Psychiatrists in Millstone Township, NJ

Photo of Yuliya Albu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Yuliya Albu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
If you or a loved one are feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or stuck due to aging, chronic illness, depression, or life transitions, you're not alone—and support is available. I specialize in helping adults and older adults navigate emotional and cognitive challenges with compassion and practical tools. Whether you're seeking peace of mind, improved communication, or support for a loved one, I'm here to guide you with empathy and a plan that fits your life.
If you or a loved one are feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or stuck due to aging, chronic illness, depression, or life transitions, you're not alone—and support is available. I specialize in helping adults and older adults navigate emotional and cognitive challenges with compassion and practical tools. Whether you're seeking peace of mind, improved communication, or support for a loved one, I'm here to guide you with empathy and a plan that fits your life.
(609) 354-5279 View (609) 354-5279
Resilience Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Serves Area
Providing mental health services specializing in geriatrics. Addressing the many complex issues that can cause psychological disorders. Assisting in finding ways to cope more effectively with family and every day stressors. Grief counseling for the loss of a loved one. Helping to achieve a well balanced mental state and assisting in finding inner peace and happiness. Solution oriented and will work with the client to identify issues so that a resolution may be obtained.
Providing mental health services specializing in geriatrics. Addressing the many complex issues that can cause psychological disorders. Assisting in finding ways to cope more effectively with family and every day stressors. Grief counseling for the loss of a loved one. Helping to achieve a well balanced mental state and assisting in finding inner peace and happiness. Solution oriented and will work with the client to identify issues so that a resolution may be obtained.
(732) 414-6413 View (732) 414-6413

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Fernandez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Fernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
(848) 220-1102 View (848) 220-1102
Photo of Eronmwon Balogun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Eronmwon Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
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
Photo of Kristen Deeken - Mental Flex, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Mental Flex
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Online Only
Do you struggle with your mental health? Have you had more days where you've felt sad rather than happy. Do you struggle to regulate your moods? Does your anxiety or negative thoughts control your life? Do you struggle to get 6-8 hours of consecutive sleep at night? Having trouble facing the trauma of your past? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it may be time to talk about medication. At Mental Flex LLC. we want to help strengthen your mind, and help you to be able to live your life as the healthiest version of yourself.
Do you struggle with your mental health? Have you had more days where you've felt sad rather than happy. Do you struggle to regulate your moods? Does your anxiety or negative thoughts control your life? Do you struggle to get 6-8 hours of consecutive sleep at night? Having trouble facing the trauma of your past? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it may be time to talk about medication. At Mental Flex LLC. we want to help strengthen your mind, and help you to be able to live your life as the healthiest version of yourself.
(732) 838-9253 View (732) 838-9253
Photo of Grant Myers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Grant Myers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for a provider that will listen to you? I collaborate with my clients to find the best way to improve their health. Not sure if you are on the right medication? This practice specializes in medication management. Learn simple tools to assist you in decreasing your anxiety and improving your mood. I see clients online and in my Toms River office. Go to website now and book an appointment by filling out request form today! www.gardenstatepsych.net
Are you looking for a provider that will listen to you? I collaborate with my clients to find the best way to improve their health. Not sure if you are on the right medication? This practice specializes in medication management. Learn simple tools to assist you in decreasing your anxiety and improving your mood. I see clients online and in my Toms River office. Go to website now and book an appointment by filling out request form today! www.gardenstatepsych.net
(848) 301-1023 View (848) 301-1023
Photo of Oladunni Liyele, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
My ideal client is someone who is navigating the challenges of their mental health and seeking support in a way that feels safe and validating. They may be carrying emotions that feel heavy at times or struggling to find balance in their daily life. They want to feel heard, understood, and empowered in their journey toward well-being but may be unsure of where to start. Whether they are exploring care for the first time or have tried different approaches before, they are looking for a compassionate provider who will walk alongside them with understanding and support.
My ideal client is someone who is navigating the challenges of their mental health and seeking support in a way that feels safe and validating. They may be carrying emotions that feel heavy at times or struggling to find balance in their daily life. They want to feel heard, understood, and empowered in their journey toward well-being but may be unsure of where to start. Whether they are exploring care for the first time or have tried different approaches before, they are looking for a compassionate provider who will walk alongside them with understanding and support.
(848) 360-3649 View (848) 360-3649
Photo of Nathalie Delia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Nathalie Delia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
My ideal client may be dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or bipolar disorder. They seek compassionate, holistic care to manage their mental health challenges while feeling heard and supported. They want a collaborative treatment plan that empowers them to improve their overall well-being.
My ideal client may be dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or bipolar disorder. They seek compassionate, holistic care to manage their mental health challenges while feeling heard and supported. They want a collaborative treatment plan that empowers them to improve their overall well-being.
(973) 317-8883 View (973) 317-8883
Photo of Francine Dygulski - Lotus Mental Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, PMHNP-B
Lotus Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Brick, NJ 08723
I am a Dual Certified Practitioner, board certified in both Psychiatry and Adult Medicine. I have worked in many settings, psychiatric hospital, hospital ICU, Inpatient detox, outpatient psychiatric and addiction treatment. I also specialize in Medical & Psychiatric patient education.
I am a Dual Certified Practitioner, board certified in both Psychiatry and Adult Medicine. I have worked in many settings, psychiatric hospital, hospital ICU, Inpatient detox, outpatient psychiatric and addiction treatment. I also specialize in Medical & Psychiatric patient education.
(732) 631-3575 View (732) 631-3575
Photo of Denise Huebler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Denise Huebler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Denise and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Burnout, Binge Eating Disorder, Chronic Illness, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Family Issues, Insomnia- Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+, Gender & Sexuality Topics, Loss, Grief, and Bereavement, OCD, PTSD, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Denise and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Burnout, Binge Eating Disorder, Chronic Illness, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Family Issues, Insomnia- Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+, Gender & Sexuality Topics, Loss, Grief, and Bereavement, OCD, PTSD, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(973) 834-6233 View (973) 834-6233
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and inperson therapy and psychiatry services, covered by most major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and inperson therapy and psychiatry services, covered by most major insurance plans.
(848) 353-1201 View (848) 353-1201
Kelly Reid
Psychiatrist, MD
Princeton, NJ 08540
I have over 30 years experience helping people with feelings such as anxiety, depression, panic or other troubling feelings. Whether one is dealing with a relationship issue, work issue, self-esteem issue, or life change issue, working in the privacy of a confidential setting, allows for the free expression of feelings. Gaining a better understanding of feelings, can often lead to insights that help resolve issues or underlying conflicts. Sometimes problems are more situational or short-term, and I work to help in those circumstances also.
I have over 30 years experience helping people with feelings such as anxiety, depression, panic or other troubling feelings. Whether one is dealing with a relationship issue, work issue, self-esteem issue, or life change issue, working in the privacy of a confidential setting, allows for the free expression of feelings. Gaining a better understanding of feelings, can often lead to insights that help resolve issues or underlying conflicts. Sometimes problems are more situational or short-term, and I work to help in those circumstances also.
(609) 910-4708 View (609) 910-4708
Photo of Andrea Papa - Andrea Papa (adolescent/teen specialist), Psychiatrist, DO
I am a Psychiatrist 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 Psychiatrist 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.
(609) 928-7743 View (609) 928-7743
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Marlboro, NJ 07746
Welcome to The Cohen Center.....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center.....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
(732) 675-0011 View (732) 675-0011
Photo of Saba Afzal - Mind Body Healing Center, Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN, DABLM
Mind Body Healing Center
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN, DABLM
Holmdel, NJ 07733
A premier psychiatric center led by double board-certified psychiatrists, dedicated to promoting holistic wellness through a compassionate and wholesome approach. We offer a wide range of psychiatric services, including medication management, personalized psychotherapy, micro-therapy, couples counseling, concierge psychiatry, integrative psychiatry, adolescent psychiatry, and mindfulness-based stress reduction. Additionally, we provide lifestyle medicine consultations and other holistic wellness services.
A premier psychiatric center led by double board-certified psychiatrists, dedicated to promoting holistic wellness through a compassionate and wholesome approach. We offer a wide range of psychiatric services, including medication management, personalized psychotherapy, micro-therapy, couples counseling, concierge psychiatry, integrative psychiatry, adolescent psychiatry, and mindfulness-based stress reduction. Additionally, we provide lifestyle medicine consultations and other holistic wellness services.
(732) 962-4222 View (732) 962-4222
CRP Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, APN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
Christine Possemato has closed her private practice to medication management and is now prescribing at CPC Integrated Health. Please contact them at 800-250-9811 to schedule. All insurances accepted there. Specialties include eating disorders and peri/postnatal concerns. Visit www.crpbh.com for more info about Christine's services at CRP Behavioral Health.
Christine Possemato has closed her private practice to medication management and is now prescribing at CPC Integrated Health. Please contact them at 800-250-9811 to schedule. All insurances accepted there. Specialties include eating disorders and peri/postnatal concerns. Visit www.crpbh.com for more info about Christine's services at CRP Behavioral Health.
(908) 344-3728 View (908) 344-3728
Photo of Blessing Nwele Apn-Bc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN, BC
Blessing Nwele Apn-Bc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN, BC
2 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
My Name is Blessing Nwele and I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. Psychiatric/mental health disorders and behavioral health have been the focal point of my professional life for a decade, culminating in my opening of a mental health private practice. The Positive Touch Behavioral Health Services was born out of almost a decade entirely dedicated to promoting a culture of health and health equity.
My Name is Blessing Nwele and I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. Psychiatric/mental health disorders and behavioral health have been the focal point of my professional life for a decade, culminating in my opening of a mental health private practice. The Positive Touch Behavioral Health Services was born out of almost a decade entirely dedicated to promoting a culture of health and health equity.
(908) 509-6114 View (908) 509-6114
Photo of Abimbola Omoruyi - Jomaby HealthCare Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN-c
Jomaby HealthCare Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN-c
Serves Area
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey and has been in the mental health/psychiatric field for 0ver 10 years. I have extensive inpatient and outpatient experience working with individuals with mental health issues. I have worked with adolescents and adults with psychiatric disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorders and other mental health issues.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey and has been in the mental health/psychiatric field for 0ver 10 years. I have extensive inpatient and outpatient experience working with individuals with mental health issues. I have worked with adolescents and adults with psychiatric disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorders and other mental health issues.
(908) 365-0899 View (908) 365-0899
Photo of Jennifer Bright Dismukes - Bright Futures Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, DO, FAPA
Bright Futures Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO, FAPA
Skillman, NJ 08558
Dr. Jennifer Dismukes, DO combines exceptional knowledge and skills with compassionate therapeutic services. Her practice combines skilled psychotherapists with expert medical expertise. She seeks to understand how experiences, biology, family history and personality traits contribute to your current suffering and symptoms. Dr. Dismukes is double Board-Certified Adult and Pediatric medical physician of Psychiatry, a Doctor-of-Medicine, specifically Osteopathic Medicine, which is the study of the entire body as a system. As such, She is an expert in the treatment of medical, psychiatric, psychological, and developmental problems.
Dr. Jennifer Dismukes, DO combines exceptional knowledge and skills with compassionate therapeutic services. Her practice combines skilled psychotherapists with expert medical expertise. She seeks to understand how experiences, biology, family history and personality traits contribute to your current suffering and symptoms. Dr. Dismukes is double Board-Certified Adult and Pediatric medical physician of Psychiatry, a Doctor-of-Medicine, specifically Osteopathic Medicine, which is the study of the entire body as a system. As such, She is an expert in the treatment of medical, psychiatric, psychological, and developmental problems.
(609) 722-7046 View (609) 722-7046
Photo of Dr. David Bresch - Azz Medical Associates, Psychiatrist, MD
Azz Medical Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Ewing, NJ 08638
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate mental health care to individuals aged 12 and older. My passion lies in helping those who are struggling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more, guiding them towards a path of healing and overall well-being. In my practice, I utilize a range of therapeutic interventions, including psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle modifications. I believe that therapy is a vital component of mental health care, as it provides individuals with the tools and strategies to navigate their emotional difficulties.
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate mental health care to individuals aged 12 and older. My passion lies in helping those who are struggling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more, guiding them towards a path of healing and overall well-being. In my practice, I utilize a range of therapeutic interventions, including psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle modifications. I believe that therapy is a vital component of mental health care, as it provides individuals with the tools and strategies to navigate their emotional difficulties.
(609) 803-3310 View (609) 803-3310

See more therapy options for Millstone Township

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Millstone Township, NJ

< 10

Psychiatrists in Millstone Township, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Grief
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Dementia

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
50% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Millstone Township, NJ see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Millstone Township?

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.