Psychiatrists in Englewood, NJ

Photo of Abigail Dahan, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Abigail Dahan
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Englewood, NJ 07631
Dr. Dahan is an experienced psychiatrist who specializes in treating adults using psychodynamic psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and medication management. Her approach to treatment emphasizes emotions in the context of your life's experiences. Her care is individualized, compassionate, safe, and entirely confidential. It is her belief that every person who seeks psychiatric care deserves partnership with an experienced and trusted physician who can not only diagnose illness and provide symptom relief, but who empowers individual growth.
Dr. Dahan is an experienced psychiatrist who specializes in treating adults using psychodynamic psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and medication management. Her approach to treatment emphasizes emotions in the context of your life's experiences. Her care is individualized, compassionate, safe, and entirely confidential. It is her belief that every person who seeks psychiatric care deserves partnership with an experienced and trusted physician who can not only diagnose illness and provide symptom relief, but who empowers individual growth.
(551) 290-4304 View (551) 290-4304
Photo of Justin K Paltrowitz, MD, Psychiatrist
Justin K Paltrowitz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
I'm a board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist trained at the University of Michigan. I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavioral Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Personality Disorders, to name a few. By nature, I'm a warm, empathetic, and compassionate person who can often identify gaps in maladaptive thoughts and behaviors and guide others towards better outcomes.
I'm a board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist trained at the University of Michigan. I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavioral Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Personality Disorders, to name a few. By nature, I'm a warm, empathetic, and compassionate person who can often identify gaps in maladaptive thoughts and behaviors and guide others towards better outcomes.
(201) 654-3865 View (201) 654-3865
Photo of Alan Brown, MD, Psychiatrist
Alan Brown
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience treating patients with anxiety, depression, and other stress-related disorders. I am a psychopharmacologist with expertise in the use of medications that restore your healthy mood and functioning. In addition, I have treated patients with a variety of psychotherapeutic (talk therapy) techniques include helping patients develop insight into the causes of how they feel and cognitive behavioral therapy which helps patients deal with emotional distress by evaluating negative patterns of thinking. I offer therapy in a supportive and non-judgmental setting. I offer daytime and evening hours.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience treating patients with anxiety, depression, and other stress-related disorders. I am a psychopharmacologist with expertise in the use of medications that restore your healthy mood and functioning. In addition, I have treated patients with a variety of psychotherapeutic (talk therapy) techniques include helping patients develop insight into the causes of how they feel and cognitive behavioral therapy which helps patients deal with emotional distress by evaluating negative patterns of thinking. I offer therapy in a supportive and non-judgmental setting. I offer daytime and evening hours.
(201) 244-4561 View (201) 244-4561
Photo of Lee R Gardner M D, MD, Psychiatrist
Lee R Gardner M D
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631  (Online Only)
We are living in terribly stressful times: political divisions, military unrest, economic uncertainty and a marked deterioration professional integrity. As a result, people are struggling more with: anxiety, depression, isolation, relationship conflicts & adjustment difficulties. Too often, continued feelings of being out of control, frustration and disappointment can illicit one’s worst traits and/or bring back memories of past traumas. It takes courage to reach out for help. I offer a free 15 minute telephone consultation to hear about how you are hoping I can help you and determine if we are a good fit.
We are living in terribly stressful times: political divisions, military unrest, economic uncertainty and a marked deterioration professional integrity. As a result, people are struggling more with: anxiety, depression, isolation, relationship conflicts & adjustment difficulties. Too often, continued feelings of being out of control, frustration and disappointment can illicit one’s worst traits and/or bring back memories of past traumas. It takes courage to reach out for help. I offer a free 15 minute telephone consultation to hear about how you are hoping I can help you and determine if we are a good fit.
(201) 654-0682 View (201) 654-0682
Photo of Cristian D Ciora, MD, Psychiatrist
Cristian D Ciora
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, NJ 07631
If you wonder whether you really need medications, these ones, that much, for that long, for your mind's health, we can wonder together. Throughout my experience I found that psychotherapy, at least the one I practice, leads to a more real kind of psychological wellbeing than medications can possibly offer. After more than 20 years of private practice, the main prescribing I do now is to help patients taper off medications, in a patient-led taper. Aren't all medications anti-something, always fighting something? Psychotherapy is pro-something. It can be quite difficult, but it can become your most cherished journey.
If you wonder whether you really need medications, these ones, that much, for that long, for your mind's health, we can wonder together. Throughout my experience I found that psychotherapy, at least the one I practice, leads to a more real kind of psychological wellbeing than medications can possibly offer. After more than 20 years of private practice, the main prescribing I do now is to help patients taper off medications, in a patient-led taper. Aren't all medications anti-something, always fighting something? Psychotherapy is pro-something. It can be quite difficult, but it can become your most cherished journey.
(201) 569-6100 View (201) 569-6100
Photo of Michael Lienhard, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Lienhard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, NJ 07631
Mental illness refers to a variety of health conditions that can affect a person’s thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and perceptions. While mental health concerns can come-and-go, they become significantly problematic when they cause persistent stress, interfere with relationships, and affect daily functioning. With the appropriate treatment, the majority of individuals with mental illness continue to function in their daily lives.
Mental illness refers to a variety of health conditions that can affect a person’s thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and perceptions. While mental health concerns can come-and-go, they become significantly problematic when they cause persistent stress, interfere with relationships, and affect daily functioning. With the appropriate treatment, the majority of individuals with mental illness continue to function in their daily lives.
(201) 885-5537 View (201) 885-5537
Photo of Jonathan Barker - Jonathan Barker, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Jonathan Barker, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, NJ 07631
Dr. Barker is an assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at Tufts Medical School. He has held faculty positions at the Oregon Health & Science University as well as Brown University. Since completing his training, Dr. Barker's clinical experience has spanned inpatient geriatric medical-psychiatry, inpatient adult psychiatry, outpatient adult psychiatry, forensic state hospital inpatient psychiatry, correctional psychiatry, and inpatient consultation-liaison psychiatry. Dr. Barker offers in person treatment for PTSD and phobias with V.R. To book a treatment session with Dr. Barker go to Headway.com or call 216-393-7540.
Dr. Barker is an assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at Tufts Medical School. He has held faculty positions at the Oregon Health & Science University as well as Brown University. Since completing his training, Dr. Barker's clinical experience has spanned inpatient geriatric medical-psychiatry, inpatient adult psychiatry, outpatient adult psychiatry, forensic state hospital inpatient psychiatry, correctional psychiatry, and inpatient consultation-liaison psychiatry. Dr. Barker offers in person treatment for PTSD and phobias with V.R. To book a treatment session with Dr. Barker go to Headway.com or call 216-393-7540.
(551) 321-6712 View (551) 321-6712
Photo of Diana Maria Gomez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Diana Maria Gomez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Englewood, NJ 07631  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who is contending with conditions such as bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as anxiety and depression. They may be experiencing feelings of being overwhelmed by daily responsibilities, facing challenges with concentration, or coping with persistent feelings of sadness, worry, or fear. Sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, or a diminished interest in activities that were once pleasurable may also be among their struggles.
My ideal client is someone who is contending with conditions such as bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as anxiety and depression. They may be experiencing feelings of being overwhelmed by daily responsibilities, facing challenges with concentration, or coping with persistent feelings of sadness, worry, or fear. Sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, or a diminished interest in activities that were once pleasurable may also be among their struggles.
(856) 636-4969 View (856) 636-4969
Photo of Douglas Saphier - Saphier Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Saphier Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
In my private practice I treat patients of all ages and at various stages of life. I have particular expertise in diagnosing and treating numerous neurodevelopmental disorders including ADHD, behaviors related to autism spectrum disorder as well as mood and anxiety disorders. I provide both medication management as well as supportive psychotherapy.
In my private practice I treat patients of all ages and at various stages of life. I have particular expertise in diagnosing and treating numerous neurodevelopmental disorders including ADHD, behaviors related to autism spectrum disorder as well as mood and anxiety disorders. I provide both medication management as well as supportive psychotherapy.
(917) 746-1421 View (917) 746-1421
Photo of Fara White, MD, Psychiatrist
Fara White
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, NJ 07631
Not accepting new clients
I am a psychiatrist who believes that therapy is crucial for meaningful results; medication is also effective when used thoughtfully and judiciously. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, and distractibility, as well as sexual and developmental trauma. Helping people through personal and professional transitions is particularly rewarding.
I am a psychiatrist who believes that therapy is crucial for meaningful results; medication is also effective when used thoughtfully and judiciously. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, and distractibility, as well as sexual and developmental trauma. Helping people through personal and professional transitions is particularly rewarding.
(646) 368-8169 View (646) 368-8169
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
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.
(856) 605-7952 View (856) 605-7952
Photo of Carmen d Berrios - Berrios Psychotherapy Associates, MSN, APN, Psychiatric Nurse
Berrios Psychotherapy Associates
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APN
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have over 40 years of experiencein conducting psychiatric evaluation and medication management as well as helping clients cope with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and adjustment to life cycle changes. I work collaboratively with clients to establish a trusting, mutually respectful and supportive relationship, set goals, build upon strengths to increase confidence self-esteem, and work toward solving issues which often cause people to feel stuck. Medication is a major tool to address the psychiatric diagnoses and addiction.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have over 40 years of experiencein conducting psychiatric evaluation and medication management as well as helping clients cope with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and adjustment to life cycle changes. I work collaboratively with clients to establish a trusting, mutually respectful and supportive relationship, set goals, build upon strengths to increase confidence self-esteem, and work toward solving issues which often cause people to feel stuck. Medication is a major tool to address the psychiatric diagnoses and addiction.
(201) 380-8542 View (201) 380-8542
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
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.
(856) 605-7952 View (856) 605-7952
Photo of Prisca Ogbonnaya, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Prisca Ogbonnaya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
My ideal client will be a patient who has a mental health disorder, which could either be depression, anxiety, or something else. Together, we can figure out the root of your problems and your needs, determine the best treatment for you, and create attainable goals and a better lifestyle.
My ideal client will be a patient who has a mental health disorder, which could either be depression, anxiety, or something else. Together, we can figure out the root of your problems and your needs, determine the best treatment for you, and create attainable goals and a better lifestyle.
(856) 605-7952 View (856) 605-7952
Photo of Roey Pasternak, MD, Psychiatrist
Roey Pasternak
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, NJ 07631
Dr. Pasternak is a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist currently practicing in Manhattan, New York and Englewood, New Jersey. He is dually Board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and is licensed to practice in the both the State of New York and New Jersey. Pasternak incorporates psycho-dynamic, cognitive behavioral, supportive therapies, and psychopharmacological management, tailoring his approach to meet the specific needs of each client. Dr. Pasternak is very experienced in treating anxiety disorders utilizing psychopharmacological management in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy.
Dr. Pasternak is a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist currently practicing in Manhattan, New York and Englewood, New Jersey. He is dually Board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and is licensed to practice in the both the State of New York and New Jersey. Pasternak incorporates psycho-dynamic, cognitive behavioral, supportive therapies, and psychopharmacological management, tailoring his approach to meet the specific needs of each client. Dr. Pasternak is very experienced in treating anxiety disorders utilizing psychopharmacological management in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy.
(917) 688-4070 View (917) 688-4070
Photo of Amanda Guarnere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
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.
(201) 654-7420 View (201) 654-7420
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
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.
(201) 685-4044 View (201) 685-4044
Photo of Tulika Srivastava, MD , Psychiatrist
Tulika Srivastava
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
Welcome to the practice of Dr. Tulika Srivastava, a compassionate and dedicated child psychiatrist, board-certified in both child and adolescent and adult psychiatry . My practice is a place of understanding and healing where the mental well being of children, adolescents and adults is the top priority. Recognizing the importance of early intervention in shaping a healthier future , I employ evidence based approaches tailored to each young patient’s needs. My comprehensive background in adult psychiatry allows me to extend quality care to adult patients too. I look forward to my patients having a healthier , more balanced future .
Welcome to the practice of Dr. Tulika Srivastava, a compassionate and dedicated child psychiatrist, board-certified in both child and adolescent and adult psychiatry . My practice is a place of understanding and healing where the mental well being of children, adolescents and adults is the top priority. Recognizing the importance of early intervention in shaping a healthier future , I employ evidence based approaches tailored to each young patient’s needs. My comprehensive background in adult psychiatry allows me to extend quality care to adult patients too. I look forward to my patients having a healthier , more balanced future .
(551) 239-8079 View (551) 239-8079
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
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.
(201) 354-5023 View (201) 354-5023
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
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.
(201) 500-3625 View (201) 500-3625
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Englewood, NJ

30+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in Englewood, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
88% Bipolar Disorder
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Medication Management
72% ADHD
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Cigna and Evernorth
90% Aetna
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Englewood, NJ see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Englewood?

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.