Psychiatrists in Hazlet, NJ

Photo of Mark Sedlak, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mark Sedlak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hazlet, NJ 07730
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes an integrative, patient-centered, holistic approach to mental health. I work with both children and adults. My approach utilizes the latest evidence-based treatment guidelines and incorporates medications, therapy, natural supplements, and life style changes to nourish a client’s overall well-being. My goal is to assist patients in obtaining their optimal mental health. Learn more www.risingswellmentalhealth.com
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes an integrative, patient-centered, holistic approach to mental health. I work with both children and adults. My approach utilizes the latest evidence-based treatment guidelines and incorporates medications, therapy, natural supplements, and life style changes to nourish a client’s overall well-being. My goal is to assist patients in obtaining their optimal mental health. Learn more www.risingswellmentalhealth.com
(732) 784-8272 View (732) 784-8272
Noble Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNL, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
At Noble Care LLC, we offer many types of therapy to treat Stress, Anxiety, Depression PTSD, and ADHD, OCD Bipolar disorder, Addiction/Substance abuse and many other Mental Health Disorder. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or want to take a new direction in your life, we are here to help.
At Noble Care LLC, we offer many types of therapy to treat Stress, Anxiety, Depression PTSD, and ADHD, OCD Bipolar disorder, Addiction/Substance abuse and many other Mental Health Disorder. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or want to take a new direction in your life, we are here to help.
(732) 217-7883 View (732) 217-7883
Intuitive Behavioral Inc.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Hazlet, NJ 07730
(201) 687-1208 View (201) 687-1208
Photo of Joshua Schorr, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joshua Schorr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hazlet, NJ 07730
(732) 538-5315 View (732) 538-5315

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Martins Akhibi, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Martins Akhibi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Are You Feeling Overwhelmed, Stuck, or Alone in Your Struggles? Life can feel heavy when you're battling anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges. Maybe you’re exhausted from trying to keep it all together, feeling misunderstood, or struggling to find someone who truly listens. Perhaps your thoughts feel overwhelming, your emotions unpredictable, or daily life harder than it should be. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to go through it alone.
Are You Feeling Overwhelmed, Stuck, or Alone in Your Struggles? Life can feel heavy when you're battling anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges. Maybe you’re exhausted from trying to keep it all together, feeling misunderstood, or struggling to find someone who truly listens. Perhaps your thoughts feel overwhelming, your emotions unpredictable, or daily life harder than it should be. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to go through it alone.
(732) 592-5740 View (732) 592-5740
Photo of Joan Wamahiu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joan Wamahiu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience providing care to diverse populations across the lifespan. I take a holistic approach to care, where I prioritize the integration of medication management, psychotherapy, and complementary therapeutic strategies. I believe in treating the whole person and tailoring care to each individual’s unique mental health needs. I understand that seeking help for mental health issues can be a challenging and deeply personal journey. My goal is to provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued and empowered.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience providing care to diverse populations across the lifespan. I take a holistic approach to care, where I prioritize the integration of medication management, psychotherapy, and complementary therapeutic strategies. I believe in treating the whole person and tailoring care to each individual’s unique mental health needs. I understand that seeking help for mental health issues can be a challenging and deeply personal journey. My goal is to provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued and empowered.
(848) 279-8778 View (848) 279-8778
Photo of Nicole Hraniotis, MD, Psychiatrist
Nicole Hraniotis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
I am a Board Certified and experienced adolescent, adult, and child psychiatrist who has helped patients just like you build richer more rewarding lives for over 6 years. Through a combination of therapeutic techniques, I help identify limiting beliefs and outmoded coping mechanisms that may be standing in your way.
I am a Board Certified and experienced adolescent, adult, and child psychiatrist who has helped patients just like you build richer more rewarding lives for over 6 years. Through a combination of therapeutic techniques, I help identify limiting beliefs and outmoded coping mechanisms that may be standing in your way.
(732) 603-1298 View (732) 603-1298
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Marlboro, NJ 07746
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects, and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often, this approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects, and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often, this approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
(732) 675-0011 View (732) 675-0011
Photo of Derek Berberian, MD, Psychiatrist
Derek Berberian
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Dr. Berberian is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Neurologist who has extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, PSTD, OCD, ADHD, mood disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, neuropathies, headaches and addiction. In addition, he performs outpatient bariatric screening, biofeedback, neurofeedback and EEG evaluations. Care is goal-oriented, addressing each individual's needs using a variety of patient-centered approaches. His focus includes adolescent, adult and geriatric populations.
Dr. Berberian is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Neurologist who has extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, PSTD, OCD, ADHD, mood disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, neuropathies, headaches and addiction. In addition, he performs outpatient bariatric screening, biofeedback, neurofeedback and EEG evaluations. Care is goal-oriented, addressing each individual's needs using a variety of patient-centered approaches. His focus includes adolescent, adult and geriatric populations.
(551) 292-7298 View (551) 292-7298
Photo of Moshe Frances, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Moshe Frances
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Ocean, NJ 07712
My approach to treating clients emphasizes a compassionate-focused and individualized approach which infuses medication management and supportive therapy. I therefore created PsychRelief, a concierge private practice that tailors treatment to the client and allows for flexible scheduling. I commend my clients for taking the first step by calling the office and admitting that help is needed. Exploring emotions and behaviors in an honest way can feel frighting but be very rewarding. When clients are ready to get the help they seek, I provide the support and techniques needed to help them overcome the issues they face.
My approach to treating clients emphasizes a compassionate-focused and individualized approach which infuses medication management and supportive therapy. I therefore created PsychRelief, a concierge private practice that tailors treatment to the client and allows for flexible scheduling. I commend my clients for taking the first step by calling the office and admitting that help is needed. Exploring emotions and behaviors in an honest way can feel frighting but be very rewarding. When clients are ready to get the help they seek, I provide the support and techniques needed to help them overcome the issues they face.
(732) 334-7432 View (732) 334-7432
Photo of Indra Cidambi, MD, Psychiatrist
Indra Cidambi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Middlesex, NJ 08846
Dr. Cidambi is board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine (ABAM). She completed her residency in Psychiatry from Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn and a Fellowship in Addiction Medicine from NYU/Bellevue. Dr. Cidambi was the Director of Chemical Dependency at New Jersey's oldest inpatient mental health/substance abuse hospital. In 2010, Dr. Cidambi started her own substance abuse treatment facility, Center for Network Therapy (RecoveryCNT.com), providing outpatient detoxification from alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates and suboxone, and partial care and IOP programs. All payments are by cash only - No insurance accepted
Dr. Cidambi is board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine (ABAM). She completed her residency in Psychiatry from Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn and a Fellowship in Addiction Medicine from NYU/Bellevue. Dr. Cidambi was the Director of Chemical Dependency at New Jersey's oldest inpatient mental health/substance abuse hospital. In 2010, Dr. Cidambi started her own substance abuse treatment facility, Center for Network Therapy (RecoveryCNT.com), providing outpatient detoxification from alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates and suboxone, and partial care and IOP programs. All payments are by cash only - No insurance accepted
(732) 638-1209 View (732) 638-1209
Photo of Rebecca Beaupre Jackwicz - Guided Strength Psychiatry , APN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Guided Strength Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Manasquan, NJ 08736
In her practice, Rebecca believes the most important aspect of care is compassion; she is an advocate for holistic health. She evaluates and treats teens through and seniors. Her focus is ruling out additional medical issues, providing brief therapy, and prescribing medication management. She is experienced in treating clients with a variety of mental heal
In her practice, Rebecca believes the most important aspect of care is compassion; she is an advocate for holistic health. She evaluates and treats teens through and seniors. Her focus is ruling out additional medical issues, providing brief therapy, and prescribing medication management. She is experienced in treating clients with a variety of mental heal
(732) 646-6950 View (732) 646-6950
Photo of Stephen Jaeger, MD, Psychiatrist
Stephen Jaeger
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lincroft, NJ 07738
Yale University trained psychiatrist, Dr. Stephen Jaeger’s philosophy on psychiatric care is grounded in his belief that every client is entitled to the highest quality personalized care. His unique approach focuses on individualized treatment plans. His mission is to optimize every aspect of your life and the individualized treatment plans are designed to do just that. Clients play an active role in tailoring their personalized treatment plan with Dr. Jaeger.
Yale University trained psychiatrist, Dr. Stephen Jaeger’s philosophy on psychiatric care is grounded in his belief that every client is entitled to the highest quality personalized care. His unique approach focuses on individualized treatment plans. His mission is to optimize every aspect of your life and the individualized treatment plans are designed to do just that. Clients play an active role in tailoring their personalized treatment plan with Dr. Jaeger.
(732) 334-7946 View (732) 334-7946
Photo of Joseph Spitalieri, MSN, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joseph Spitalieri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Neptune, NJ 07753
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach to mental health care is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and holistic well-being. I believe that each individual is unique, deserving of personalized care that acknowledges their specific needs, experiences, and goals. My philosophy centers on the idea that mental health is an integral part of overall wellness. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued. By building strong, trusting relationships, I empower individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions, fostering self-discovery and resilience.
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach to mental health care is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and holistic well-being. I believe that each individual is unique, deserving of personalized care that acknowledges their specific needs, experiences, and goals. My philosophy centers on the idea that mental health is an integral part of overall wellness. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued. By building strong, trusting relationships, I empower individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions, fostering self-discovery and resilience.
(646) 580-1030 View (646) 580-1030
Photo of Shannon Parks - The Parks Center for Women's Wellness & Medicine, DO, Psychiatrist
The Parks Center for Women's Wellness & Medicine
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Tinton Falls, NJ 07701
The Parks Center for Women’s Wellness and Medicine treats women of all ages 18 years and older. We treat a broad range of mental heath issues including anxiety, depression, and bipolar illness in all phases of life. This includes, but is not limited too, comprehensive treatment of mood disorders during the reproductive years including mood disorders during the premenstrual period, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. www.theparkscenter.com
The Parks Center for Women’s Wellness and Medicine treats women of all ages 18 years and older. We treat a broad range of mental heath issues including anxiety, depression, and bipolar illness in all phases of life. This includes, but is not limited too, comprehensive treatment of mood disorders during the reproductive years including mood disorders during the premenstrual period, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. www.theparkscenter.com
(732) 945-8942 View (732) 945-8942
Photo of Rashidah Garrett-Hall - Wellness & Behavioral Solutions, RASHIDA, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wellness & Behavioral Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RASHIDA, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Mrs. Rashidah Garrett-Hall is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, and Bipolar. Rashidah's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) or alternative medicine (natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management). She believes in balance.
Mrs. Rashidah Garrett-Hall is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, and Bipolar. Rashidah's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) or alternative medicine (natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management). She believes in balance.
(732) 655-2723 View (732) 655-2723
Photo of Gavriel Pliver, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gavriel Pliver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I provide careful and thorough diagnostic evaluation and tailored personalized follow ups in order to maximize healing and continued wellness. I have successfully demonstrated competence in the mental health field, professionally working with clients and their families from a wide range of ages, socioeconomic, and cultural backgrounds. I am competent in utilizing appropriately a variety of treatment modalities in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy in the management of depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, Bipolar disorder and Substance Use Disorder specifically Opiates Use Disorder and Suboxone treatment.
I provide careful and thorough diagnostic evaluation and tailored personalized follow ups in order to maximize healing and continued wellness. I have successfully demonstrated competence in the mental health field, professionally working with clients and their families from a wide range of ages, socioeconomic, and cultural backgrounds. I am competent in utilizing appropriately a variety of treatment modalities in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy in the management of depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, ADHD, Bipolar disorder and Substance Use Disorder specifically Opiates Use Disorder and Suboxone treatment.
(848) 356-4227 View (848) 356-4227
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Windsor, NJ 08520
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.
(640) 239-7495 View (640) 239-7495
Photo of Sandra Masino-Kalinowski, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandra Masino-Kalinowski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747
Feeling anxious or overwhelmed? You're not alone. My ideal client is looking for a path through anxiety, seeking peace and understanding. They aim to overcome feelings of overwhelm, desiring a life filled with balance and joy. They want a compassionate partner who listens and guides them towards achieving personal wellness.
Feeling anxious or overwhelmed? You're not alone. My ideal client is looking for a path through anxiety, seeking peace and understanding. They aim to overcome feelings of overwhelm, desiring a life filled with balance and joy. They want a compassionate partner who listens and guides them towards achieving personal wellness.
(732) 355-3730 View (732) 355-3730
Photo of Laura Bastone, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laura Bastone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Laura Bastone is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides personalized mental health services to adults with an approachable style. She believes in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches. She strives to help you reach your full wellness potential.
Laura Bastone is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides personalized mental health services to adults with an approachable style. She believes in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches. She strives to help you reach your full wellness potential.
(732) 385-3144 View (732) 385-3144

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Hazlet, NJ

< 10

Psychiatrists in Hazlet, NJ who prioritize treating:

75% Depression
75% Anxiety
75% ADHD
50% Addiction
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Trauma and PTSD
50% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% Cigna and Evernorth
50% Medicaid

How Psychiatrists in Hazlet, NJ see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Hazlet?

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.