Psychiatrists in Lawrenceville, NJ

My approach to helping people is patient-centered and integrative. I practice evidence-based approaches and shared decision making. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained at University of Pennsylvania and Rutgers University and a licensed psychologist trained at Temple University. As an assistant professor of medicine at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School I teach family medicine residents and medical students psychopharmacology, behavioral health and life style medicine. This provides me with a breadth of knowledge and unique experience particularly when people have physical health problems.
My approach to helping people is patient-centered and integrative. I practice evidence-based approaches and shared decision making. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trained at University of Pennsylvania and Rutgers University and a licensed psychologist trained at Temple University. As an assistant professor of medicine at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School I teach family medicine residents and medical students psychopharmacology, behavioral health and life style medicine. This provides me with a breadth of knowledge and unique experience particularly when people have physical health problems.

Welcome to my practice. I am a licensed Advanced Practice Nurse board certified as a Clinical Specialist in Psychiatric Mental Health. I have 20 years of experience providing psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy and medication management to individuals, couples and families. Previous experience as a critical care nurse for 20 years provides me with additional knowledge of medical illnesses and how they contribute to mental health issues.
Welcome to my practice. I am a licensed Advanced Practice Nurse board certified as a Clinical Specialist in Psychiatric Mental Health. I have 20 years of experience providing psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy and medication management to individuals, couples and families. Previous experience as a critical care nurse for 20 years provides me with additional knowledge of medical illnesses and how they contribute to mental health issues.

We specialize in treatment resistant DEPRESSION. As a board certified Child, Adolescent, & Adult psychiatrist, our team at Depression Doctors utilize evidence based and FDA approved treatments supported with solid research in treating your depression. At our center, we have been observing significant improvements in individuals with severe and chronic depression even if their symptoms did not improve with multiple antidepressants or combinations. Two cutting edge treatments for though-to-treat major depression are remarkably successful: TMS Therapy and Spravato (Esketamine) treatment.
We specialize in treatment resistant DEPRESSION. As a board certified Child, Adolescent, & Adult psychiatrist, our team at Depression Doctors utilize evidence based and FDA approved treatments supported with solid research in treating your depression. At our center, we have been observing significant improvements in individuals with severe and chronic depression even if their symptoms did not improve with multiple antidepressants or combinations. Two cutting edge treatments for though-to-treat major depression are remarkably successful: TMS Therapy and Spravato (Esketamine) treatment.

We specialize in the Evaluation and Management of Adults with Psychiatric conditions. Aroga offer specialized treatment for medication resistant depressed patients such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Intranasal Ketamine and Spravato. We are the only center in the area to offer QB Test, a FDA cleared test to assess treatment optimization in ADHD. We also offer treatment for Eating disorders and Obesity, as well as Office-based treatment of opioid dependence and Addiction. Our therapies provide multiple psychotherapy techniques to help our patients to achieve complete treatment success.
We specialize in the Evaluation and Management of Adults with Psychiatric conditions. Aroga offer specialized treatment for medication resistant depressed patients such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Intranasal Ketamine and Spravato. We are the only center in the area to offer QB Test, a FDA cleared test to assess treatment optimization in ADHD. We also offer treatment for Eating disorders and Obesity, as well as Office-based treatment of opioid dependence and Addiction. Our therapies provide multiple psychotherapy techniques to help our patients to achieve complete treatment success.

I specialize in the complexities of treatment-resistant depression, OCD, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I envision working with clients eager to overcome these challenges, seeking a life defined by resilience and empowerment. My ideal client yearns for a deep understanding of their condition, effective coping strategies, and a compassionate, supportive partnership to guide their journey toward healing. Together, we will develop innovative and personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs, fostering a journey of recovery that paves the way to a brighter, hope-filled future.
I specialize in the complexities of treatment-resistant depression, OCD, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I envision working with clients eager to overcome these challenges, seeking a life defined by resilience and empowerment. My ideal client yearns for a deep understanding of their condition, effective coping strategies, and a compassionate, supportive partnership to guide their journey toward healing. Together, we will develop innovative and personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs, fostering a journey of recovery that paves the way to a brighter, hope-filled future.

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.

I'm a board certified psychiatrist. Psychiatric symptoms/disorders are often complex and are usually influenced by genetic factors, environmental/social stimuli and personal experience. I do a comprehensive initial assessment to determine the need for medications and if medications are indicated, I carefully consider the risk-benefit-alternatives of medications. In addition to prescribing psychotropic medications, I try to bring out one's inner strength/potential for drive and motivation for better adaptation to daily stresses.
I'm a board certified psychiatrist. Psychiatric symptoms/disorders are often complex and are usually influenced by genetic factors, environmental/social stimuli and personal experience. I do a comprehensive initial assessment to determine the need for medications and if medications are indicated, I carefully consider the risk-benefit-alternatives of medications. In addition to prescribing psychotropic medications, I try to bring out one's inner strength/potential for drive and motivation for better adaptation to daily stresses.

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

I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.

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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

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

Looking forward to meeting and treating you! I enjoy treating adolescents and adults of all ages. I am particularly interested and involved in treating Mood Disorders, as they are among the most devastating psychological illnesses. Anxiety disorders are also an incredibly common presenting problem, and I have much experience in this area. A team approach for all psychological illnesses is often most desirable. In all cases, a full recovery is my constant goal.
Looking forward to meeting and treating you! I enjoy treating adolescents and adults of all ages. I am particularly interested and involved in treating Mood Disorders, as they are among the most devastating psychological illnesses. Anxiety disorders are also an incredibly common presenting problem, and I have much experience in this area. A team approach for all psychological illnesses is often most desirable. In all cases, a full recovery is my constant goal.

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.
My name is Kelly Houston, APN and I am the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Caring Counselors, Inc. For some, obtaining psychiatric medication management services may feel like a daunting task. When individuals come to my office, my goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where they feel comfortable and heard. I recognize that my patients are the experts when it comes to how they are feeling. So, it’s important for me to really listen to them. I believe it’s my job to help my patients through medication and/or psycho-education to live their best life.
My name is Kelly Houston, APN and I am the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Caring Counselors, Inc. For some, obtaining psychiatric medication management services may feel like a daunting task. When individuals come to my office, my goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where they feel comfortable and heard. I recognize that my patients are the experts when it comes to how they are feeling. So, it’s important for me to really listen to them. I believe it’s my job to help my patients through medication and/or psycho-education to live their best life.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? I help individuals navigate life’s challenges by providing a safe, nonjudgmental space for healing and growth. I take a holistic, client-centered approach tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're dealing with past trauma, daily stress, or relationship struggles, we will work together to create meaningful change
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? I help individuals navigate life’s challenges by providing a safe, nonjudgmental space for healing and growth. I take a holistic, client-centered approach tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're dealing with past trauma, daily stress, or relationship struggles, we will work together to create meaningful change

Dr. Marcus offers individualized approach in her treatments. She uses state of art treatments recommendations for the presenting problem while tailoring it to your personality and life style. Dr. Marcus is specialized in working with mood disorders such as Depression and Bipolar Disorders spectrum, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders. She is also certified in addiction treatments including Detoxification, working on abstinence or harm reduction through the use of medications and therapy. Dr. Marcus is certified to prescribe Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol.
Dr. Marcus offers individualized approach in her treatments. She uses state of art treatments recommendations for the presenting problem while tailoring it to your personality and life style. Dr. Marcus is specialized in working with mood disorders such as Depression and Bipolar Disorders spectrum, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders. She is also certified in addiction treatments including Detoxification, working on abstinence or harm reduction through the use of medications and therapy. Dr. Marcus is certified to prescribe Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol.

“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 psycho-pharmacologic management of mental health symptoms. Everyone is unique in their treatment needs and as a result, the approach to one's Psychiatric Treatment Plan should be an individualized one. I believe in a collaborative approach to practice and am looking forward to working with you in developing the best treatment plan with the goal of optimizing 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 psycho-pharmacologic management of mental health symptoms. Everyone is unique in their treatment needs and as a result, the approach to one's Psychiatric Treatment Plan should be an individualized one. I believe in a collaborative approach to practice and am looking forward to working with you in developing the best treatment plan with the goal of optimizing your overall quality of life.

Are you struggling with mood changes, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty with attention and concentration which affect your daily functioning? Entering treatment can feel intimidating at times, but I can help you navigate the treatment process to help you improve your quality of life. Together, we can create a personalized plan, as I use a patient-centric approach and typically begin with the lowest doses of medication possible to restore balanced functioning. Not only do I believe in helping my patients to heal, but I also seek to help them evolve.
Are you struggling with mood changes, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty with attention and concentration which affect your daily functioning? Entering treatment can feel intimidating at times, but I can help you navigate the treatment process to help you improve your quality of life. Together, we can create a personalized plan, as I use a patient-centric approach and typically begin with the lowest doses of medication possible to restore balanced functioning. Not only do I believe in helping my patients to heal, but I also seek to help them evolve.

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.

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.
See more therapy options for Lawrenceville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lawrenceville, NJ
10+
Psychiatrists in Lawrenceville, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
60% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
100% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Lawrenceville, NJ see their clients
90% | In Person and Online | |
10% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lawrenceville?
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.