Psychiatrists in Millville, NJ
Dr. Dorothy J Nivens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Millville, NJ 08332 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner licensed and accepting new clients in NC, SC, NJ, and MD. My clinical background includes over 28 years of nursing experience in various medical platforms. I am an active Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing member. I work with the clients to develop an individualized, evidence-based care plan that prioritizes their goals. I strive to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space to help those struggling. If you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out. I have experience working with, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner licensed and accepting new clients in NC, SC, NJ, and MD. My clinical background includes over 28 years of nursing experience in various medical platforms. I am an active Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing member. I work with the clients to develop an individualized, evidence-based care plan that prioritizes their goals. I strive to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space to help those struggling. If you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out. I have experience working with, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Glassboro, NJ 08028
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
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.
Eronmwon Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glassboro, NJ 08028
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.
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.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
Bright Side Wellness / Dr. LaTia Pierce DNP, APN
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC, FNPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vineland, NJ 08360 (Online Only)
Equal opportunity for mental health and wellness implies that everyone, regardless of their socio-economic status, race, gender, age, or geographical location, should have access to quality mental health services. I seek to provide all patients with respect, personalized treatment plans, education, support, empathy, time, shared decision-making, and quality care. I accept most insurance including Medicaid and Medicare health plans and have a strong background in working within underserved communities as well as with the developmentally disabled. I have experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders.
Equal opportunity for mental health and wellness implies that everyone, regardless of their socio-economic status, race, gender, age, or geographical location, should have access to quality mental health services. I seek to provide all patients with respect, personalized treatment plans, education, support, empathy, time, shared decision-making, and quality care. I accept most insurance including Medicaid and Medicare health plans and have a strong background in working within underserved communities as well as with the developmentally disabled. I have experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders.
My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.
My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.
Branch of Hope Psychiatry, Lauren Robbins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, NJ 08302 (Online Only)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides a safe and supportive environment for medication management and for individuals to voice their concerns. Devoted, empathetic, and compassionate are some qualities that describe my approach to providing hope to those who are struggling with mental health issues. Feeling overwhelmed or experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, sadness, lack of motivation, and/or difficulty with concentration/focus? Reach out to the number provided for a free 15 minute consultation. There is no shame in seeking help. In fact, seeking help is a sign of strength and courage.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides a safe and supportive environment for medication management and for individuals to voice their concerns. Devoted, empathetic, and compassionate are some qualities that describe my approach to providing hope to those who are struggling with mental health issues. Feeling overwhelmed or experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, sadness, lack of motivation, and/or difficulty with concentration/focus? Reach out to the number provided for a free 15 minute consultation. There is no shame in seeking help. In fact, seeking help is a sign of strength and courage.
Henrietta Udeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CSN-NJ, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glassboro, NJ 08028
My ideal client presents with anxiety; she has been experiencing a lot of panic attacks. She has been to the ER over three times in the past two months, where they ruled out cardiac problems. They always give her benzodiazepine and follow up with a psychiatrist. She does not want to be on medications, so she tried psychotherapy. She was then referred by her therapist. Her goal is to stay on medication for a short time. She prefers to use natural remedies. She is very fearful of science and the long-term effects of medications.
My ideal client presents with anxiety; she has been experiencing a lot of panic attacks. She has been to the ER over three times in the past two months, where they ruled out cardiac problems. They always give her benzodiazepine and follow up with a psychiatrist. She does not want to be on medications, so she tried psychotherapy. She was then referred by her therapist. Her goal is to stay on medication for a short time. She prefers to use natural remedies. She is very fearful of science and the long-term effects of medications.
Maria Leotti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AHNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mullica Hill, NJ 08062 (Online Only)
Please do not hesitate to use the contact information provided here on Psychology Today. You may copy the following to the pre-screen form from my scheduling site.
Please do not hesitate to use the contact information provided here on Psychology Today. You may copy the following to the pre-screen form from my scheduling site.
Ideally my patient is invested in their treatment as much a I am. I offer medication management, as well therapy. My patients want to feel heard and seek treatment that is evidenced based that meets ones specific needs.
Ideally my patient is invested in their treatment as much a I am. I offer medication management, as well therapy. My patients want to feel heard and seek treatment that is evidenced based that meets ones specific needs.
Ngozi Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vineland, NJ 08360 (Online Only)
Ngozi is a Psychiatric Mental Health Board Certified Nurse Practitioner with years of experience in mental health specialising in adolescent to geriatric and their families. My Approach to treatments is with evidence-based practice, psychotherapy and medications. Specializes in depression, anxiety, ADHD and mood disorders. My clients will attain mood stability, emotional stability, reduction in stress, improved quality of life, a balanced mental state and the ability to navigate life's challenges.
Ngozi is a Psychiatric Mental Health Board Certified Nurse Practitioner with years of experience in mental health specialising in adolescent to geriatric and their families. My Approach to treatments is with evidence-based practice, psychotherapy and medications. Specializes in depression, anxiety, ADHD and mood disorders. My clients will attain mood stability, emotional stability, reduction in stress, improved quality of life, a balanced mental state and the ability to navigate life's challenges.
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glassboro, NJ 08028
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
I'm Genean Doyle, your dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner based in the heart of Vineland, NJ. With a warm smile and a passion for healthcare, I've been proudly serving our community since 2012 as a Board Certified professional. My journey in nursing spans over two decades, during which I've gained a wealth of experience across the full spectrum of patient care.
I'm Genean Doyle, your dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner based in the heart of Vineland, NJ. With a warm smile and a passion for healthcare, I've been proudly serving our community since 2012 as a Board Certified professional. My journey in nursing spans over two decades, during which I've gained a wealth of experience across the full spectrum of patient care.
Malena Bonaparte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Rosenhayn, NJ 08352 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Malena and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Family Issues, LGBTQIA+/Gender/Sexuality Topics, 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 Malena and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Family Issues, LGBTQIA+/Gender/Sexuality Topics, 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.
Paul Oniwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Vineland, NJ 08360 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Paul and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD and PTSD. 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 Paul and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD and PTSD. 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.
Salvatore Zullo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seabrook, NJ 08302 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Salvatore and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Depression, Family Issues, Life Coaching, Life Transitions, Men's Issues, Relationship Issues, 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 Salvatore and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Depression, Family Issues, Life Coaching, Life Transitions, Men's Issues, Relationship Issues, 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.
Dionne Eason
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Rosenhayn, NJ 08352 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Dionne and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder, Stress Management, Women's Issues. 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 Dionne and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder, Stress Management, Women's Issues. 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.
See more therapy options for Millville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Millville, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Millville, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Stress |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Wellpoint | Amerigroup |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Millville, NJ see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Millville?
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.