally, compassionately, and non-judgmentally. They should also be educated on their treatment options, including medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
(848) 278-6555 View (848) 278-6555
Photo of Alison DeLuca, Psychiatrist, MD
Alison DeLuca
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I look forward to working together to help you feel better and meet your goals.
I look forward to working together to help you feel better and meet your goals.
(732) 592-2574 View (732) 592-2574
Photo of Barbara Darko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Barbara Darko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Iam a dual board-certified, experienced primary care and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in adults 18 years and older. My approach is to target the body as a whole, as the body system is interconnected; a break in one section can cause a ripple effect in another. I am passionate about providing the best care and support my patients need to recover and maintain wellness.
Iam a dual board-certified, experienced primary care and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in adults 18 years and older. My approach is to target the body as a whole, as the body system is interconnected; a break in one section can cause a ripple effect in another. I am passionate about providing the best care and support my patients need to recover and maintain wellness.
(973) 836-5751 View (973) 836-5751
Photo of Lydia Keise - Insyte Psychiatric, Psychiatrist, MD
Insyte Psychiatric
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist . I see individuals in need of medication management. I strongly believe that clients should be well informed about their treatment . Clients participate in treatment planning and their needs are always taken into consideration. My clients feel well cared for and walk away knowing that at all times I have their best interests in mind. It is my hope that clients feel we are taking a journey together in terms of their treatment. I specialize in postpartum depression, major depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse, psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist . I see individuals in need of medication management. I strongly believe that clients should be well informed about their treatment . Clients participate in treatment planning and their needs are always taken into consideration. My clients feel well cared for and walk away knowing that at all times I have their best interests in mind. It is my hope that clients feel we are taking a journey together in terms of their treatment. I specialize in postpartum depression, major depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse, psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder.
(732) 515-5089 View (732) 515-5089
Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together. Through psychotherapy and at times medication management. I strive in truly allowing the client to feel heard, spending time with the client to understand the their symptoms and provide good competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together. Through psychotherapy and at times medication management. I strive in truly allowing the client to feel heard, spending time with the client to understand the their symptoms and provide good competent care.
(848) 361-3142 View (848) 361-3142
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
(848) 308-1872 View (848) 308-1872
Photo of Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders, and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders, and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(848) 217-5820 View (848) 217-5820
Photo of Amanda Guarnere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to the patient's needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to the patient's needs.
(848) 347-2678 View (848) 347-2678
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
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.
(848) 279-8393 View (848) 279-8393
Photo of Steven Dyckman, Psychiatrist, MD
Steven Dyckman
Psychiatrist, MD
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
(732) 238-7711 View (732) 238-7711
Photo of Bradford Bobrin, Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FACLP
Bradford Bobrin
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FACLP
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
I don't have an ideal client, except they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
I don't have an ideal client, except they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
(848) 360-5124 View (848) 360-5124
Photo of Emad Mounir, Psychiatrist, MD
Emad Mounir
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Are you struggling with mood problems, anxiety, or difficulties with attention, concentration, focusing, organizing, & prioritizing your daily activities and executive functioning? Are you having difficulties coping with daily stressors, loss, or interpersonal problems? You’ve come to the right place to start your journey of healing. With over 24 years in practice, I’ve worked in various capacities including outpatient, inpatient, & partial hospitalization programs, and have treated adult and elder patients with emotional and mental issues. I provide space to improve the capacity in which you function day-to-day by working with you.
Are you struggling with mood problems, anxiety, or difficulties with attention, concentration, focusing, organizing, & prioritizing your daily activities and executive functioning? Are you having difficulties coping with daily stressors, loss, or interpersonal problems? You’ve come to the right place to start your journey of healing. With over 24 years in practice, I’ve worked in various capacities including outpatient, inpatient, & partial hospitalization programs, and have treated adult and elder patients with emotional and mental issues. I provide space to improve the capacity in which you function day-to-day by working with you.
(908) 224-5328 View (908) 224-5328
Photo of Steven Dyckman, Psychiatrist, MD
Steven Dyckman
Psychiatrist, MD
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
(732) 238-7711 View (732) 238-7711
Photo of Mahreen Quadeer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mahreen Quadeer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
“The world breaks everyone and afterward many are strong at the broken places" Ernest Hemingway . I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I have two decades of experience in health care, my specialty is using a holistic paradigm to healing, I approach mental health from a integartive psychiatric approach. My work is grounded in the belief that each person holds an innate ability to heal themselves when provided with a safe, collaborative, and non-judgmental space.
“The world breaks everyone and afterward many are strong at the broken places" Ernest Hemingway . I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I have two decades of experience in health care, my specialty is using a holistic paradigm to healing, I approach mental health from a integartive psychiatric approach. My work is grounded in the belief that each person holds an innate ability to heal themselves when provided with a safe, collaborative, and non-judgmental space.
(848) 347-2490 View (848) 347-2490
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care and engage in open and honest communication with their providers.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care and engage in open and honest communication with their providers.
(848) 345-5474 View (848) 345-5474
Photo of Prince Kena, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APN-C
Prince Kena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APN-C
Online Only
My name is Prince Kena. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I have been involved in the care of individuals with mental health disorders since 1994. I provide treatment and support to adult patients with psychotic disorders including schizophrenia, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as Medication Assisted Treatment for opioid use disorder and other substance use disorders.
My name is Prince Kena. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I have been involved in the care of individuals with mental health disorders since 1994. I provide treatment and support to adult patients with psychotic disorders including schizophrenia, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as Medication Assisted Treatment for opioid use disorder and other substance use disorders.
(732) 913-5329 View (732) 913-5329
Photo of Dr. Victor G Grosu, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Victor G Grosu
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Quick appointments are available. I am board certified in Child & Adolescent psychiatry and provide medication management and psychotherapy services to children, adolescents and young adults, ages 6-22, with mental health conditions, including but not limited to ADHD, Depression, OCD, Panic, Mood Disorder, Stress, and Anxiety. I have been practicing psychiatry for over 18 years and was recognized by the NJ Top Doctor magazine as a Top Psychiatrist in 2019. I provide help using a comprehensive approach to treatment. I have frequent sessions with patients which allows me to monitor them closely to minimize side effects.
Quick appointments are available. I am board certified in Child & Adolescent psychiatry and provide medication management and psychotherapy services to children, adolescents and young adults, ages 6-22, with mental health conditions, including but not limited to ADHD, Depression, OCD, Panic, Mood Disorder, Stress, and Anxiety. I have been practicing psychiatry for over 18 years and was recognized by the NJ Top Doctor magazine as a Top Psychiatrist in 2019. I provide help using a comprehensive approach to treatment. I have frequent sessions with patients which allows me to monitor them closely to minimize side effects.
(848) 600-5264 View (848) 600-5264
Photo of Barbara Darko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, A-GNP
Barbara Darko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, A-GNP
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
My ideal client may be struggling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek understanding, support, and treatment options that empower them to regain control of their lives. Their goal is emotional stability, healing, and a better quality of life. They want to build coping strategies, improve emotional well-being, and develop healthier habits to move forward with confidence and resilience.
My ideal client may be struggling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek understanding, support, and treatment options that empower them to regain control of their lives. Their goal is emotional stability, healing, and a better quality of life. They want to build coping strategies, improve emotional well-being, and develop healthier habits to move forward with confidence and resilience.
(862) 829-3211 View (862) 829-3211

See more therapy options for East Brunswick

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in East Brunswick, NJ

30+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in East Brunswick, NJ who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
97% Anxiety
85% Bipolar Disorder
85% Medication Management
82% ADHD
79% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
79% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
85% Cigna and Evernorth
81% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in East Brunswick, NJ see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

55% Female
45% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in East Brunswick?

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.