Psychiatrists in Metuchen, NJ

Photo of Stella Nwachukwu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stella Nwachukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Hi my name is Stella Nwachukwu , I am a proud Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. For those with mental health disorders, medication management is often an important part of the recovery process when used in an effective way as part of the overall treatment. That is where I come in At Viewpoints Counseling Group, we understand that managing your mental health can be a complex journey.
Hi my name is Stella Nwachukwu , I am a proud Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. For those with mental health disorders, medication management is often an important part of the recovery process when used in an effective way as part of the overall treatment. That is where I come in At Viewpoints Counseling Group, we understand that managing your mental health can be a complex journey.
(732) 226-8857 View (732) 226-8857
Photo of Martins Akhibi, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Martins Akhibi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Are You Feeling Overwhelmed, Stuck, or Alone in Your Struggles? Life can feel heavy when you're battling anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges. Maybe you’re exhausted from trying to keep it all together, feeling misunderstood, or struggling to find someone who truly listens. Perhaps your thoughts feel overwhelming, your emotions unpredictable, or daily life harder than it should be. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to go through it alone.
Are You Feeling Overwhelmed, Stuck, or Alone in Your Struggles? Life can feel heavy when you're battling anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges. Maybe you’re exhausted from trying to keep it all together, feeling misunderstood, or struggling to find someone who truly listens. Perhaps your thoughts feel overwhelming, your emotions unpredictable, or daily life harder than it should be. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to go through it alone.
(732) 592-5740 View (732) 592-5740
Photo of Angela Ekeweme, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Ekeweme
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Here at Aspire Psychiatric care we are passionate about improving mental health and well-being. Our Board Certified Nurse Practitioner Angela Ekeweme has over a decade's worth of experience in the field, and has honed expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, eating disorders, and more. We are committed to providing an integrative, and personalized care to meet your mental health needs.
Here at Aspire Psychiatric care we are passionate about improving mental health and well-being. Our Board Certified Nurse Practitioner Angela Ekeweme has over a decade's worth of experience in the field, and has honed expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, eating disorders, and more. We are committed to providing an integrative, and personalized care to meet your mental health needs.
(732) 538-5290 View (732) 538-5290
Carline F Archille
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Accepting New Clients- Hi, My name is Carline Archille, a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 23 years of experience caring for patients and four years of treating and managing individuals with various mental health disorders. My goal is that you are being heard, supported, and treated appropriately to improve your health and well-being.
Accepting New Clients- Hi, My name is Carline Archille, a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 23 years of experience caring for patients and four years of treating and managing individuals with various mental health disorders. My goal is that you are being heard, supported, and treated appropriately to improve your health and well-being.
(732) 217-7926 View (732) 217-7926
Photo of Khadija Ibeh - Khadija Ibeh, MD, MPH, PA, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Khadija Ibeh, MD, MPH, PA
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, my name is Khadija Ibeh, MD, MPH. If you found this page, I am so excited for you!!! You are taking steps towards a brighter tomorrow. I can imagine that you are hesitant about who you can trust with your problems. Let me tell you a little about myself to make the choice easier. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over a decade of clinical experience. I hold advanced degrees from Wellesley College, YaIe University, and Stony Brook School of Medicine. I believe in the combination of psychotherapy and medication for a rapid return of functioning.
Hello, my name is Khadija Ibeh, MD, MPH. If you found this page, I am so excited for you!!! You are taking steps towards a brighter tomorrow. I can imagine that you are hesitant about who you can trust with your problems. Let me tell you a little about myself to make the choice easier. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over a decade of clinical experience. I hold advanced degrees from Wellesley College, YaIe University, and Stony Brook School of Medicine. I believe in the combination of psychotherapy and medication for a rapid return of functioning.
(732) 654-0718 View (732) 654-0718
Photo of Donna Gunther, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Donna Gunther
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hello, my name is Donna and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. I am a prescriber for Family and Youth services located in New Jersey. One very important thing I have learned through my years in practice is that the relationship and connection formed between a patient and their provider is paramount. It is a solid foundation from which someone can truly move forward with their mental health goals.
Hello, my name is Donna and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. I am a prescriber for Family and Youth services located in New Jersey. One very important thing I have learned through my years in practice is that the relationship and connection formed between a patient and their provider is paramount. It is a solid foundation from which someone can truly move forward with their mental health goals.
(732) 838-5412 View (732) 838-5412
Photo of Neha Gupta, MD, Psychiatrist
Neha Gupta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I'm a Triple Board Certified Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Forensic Psychiatrist. I grew up in Westfield, NJ and am well connected to the area. I've completed my residency training in Adult Psychiatry and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. I went on to do a 2nd fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. I'm a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
I'm a Triple Board Certified Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Forensic Psychiatrist. I grew up in Westfield, NJ and am well connected to the area. I've completed my residency training in Adult Psychiatry and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. I went on to do a 2nd fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. I'm a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
(848) 244-8678 View (848) 244-8678
Photo of Brandon Reid, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brandon Reid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I bring five years of in-depth experience in mental health care from treating clients in numerous settings. I focus on treating individuals across the lifespan with conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, concerns of impulsivity, inattention, and impaired concentration as well as the day-to-day struggles that life brings our way. I have dedicated myself to the mental wellness of clients from all walks of life regardless of their background.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I bring five years of in-depth experience in mental health care from treating clients in numerous settings. I focus on treating individuals across the lifespan with conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, concerns of impulsivity, inattention, and impaired concentration as well as the day-to-day struggles that life brings our way. I have dedicated myself to the mental wellness of clients from all walks of life regardless of their background.
(973) 891-4451 View (973) 891-4451
Photo of Nicole Hraniotis, MD, Psychiatrist
Nicole Hraniotis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified and experienced adolescent, adult, and child psychiatrist who has helped patients just like you build richer more rewarding lives for over 6 years. Through a combination of therapeutic techniques, I help identify limiting beliefs and outmoded coping mechanisms that may be standing in your way.
I am a Board Certified and experienced adolescent, adult, and child psychiatrist who has helped patients just like you build richer more rewarding lives for over 6 years. Through a combination of therapeutic techniques, I help identify limiting beliefs and outmoded coping mechanisms that may be standing in your way.
(732) 603-1298 View (732) 603-1298

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ibrahim Sahid Kargbo - Blissful Minds Wellness Center, LLC, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Blissful Minds Wellness Center, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Visit blissfulmindspsych.com to schedule. I provide medication management for Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Trauma, Sleep or Insomnia, and includes Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and Solution-Based. This is a telehealth-only practice. In essence, we do not initiate a controlled medication (such as benzodiazepines), by DEA regulations. I accept Aetna, Cigna, and take A Private pay rates are $150 for follow-up and $275 for initial evaluation. My goal as a psychiatric practitioner is to provide compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges.
Visit blissfulmindspsych.com to schedule. I provide medication management for Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Trauma, Sleep or Insomnia, and includes Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and Solution-Based. This is a telehealth-only practice. In essence, we do not initiate a controlled medication (such as benzodiazepines), by DEA regulations. I accept Aetna, Cigna, and take A Private pay rates are $150 for follow-up and $275 for initial evaluation. My goal as a psychiatric practitioner is to provide compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges.
(856) 666-7681 View (856) 666-7681
Photo of Ajeetha Doss - Dr. Doss M.D., at Feel Good Behavioral Health, MD , MBA, MRCPsyc, Psychiatrist
Dr. Doss M.D., at Feel Good Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD , MBA, MRCPsyc
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am committed to providing high quality of care in a safe and comfortable environment, to meet your mental health needs via Feel Good Behavioral Health. You being the most important team member, my focus is to have a good therapeutic relationship by treating You with Respect, Honesty & Compassion. I am 3 times board-certified in General Adult, as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, after being trained in different countries including United States, United Kingdom & India. As a mental health advocate, my primary goal is to promote overall emotional and mental health well-being, as well as better quality of life for my patients.
I am committed to providing high quality of care in a safe and comfortable environment, to meet your mental health needs via Feel Good Behavioral Health. You being the most important team member, my focus is to have a good therapeutic relationship by treating You with Respect, Honesty & Compassion. I am 3 times board-certified in General Adult, as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, after being trained in different countries including United States, United Kingdom & India. As a mental health advocate, my primary goal is to promote overall emotional and mental health well-being, as well as better quality of life for my patients.
(267) 682-6908 View (267) 682-6908
Photo of Esther Onwu - Kairos Care Connection, APN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kairos Care Connection
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
At Kairos Care Connection, I am proud to be part of a dedicated team with over 10 years of experience in providing psychiatric mental health care. I have had the privilege of working with clients who face a wide range of mental health challenges, including depression, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and medication management, both in inpatient and outpatient settings. Our mission is to address these issues while promoting self-care and mental well-being.
At Kairos Care Connection, I am proud to be part of a dedicated team with over 10 years of experience in providing psychiatric mental health care. I have had the privilege of working with clients who face a wide range of mental health challenges, including depression, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and medication management, both in inpatient and outpatient settings. Our mission is to address these issues while promoting self-care and mental well-being.
(732) 907-8518 View (732) 907-8518
Photo of Dr. Henrietta Bannerman, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Henrietta Bannerman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you're navigating the weight of depression or anxiety, managing the challenges of ADHD or PTSD, or working through the complexities of bipolar or personality disorders, I'm here to provide empathetic, effective care. Together, we can address the unique intersections of your mental health needs, including dual diagnoses or the effects of trauma. I focus on empowering young adults, minorities, and anyone ready to take the courageous step toward meaningful change. With over a decade of experience in psychiatric and emergency nursing, I bring a compassionate and evidence-based approach to your care.
Whether you're navigating the weight of depression or anxiety, managing the challenges of ADHD or PTSD, or working through the complexities of bipolar or personality disorders, I'm here to provide empathetic, effective care. Together, we can address the unique intersections of your mental health needs, including dual diagnoses or the effects of trauma. I focus on empowering young adults, minorities, and anyone ready to take the courageous step toward meaningful change. With over a decade of experience in psychiatric and emergency nursing, I bring a compassionate and evidence-based approach to your care.
(201) 801-3173 View (201) 801-3173
Photo of Marina Moshkovich, MD, Psychiatrist
Marina Moshkovich
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747
I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry and have had training and experience in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have practiced psychiatry in different settings. My professional knowledge and interests include treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric disorders, including mood, anxiety, psychotic, impulse control and substance abuse. I focuse on stabilization of patient's condition with medication and educate patients about their disorder and available treatments. I work with patients and their families in order to improve patients' adjustment and functioning in community. I help my patients build up confidence and enable them to change their lives for better.
I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry and have had training and experience in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have practiced psychiatry in different settings. My professional knowledge and interests include treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric disorders, including mood, anxiety, psychotic, impulse control and substance abuse. I focuse on stabilization of patient's condition with medication and educate patients about their disorder and available treatments. I work with patients and their families in order to improve patients' adjustment and functioning in community. I help my patients build up confidence and enable them to change their lives for better.
(732) 387-3076 View (732) 387-3076
Photo of Bolanle Akinronbi, MD, Psychiatrist
Bolanle Akinronbi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Bolanle Akinronbi M.D is an empathic psychiatrist and a great listener. She offers practical recommendations and treatment solutions that uses her knowledge of medicine while taking into account the multiple factors that affect a person's wellness - biology, environment, diet, relationships and daily routine. Her treatment approach is dynamic, person centered and holistic. She believes that everyone can and should live as the best possible version of themselves at any point in time.
Bolanle Akinronbi M.D is an empathic psychiatrist and a great listener. She offers practical recommendations and treatment solutions that uses her knowledge of medicine while taking into account the multiple factors that affect a person's wellness - biology, environment, diet, relationships and daily routine. Her treatment approach is dynamic, person centered and holistic. She believes that everyone can and should live as the best possible version of themselves at any point in time.
(908) 617-0247 View (908) 617-0247
Photo of Ruth MacKenzie - Ruth MacKenzie (adolescent/teen specialist), APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ruth MacKenzie (adolescent/teen specialist)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Monroe Township, NJ 08831
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
(732) 831-7600 View (732) 831-7600
Photo of Kristen L. Carlo, DO, Psychiatrist
Kristen L. Carlo
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Cranbury, NJ 08512
My practice is dedicated to treating each individual as an individual; giving them the time and care that is needed to address their mental health concerns. I offer a variety of approaches that include therapy, medication management, and a combination of the two.
My practice is dedicated to treating each individual as an individual; giving them the time and care that is needed to address their mental health concerns. I offer a variety of approaches that include therapy, medication management, and a combination of the two.
(848) 999-3270 View (848) 999-3270
Photo of Amanda Guarnere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
(609) 798-7448 View (609) 798-7448
Photo of Udenma Okafor, MSN, MSc, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Udenma Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MSc, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides medication management to all age groups. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluations, psychopharmacological treatment initiation, and ongoing monitoring for individual clients. My goals is to treat her client with a personalized approach designed for their special situation.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides medication management to all age groups. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluations, psychopharmacological treatment initiation, and ongoing monitoring for individual clients. My goals is to treat her client with a personalized approach designed for their special situation.
(848) 347-2091 View (848) 347-2091
Photo of Eronmwon Balogun, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eronmwon Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
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.
(609) 604-7108 View (609) 604-7108

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Metuchen, NJ

< 10

Psychiatrists in Metuchen, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
89% Depression
89% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
89% Bipolar Disorder
89% Medication Management
78% ADHD
78% Grief

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
75% Cigna and Evernorth
75% Oxford

How Psychiatrists in Metuchen, NJ see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Metuchen?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.