Psychiatrists in Ocean County, NJ

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Photo of Ngozi Nwobi - OCA Behavioral Health Services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, APN
OCA Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, APN
Point Pleasant, NJ 08742
OCA Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively. Evaluation & Follow-up is now available via Telehealth due to The COVID-19 Health Crisis.
OCA Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively. Evaluation & Follow-up is now available via Telehealth due to The COVID-19 Health Crisis.
(732) 314-7353 View (732) 314-7353
Photo of Tiffiny Green, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tiffiny Green
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Tiffiny Green, MSN, APN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC. My belief is that mental health is just as important to overall wellness as cardiovascular health because they both require effort and tuning to adapt to life's battles and run optimally.
My name is Tiffiny Green, MSN, APN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC. My belief is that mental health is just as important to overall wellness as cardiovascular health because they both require effort and tuning to adapt to life's battles and run optimally.
(908) 388-5225 View (908) 388-5225
Photo of Ngozi Nwobi - OCA Behavioral Health Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-B, APN
OCA Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-B, APN
1 Endorsed
Jackson, NJ 08527
OCA Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively.
OCA Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively.
(732) 782-9615 View (732) 782-9615
Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Toms River, NJ 08753
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
(732) 217-7855 View (732) 217-7855
Photo of Leo Onuoha, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Leo Onuoha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Leo Onuoha, MSN, PMHNP, APN. I adopt a holistic approach to mental health and addiction management by integrating medication with psychotherapy to ensure personalized and effective care. Empowerment, non judgmental, patient centered and nurturing approach. Applies multi dimensional strategies encompassing, psychodynamics, behaviorism, humanistic, and cognitive functions.
Hi there, I'm Leo Onuoha, MSN, PMHNP, APN. I adopt a holistic approach to mental health and addiction management by integrating medication with psychotherapy to ensure personalized and effective care. Empowerment, non judgmental, patient centered and nurturing approach. Applies multi dimensional strategies encompassing, psychodynamics, behaviorism, humanistic, and cognitive functions.
(908) 257-8359 View (908) 257-8359
Photo of Omezie Molokwu - Grace Behavioral Health Services, PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APN
Grace Behavioral Health Services, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APN
Brick, NJ 08724
Grace Behavioral Health Services, provides EVALUATION AND FOLLOW-UP VIA BOTH IN-PERSON and TELEHEALTH. Our principle in practice include helping our clients as partners in their recovery process. All factors that impact their health, wellness and disorder are considered in a way to address the whole person, including the body, mind and spirit. In addition to treatment, all-inclusive concepts of health promotion and prevention is supreme. We work cooperatively and collaboratively with our clients to tailor their care to the individual’s unique conditions, needs and circumstances.
Grace Behavioral Health Services, provides EVALUATION AND FOLLOW-UP VIA BOTH IN-PERSON and TELEHEALTH. Our principle in practice include helping our clients as partners in their recovery process. All factors that impact their health, wellness and disorder are considered in a way to address the whole person, including the body, mind and spirit. In addition to treatment, all-inclusive concepts of health promotion and prevention is supreme. We work cooperatively and collaboratively with our clients to tailor their care to the individual’s unique conditions, needs and circumstances.
(732) 592-3754 View (732) 592-3754
Photo of Omezie Molokwu - Grace Behavioral Health Services, PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Grace Behavioral Health Services, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Brick, NJ 08724
Grace Behavioral Health Services, provides EVALUATION AND FOLLOW-UP VIA TELEHEALTH AND IN-PERSON. Our principle in practice include helping our clients as partners in their recovery process. All factors that impact their health, wellness and disorder are considered in a way to address the whole person, including the body, mind and spirit. In addition to treatment, all-inclusive concepts of health promotion and prevention is supreme. We work cooperatively and collaboratively with our clients to tailor their care to the individual’s unique conditions, needs and circumstances.
Grace Behavioral Health Services, provides EVALUATION AND FOLLOW-UP VIA TELEHEALTH AND IN-PERSON. Our principle in practice include helping our clients as partners in their recovery process. All factors that impact their health, wellness and disorder are considered in a way to address the whole person, including the body, mind and spirit. In addition to treatment, all-inclusive concepts of health promotion and prevention is supreme. We work cooperatively and collaboratively with our clients to tailor their care to the individual’s unique conditions, needs and circumstances.
(732) 475-9881 View (732) 475-9881
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Lakewood, NJ 08701
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including 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 providers.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including 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 providers.
(908) 493-4682 View (908) 493-4682
Photo of Kristine Hart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CARN
Kristine Hart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CARN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Together, we'll unravel your potential, heal your mind, and embrace a life of more positivity and fulfillment. I am dedicated to delivering meaningful and competent care for the issues you are facing. I recognize that every individual's mental health journey is distinct, and thus, I tailor my approaches to suit each person's specific needs. Your journey is your story, and I offer unwavering compassion and support to guide you to your wellness goals. I approach mental wellness holistically, considering all facets of your well-being. From therapy to medication management, I customize treatment plans that prioritize your unique goals.
Together, we'll unravel your potential, heal your mind, and embrace a life of more positivity and fulfillment. I am dedicated to delivering meaningful and competent care for the issues you are facing. I recognize that every individual's mental health journey is distinct, and thus, I tailor my approaches to suit each person's specific needs. Your journey is your story, and I offer unwavering compassion and support to guide you to your wellness goals. I approach mental wellness holistically, considering all facets of your well-being. From therapy to medication management, I customize treatment plans that prioritize your unique goals.
(609) 473-6273 x101 View (609) 473-6273 x101
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Toms River, NJ 08753
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(732) 538-8331 View (732) 538-8331
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Toms River, NJ 08753
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.
(732) 851-1737 View (732) 851-1737
Photo of Catherine Nwanonyiri, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Catherine Nwanonyiri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey. I received my Bachelor of Science in nursing at the University of Medicine and Dentistry, New Jersey, a master's in nursing at Walden University, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice at Walden University. My goal is to provide individualized and client-focused care utilizing a psychosocial and holistic approach to improve my client's condition. I am compassionate, personable, empathetic and very patient. I will work with each individual patient to help them reach their goal. I am passionate about what I am doing and want to see everybody at their best.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey. I received my Bachelor of Science in nursing at the University of Medicine and Dentistry, New Jersey, a master's in nursing at Walden University, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice at Walden University. My goal is to provide individualized and client-focused care utilizing a psychosocial and holistic approach to improve my client's condition. I am compassionate, personable, empathetic and very patient. I will work with each individual patient to help them reach their goal. I am passionate about what I am doing and want to see everybody at their best.
(908) 258-6574 View (908) 258-6574
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Jackson, NJ 08527
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 providers.
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 providers.
(908) 801-6943 View (908) 801-6943
Photo of Oluwatosin Olunuga, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Oluwatosin Olunuga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Trauma changes us; life stressors can cause our lives to unravel, it is all part of the normal human experience. . Dr Tosin places emphasis on humans as we are. While incorporating psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, his passion encourages healing and teaches coping skills. With years of experience in Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Schizophrenia, Clinical Depression, PTSD, and Substance Abuse, Tosin has served as a guide to many families in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Trauma changes us; life stressors can cause our lives to unravel, it is all part of the normal human experience. . Dr Tosin places emphasis on humans as we are. While incorporating psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, his passion encourages healing and teaches coping skills. With years of experience in Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Schizophrenia, Clinical Depression, PTSD, and Substance Abuse, Tosin has served as a guide to many families in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
(908) 206-4618 View (908) 206-4618
Photo of Christala Cherry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Christala Cherry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a dual board-certified psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner. I am currently licensed to practice in the state of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I specialize in depression, anxiety, panic disorder, sleep issues, trauma-related disorders, Adhd, Autism, and mood disorders.
I am a dual board-certified psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner. I am currently licensed to practice in the state of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I specialize in depression, anxiety, panic disorder, sleep issues, trauma-related disorders, Adhd, Autism, and mood disorders.
(908) 460-7081 View (908) 460-7081
Photo of Jennifer Bowen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jennifer Bowen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m Dr. Jennifer Bowen, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Resonance Psychiatry LLC. I help adults and adolescents manage anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, trauma, and life stressors through thoughtful and individualized care.
I’m Dr. Jennifer Bowen, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Resonance Psychiatry LLC. I help adults and adolescents manage anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, trauma, and life stressors through thoughtful and individualized care.
(908) 895-5253 View (908) 895-5253
Photo of Jan Ford - JF Healthcare LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, FNP, PMHNP
JF Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, FNP, PMHNP
Toms River, NJ 08753
When someone is looking for help with their mental health it is important to for a mental health provider to understand what a person is going through and what it took for a person to reach out for help. I am someone that listens and treats people with kindness and respect. I am interested in what the issue is, what the persons goals are and if we can achieve them together. I believe that for a person to have good mental health they also have to have good physical health. In order to achieve this: one needs good nutrition, sleep, and the importance of therapy.
When someone is looking for help with their mental health it is important to for a mental health provider to understand what a person is going through and what it took for a person to reach out for help. I am someone that listens and treats people with kindness and respect. I am interested in what the issue is, what the persons goals are and if we can achieve them together. I believe that for a person to have good mental health they also have to have good physical health. In order to achieve this: one needs good nutrition, sleep, and the importance of therapy.
(732) 838-6553 View (732) 838-6553
Photo of Amanda Gaurnere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda Gaurnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lakewood, NJ 08701
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to the patient's needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to the patient's needs.
(908) 446-8891 View (908) 446-8891
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 Karen Yeboah-Norment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSP, APRN, FNP-C
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSP, APRN, FNP-C
Lakewood, NJ 08701
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve their mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stop socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and fail college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with your 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 their mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stop socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and fail college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with your 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.
(908) 554-4693 View (908) 554-4693

See more therapy options for Ocean County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Ocean County, NJ

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Ocean County, NJ who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
96% Anxiety
80% Bipolar Disorder
77% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Trauma and PTSD
69% ADHD
63% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Ocean County, NJ see their clients

51% In Person and Online
49% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Ocean 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.