Psychiatrists in Irvington, NJ

Kelly Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, ADHD, addiction, or navigating gender dysphoria, my goal is to ensure that you feel heard, understood, and empowered. With advanced training in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy from New York University, I focus on evidence-based treatments tailored to your unique needs, combining supportive psychotherapy with reframing thoughts and building positive coping skills. Together, we'll work to reduce feelings of stigma, create meaningful progress, and restore hope.
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, ADHD, addiction, or navigating gender dysphoria, my goal is to ensure that you feel heard, understood, and empowered. With advanced training in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy from New York University, I focus on evidence-based treatments tailored to your unique needs, combining supportive psychotherapy with reframing thoughts and building positive coping skills. Together, we'll work to reduce feelings of stigma, create meaningful progress, and restore hope.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and infectious disease. I received my Doctorate from Rutgers University NJ and have been practicing for 5 years. I help individuals who are going through a tough time, struggling with life stress and burnout become the best versions of themselves. Our services included psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and infectious disease. I received my Doctorate from Rutgers University NJ and have been practicing for 5 years. I help individuals who are going through a tough time, struggling with life stress and burnout become the best versions of themselves. Our services included psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy

My ideal clients are individuals who are looking for treatment and management that is evidence based, holistic and catered to their personal goals. Issues include depression, difficulties adjusting to life stressors, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD in both childhood and adulthood. My clients have the desire to be the best versions of themselves at their own pace, with the guidance of a licensed professional throughout their individual journeys. They want to journey through their respective lives with the best tools in their arsenal in an effort to comfortably get by in their day to day lives.
My ideal clients are individuals who are looking for treatment and management that is evidence based, holistic and catered to their personal goals. Issues include depression, difficulties adjusting to life stressors, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD in both childhood and adulthood. My clients have the desire to be the best versions of themselves at their own pace, with the guidance of a licensed professional throughout their individual journeys. They want to journey through their respective lives with the best tools in their arsenal in an effort to comfortably get by in their day to day lives.

Adedoyin (Aka Asim) Hezekiah Asimolowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Irvington, NJ 07111
Adedoyin Asimolowo MSN, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC who specializes in psychiatric mental health with a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. The most inspiring part of my career has been the ability to make an impact in my patients' lives, meet them at their point of need and help them make positive changes in their lives. . I offer extensive mental health services for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and problems, such as ADHD, Mood, and Anxiety disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, and PTSD.
Adedoyin Asimolowo MSN, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC who specializes in psychiatric mental health with a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. The most inspiring part of my career has been the ability to make an impact in my patients' lives, meet them at their point of need and help them make positive changes in their lives. . I offer extensive mental health services for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and problems, such as ADHD, Mood, and Anxiety disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, and PTSD.

Lateef Ajanaku-Makun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Irvington, NJ 07111
My end goal is to restore and solidify feelings of stability and well-being into the lives of each and every single one of my clients. I work hard to advocate for all of my clients, especially those that struggle to be heard or well-respected. As a board-certified nurse in family psychiatry and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice in psychiatry, I have garnered extensive experience in evidence-based patient-oriented practice. I have worked in this field for over 13 years with experience at different nursing levels and a strong grasp of holistic mental heath care.
My end goal is to restore and solidify feelings of stability and well-being into the lives of each and every single one of my clients. I work hard to advocate for all of my clients, especially those that struggle to be heard or well-respected. As a board-certified nurse in family psychiatry and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice in psychiatry, I have garnered extensive experience in evidence-based patient-oriented practice. I have worked in this field for over 13 years with experience at different nursing levels and a strong grasp of holistic mental heath care.

Grace Medical Consult
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Irvington, NJ 07111
Grace Medical Consult (GMC), is a Psychiatric Mental Health Provider, in which the pioneer (Dr. A) has over 19 years' experience working with clients of different types of diagnoses; Psychotic disorders, Bipolar disorders, Depression, Mood disorders, PTSD, Anxiety Disorders, Personality Disorders, Comorbidity, Crisis Intervention, Stress Management, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, Drug Addiction, and Pharmacology/Medication Management in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Grace Medical Consult (GMC), is a Psychiatric Mental Health Provider, in which the pioneer (Dr. A) has over 19 years' experience working with clients of different types of diagnoses; Psychotic disorders, Bipolar disorders, Depression, Mood disorders, PTSD, Anxiety Disorders, Personality Disorders, Comorbidity, Crisis Intervention, Stress Management, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, Drug Addiction, and Pharmacology/Medication Management in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

L&A Absolute Care, LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Irvington, NJ 07111
You must be frustrated? Maybe even tired? But most importantly, you're just looking for the right one- the psychiatrist who finally gets it right. If this is so, I wholeheartedly believe that you should stop by. I have dedicated over 18 years of my life as a psychiatric nurse (since 2003) to improve the quality of life for all my clients through holistic psychiatric care. I have my Doctorates and am board certified in family psychiatry with experience in all ages, especially children. I always try to build a sound relationship with each and every one of my clients in order to make the treatment process a very comforting journey.
You must be frustrated? Maybe even tired? But most importantly, you're just looking for the right one- the psychiatrist who finally gets it right. If this is so, I wholeheartedly believe that you should stop by. I have dedicated over 18 years of my life as a psychiatric nurse (since 2003) to improve the quality of life for all my clients through holistic psychiatric care. I have my Doctorates and am board certified in family psychiatry with experience in all ages, especially children. I always try to build a sound relationship with each and every one of my clients in order to make the treatment process a very comforting journey.

Hi! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in New Jersey. I received my Master's degree from Rutgers University, my graduate master's certification from Walden University, and my Doctor of Nursing degree from Chatham University.
Hi! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in New Jersey. I received my Master's degree from Rutgers University, my graduate master's certification from Walden University, and my Doctor of Nursing degree from Chatham University.

Accepting New Clients. I provide Adolescents and Adults mental health services. As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am passionate about enhancing the mental well-being of individuals and communities. With a strong educational background and years of clinical experience, I am committed to providing patient-centered comprehensive, compassionate care in the field of mental health. My areas of specialization encompass the treatment of mood disorders, depression, and anxiety disorders among many others.
Accepting New Clients. I provide Adolescents and Adults mental health services. As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am passionate about enhancing the mental well-being of individuals and communities. With a strong educational background and years of clinical experience, I am committed to providing patient-centered comprehensive, compassionate care in the field of mental health. My areas of specialization encompass the treatment of mood disorders, depression, and anxiety disorders among many others.

I deliver holistic, client-centered mental health care, thoughtfully embracing the complexities of your experiences. My approach respects your unique life story, offering empathetic and effective care and supporting your healing journey. With every session, I aim to nurture growth, resilience, and a deeper sense of personal well-being. Together, we'll explore avenues for self-discovery and strategies to manage life's challenges, fostering lasting change and emotional strength.
I deliver holistic, client-centered mental health care, thoughtfully embracing the complexities of your experiences. My approach respects your unique life story, offering empathetic and effective care and supporting your healing journey. With every session, I aim to nurture growth, resilience, and a deeper sense of personal well-being. Together, we'll explore avenues for self-discovery and strategies to manage life's challenges, fostering lasting change and emotional strength.

Mental Health is not a destination; it is a journey and a process” (Happiness360). My name is Dr. Eboni Freeman (DNP), and I specialize in the psycho-pharmacologic management of mental health symptoms. Everyone is unique in their treatment needs, so the approach to one's psychiatric treatment plan should be individualized. I believe in a collaborative approach to practice and am looking forward to working with you in developing the best treatment plan to optimize your overall quality of life
Mental Health is not a destination; it is a journey and a process” (Happiness360). My name is Dr. Eboni Freeman (DNP), and I specialize in the psycho-pharmacologic management of mental health symptoms. Everyone is unique in their treatment needs, so the approach to one's psychiatric treatment plan should be individualized. I believe in a collaborative approach to practice and am looking forward to working with you in developing the best treatment plan to optimize your overall quality of life

Hi! I am Dr. Rita Itondo, a doctoral prepared, dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Primary Care NP (ANP-C) based in New Jersey. I have over 13 years of experience as a provider. I completed my Master’s degree in Primary Health from UMDNJ and a Postgraduate certification in Psychiatric Nursing from Wilkes University, PA. I earned my Doctorate (DNP) with honors from Rutgers University.
Hi! I am Dr. Rita Itondo, a doctoral prepared, dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Primary Care NP (ANP-C) based in New Jersey. I have over 13 years of experience as a provider. I completed my Master’s degree in Primary Health from UMDNJ and a Postgraduate certification in Psychiatric Nursing from Wilkes University, PA. I earned my Doctorate (DNP) with honors from Rutgers University.

Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Gileen and I'm a board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety and Depression. I offer both medication management & brief aspects of therapy. Pairing therapy and medication to treat depression and anxiety can help you feel better faster. I aim to teach you how to manage your symptoms and develop effective and healthy coping skills. In every session, you will be met with kindness, warmth and open-mindedness.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Gileen and I'm a board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety and Depression. I offer both medication management & brief aspects of therapy. Pairing therapy and medication to treat depression and anxiety can help you feel better faster. I aim to teach you how to manage your symptoms and develop effective and healthy coping skills. In every session, you will be met with kindness, warmth and open-mindedness.
Hightower Medical Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, BSN, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hightower Medical Services is an organization that specializes in tailored mental health care. Since, untreated mental illness can cause severe emotional, behavioral and physical health problems, our aim is to assist client to achieve optimal health to function and enjoy a quality life. We approach this through comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis and diagnostic with interpretation, medication management, and a multi disciplinary intervention. Also, to enhance self-esteem with evidence based modalities through goals focused on self-perception, self-worth, and challenging negative self-beliefs. Our clientele is across the life span.
Hightower Medical Services is an organization that specializes in tailored mental health care. Since, untreated mental illness can cause severe emotional, behavioral and physical health problems, our aim is to assist client to achieve optimal health to function and enjoy a quality life. We approach this through comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis and diagnostic with interpretation, medication management, and a multi disciplinary intervention. Also, to enhance self-esteem with evidence based modalities through goals focused on self-perception, self-worth, and challenging negative self-beliefs. Our clientele is across the life span.

Hi, My name is Stella E. Okah, I'm a psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board certified. I specialized ADHD, Addiction program/Detox, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Dissociative Disorders, Eating Disorders, Family Conflict, Grief, LGBTQIA+, Mood Disorders, OCD, Personality Disorders, Trauma & PTSD, Suicidal Ideation, School Issues, Racism, Self Esteem, Self-Harming. Additionally, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and older persons.
Hi, My name is Stella E. Okah, I'm a psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board certified. I specialized ADHD, Addiction program/Detox, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Dissociative Disorders, Eating Disorders, Family Conflict, Grief, LGBTQIA+, Mood Disorders, OCD, Personality Disorders, Trauma & PTSD, Suicidal Ideation, School Issues, Racism, Self Esteem, Self-Harming. Additionally, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and older persons.

I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in New Jersey. I have over 10 years in the mental health system. I received my Masters from Fairleigh Dickinson University of New jersey 4 years ago and have been practicing since. I'm able to help individual with mental illness of any stage of the human lifespan development.
I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in New Jersey. I have over 10 years in the mental health system. I received my Masters from Fairleigh Dickinson University of New jersey 4 years ago and have been practicing since. I'm able to help individual with mental illness of any stage of the human lifespan development.

My treatment philosophy involves operating from a biopsychosocial framework to implement the most comprehensive treatment plan for each patient. I believe psychopharmacological interventions are an important part of a treatment plan, but are most efficacious in conjunction with other non-pharmacological interventions such as psychodynamic or cognitive behavioral psychotherapy as well as integrative medicine. My services include consultation, medication management and TMS. I work very closely with a number of therapists who I refer to if therapy is essential to your treatment.
My treatment philosophy involves operating from a biopsychosocial framework to implement the most comprehensive treatment plan for each patient. I believe psychopharmacological interventions are an important part of a treatment plan, but are most efficacious in conjunction with other non-pharmacological interventions such as psychodynamic or cognitive behavioral psychotherapy as well as integrative medicine. My services include consultation, medication management and TMS. I work very closely with a number of therapists who I refer to if therapy is essential to your treatment.

I’m a Masters prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of mental health experience, and over a year of working as a practitioner. I am passionate about the level of care rendered to my clients, only the best is good enough. I provide care to clients with Schizophrenia, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, PTSD, Addiction, and Insomnia. Come to my nonjudgmental, patient centered facility and discover an experience that leaves you mentally fulfilled.
I’m a Masters prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of mental health experience, and over a year of working as a practitioner. I am passionate about the level of care rendered to my clients, only the best is good enough. I provide care to clients with Schizophrenia, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, PTSD, Addiction, and Insomnia. Come to my nonjudgmental, patient centered facility and discover an experience that leaves you mentally fulfilled.

Devon Young is a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner (PNP) with dual board certification in psychiatric-mental health nursing and internal medicine, offering a comprehensive and holistic approach to patient care. Possessing extensive clinical experience in both mental health and primary care settings, adept at assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders while also managing chronic medical conditions.
Devon Young is a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner (PNP) with dual board certification in psychiatric-mental health nursing and internal medicine, offering a comprehensive and holistic approach to patient care. Possessing extensive clinical experience in both mental health and primary care settings, adept at assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders while also managing chronic medical conditions.

Welcome to Beyond Mental Health and Wellness. Evelyn Rosa MSN, PMHNP, BC is a Board-certified child, adolescent, and adult Nurse Practitioner, with over 14 years of psychiatric nursing experience.
Welcome to Beyond Mental Health and Wellness. Evelyn Rosa MSN, PMHNP, BC is a Board-certified child, adolescent, and adult Nurse Practitioner, with over 14 years of psychiatric nursing experience.
See more therapy options for Irvington
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Irvington, NJ
20+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Irvington, NJ who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
78% | ADHD |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
63% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
81% | Aetna |
70% | Other |
How Psychiatrists in Irvington, NJ see their clients
55% | Online Only | |
45% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
62% | Female | |
38% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Irvington?
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.