Psychiatrists in Howell, NJ

Photo of Robert White - Psychiatric and Behavioral Services of New Jersey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, BC
Psychiatric and Behavioral Services of New Jersey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, BC
Howell, NJ 07731
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services of New Jersey is a private psychiatric practice that provides a full range of outpatient mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual, family and group psychotherapy for clients at all stages of life; children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services of New Jersey is a private psychiatric practice that provides a full range of outpatient mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual, family and group psychotherapy for clients at all stages of life; children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
(732) 491-8710 View (732) 491-8710
Photo of Robert White - Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APN
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APN
Howell, NJ 07731
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services of New Jersey is a private psychiatric practice that provides a full range of outpatient mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual, family and group psychotherapy for clients at all stages of life; children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services of New Jersey is a private psychiatric practice that provides a full range of outpatient mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual, family and group psychotherapy for clients at all stages of life; children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
(848) 289-1485 View (848) 289-1485
Photo of Dr. Mary McAleavy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Dr. Mary McAleavy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to a space where healing begins and personal growth takes center stage. My focus is on understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by children, adolescents, and young adults during pivotal moments in their lives. Specializing in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depressive disorders, behavioral issues, and stress management, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and thoughtful care. My approach is rooted in viewing individuals holistically, considering not just the symptoms but the person behind them.
Welcome to a space where healing begins and personal growth takes center stage. My focus is on understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by children, adolescents, and young adults during pivotal moments in their lives. Specializing in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depressive disorders, behavioral issues, and stress management, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and thoughtful care. My approach is rooted in viewing individuals holistically, considering not just the symptoms but the person behind them.
(848) 305-2531 View (848) 305-2531
Photo of Lisa A Piccininni, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Lisa A Piccininni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe an individualized approach to care is at the heart of effective mental health treatment. Each person’s experiences, challenges, and needs are unique. I believe in tailoring care to the individual, ensuring that treatment is specific, personalized, and flexible enough to address their particular circumstances.
I believe an individualized approach to care is at the heart of effective mental health treatment. Each person’s experiences, challenges, and needs are unique. I believe in tailoring care to the individual, ensuring that treatment is specific, personalized, and flexible enough to address their particular circumstances.
(732) 812-5100 View (732) 812-5100
Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Serves Area
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together. Through psychotherapy and at times medication management. I strive in truly allowing the client to feel heard, spending time with the client to understand the their symptoms and provide good competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together. Through psychotherapy and at times medication management. I strive in truly allowing the client to feel heard, spending time with the client to understand the their symptoms and provide good competent care.
(908) 650-1425 View (908) 650-1425
Photo of Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders, and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders, and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(908) 774-2667 View (908) 774-2667
Photo of Mulikat Otepola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Mulikat Otepola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Mulikat is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who treats clients across the lifespan with various mental health and behavioral issues. She works with clients of all ages and treats clients with several moods and mental health disorders which include but are not limited to bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, psychotic disorders, anxiety, panic attacks, sleep issues, etc. Moyo is passionate about what she does and treats clients with respect and dignity. Moyo also works with children, teenagers, and clients of all ages.
Mulikat is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who treats clients across the lifespan with various mental health and behavioral issues. She works with clients of all ages and treats clients with several moods and mental health disorders which include but are not limited to bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, psychotic disorders, anxiety, panic attacks, sleep issues, etc. Moyo is passionate about what she does and treats clients with respect and dignity. Moyo also works with children, teenagers, and clients of all ages.
(609) 554-1247 View (609) 554-1247
Photo of Dr. Rosemary Mensah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Dr. Rosemary Mensah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I am accepting new clients. As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment dedicated to your mental well-being. I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable, heard, and understood. With a solid educational background and clinical experience, my primary focus is on the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and various mental health challenges. I believe in building a solid therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and empathy. I aim to create a collaborative and culturally sensitive environment where we can establish treatment goals.
I am accepting new clients. As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment dedicated to your mental well-being. I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable, heard, and understood. With a solid educational background and clinical experience, my primary focus is on the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and various mental health challenges. I believe in building a solid therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and empathy. I aim to create a collaborative and culturally sensitive environment where we can establish treatment goals.
(848) 280-7941 View (848) 280-7941
Photo of Tiara Remo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Tiara Remo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Serves Area
Are you feeling stuck in patterns you can’t quite explain? Maybe you’ve been carrying stress, anxiety, or old wounds for a long time, and you're finally ready to understand what’s really going on beneath the surface.
Are you feeling stuck in patterns you can’t quite explain? Maybe you’ve been carrying stress, anxiety, or old wounds for a long time, and you're finally ready to understand what’s really going on beneath the surface.
(908) 554-4951 View (908) 554-4951
Photo of Amanda Gaurnere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda Gaurnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to the patient's needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to the patient's needs.
(908) 446-8891 View (908) 446-8891
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Serves Area
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for professionally, compassionately, and non-judgmentally. They should also be educated on their treatment options, including medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for professionally, compassionately, and non-judgmentally. They should also be educated on their treatment options, including medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
(908) 869-8621 View (908) 869-8621
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Serves Area
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care and engage in open and honest communication with their providers.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care and engage in open and honest communication with their providers.
(908) 493-4682 View (908) 493-4682
Photo of Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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.
(908) 224-7838 View (908) 224-7838
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Serves Area
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.
(908) 829-9746 View (908) 829-9746
Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSP, APRN, FNP-C
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSP, APRN, FNP-C
Serves Area
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve their mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stop socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and fail college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with your current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve their mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stop socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and fail college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with your current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
(908) 554-4693 View (908) 554-4693
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Welcome to The Cohen Center.....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing 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 leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center.....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing 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 leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
(732) 675-0011 View (732) 675-0011
Photo of Dr. Bradford Bobrin, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Bradford Bobrin
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I don't have an ideal client, except they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
I don't have an ideal client, except they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
(908) 840-8960 View (908) 840-8960

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dianne Ocampo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psych, MSN APN
Dianne Ocampo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psych, MSN APN
Online Only
Are you suffering from poor sleep, crying episodes, racing thoughts, panic attacks, irritability, mood swings, poor focus, agitation, distraction, nightmares, negative thoughts, or suicide thoughts? I have more than 10 years' experience as a psych RN and currently works an Advance Practice Nurse for the last six years. I specialize in Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, and OCD. I keep up with latest research based treatments for Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety, and OCD. My goal is to get my clients back on their feet and live happier.
Are you suffering from poor sleep, crying episodes, racing thoughts, panic attacks, irritability, mood swings, poor focus, agitation, distraction, nightmares, negative thoughts, or suicide thoughts? I have more than 10 years' experience as a psych RN and currently works an Advance Practice Nurse for the last six years. I specialize in Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, and OCD. I keep up with latest research based treatments for Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety, and OCD. My goal is to get my clients back on their feet and live happier.
(908) 460-7316 View (908) 460-7316
Photo of Abir Marcus, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Abir Marcus
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
2 Endorsed
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Dr. Marcus and colleagues offer a comprehensive treatment addressing the whole person inside and outside. We combine the use of medications, bio identical hormones, nutritional supplements together with individual and family counseling. We will work with you in developing a treatment plan that best suits your needs and life style. Dr. Marcus is board certified in psychiatry, addiction psychiatry and addiction medicine. Our therapists are specialized in CBT, Mindfulness and Psychodynamic therapies. We accept Blue Cross, Aetna, United, Oxford and Tricare Insurances.
Dr. Marcus and colleagues offer a comprehensive treatment addressing the whole person inside and outside. We combine the use of medications, bio identical hormones, nutritional supplements together with individual and family counseling. We will work with you in developing a treatment plan that best suits your needs and life style. Dr. Marcus is board certified in psychiatry, addiction psychiatry and addiction medicine. Our therapists are specialized in CBT, Mindfulness and Psychodynamic therapies. We accept Blue Cross, Aetna, United, Oxford and Tricare Insurances.
(732) 410-6537 View (732) 410-6537
Photo of Dr. Thomas Campi - Boutique Care, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Thomas Campi - Boutique Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Campi, Board Certified, National Science Fellow from Cal Berkeley, provides unique experience to East & West Coast patients through Boutique Telehealth Care, placing him at the leading edge of purpose-driven psychiatry – a field he is developing that incorporates mental resilience to optimize patients’ reaching their purpose. • 25 minutes to 55 minutes of medication (if desired), including therapy on mental resilience, activation, and purpose visits. • Trauma. Depression. Anxiety. ADHD. Career... or Just Life. Do It All. Take your psychiatrist therapist to you! CA + FL + MD/DC/VA Delmarva-focus + NJ/PA licensed.
Dr. Campi, Board Certified, National Science Fellow from Cal Berkeley, provides unique experience to East & West Coast patients through Boutique Telehealth Care, placing him at the leading edge of purpose-driven psychiatry – a field he is developing that incorporates mental resilience to optimize patients’ reaching their purpose. • 25 minutes to 55 minutes of medication (if desired), including therapy on mental resilience, activation, and purpose visits. • Trauma. Depression. Anxiety. ADHD. Career... or Just Life. Do It All. Take your psychiatrist therapist to you! CA + FL + MD/DC/VA Delmarva-focus + NJ/PA licensed.
(650) 605-3622 View (650) 605-3622

See more therapy options for Howell

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Howell, NJ

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Howell, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
94% Depression
88% Trauma and PTSD
82% Bipolar Disorder
71% Sleep or Insomnia
71% Self Esteem
65% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
87% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Howell, NJ see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Howell?

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.