Psychiatrists in Edison, NJ

Photo of Dr. Periel Shapiro, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Periel Shapiro
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Edison, NJ 08817
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, mood swings, or other personal challenges? Are you looking for both immediate relief and long-term wellness? Our Integrative Virtual Clinic, which you can access from home via telehealth, offers psychiatric care that fuses cutting-edge modern medicine with ancient wellness practices. We'll create an individualized treatment plan for you that fits your needs and goals.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, mood swings, or other personal challenges? Are you looking for both immediate relief and long-term wellness? Our Integrative Virtual Clinic, which you can access from home via telehealth, offers psychiatric care that fuses cutting-edge modern medicine with ancient wellness practices. We'll create an individualized treatment plan for you that fits your needs and goals.
(732) 800-5117 View (732) 800-5117
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Edison, NJ 08837
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 diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient 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 diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(848) 220-1504 View (848) 220-1504
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Edison, NJ 08837
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 in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include 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 in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
(848) 343-2478 View (848) 343-2478
Photo of Lily Tung, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Lily Tung
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
Evening hours available with easy online booking through ZocDoc! I provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel truly heard and understood. Call for your free 15 minutes consultation today! Many people struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and sleep issues, often feeling like no one fully understands their experiences. I take the time to listen without judgment, offering care that is compassionate, patient-centered, and culturally sensitive. Fluent in English and Mandarin Chinese, I understand the unique challenges faced by Asians and people of color, from family and societal pressures to workplace stress.
Evening hours available with easy online booking through ZocDoc! I provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel truly heard and understood. Call for your free 15 minutes consultation today! Many people struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and sleep issues, often feeling like no one fully understands their experiences. I take the time to listen without judgment, offering care that is compassionate, patient-centered, and culturally sensitive. Fluent in English and Mandarin Chinese, I understand the unique challenges faced by Asians and people of color, from family and societal pressures to workplace stress.
(848) 346-2736 View (848) 346-2736
Photo of Amanda Guarnere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Edison, NJ 08837
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
(848) 359-5795 View (848) 359-5795
Photo of Rachael Olayemi Borishade, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Rachael Olayemi Borishade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Edison, NJ 08820
I am a nurse with over 12 years' experience in acute care mental health psychiatrist hospital, long-term memory care facility and post-acute care facility caring for clients dealing with depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. As a psychiatrist mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to restore individual mental health well-being through holistic care. I treat each individual with compassion and respect.
I am a nurse with over 12 years' experience in acute care mental health psychiatrist hospital, long-term memory care facility and post-acute care facility caring for clients dealing with depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. As a psychiatrist mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to restore individual mental health well-being through holistic care. I treat each individual with compassion and respect.
(732) 410-5904 View (732) 410-5904
Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Edison, NJ 08837
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s 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 one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s 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) 271-5515 View (848) 271-5515
Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Edison, NJ 08837
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
(848) 208-7535 View (848) 208-7535
Photo of Dr. Mona Williams-Gregory, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Mona Williams-Gregory
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with two doctoral degrees. I am qualified to practice in Psychiatry and Internal Medicine to counsel, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for patients of all age groups. I have 25 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner and have worked extensively in inpatient and outpatient settings.
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with two doctoral degrees. I am qualified to practice in Psychiatry and Internal Medicine to counsel, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for patients of all age groups. I have 25 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner and have worked extensively in inpatient and outpatient settings.
(732) 507-9413 View (732) 507-9413
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Edison, NJ 08837
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(848) 301-2103 View (848) 301-2103
Photo of Nixon Oloo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, CDDN, CDP
Nixon Oloo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, CDDN, CDP
Online Only
My goal is to democratize mental health treatment and ensure that all my clients are stabilized and assisted to return back to their prior baseline pre-illness. The client is a crucial member of the treatment team and is included in all discussions pertaining to their care. I meet all my clients where they are clinically. Each clinical goal is based on the needs and wishes of the client. A stable mental health will certainly promote optimum physical wellbeing.
My goal is to democratize mental health treatment and ensure that all my clients are stabilized and assisted to return back to their prior baseline pre-illness. The client is a crucial member of the treatment team and is included in all discussions pertaining to their care. I meet all my clients where they are clinically. Each clinical goal is based on the needs and wishes of the client. A stable mental health will certainly promote optimum physical wellbeing.
(848) 253-3860 View (848) 253-3860
Photo of Carol Smith, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Carol Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Edison, NJ 08837
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
(848) 301-2150 View (848) 301-2150
Photo of Neha Gupta, Psychiatrist, MD
Neha Gupta
Psychiatrist, MD
Edison, NJ 08820
I'm a Triple Board Certified Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Forensic Psychiatrist. I grew up in Westfield, NJ and am well connected to the area. I've completed my residency training in Adult Psychiatry and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. I went on to do a 2nd fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. I'm a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
I'm a Triple Board Certified Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Forensic Psychiatrist. I grew up in Westfield, NJ and am well connected to the area. I've completed my residency training in Adult Psychiatry and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. I went on to do a 2nd fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. I'm a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
(848) 244-8678 View (848) 244-8678
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Edison, NJ 08837
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) 375-0675 View (848) 375-0675
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Edison, NJ 08837
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) 292-5908 View (848) 292-5908
Photo of Gideon Thuo - Serene Minds Center LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC
Serene Minds Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
At Serene Minds Center (SMC), we utilize a holistic approach to mental health treatment. We listen, never judge or label. But our goal is to assess, diagnose, treat, and restore mental health and overall wellness. I'm a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with broad experience in delivering compassionate mental health care. I worked for years as a psychiatric nurse, delivering care in many different settings. I bring that expertise to instill hope, enhance recovery, and reinstate optimal all-inclusive health. I look forward to working with you in your wellness journey.
At Serene Minds Center (SMC), we utilize a holistic approach to mental health treatment. We listen, never judge or label. But our goal is to assess, diagnose, treat, and restore mental health and overall wellness. I'm a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with broad experience in delivering compassionate mental health care. I worked for years as a psychiatric nurse, delivering care in many different settings. I bring that expertise to instill hope, enhance recovery, and reinstate optimal all-inclusive health. I look forward to working with you in your wellness journey.
(848) 346-3037 View (848) 346-3037
Photo of Ketan Hirapara, Psychiatrist, MD
Ketan Hirapara
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Ketan Hirapara is a psychiatrist and fellowship trained interventional pain physician, licensed in NJ & PA. Dr. Hirapara specializes in treating comorbid mental health conditions associated with complex pain problems. Additionally, he also specializes in treating depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, and mood disorders.
Dr. Ketan Hirapara is a psychiatrist and fellowship trained interventional pain physician, licensed in NJ & PA. Dr. Hirapara specializes in treating comorbid mental health conditions associated with complex pain problems. Additionally, he also specializes in treating depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, and mood disorders.
(732) 906-9600 View (732) 906-9600
Photo of Alexis Holmes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-NP
Alexis Holmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-NP
Edison, NJ 08820
My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.
My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.
(732) 392-7388 View (732) 392-7388
Photo of Ernst Renondeau, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ernst Renondeau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Ernst is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Trained and experience in treating individuals (ages 5-99) struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, bipolar disorders, thoughts disorders and many other mental illnesses. Ernst is a caring and empathetic practitioner who uses pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic options to deliver optimal care to clients. Ernst has been in the nursing field for two decades and has provided mental health services to clients at various healthcare settings.
Ernst is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Trained and experience in treating individuals (ages 5-99) struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, bipolar disorders, thoughts disorders and many other mental illnesses. Ernst is a caring and empathetic practitioner who uses pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic options to deliver optimal care to clients. Ernst has been in the nursing field for two decades and has provided mental health services to clients at various healthcare settings.
(848) 294-2719 View (848) 294-2719
Photo of Kesha Eden Cheron, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kesha Eden Cheron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New Jersey and New York. 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, bipolar disorder, adhd, ptsd,and several other conditions.
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New Jersey and New York. 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, bipolar disorder, adhd, ptsd,and several other conditions.
(848) 306-0224 View (848) 306-0224
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See more therapy options for Edison

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Edison, NJ

70+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Edison, NJ who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
92% Depression
81% Trauma and PTSD
80% Bipolar Disorder
68% ADHD
68% Medication Management
62% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
82% Cigna and Evernorth
79% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield

How Psychiatrists in Edison, NJ see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
24% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Edison?

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.