Psychiatrists in Oradell, NJ
Hello, my name is Dr. Martin Kron. Sometimes looking for a psychiatrist can be challenging because you want someone you can trust and open up to. Ever since I was young I have been told that I am an easy person to talk to. I truly enjoy practicing psychiatry and helping people improve their mental health. I am a good listener. I have a calming, nonjudgmental demeanor and I have always been told by my patients that they feel like they are understood and in good hands. I am a double board certified psychiatrist. I trained at Mt. Sinai Beth Israel in NYC and have worked with people in all walks of life.
Hello, my name is Dr. Martin Kron. Sometimes looking for a psychiatrist can be challenging because you want someone you can trust and open up to. Ever since I was young I have been told that I am an easy person to talk to. I truly enjoy practicing psychiatry and helping people improve their mental health. I am a good listener. I have a calming, nonjudgmental demeanor and I have always been told by my patients that they feel like they are understood and in good hands. I am a double board certified psychiatrist. I trained at Mt. Sinai Beth Israel in NYC and have worked with people in all walks of life.
I am an experienced nurse practitioner who strives to provide personalized care. I am specialized in anxiety, depression, OCD and bipolar. My goal is to increase ones quality of life through trust and relationship building with the most recent advances in medication management. I am accepting patients in NY and NJ.
I am an experienced nurse practitioner who strives to provide personalized care. I am specialized in anxiety, depression, OCD and bipolar. My goal is to increase ones quality of life through trust and relationship building with the most recent advances in medication management. I am accepting patients in NY and NJ.
I see clients for med evals & management, 2nd opinions and robust patient edu. My clients are wide-ranging: some are brand new to treatment; others have chronic mental illness, whether stable or during an acute episode; I accept pt's looking for a f/u provider after a psych hospitalization; I accept new-onset mental illness, whether due to substance use, an acute stressor or another factors. Some pts who anticipate difficult upcoming life-changes, like a pregnancy, job change, in-laws moving in, etc., may choose to see me prophylactically — often, some of these patients find quick relief just knowing there’s a plan in place.
I see clients for med evals & management, 2nd opinions and robust patient edu. My clients are wide-ranging: some are brand new to treatment; others have chronic mental illness, whether stable or during an acute episode; I accept pt's looking for a f/u provider after a psych hospitalization; I accept new-onset mental illness, whether due to substance use, an acute stressor or another factors. Some pts who anticipate difficult upcoming life-changes, like a pregnancy, job change, in-laws moving in, etc., may choose to see me prophylactically — often, some of these patients find quick relief just knowing there’s a plan in place.
Dr. Alena Antohina is a Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2011. She received her MD degree from Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Republic of Moldova and later completed a Psychiatry Residency at The Albany Medical Center, NY and a Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Beth Israel Hospital in New York City. Dr. Antohina's professional services include treatment and consultations for mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and sleep problems.
Dr. Alena Antohina is a Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2011. She received her MD degree from Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Republic of Moldova and later completed a Psychiatry Residency at The Albany Medical Center, NY and a Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Beth Israel Hospital in New York City. Dr. Antohina's professional services include treatment and consultations for mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and sleep problems.
Dr. Shilpika Varma is a Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2014. Dr. Varma uses an integrative, complimentary approach. In her free time, Dr. Varma enjoys meditation, yoga, biking, hiking, dance, and travel.
Dr. Shilpika Varma is a Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2014. Dr. Varma uses an integrative, complimentary approach. In her free time, Dr. Varma enjoys meditation, yoga, biking, hiking, dance, and travel.
I am interested in you and your family as a whole and I am committed to finding solutions that work best for you. When you are not feeling your best emotionally, it effects all parts of your life from relationships, your dreams, sleep, feelings of personal satisfaction, school, work and your physical health.
I am interested in you and your family as a whole and I am committed to finding solutions that work best for you. When you are not feeling your best emotionally, it effects all parts of your life from relationships, your dreams, sleep, feelings of personal satisfaction, school, work and your physical health.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Christine Lisa believes in patient-tailored medication management therapy. She believes that truly listening to a patient's concerns and developing a treatment plan together for optimal outcomes is key. She currently sees clients of all ages and works to improve depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and mood disorders.
Christine Lisa believes in patient-tailored medication management therapy. She believes that truly listening to a patient's concerns and developing a treatment plan together for optimal outcomes is key. She currently sees clients of all ages and works to improve depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and mood disorders.
Zhanna Berman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, CHES
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Why is this happening to ME? To my child? Is this Just How it is? After all, I’ve done everything right. I’ve tried different doctors; numerous medications and not only am I not getting better but I’m having to deal with these side effects! If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Hope can be one of the hardest things to hold on to when you are struggling. I know that mental illness is more than a set of symptoms. They are conditions that affect everyone differently. This is why I develop a concierge treatment plan utilizing the latest science to provide precision and care for my patients. Hope is here!
Why is this happening to ME? To my child? Is this Just How it is? After all, I’ve done everything right. I’ve tried different doctors; numerous medications and not only am I not getting better but I’m having to deal with these side effects! If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Hope can be one of the hardest things to hold on to when you are struggling. I know that mental illness is more than a set of symptoms. They are conditions that affect everyone differently. This is why I develop a concierge treatment plan utilizing the latest science to provide precision and care for my patients. Hope is here!
Hi, I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are dealing with OCD and mood disorders. I also specialize in working with healthcare professionals. Before becoming a PMHNP, my inspiration to pursue this path came from seeing my family member struggle with OCD as well as my coworkers experience burn out, fatigue, and stress, especially during COVID-19. These experiences ignited a deep desire in me to assist people in optimizing both their physical and mental health, so that we not just survive, but thrive!
Hi, I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are dealing with OCD and mood disorders. I also specialize in working with healthcare professionals. Before becoming a PMHNP, my inspiration to pursue this path came from seeing my family member struggle with OCD as well as my coworkers experience burn out, fatigue, and stress, especially during COVID-19. These experiences ignited a deep desire in me to assist people in optimizing both their physical and mental health, so that we not just survive, but thrive!
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.
Dr. Berberian is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Neurologist who has extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, PSTD, OCD, ADHD, mood disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, neuropathies, headaches and addiction. In addition, he performs outpatient bariatric screening, biofeedback, neurofeedback and EEG evaluations. Care is goal-oriented, addressing each individual's needs using a variety of patient-centered approaches. His focus includes adolescent, adult and geriatric populations.
Dr. Berberian is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Neurologist who has extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, PSTD, OCD, ADHD, mood disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, neuropathies, headaches and addiction. In addition, he performs outpatient bariatric screening, biofeedback, neurofeedback and EEG evaluations. Care is goal-oriented, addressing each individual's needs using a variety of patient-centered approaches. His focus includes adolescent, adult and geriatric populations.
Licensed in New Jersey and New York. Like a tree, our roots are our foundation. They can lead us in many directions and keep us anchored in times of difficulty. Over the course of life, we are faced with storms that may affect our roots, which can then affect our lives tremendously. We desire to give individuals a chance to firmly implant their roots where they were meant to be, leading to healing and lasting change. We want to remind you that you are already en route on your path to wellness. Whether you are looking for healing, restoration, or self-empowerment, we are happy to be part of this journey with you.
Licensed in New Jersey and New York. Like a tree, our roots are our foundation. They can lead us in many directions and keep us anchored in times of difficulty. Over the course of life, we are faced with storms that may affect our roots, which can then affect our lives tremendously. We desire to give individuals a chance to firmly implant their roots where they were meant to be, leading to healing and lasting change. We want to remind you that you are already en route on your path to wellness. Whether you are looking for healing, restoration, or self-empowerment, we are happy to be part of this journey with you.
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
I am Board-Certified in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have 25 years experience doing evaluations, psychopharmacology, and/or psychotherapy. I have expertise working with most psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Depression, Suicide Risk Assessment, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Psychosis.
I am Board-Certified in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have 25 years experience doing evaluations, psychopharmacology, and/or psychotherapy. I have expertise working with most psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Depression, Suicide Risk Assessment, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Psychosis.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. After completing my medical school education, I achieved a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Arcadia University. I completed my adult psychiatry residency training at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. During my training at AEMC, I was awarded the prestigious national Distinguished Laughlin Fellow Merit Award for professional achievement and scholarship. I completed my Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the Mount Sinai Health system - St Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center in Manhattan where I also served as a Chief Fellow.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. After completing my medical school education, I achieved a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Arcadia University. I completed my adult psychiatry residency training at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. During my training at AEMC, I was awarded the prestigious national Distinguished Laughlin Fellow Merit Award for professional achievement and scholarship. I completed my Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the Mount Sinai Health system - St Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center in Manhattan where I also served as a Chief Fellow.
I am an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and an American Board of Addiction Medicine certified Chief Psychiatrist who works in a distinguished Psychiatric Facility in NJ. I have extensive experience in managing a myriad of Psychiatric Disorders which include : Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Addiction Disorders and Bipolar Disorder etc. My treatment ideology is patient driven , empathetic and compassionate Psychiatric care. I am knowledgeable and thoroughly familiar with all the novel Psychopharmacological interventions that are FDA approved . I offer my patients personalized comprehensive Psychiatric Treatment in a comfortable and confidential setting. My staff is approachable and willing to accommodate patients and their special needs.
I am an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and an American Board of Addiction Medicine certified Chief Psychiatrist who works in a distinguished Psychiatric Facility in NJ. I have extensive experience in managing a myriad of Psychiatric Disorders which include : Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Addiction Disorders and Bipolar Disorder etc. My treatment ideology is patient driven , empathetic and compassionate Psychiatric care. I am knowledgeable and thoroughly familiar with all the novel Psychopharmacological interventions that are FDA approved . I offer my patients personalized comprehensive Psychiatric Treatment in a comfortable and confidential setting. My staff is approachable and willing to accommodate patients and their special needs.
The decision to engage in therapy, initiate or discontinue medications may be difficult and anxiety provoking. Dr. Khinda’s warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental treatment approach assists in providing patient centered care in a safe and supportive environment. Dr. Khinda will work to specifically tailor treatment to the unique strengths and values of each individual, whether that means medication management, therapy, or a novel approach. Dr. Khinda is a double board-certified psychiatrist in Child & Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. She has trained at large, reputable healthcare systems.
The decision to engage in therapy, initiate or discontinue medications may be difficult and anxiety provoking. Dr. Khinda’s warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental treatment approach assists in providing patient centered care in a safe and supportive environment. Dr. Khinda will work to specifically tailor treatment to the unique strengths and values of each individual, whether that means medication management, therapy, or a novel approach. Dr. Khinda is a double board-certified psychiatrist in Child & Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. She has trained at large, reputable healthcare systems.
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652 (Online Only)
Dr. Christopher Hannon is a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He obtained his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Louisville. His training covers mental health treatment across the lifespan including psychopharmacological management of psychiatric conditions and a host of therapeutic modalities. Areas of particular interest include trauma/PTSD, depression/anxiety, substance use disorders, as well as stigma around mental illness and in general.
Dr. Christopher Hannon is a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He obtained his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Louisville. His training covers mental health treatment across the lifespan including psychopharmacological management of psychiatric conditions and a host of therapeutic modalities. Areas of particular interest include trauma/PTSD, depression/anxiety, substance use disorders, as well as stigma around mental illness and in general.
Stephanie Morgana, MSN, PMHNP-BC, extends a warm welcome to individuals seeking transformative mental health support at Baker Street Behavioral Health. Specializing in evidence-based medication management, Stephanie's clients are people looking for help with navigating issues such as ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, stress, PTSD, and/or LGBTQ+ issues, in a confidential space for self-exploration and growth.
Stephanie Morgana, MSN, PMHNP-BC, extends a warm welcome to individuals seeking transformative mental health support at Baker Street Behavioral Health. Specializing in evidence-based medication management, Stephanie's clients are people looking for help with navigating issues such as ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, stress, PTSD, and/or LGBTQ+ issues, in a confidential space for self-exploration and growth.
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Bergenfield, NJ 07621
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
See more therapy options for Oradell
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Oradell, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Oradell, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Medication Management |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Psychosis |
50% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | Aetna |
60% | Cigna and Evernorth |
60% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Oradell, NJ see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Oradell?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.