Psychiatrists in Mendham, NJ

I have been in private practice of psychiatry and psychotherapy since 1986 at my New York City office. Prior to the pandemic I also had an office in Morristown, New Jersey. I am currently working by Zoom video only.
I have been in private practice of psychiatry and psychotherapy since 1986 at my New York City office. Prior to the pandemic I also had an office in Morristown, New Jersey. I am currently working by Zoom video only.

I combine my decades of experience in academic psychiatry and my extensive knowledge of psychotherapeutic methods and psychopharmacology with empathy, focused listening and a caring responsiveness to provide personalized care to the patients in my practice, Pegasus Psychiatry Associates (www.PegasusPsych.com). I was Chair of the Dept. of Psychiatry at Morristown Medical Center (NJ's #1 rated hospital) for 21 years and am a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Thomas Jefferson University's Medical School. I am widely published, have national recognition for my research and have served on state-wide mental health committees.
I combine my decades of experience in academic psychiatry and my extensive knowledge of psychotherapeutic methods and psychopharmacology with empathy, focused listening and a caring responsiveness to provide personalized care to the patients in my practice, Pegasus Psychiatry Associates (www.PegasusPsych.com). I was Chair of the Dept. of Psychiatry at Morristown Medical Center (NJ's #1 rated hospital) for 21 years and am a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Thomas Jefferson University's Medical School. I am widely published, have national recognition for my research and have served on state-wide mental health committees.

Many of my clients have battled symptoms for years. Some have been in psychotherapy and some have tried psychiatric medications. Few have been able to work with one care provider in both modalities simultaneously. I offer this possibility- the option that many research studies have shown to be the most effective!
As a physician I will take your overall health and nutritional status into account in formulating an approach to your care. I will make sure you are totally comfortable with our plan.
Many of my clients have battled symptoms for years. Some have been in psychotherapy and some have tried psychiatric medications. Few have been able to work with one care provider in both modalities simultaneously. I offer this possibility- the option that many research studies have shown to be the most effective!
As a physician I will take your overall health and nutritional status into account in formulating an approach to your care. I will make sure you are totally comfortable with our plan.

Roger Granet MD blends cutting edge academic psychiatry with years of empathic clinical practice. Dr. Granet is Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Medical College of Cornell University, Lecturer in Psychiatry at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Consultant at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Attending Psychiatrist at New York Presbyterian Hospital-Cornell Division and Morristown Memorial Hospital. Dr. Granet is author of: If You Think You Have Depression (Dell,1998), If you Think You Have Panic Disorder (Dell, 1998), Is it Alzheimer’s? What To Do When Loved Ones Can’t Remember What They Should (Avon, 1998), and Why Am I Up, Why Am I Down: Understanding Bipolar Disorder (Dell, 1999), Surviving Cancer Emotionally: Learning How to Heal, (John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2001
Roger Granet MD blends cutting edge academic psychiatry with years of empathic clinical practice. Dr. Granet is Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Medical College of Cornell University, Lecturer in Psychiatry at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Consultant at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Attending Psychiatrist at New York Presbyterian Hospital-Cornell Division and Morristown Memorial Hospital. Dr. Granet is author of: If You Think You Have Depression (Dell,1998), If you Think You Have Panic Disorder (Dell, 1998), Is it Alzheimer’s? What To Do When Loved Ones Can’t Remember What They Should (Avon, 1998), and Why Am I Up, Why Am I Down: Understanding Bipolar Disorder (Dell, 1999), Surviving Cancer Emotionally: Learning How to Heal, (John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2001

I am NOT currently taking new patients at this time. Please check back later. I offer an integrative approach to psychiatric services, including traditional psychopharmacology & nutrient therapies. I treat adults. I'm a graduate of Columbia University with 25+ years experience working in various settings in the mental health field. New clients begin with a comprehensive mental health & medical evaluation, which may include gene testing, blood work, or other diagnostic testing. I value your overall wellbeing & partner with you to develop a treatment plan designed to meet your needs & goals.
I am NOT currently taking new patients at this time. Please check back later. I offer an integrative approach to psychiatric services, including traditional psychopharmacology & nutrient therapies. I treat adults. I'm a graduate of Columbia University with 25+ years experience working in various settings in the mental health field. New clients begin with a comprehensive mental health & medical evaluation, which may include gene testing, blood work, or other diagnostic testing. I value your overall wellbeing & partner with you to develop a treatment plan designed to meet your needs & goals.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Dr. Tamara Weisman is a board certified adult psychiatrist with more than fifteen years experience in the diagnosis and treatment of all major psychiatric disorders. During the first visit, Dr. Weisman performs a comprehensive initial evaluation. As part of the evaluation, Dr. Weisman collaborates with outside providers, primary care physicians and the patient's primary support system. This will allow for enhanced communication which will effectively improve outcomes. Based on symptomatology, the necessary medication is prescribed. Dr. Weisman provides close and frequent follow up to manage ongoing psychiatric issues and potential medication side effects. Evening office hours are available.
Dr. Tamara Weisman is a board certified adult psychiatrist with more than fifteen years experience in the diagnosis and treatment of all major psychiatric disorders. During the first visit, Dr. Weisman performs a comprehensive initial evaluation. As part of the evaluation, Dr. Weisman collaborates with outside providers, primary care physicians and the patient's primary support system. This will allow for enhanced communication which will effectively improve outcomes. Based on symptomatology, the necessary medication is prescribed. Dr. Weisman provides close and frequent follow up to manage ongoing psychiatric issues and potential medication side effects. Evening office hours are available.

Choosing a psychiatrist is hard. Let me introduce myself. I am a working mother, spouse, and physician. I understand the challenges facing women and men today. As life becomes more stressful and as we do less to take care of ourselves, problems are likely to emerge. I see adults with Anxiety/Depressive Disorders, Marital/Relationship difficulties and other Life Crises. I focus on present-day coping strategies and on bettering your understanding of the way your difficulties are related to overall life history. I do intensive work with people who want to improve their self-understanding, define goals and lead more productive lives.
Choosing a psychiatrist is hard. Let me introduce myself. I am a working mother, spouse, and physician. I understand the challenges facing women and men today. As life becomes more stressful and as we do less to take care of ourselves, problems are likely to emerge. I see adults with Anxiety/Depressive Disorders, Marital/Relationship difficulties and other Life Crises. I focus on present-day coping strategies and on bettering your understanding of the way your difficulties are related to overall life history. I do intensive work with people who want to improve their self-understanding, define goals and lead more productive lives.

New Jersey Mental Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD, FAACAP
Verified Verified
Boonton, NJ 07005
Waitlist for new clients
At New Jersey Mental Wellness, we understand that mental health is the cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Under the expert care of Dr. Freddy Starr, MD, FAACAP, our practice is dedicated to offering compassionate, personalized care for individuals facing neurological and psychiatric challenges.
At New Jersey Mental Wellness, we understand that mental health is the cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Under the expert care of Dr. Freddy Starr, MD, FAACAP, our practice is dedicated to offering compassionate, personalized care for individuals facing neurological and psychiatric challenges.

Partners In Integrative Healing, State Street TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
My current expertise and interests are; Community Psychiatry and building relationships within the natural environment. I perform second opinion consultations for complex cases or people who feel misdiagnosed. I have a focus on Women’s health and Reproductive Psychiatry, treating persons throughout the perinatal journey, I am an advocate and ally of LGBTQ and BIPOC community and am committed to an anti-racist and inclusive therapeutic stance. Integrative General Psychiatry, which includes traditional approaches in addition to holistic approaches. Interventional Psychiatry; transcranial magnetic stimulation and esketamine.
My current expertise and interests are; Community Psychiatry and building relationships within the natural environment. I perform second opinion consultations for complex cases or people who feel misdiagnosed. I have a focus on Women’s health and Reproductive Psychiatry, treating persons throughout the perinatal journey, I am an advocate and ally of LGBTQ and BIPOC community and am committed to an anti-racist and inclusive therapeutic stance. Integrative General Psychiatry, which includes traditional approaches in addition to holistic approaches. Interventional Psychiatry; transcranial magnetic stimulation and esketamine.

BirchWood Health - Samantha O'Donnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health

Amy C Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Your mental health journey is unique, and your care should be too. I aim to provide comprehensive, holistic, and personalized mental health care. The priority in caring for my patients is to develop a safe treatment plan while recognizing and honoring where they are in their journey. I provide medication management via telehealth, providing ease and comfort of care.
Your mental health journey is unique, and your care should be too. I aim to provide comprehensive, holistic, and personalized mental health care. The priority in caring for my patients is to develop a safe treatment plan while recognizing and honoring where they are in their journey. I provide medication management via telehealth, providing ease and comfort of care.

I am a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult and geriatric psychiatry. I have 13 years of clinical experience. I completed residency at NS-LIJ Zucker Hillside Hospital followed by a fellowship in Consultation Liaison/Psychosomatic medicine at Long Island Jewish Katz Hospital. I specialize in a broad range of psychiatric disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a particular focus in geriatric psychiatry and offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of dementia.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult and geriatric psychiatry. I have 13 years of clinical experience. I completed residency at NS-LIJ Zucker Hillside Hospital followed by a fellowship in Consultation Liaison/Psychosomatic medicine at Long Island Jewish Katz Hospital. I specialize in a broad range of psychiatric disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a particular focus in geriatric psychiatry and offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of dementia.

Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.

Hello! I am a double board certified psychiatrist in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Adult Psychiatry. I have trained and worked at leading hospital systems across the United States in many treatment settings. I opened this practice to offer the highest quality mental healthcare to patients and families. I believe that a strong and trusting treatment relationship forms the basis of successful care. My clinic is open on Saturdays to be minimally disruptive to work and school schedules.
Hello! I am a double board certified psychiatrist in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Adult Psychiatry. I have trained and worked at leading hospital systems across the United States in many treatment settings. I opened this practice to offer the highest quality mental healthcare to patients and families. I believe that a strong and trusting treatment relationship forms the basis of successful care. My clinic is open on Saturdays to be minimally disruptive to work and school schedules.

Sometimes the circumstances in life are too much to handle without some help. The life events might be overwhelming or mental health might be compromised due to physiology. Working in psychiatry for over thirty years has given me a respect for many different modalities. There is not a one size fits all approach to healing. Together, we will look at the issues and find your path.
Sometimes the circumstances in life are too much to handle without some help. The life events might be overwhelming or mental health might be compromised due to physiology. Working in psychiatry for over thirty years has given me a respect for many different modalities. There is not a one size fits all approach to healing. Together, we will look at the issues and find your path.

Greenhouse For Mental Health Development
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046
Dr Ayodele Green is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who completed her undergraduate degree at Columbia University. She obtained her MD from Temple University School of Medicine in NJ. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at Harlem Hospital of Columbia University and completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at UMDNJ(Rutgers) in Newark NJ. Her methods are patient centered and holistic. Dr. Green accepts patients that have insurance and will file Out of Network Claims on behalf of patients so that they can be reimbursed. She also offers a sliding scale fee and is accepting new patients.
Dr Ayodele Green is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who completed her undergraduate degree at Columbia University. She obtained her MD from Temple University School of Medicine in NJ. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at Harlem Hospital of Columbia University and completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at UMDNJ(Rutgers) in Newark NJ. Her methods are patient centered and holistic. Dr. Green accepts patients that have insurance and will file Out of Network Claims on behalf of patients so that they can be reimbursed. She also offers a sliding scale fee and is accepting new 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.

Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.

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.

All adults, parents and caregivers have challenging moments in their lives. Children and teenagers also can struggle with their emotions or behaviors. These difficult moments can feel unmanageable, causing feelings of stress, worry, or sadness. This can make school or work feel overwhelming or impact eating, sleeping and concentration. Dr. Mailutha will work with you or your family to address these concerns. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication prescribing with warmth and care to adults, families, children and adolescents.
All adults, parents and caregivers have challenging moments in their lives. Children and teenagers also can struggle with their emotions or behaviors. These difficult moments can feel unmanageable, causing feelings of stress, worry, or sadness. This can make school or work feel overwhelming or impact eating, sleeping and concentration. Dr. Mailutha will work with you or your family to address these concerns. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication prescribing with warmth and care to adults, families, children and adolescents.
See more therapy options for Mendham
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Mendham, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Mendham, NJ who prioritize treating:
80% | Depression |
80% | Anxiety |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Medication Management |
60% | Grief |
60% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
60% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
34 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Mendham, NJ see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Mendham?
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.