Psychiatrists in Pennington, NJ

Are you navigating a major life transition & feeling like your mind, body, & spirit are all trying to catch up? Maybe you’re in the thick of perimenopause, a divorce, a new job—or all three at once. You may look like you’re holding it together on the outside, but inside you’re tired, anxious, & craving deeper healing than just a prescription.
I’m an integrative psychiatric nurse practitioner who blends traditional psychiatry with holistic approaches. My practice is designed for adult women in New Jersey who are ready to feel heard, supported, & treated as a whole person. I also am highly experienced in child psychiatry!
Are you navigating a major life transition & feeling like your mind, body, & spirit are all trying to catch up? Maybe you’re in the thick of perimenopause, a divorce, a new job—or all three at once. You may look like you’re holding it together on the outside, but inside you’re tired, anxious, & craving deeper healing than just a prescription.
I’m an integrative psychiatric nurse practitioner who blends traditional psychiatry with holistic approaches. My practice is designed for adult women in New Jersey who are ready to feel heard, supported, & treated as a whole person. I also am highly experienced in child psychiatry!

Medications are only one tool we have in assisting us with mental health disorders. I believe if you are on meds, then you should also be in therapy. Medications should be prescribed in the lowest amount in number and dosage that is effective, and then challenged as one progresses towards wellness. We are not accepting nor managing patients that are currently being prescribed stimulants and or benzodiazepines. New patients must have discharge summaries forwarded by their previous provider before their first appointment.
Medications are only one tool we have in assisting us with mental health disorders. I believe if you are on meds, then you should also be in therapy. Medications should be prescribed in the lowest amount in number and dosage that is effective, and then challenged as one progresses towards wellness. We are not accepting nor managing patients that are currently being prescribed stimulants and or benzodiazepines. New patients must have discharge summaries forwarded by their previous provider before their first appointment.

Kevin Kavookjian, MD is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, and licensed in New Jersey, New York and Maine. Dr. Kavookjian practiced in Maine from 2008 until 2022. During that time he was the Medical Director of Health Affiliates of Maine, a statewide mental health agency. He served as the Medical Director at Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center in Lewiston. Preceding that, Dr. Kavookjian was the Chief of Psychiatry at Southern Maine Medical Center. In 2022 Dr. Kavookjian's family returned to NJ both for easier access to superior schools and greater proximity to extended family.
Kevin Kavookjian, MD is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, and licensed in New Jersey, New York and Maine. Dr. Kavookjian practiced in Maine from 2008 until 2022. During that time he was the Medical Director of Health Affiliates of Maine, a statewide mental health agency. He served as the Medical Director at Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center in Lewiston. Preceding that, Dr. Kavookjian was the Chief of Psychiatry at Southern Maine Medical Center. In 2022 Dr. Kavookjian's family returned to NJ both for easier access to superior schools and greater proximity to extended family.

I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes a client-centered approach to mental health care, recognizing that each client is unique and has their own set of needs and goals. I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that are tailored to their specific needs. Learn more at healingwithheartinc.com
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes a client-centered approach to mental health care, recognizing that each client is unique and has their own set of needs and goals. I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that are tailored to their specific needs. Learn more at healingwithheartinc.com

Hello, I am Dr Madhurani Khare. My practice is centered around doing a thorough assessment which includes collaborating with a patient's therapist, primary care physician and schools/colleges to assess what my patients need. My philosophy is using a holistic approach which includes not only assessing if medications are needed, but also incorporating techniques such as appropriate nutrition, self-care and mindfulness. I also work on counseling parents and schools so that my patients and their families are supported in all areas. I offer appointments within a week in case of crisis situations.
Hello, I am Dr Madhurani Khare. My practice is centered around doing a thorough assessment which includes collaborating with a patient's therapist, primary care physician and schools/colleges to assess what my patients need. My philosophy is using a holistic approach which includes not only assessing if medications are needed, but also incorporating techniques such as appropriate nutrition, self-care and mindfulness. I also work on counseling parents and schools so that my patients and their families are supported in all areas. I offer appointments within a week in case of crisis situations.

Dr. Espaillat is Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She specializes in the evidence based treatment of anxiety, mood, and mental health disorders. Extensively trained in psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications, she offers a comprehensive, individualized approach tailored to her patients' individual needs.
Dr. Espaillat is Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She specializes in the evidence based treatment of anxiety, mood, and mental health disorders. Extensively trained in psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications, she offers a comprehensive, individualized approach tailored to her patients' individual needs.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Hi! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in New Jersey. I received my Master's degree from Rutgers University, my graduate master's certification from Walden University, and my Doctor of Nursing degree from Chatham University.
Hi! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in New Jersey. I received my Master's degree from Rutgers University, my graduate master's certification from Walden University, and my Doctor of Nursing degree from Chatham University.

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.

With over 18 years of nursing experience, I specialize in psychiatric care that prioritizes your mental and emotional well-being. Whether you're navigating anxiety, ADHD, panic disorder, depression, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, or bipolar disorder, I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy tailored to your needs. My goal is to help you feel confident and capable again, whether that means easing overwhelming thoughts, finding focus in your day-to-day life, or simply achieving better sleep. Together, we'll address the challenges holding you back and work toward meaningful change.
With over 18 years of nursing experience, I specialize in psychiatric care that prioritizes your mental and emotional well-being. Whether you're navigating anxiety, ADHD, panic disorder, depression, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, or bipolar disorder, I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy tailored to your needs. My goal is to help you feel confident and capable again, whether that means easing overwhelming thoughts, finding focus in your day-to-day life, or simply achieving better sleep. Together, we'll address the challenges holding you back and work toward meaningful change.

Serenity Healthcare Associates (Edna Akombe)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Edna Akombe, is a dual board-certified psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner and adult gerontology nurse practitioner. Edna completed her undergraduate studies in Nursing from Rutgers University. Edna received her master’s degree in nursing from Walden University and a post graduate certificate degree in psychiatric mental health from Wilkes University.
Edna Akombe, is a dual board-certified psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner and adult gerontology nurse practitioner. Edna completed her undergraduate studies in Nursing from Rutgers University. Edna received her master’s degree in nursing from Walden University and a post graduate certificate degree in psychiatric mental health from Wilkes University.

I am a Doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 25 years of healthcare experience working with patients. I work with clients aged 18 + who suffer from depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and grief. I also work with clients struggling with overwhelming life difficulties, such as the death of a loved one or the end of a relationship. My approach to care is tailored to your needs and may include medication, nutritional supplementation, and therapy. If you desire, we may incorporate your loved ones in your treatment to help them learn to support you on the pathway to recovery.
I am a Doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 25 years of healthcare experience working with patients. I work with clients aged 18 + who suffer from depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and grief. I also work with clients struggling with overwhelming life difficulties, such as the death of a loved one or the end of a relationship. My approach to care is tailored to your needs and may include medication, nutritional supplementation, and therapy. If you desire, we may incorporate your loved ones in your treatment to help them learn to support you on the pathway to recovery.

I received my Master of Science in Nursing, with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, from LaSalle University in Philadelphia, PA. I am certified through the American Nurses Credentialing center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and am licensed through the state of New Jersey as an Advanced Practice Nurse. I am also a member of the American Nurses Association and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. The focus of the majority of my experience has been with adult populations within the inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use treatment settings.
I received my Master of Science in Nursing, with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, from LaSalle University in Philadelphia, PA. I am certified through the American Nurses Credentialing center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and am licensed through the state of New Jersey as an Advanced Practice Nurse. I am also a member of the American Nurses Association and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. The focus of the majority of my experience has been with adult populations within the inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use treatment settings.

Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.

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.

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.

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.

I am a dedicated Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 2 years of experience. I have a strong focus on providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and postpartum challenges. My ideal clients seek holistic, personalized treatment beyond medication, empowering them to achieve mental wellness, stability, and a higher quality of life. I am committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and equipped to navigate their mental health journey with confidence.
I am a dedicated Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 2 years of experience. I have a strong focus on providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and postpartum challenges. My ideal clients seek holistic, personalized treatment beyond medication, empowering them to achieve mental wellness, stability, and a higher quality of life. I am committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and equipped to navigate their mental health journey with confidence.

Dr. Victoria Sewell DNP is a board certified and doctoral prepared, psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner who has been providing psychiatric services for patients with depression and anxiety since 2017. Dr. Sewell understands the isolation and debilitating effects of depression and anxiety; thus, she endeavors to provide care that is compassionate, supportive, and non-judgmental.
Dr. Victoria Sewell DNP is a board certified and doctoral prepared, psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner who has been providing psychiatric services for patients with depression and anxiety since 2017. Dr. Sewell understands the isolation and debilitating effects of depression and anxiety; thus, she endeavors to provide care that is compassionate, supportive, and non-judgmental.

Dr. Eric Finkiel, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). Eric completed his undergraduate education in nursing at New Jersey City University. He received a master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Rutgers University, and a post graduate certificate as a PMHNP from the University of Cincinnati. Eric went on to receive his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from University of Massachusetts, Boston. Eric has been working as a nurse practitioner since 2016 and has extensive experience treating a variety of medical diagnosis.
Dr. Eric Finkiel, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). Eric completed his undergraduate education in nursing at New Jersey City University. He received a master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Rutgers University, and a post graduate certificate as a PMHNP from the University of Cincinnati. Eric went on to receive his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from University of Massachusetts, Boston. Eric has been working as a nurse practitioner since 2016 and has extensive experience treating a variety of medical diagnosis.

My approach revolves around personalized care, prioritizing each individual's unique needs to address their mental health concerns effectively. I offer a combination of both medication management and therapy. My aim is to cultivate a secure environment where clients can comfortably meet their mental health needs. Seeking help for mental health is not a sign of weakness but a display of strength.
My approach revolves around personalized care, prioritizing each individual's unique needs to address their mental health concerns effectively. I offer a combination of both medication management and therapy. My aim is to cultivate a secure environment where clients can comfortably meet their mental health needs. Seeking help for mental health is not a sign of weakness but a display of strength.
See more therapy options for Pennington
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Pennington, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Pennington, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Child |
67% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
17 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Aetna |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
50% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Pennington, NJ see their clients
83% | In Person and Online | |
17% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Pennington?
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.