Psychiatrists in Morris County, NJ

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Photo of Dr. Norma White, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ACNP-BC
Dr. Norma White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ACNP-BC
Chatham, NJ 07928
In today's fast-paced world, finding the time and comfort to attend in-person appointments can be a significant barrier. My virtual and in-person clinic directly addresses these needs by offering flexible scheduling and the ability to connect from the privacy and comfort of your own space. Whether you're facing challenges with anxiety, depression, sleep issues, or require medication management, my virtual platform brings comprehensive psychiatric care directly to you, eliminating travel time and reducing potential stigma.
In today's fast-paced world, finding the time and comfort to attend in-person appointments can be a significant barrier. My virtual and in-person clinic directly addresses these needs by offering flexible scheduling and the ability to connect from the privacy and comfort of your own space. Whether you're facing challenges with anxiety, depression, sleep issues, or require medication management, my virtual platform brings comprehensive psychiatric care directly to you, eliminating travel time and reducing potential stigma.
(732) 626-8222 View (732) 626-8222
Photo of Karimi Mailutha, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Karimi Mailutha
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Florham Park, NJ 07932
All adults, parents and caregivers have challenging moments in their lives. Children and teenagers also can struggle with their emotions or behaviors. These difficult moments can feel unmanageable, causing feelings of stress, worry, or sadness. This can make school or work feel overwhelming or impact eating, sleeping and concentration. Dr. Mailutha will work with you or your family to address these concerns. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication prescribing with warmth and care to adults, families, children and adolescents.
All adults, parents and caregivers have challenging moments in their lives. Children and teenagers also can struggle with their emotions or behaviors. These difficult moments can feel unmanageable, causing feelings of stress, worry, or sadness. This can make school or work feel overwhelming or impact eating, sleeping and concentration. Dr. Mailutha will work with you or your family to address these concerns. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication prescribing with warmth and care to adults, families, children and adolescents.
(862) 307-9353 View (862) 307-9353
Photo of Sandhya Chilukala, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, FNP-BC, PHMNP-B
Sandhya Chilukala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, FNP-BC, PHMNP-B
Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034
Hi, my name is Sandhya and I'm currently accepting new patients! As an experienced psychiatric mental health provider I am dedicated to helping you navigate life's biggest challenges. I have a background in both primary and mental health care which allows me to offer holistic support. One of my strongest qualities is my ability to empathize. During our tome together I will actively listen to you, and we will focus building positive change in your life. My goal is to enhance your relationship with your own emotions.
Hi, my name is Sandhya and I'm currently accepting new patients! As an experienced psychiatric mental health provider I am dedicated to helping you navigate life's biggest challenges. I have a background in both primary and mental health care which allows me to offer holistic support. One of my strongest qualities is my ability to empathize. During our tome together I will actively listen to you, and we will focus building positive change in your life. My goal is to enhance your relationship with your own emotions.
(862) 396-4942 View (862) 396-4942
Catherine D'Aprix Heffner
Psychiatrist
1 Endorsed
Morristown, NJ 07960
ONE STOP SHOPPING. That is right! You can see me for all of your mental health and wellness needs vs seeing a separate doctor for medications, another therapist for psychotherapy and possibly even a third person as a coach or for basic nutrition/fitness. One appointment/one hour per week vs 3-4?! What a time saver and ultimately, what a money saver, especially in the long run!!! If you are ready to start on a path of healing or self-discovery, with a practitioner who is warm and caring yet firm when needed, please call. You deserve it!!
ONE STOP SHOPPING. That is right! You can see me for all of your mental health and wellness needs vs seeing a separate doctor for medications, another therapist for psychotherapy and possibly even a third person as a coach or for basic nutrition/fitness. One appointment/one hour per week vs 3-4?! What a time saver and ultimately, what a money saver, especially in the long run!!! If you are ready to start on a path of healing or self-discovery, with a practitioner who is warm and caring yet firm when needed, please call. You deserve it!!
(646) 760-6838 View (646) 760-6838
Photo of Diane Jasmin, Psychiatrist, DO
Diane Jasmin
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Jasmin’s goal is to help individuals across improve the quality of their lives. She provides a range of client-centered services for adults, adolescents, and families treating a number of mental health disorders. Utilizing an environment that is supportive her ultimate goal is the promotion of healing and personal growth. Dr. Jasmin's experience enables her to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care.
Dr. Jasmin’s goal is to help individuals across improve the quality of their lives. She provides a range of client-centered services for adults, adolescents, and families treating a number of mental health disorders. Utilizing an environment that is supportive her ultimate goal is the promotion of healing and personal growth. Dr. Jasmin's experience enables her to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care.
(862) 707-2359 View (862) 707-2359
Photo of Carol Smith, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Carol Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Morristown, NJ 07960
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
(973) 358-0428 View (973) 358-0428
Photo of Vaishali Desai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BA, PMHNP, PMHNPBC
Vaishali Desai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BA, PMHNP, PMHNPBC
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated by just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls? Do you hope that life could be better? Now more than ever all people are feeling uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated by just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls? Do you hope that life could be better? Now more than ever all people are feeling uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life.
(862) 346-5841 View (862) 346-5841
Tina Pryor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Morristown, NJ 07960
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety and/or depression and is seeking services to find balance.
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety and/or depression and is seeking services to find balance.
(973) 791-7369 View (973) 791-7369
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Morristown, NJ 07960
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(973) 240-5604 View (973) 240-5604
Merritt Hubsher
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Specializes in the treatment of all child and adolescent emotional, behavioral, social and academic disorders. He possesses an expertise in the treatment of mood disorders in children, adolescents and adults, (such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and OCD Disorders), behavior disorders (such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder), as well as Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Specializes in the treatment of all child and adolescent emotional, behavioral, social and academic disorders. He possesses an expertise in the treatment of mood disorders in children, adolescents and adults, (such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and OCD Disorders), behavior disorders (such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder), as well as Autism Spectrum Disorders.
(973) 233-4109 View (973) 233-4109
Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Morristown, NJ 07960
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.
(973) 841-8760 View (973) 841-8760
Photo of Seth Michael Dorsky, Psychiatrist, MD
Seth Michael Dorsky
Psychiatrist, MD
Chatham, NJ 07928
Dr. Seth Dorsky is a Harvard trained child and adolescent psychiatrist. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Boston Children's Hospital where he held 2 academic appointments: one as a clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School and one as fellow in child and adolescent psychiatry at Boston Children's Hospital. Dr. Dorsky received his undergraduate degree from Brown University, attended medical school at the University of Vermont, and completed his adult psychiatry residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Dr. Dorsky is dual board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry.
Dr. Seth Dorsky is a Harvard trained child and adolescent psychiatrist. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Boston Children's Hospital where he held 2 academic appointments: one as a clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School and one as fellow in child and adolescent psychiatry at Boston Children's Hospital. Dr. Dorsky received his undergraduate degree from Brown University, attended medical school at the University of Vermont, and completed his adult psychiatry residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Dr. Dorsky is dual board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry.
(973) 707-3696 View (973) 707-3696
Photo of Margaret Gorny, Psychiatric Nurse, APN
Margaret Gorny
Psychiatric Nurse, APN
Montville, NJ 07045
I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have treated adults ranging in age from 18 to 80. I have also done extensive work with couples and families. My clients have had a wide variety of presenting problems from depression, anger management, relationships issues, anxiety, mood disorders, marital problems, phobias and obsessive compulsive behaviors. I see my client as a whole person not as a person with a problem. A person with strengths and weaknesses. Our job together is to find the answers and develop the skills to move forward to an enriching life.
I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have treated adults ranging in age from 18 to 80. I have also done extensive work with couples and families. My clients have had a wide variety of presenting problems from depression, anger management, relationships issues, anxiety, mood disorders, marital problems, phobias and obsessive compulsive behaviors. I see my client as a whole person not as a person with a problem. A person with strengths and weaknesses. Our job together is to find the answers and develop the skills to move forward to an enriching life.
(973) 845-4092 View (973) 845-4092
Photo of Marybeth Blood, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Marybeth Blood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Rockaway, NJ 07866
All too often in life, we come across challenges and obstacles that may feel overwhelming and difficult for us to face alone. Starting the process of finding the right healthcare provider can often times be complicated. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am able to provide psychiatric evaluations and prescribe medications. Most importantly, I will be a part of your support system to help you fulfill and meet your goals. As a team we can determine the best course of treatment and obtain the best outcomes. I am here to take these next steps with you and utilize the tools needed to move forward.
All too often in life, we come across challenges and obstacles that may feel overwhelming and difficult for us to face alone. Starting the process of finding the right healthcare provider can often times be complicated. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am able to provide psychiatric evaluations and prescribe medications. Most importantly, I will be a part of your support system to help you fulfill and meet your goals. As a team we can determine the best course of treatment and obtain the best outcomes. I am here to take these next steps with you and utilize the tools needed to move forward.
(973) 545-7665 View (973) 545-7665
Photo of Ozan Toy - Telapsychiatry LLC, Psychiatrist
Telapsychiatry LLC
Psychiatrist
Online Only
We are a psychiatric practice treating patients in New Jersey at this time through telehealth visits. We are comprised of psychiatrists, psychiatric physician assistants, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. We are committed to providing accessible, low cost, and high quality mental health care with an emphasis on maximizing lifestyle changes and prescribing medications at the lowest effective dose. We participate with insurance plans and offer self-pay options as well. We currently accept Aetna, Cigna, Bluecross Blueshield, Optum, among other plans.
We are a psychiatric practice treating patients in New Jersey at this time through telehealth visits. We are comprised of psychiatrists, psychiatric physician assistants, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. We are committed to providing accessible, low cost, and high quality mental health care with an emphasis on maximizing lifestyle changes and prescribing medications at the lowest effective dose. We participate with insurance plans and offer self-pay options as well. We currently accept Aetna, Cigna, Bluecross Blueshield, Optum, among other plans.
(862) 247-4356 View (862) 247-4356
Photo of Chelsea Robbins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC-BC
Chelsea Robbins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC-BC
Chester, NJ 07930
My goal is to teach realistic coping skills and means to improve wellness. Treatment may include coping skills building, gaining insight, supportive therapy, and medications (when necessary). I have added experience in OCD, anxiety, and panic disorders as well as working with young adults and parents with children experiencing medical/health issues. I hope to assist individuals to wellness efficiently and believe both long-term and short-term active treatment can be successful.
My goal is to teach realistic coping skills and means to improve wellness. Treatment may include coping skills building, gaining insight, supportive therapy, and medications (when necessary). I have added experience in OCD, anxiety, and panic disorders as well as working with young adults and parents with children experiencing medical/health issues. I hope to assist individuals to wellness efficiently and believe both long-term and short-term active treatment can be successful.
(908) 768-3773 View (908) 768-3773
Photo of Maribel Abbate, Psychiatrist, MD
Maribel Abbate
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Please visit my personal website for all details and fees by clicking on the link to the left. With the privacy and convenience of videoconferencing, my focus is treating non emergent psychiatric issues, such as depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, adjustment and mood disorders. I work to understand the biological, psychological, social issues affecting every patient and will make recommendations which may include nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, meditation, light therapy, psychotherapy, supplements and/or medications. The goal is to provide private and comprehensive care in order to get every patient to better health.
Please visit my personal website for all details and fees by clicking on the link to the left. With the privacy and convenience of videoconferencing, my focus is treating non emergent psychiatric issues, such as depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, adjustment and mood disorders. I work to understand the biological, psychological, social issues affecting every patient and will make recommendations which may include nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, meditation, light therapy, psychotherapy, supplements and/or medications. The goal is to provide private and comprehensive care in order to get every patient to better health.
(973) 261-8641 View (973) 261-8641
Photo of Murla Ecclesiaste, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Murla Ecclesiaste
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Morristown, NJ 07960
Greetings! I am Murla, Do you experience lack of motivation, hopelessness and sadness? Do you feel overwhelmed with tasks? Are you dealing with anxiety that leaves you incapacitated? Are mood swings keeping you from reaching your best potential?
Greetings! I am Murla, Do you experience lack of motivation, hopelessness and sadness? Do you feel overwhelmed with tasks? Are you dealing with anxiety that leaves you incapacitated? Are mood swings keeping you from reaching your best potential?
(973) 319-8708 View (973) 319-8708
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Morristown, NJ 07960
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.
(973) 791-9252 View (973) 791-9252
Photo of Nancy Cursi-Vogle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Nancy Cursi-Vogle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Montville, NJ 07045
Mental illness is not a choice but Recovery is. You can believe in yourself and make changes with the right support. I have been working with people who have mental health issues for a long time. I enjoy helping people improve their mental health and their overall wellbeing. I believe I have been blessed with the character and skills needed to help others. I provide an integrative approach to improving mental health. I focus on you as a whole person - Mind, Body, & Spirit. I provide psychotherapy, medication management, herbal supplements, nutritional changes, movement/exercise and meditation/relaxation techniques.
Mental illness is not a choice but Recovery is. You can believe in yourself and make changes with the right support. I have been working with people who have mental health issues for a long time. I enjoy helping people improve their mental health and their overall wellbeing. I believe I have been blessed with the character and skills needed to help others. I provide an integrative approach to improving mental health. I focus on you as a whole person - Mind, Body, & Spirit. I provide psychotherapy, medication management, herbal supplements, nutritional changes, movement/exercise and meditation/relaxation techniques.
(973) 840-7257 View (973) 840-7257

See more therapy options for Morris County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Morris County, NJ

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Morris County, NJ who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
92% Anxiety
79% Bipolar Disorder
76% Medication Management
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
70% ADHD
70% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
84% Cigna and Evernorth
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Morris County, NJ see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
31% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Morris County?

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.