Psychiatrists in Gloucester County, NJ

Eronmwon Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glassboro, NJ 08028
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.

Hi! I'm Luis Ruiz, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a distinguished academic background and a specialized focus on addiction treatment. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Rutgers University, followed by a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University, where I honed my expertise in psychiatric and mental health care. I have a deep commitment to addressing the complexities of addiction. I have dedicated my career to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
Hi! I'm Luis Ruiz, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a distinguished academic background and a specialized focus on addiction treatment. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Rutgers University, followed by a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University, where I honed my expertise in psychiatric and mental health care. I have a deep commitment to addressing the complexities of addiction. I have dedicated my career to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals struggling with substance use disorders.

Dr. Rafia Grooms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Sewell, NJ 08080
My ideal client may be dealing with complex mental health issues or facing challenges related to their overall well-being. They might need support with medication management, thorough evaluations, or guidance in navigating their mental health journey. Their goals are to achieve a healthier, more balanced life and to improve their mental health. They want clear communication, patient education, and effective care to overcome their struggles and enhance their quality of life.
My ideal client may be dealing with complex mental health issues or facing challenges related to their overall well-being. They might need support with medication management, thorough evaluations, or guidance in navigating their mental health journey. Their goals are to achieve a healthier, more balanced life and to improve their mental health. They want clear communication, patient education, and effective care to overcome their struggles and enhance their quality of life.

Get the care you need from the comfort of your own location at your convenience. Depression & Anxiety Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through treatment, Jules is able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.
Get the care you need from the comfort of your own location at your convenience. Depression & Anxiety Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through treatment, Jules is able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.

Erin O'Connor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or stuck in a cycle of stress and emotional exhaustion? You don’t have to navigate it alone. I provide medication management for individuals across the lifespan with a personalized, evidence-based approach to help you find relief and regain balance. Whether you're exploring medication for the first time or seeking a better approach, I provide careful monitoring, education, and ongoing support to ensure you feel confident and empowered.
Hello! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or stuck in a cycle of stress and emotional exhaustion? You don’t have to navigate it alone. I provide medication management for individuals across the lifespan with a personalized, evidence-based approach to help you find relief and regain balance. Whether you're exploring medication for the first time or seeking a better approach, I provide careful monitoring, education, and ongoing support to ensure you feel confident and empowered.

Shearer Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, MSN, FNP-BC, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swedesboro, NJ 08085
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing medication management for adolescent, adult, and gerontology patients. I manage several psychiatric issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, post-traumatic disorder, bipolar disorders, and depression and behavioral problems related to neurocognitive disorders and Parkinson’s disease. I manage several college students with ADD, anxiety, and depression. I listen to patients and respect their insight in deciding on a course of treatment. My goal for patients is to have them feel comfortable and safe with me while working together for mental wellness.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing medication management for adolescent, adult, and gerontology patients. I manage several psychiatric issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, post-traumatic disorder, bipolar disorders, and depression and behavioral problems related to neurocognitive disorders and Parkinson’s disease. I manage several college students with ADD, anxiety, and depression. I listen to patients and respect their insight in deciding on a course of treatment. My goal for patients is to have them feel comfortable and safe with me while working together for mental wellness.

Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Glassboro, NJ 08028
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.

Hello! My name is Vinny and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing Degree from Walden University with a specialization in Mental Health and Psychiatry across the lifespan. I have over seven years experience in the healthcare field including medical-surgical and psychiatric nursing. I am qualified to diagnose and treat people of all ages suffering from mental health and substance use disorders. My purpose is to provide comprehensive, compassionate, and evidence-based care to individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
Hello! My name is Vinny and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing Degree from Walden University with a specialization in Mental Health and Psychiatry across the lifespan. I have over seven years experience in the healthcare field including medical-surgical and psychiatric nursing. I am qualified to diagnose and treat people of all ages suffering from mental health and substance use disorders. My purpose is to provide comprehensive, compassionate, and evidence-based care to individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

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.

My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.
My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.

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.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

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.

Hi! My name is Juliet & I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP. I am qualified to diagnose & treat mental health disorders in all ages. I am originally from Philly & graduated with my BSN at LaSalle University. I then studied & earned my MSN at Walden University with a focus in mental health & psychiatry. I have been a nurse for 6 years & hope to continue to advocate for patients & promote autonomy. I am dedicated to providing quality, holistic, & evidence-based care in the form of med management, psychotherapy, & lifestyle optimization to best support my patients to accomplish their goals & overcome life obstacles.
Hi! My name is Juliet & I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP. I am qualified to diagnose & treat mental health disorders in all ages. I am originally from Philly & graduated with my BSN at LaSalle University. I then studied & earned my MSN at Walden University with a focus in mental health & psychiatry. I have been a nurse for 6 years & hope to continue to advocate for patients & promote autonomy. I am dedicated to providing quality, holistic, & evidence-based care in the form of med management, psychotherapy, & lifestyle optimization to best support my patients to accomplish their goals & overcome life obstacles.

Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Glassboro, NJ 08028
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.

Many people suffer with mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. As a psychiatric advanced practice nurse, my goal is to meet patients where they are and provide holistic, evidence based care. We will work together to reduce symptoms and reach your goals. Together we will develop a treatment plan which may include therapy and/or psychotropic medications.
Many people suffer with mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. As a psychiatric advanced practice nurse, my goal is to meet patients where they are and provide holistic, evidence based care. We will work together to reduce symptoms and reach your goals. Together we will develop a treatment plan which may include therapy and/or psychotropic medications.

Mendful Minds, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHS, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Williamstown, NJ 08094
I am a highly skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping individuals overcome their mental health challenges and lead fulfilling lives. I'm passionate about empowering patients to take an active role in their mental health and well-being. I work collaboratively with patients to educate them about their conditions, help them develop coping skills, and encourage them to make positive lifestyle changes.
I am a highly skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping individuals overcome their mental health challenges and lead fulfilling lives. I'm passionate about empowering patients to take an active role in their mental health and well-being. I work collaboratively with patients to educate them about their conditions, help them develop coping skills, and encourage them to make positive lifestyle changes.

As a Nurse Practitioner at Restorative Care Services, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a focus on your overall well-being, I offer a range of psychiatric healthcare services designed to help you thrive. My expertise lies in continuous care for those with chronic psychiatric conditions, especially those recently discharged from acute care settings. My goal is to ensure a smooth transition, providing the necessary follow-up monitoring to prevent relapse and promote sustained recovery. I also support individuals with substance use issues.
As a Nurse Practitioner at Restorative Care Services, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a focus on your overall well-being, I offer a range of psychiatric healthcare services designed to help you thrive. My expertise lies in continuous care for those with chronic psychiatric conditions, especially those recently discharged from acute care settings. My goal is to ensure a smooth transition, providing the necessary follow-up monitoring to prevent relapse and promote sustained recovery. I also support individuals with substance use issues.

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.

Dr. Osman Jalloh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am Dr. Osman Jalloh (DNP), a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult Nurse Practitioner. My approach to mental health is addressing the person and pinpointing how there mental, physical, spiritual, and psychosocial well-being may contribute to their mental wellness. In addition to prescribing medications, I incorporate motivational interview, cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and others in my treatment regimen. I listen to my patients as we develop a therapeutic relationship so that the patient and I can work together to attain and maintain future goals.
I am Dr. Osman Jalloh (DNP), a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult Nurse Practitioner. My approach to mental health is addressing the person and pinpointing how there mental, physical, spiritual, and psychosocial well-being may contribute to their mental wellness. In addition to prescribing medications, I incorporate motivational interview, cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and others in my treatment regimen. I listen to my patients as we develop a therapeutic relationship so that the patient and I can work together to attain and maintain future goals.

I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be 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 that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be 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.
See more therapy options for Gloucester County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Gloucester County, NJ
50+
Average cost per session
$175
Psychiatrists in Gloucester County, NJ who prioritize treating:
98% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Medication Management |
69% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Aetna |
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Gloucester County, NJ see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
14% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Gloucester County?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.