Psychiatrists in Old Bridge, NJ

Photo of Oladunni Liyele, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
My ideal client is someone who is navigating the challenges of their mental health and seeking support in a way that feels safe and validating. They may be carrying emotions that feel heavy at times or struggling to find balance in their daily life. They want to feel heard, understood, and empowered in their journey toward well-being but may be unsure of where to start. Whether they are exploring care for the first time or have tried different approaches before, they are looking for a compassionate provider who will walk alongside them with understanding and support.
My ideal client is someone who is navigating the challenges of their mental health and seeking support in a way that feels safe and validating. They may be carrying emotions that feel heavy at times or struggling to find balance in their daily life. They want to feel heard, understood, and empowered in their journey toward well-being but may be unsure of where to start. Whether they are exploring care for the first time or have tried different approaches before, they are looking for a compassionate provider who will walk alongside them with understanding and support.
(848) 360-3649 View (848) 360-3649
Photo of Dr. Sheema Imran, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Dr. Sheema Imran
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
Patients typically face challenges like depression, anxiety, memory loss, dementia, and the emotional impact of aging. Many struggle with loneliness, grief, or chronic illness, seeking compassionate care that respects their individuality. Their needs include personalized treatment, medication management, therapy, and support for daily functioning. Their goals are to regain emotional stability, improve cognitive health, and enhance their quality of life. They want to feel heard, valued, and empowered, striving for dignity, independence, and meaningful connections.
Patients typically face challenges like depression, anxiety, memory loss, dementia, and the emotional impact of aging. Many struggle with loneliness, grief, or chronic illness, seeking compassionate care that respects their individuality. Their needs include personalized treatment, medication management, therapy, and support for daily functioning. Their goals are to regain emotional stability, improve cognitive health, and enhance their quality of life. They want to feel heard, valued, and empowered, striving for dignity, independence, and meaningful connections.
(732) 790-5890 View (732) 790-5890
Photo of Ngozi Nwobi - OCA Behavioral Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B, APN
OCA Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B, APN
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
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) 517-7681 View (732) 517-7681
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
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.
(848) 375-0675 View (848) 375-0675
Photo of Carol Smith, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Carol Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
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.
(848) 301-2150 View (848) 301-2150
Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
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.
(848) 271-5515 View (848) 271-5515
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
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.
(848) 292-5908 View (848) 292-5908
Photo of Amanda Guarnere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
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.
(848) 359-5795 View (848) 359-5795
Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
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.
(848) 208-7535 View (848) 208-7535
Photo of Seyi Aluko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Seyi Aluko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or trauma. They seek clarity, stability, and effective coping strategies to navigate daily life. They want compassionate, evidence-based care that fosters long-term mental wellness, personal growth, and a sense of control over their emotions and behaviors.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or trauma. They seek clarity, stability, and effective coping strategies to navigate daily life. They want compassionate, evidence-based care that fosters long-term mental wellness, personal growth, and a sense of control over their emotions and behaviors.
(973) 604-2264 View (973) 604-2264
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
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.
(848) 343-2478 View (848) 343-2478
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(848) 301-2103 View (848) 301-2103
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
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.
(848) 220-1504 View (848) 220-1504
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
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Lydia Keise - Insyte Psychiatric, Psychiatrist, MD
Insyte Psychiatric
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist . I see individuals in need of medication management. I strongly believe that clients should be well informed about their treatment . Clients participate in treatment planning and their needs are always taken into consideration. My clients feel well cared for and walk away knowing that at all times I have their best interests in mind. It is my hope that clients feel we are taking a journey together in terms of their treatment. I specialize in postpartum depression, major depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse, psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist . I see individuals in need of medication management. I strongly believe that clients should be well informed about their treatment . Clients participate in treatment planning and their needs are always taken into consideration. My clients feel well cared for and walk away knowing that at all times I have their best interests in mind. It is my hope that clients feel we are taking a journey together in terms of their treatment. I specialize in postpartum depression, major depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse, psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder.
(732) 515-5089 View (732) 515-5089
Photo of Rashidah Garrett-Hall - Wellness & Behavioral Solutions, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RASHIDA, PMHNP, BC
Wellness & Behavioral Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RASHIDA, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Mrs. Rashidah Garrett-Hall is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, and Bipolar. Rashidah's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) or alternative medicine (natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management). She believes in balance.
Mrs. Rashidah Garrett-Hall is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, and Bipolar. Rashidah's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) or alternative medicine (natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management). She believes in balance.
(732) 655-2723 View (732) 655-2723
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you ready to see if medications, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely so that you don't needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you ready to see if medications, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely so that you don't needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
(732) 675-0011 View (732) 675-0011
Photo of Paula Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ANP, PMHNP
Paula Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ANP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have worked with patients across the lifespan, treating a variety of Psychiatric Disorders: Addiction, Mood disorders, Trauma, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Dementia, OCD, and Generalized Anxiety. I practice a holistic approach while collaborating with other disciplines to rule out medical issues and provide my patients with the best outcomes possible. I believe family plays a big role in the patient's care, and I try to include them in the treatment plan as much as possible. My goal is to treat each individual with compassion and professionalism across all levels of care.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have worked with patients across the lifespan, treating a variety of Psychiatric Disorders: Addiction, Mood disorders, Trauma, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Dementia, OCD, and Generalized Anxiety. I practice a holistic approach while collaborating with other disciplines to rule out medical issues and provide my patients with the best outcomes possible. I believe family plays a big role in the patient's care, and I try to include them in the treatment plan as much as possible. My goal is to treat each individual with compassion and professionalism across all levels of care.
(848) 337-2855 View (848) 337-2855
Photo of Akosua Ababio Constance Ababio - Clear Healthy Mind LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Clear Healthy Mind LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Akosua C. Ababio is a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. She trained at Northern Kentucky University in both medication management and psychotherapy. Akosua is also a trained Family Nurse Practitioner-BC. She treats patients of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors. Her non-judgemental approach to her practice in mental health is what makes her unique.
Akosua C. Ababio is a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. She trained at Northern Kentucky University in both medication management and psychotherapy. Akosua is also a trained Family Nurse Practitioner-BC. She treats patients of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors. Her non-judgemental approach to her practice in mental health is what makes her unique.
(732) 365-4448 View (732) 365-4448
Photo of Dr. Julie Tropeano - Dr. Julie Tropeano, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP-B
Dr. Julie Tropeano, DNP, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
(848) 354-0860 View (848) 354-0860

See more therapy options for Old Bridge

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Old Bridge, NJ

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Old Bridge, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
95% Anxiety
90% Trauma and PTSD
85% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Medication Management
75% ADHD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
89% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield
83% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Old Bridge, NJ see their clients

95% In Person and Online
5% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Old Bridge?

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.