Psychiatrists in Ringoes, NJ
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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.

Hello, my name is Donna and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. One of the very important things I have learned through my years in practice is that the relationship and connection formed between a patient and their provider is paramount. It is the solid foundation from which someone can truly move forward with their mental health goals. I will provide the time you need to listen to your story, evaluate your situation, and then devise options for your treatment including medication if needed. I will collaborate with you in making treatment decisions every step of the way.
Hello, my name is Donna and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. One of the very important things I have learned through my years in practice is that the relationship and connection formed between a patient and their provider is paramount. It is the solid foundation from which someone can truly move forward with their mental health goals. I will provide the time you need to listen to your story, evaluate your situation, and then devise options for your treatment including medication if needed. I will collaborate with you in making treatment decisions every step of the way.

Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!

I help adult clients ages 18+ with a diverse range of issues (anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, trauma, psychosis, etc.) through a practical and results-oriented approach that is focused mainly on medication management while incorporating a holistic focus through coordination with other professionals (talk therapy, nutrition, wellness, exercise, and other areas). I serve clients in New Jersey and New York through a convenient and secure online telehealth platform, although I also meet with clients in person at my Flemington, New Jersey office.
I help adult clients ages 18+ with a diverse range of issues (anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, trauma, psychosis, etc.) through a practical and results-oriented approach that is focused mainly on medication management while incorporating a holistic focus through coordination with other professionals (talk therapy, nutrition, wellness, exercise, and other areas). I serve clients in New Jersey and New York through a convenient and secure online telehealth platform, although I also meet with clients in person at my Flemington, New Jersey office.

Tina Marie James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive and compassionate care to my psychiatric clients. I believe in empowering individuals to take control of their mental health journey, and I am committed to helping them achieve their unique goals and aspirations. I am dedicated to helping my clients overcome obstacles, build resiliences, and cultivate a sense of purpose and fulfillment. I believe in the importance of cultural sensitivity, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based practices that acknowledge the complex interplay between mental and physical health and social determinants.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive and compassionate care to my psychiatric clients. I believe in empowering individuals to take control of their mental health journey, and I am committed to helping them achieve their unique goals and aspirations. I am dedicated to helping my clients overcome obstacles, build resiliences, and cultivate a sense of purpose and fulfillment. I believe in the importance of cultural sensitivity, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based practices that acknowledge the complex interplay between mental and physical health and social determinants.

Resiliency Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting New clients. I provide Adolescents and Adults mental health services. As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), Adutwumwaa Addo is passionate about enhancing the mental well-being of individuals and communities. With a strong educational background and years of clinical experience, I am committed to providing patient-centered comprehensive, compassionate care in the field of mental health. My areas of specialization encompass the treatment of mood disorders, depression, and anxiety disorders among many others.
Accepting New clients. I provide Adolescents and Adults mental health services. As a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), Adutwumwaa Addo is passionate about enhancing the mental well-being of individuals and communities. With a strong educational background and years of clinical experience, I am committed to providing patient-centered comprehensive, compassionate care in the field of mental health. My areas of specialization encompass the treatment of mood disorders, depression, and anxiety disorders among many others.

Lukresia B Kawira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, APN, RN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Ms. Kawira is dedicated to customizing treatment plans and dialogues to meet each patient's unique needs. She believes in engaging in open dialogues to establish rapport, build trust, and ensure a secure patient environment. She is qualified to evaluate, diagnose, and manage psychiatric conditions throughout the lifespan, including major depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, bipolar disorders, and sleep disorders. At present, her practice welcomes clients aged 18 and older.
Ms. Kawira is dedicated to customizing treatment plans and dialogues to meet each patient's unique needs. She believes in engaging in open dialogues to establish rapport, build trust, and ensure a secure patient environment. She is qualified to evaluate, diagnose, and manage psychiatric conditions throughout the lifespan, including major depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, bipolar disorders, and sleep disorders. At present, her practice welcomes clients aged 18 and older.

My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.
My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.

Hay Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Flemington, NJ 08822
Accepting new patients. As a lifelong resident of beautiful Hunterdon County, I am passionate about providing quality mental health services to our community. My primary focus is on evidence based medication management. I prefer to see patients in person at my office suite. I feel that our most effective work and progress is done in person. I also see patients via Zoom tele health and phone consult if needed.
Accepting new patients. As a lifelong resident of beautiful Hunterdon County, I am passionate about providing quality mental health services to our community. My primary focus is on evidence based medication management. I prefer to see patients in person at my office suite. I feel that our most effective work and progress is done in person. I also see patients via Zoom tele health and phone consult if needed.

I'm a healthcare professional with several years of experience as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. My passion for the medical field began during my teenage years. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in nursing from William Paterson University, New Jersey, and a master’s degree in Adult Geriatric Nursing from Rutgers University, New Jersey. I also obtained a post-master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Wilkes University. Over the years, I have worked in various areas, starting as a bedside nurse and later as a nurse practitioner, treating patients with chronic diseases.
I'm a healthcare professional with several years of experience as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. My passion for the medical field began during my teenage years. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in nursing from William Paterson University, New Jersey, and a master’s degree in Adult Geriatric Nursing from Rutgers University, New Jersey. I also obtained a post-master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Wilkes University. Over the years, I have worked in various areas, starting as a bedside nurse and later as a nurse practitioner, treating patients with chronic diseases.

I like to think my practice offers something for everyone. I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, so I can prescribe medications, but I am also a therapist. Many patients like the idea of their psychopharmacologist also being their therapist, because it means that I understand my patients as whole persons, and can minimize the amount of medication necessary. In some cases problems can be addressed with therapy alone, by helping patients identify and manage their emotions. For patients who prefer to work with someone else as therapist, I can function solely as the psychopharmacologist.
I like to think my practice offers something for everyone. I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, so I can prescribe medications, but I am also a therapist. Many patients like the idea of their psychopharmacologist also being their therapist, because it means that I understand my patients as whole persons, and can minimize the amount of medication necessary. In some cases problems can be addressed with therapy alone, by helping patients identify and manage their emotions. For patients who prefer to work with someone else as therapist, I can function solely as the psychopharmacologist.

Adrienne Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phillipsburg, NJ 08865
Currently only accepting new Pediatric and Perinatal clients. Whether your child is struggling with emotional problems or has difficulty with focus and concentration, or you are having your own challenges with anxiety, depression, mood swings, or even paranoia and psychosis. You can find help here at MindLight. We specialize in the pediatric and perinatal populations with many different kinds of challenges.
Currently only accepting new Pediatric and Perinatal clients. Whether your child is struggling with emotional problems or has difficulty with focus and concentration, or you are having your own challenges with anxiety, depression, mood swings, or even paranoia and psychosis. You can find help here at MindLight. We specialize in the pediatric and perinatal populations with many different kinds of challenges.

Christelle McClure
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm Dr. Christelle McClure, a doctoral-prepared and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, excited to embark on the journey to optimal mental well-being with you. With over 12 years of nursing experience, I've had the privilege of working with diverse populations across the lifespan at various levels of care. I am passionate about implementing evidence-based practices and taking a holistic, patient-centered approach to treating mental health disorders.
I'm Dr. Christelle McClure, a doctoral-prepared and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, excited to embark on the journey to optimal mental well-being with you. With over 12 years of nursing experience, I've had the privilege of working with diverse populations across the lifespan at various levels of care. I am passionate about implementing evidence-based practices and taking a holistic, patient-centered approach to treating mental health disorders.

Amy C Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Your mental health journey is unique, and your care should be too. I aim to provide comprehensive, holistic, and personalized mental health care. The priority in caring for my patients is to develop a safe treatment plan while recognizing and honoring where they are in their journey. I provide medication management via telehealth, providing ease and comfort of care.
Your mental health journey is unique, and your care should be too. I aim to provide comprehensive, holistic, and personalized mental health care. The priority in caring for my patients is to develop a safe treatment plan while recognizing and honoring where they are in their journey. I provide medication management via telehealth, providing ease and comfort of care.

I am Beatrice Mebude, a family psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. I offers my expertise virtually through Mercy Throne Behavioral Health Institute LLC. I understand that mental well-being is essential for a fulfilling and meaningful life. Therefore, I strive to provide care that prepare client for living a fulfilling and productive live as a member of the community. Everyone is unique in their treatment needs, so I uses individualized treatment plan in my practice. I believe in a collaborative approach to practice and am looking forward to working with you in crafting the best treatment plan to improve your life.
I am Beatrice Mebude, a family psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. I offers my expertise virtually through Mercy Throne Behavioral Health Institute LLC. I understand that mental well-being is essential for a fulfilling and meaningful life. Therefore, I strive to provide care that prepare client for living a fulfilling and productive live as a member of the community. Everyone is unique in their treatment needs, so I uses individualized treatment plan in my practice. I believe in a collaborative approach to practice and am looking forward to working with you in crafting the best treatment plan to improve your life.

My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.
My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.

Rebecca Florence Mizrahi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
People say I have a fun-loving and caring attitude and I am naturally optimistic. I have 8 years of experience in the medical field and the majority of it was on the front lines of inpatient detox. Psych, especially addictions, is my calling and I’m so lucky to have found my niche so quickly.
People say I have a fun-loving and caring attitude and I am naturally optimistic. I have 8 years of experience in the medical field and the majority of it was on the front lines of inpatient detox. Psych, especially addictions, is my calling and I’m so lucky to have found my niche so quickly.

My patients are often wondering whether the emotional problems they are experiencing are due to a recognizable disorder and whether they may respond to appropriate medication. Often they have been treated unsuccessfully in the past. They expect and receive a clear explanation and discussion of the rationale for the treatments available, and the advantages and disadvantages of each. They expect this to happen in an empathic atmosphere with someone who spends the time to get to know them in the context of their unique interpersonal and occupational milieu and who takes this context seriously in discussions and decisions.
My patients are often wondering whether the emotional problems they are experiencing are due to a recognizable disorder and whether they may respond to appropriate medication. Often they have been treated unsuccessfully in the past. They expect and receive a clear explanation and discussion of the rationale for the treatments available, and the advantages and disadvantages of each. They expect this to happen in an empathic atmosphere with someone who spends the time to get to know them in the context of their unique interpersonal and occupational milieu and who takes this context seriously in discussions and decisions.

Thank you for looking at my profile. I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. I have been working with patients with mental health issues for more than a decade. I believe each person has an internal capability and tendency to be resilient. Are you not that happy self that you used to be? Are you sad, tired, emotional, irritable or angry without a proportional reason? Can you not pay attention or accomplish a task? Are you not enthusiastic anymore? Are you stressed or overwhelmed?
Thank you for looking at my profile. I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. I have been working with patients with mental health issues for more than a decade. I believe each person has an internal capability and tendency to be resilient. Are you not that happy self that you used to be? Are you sad, tired, emotional, irritable or angry without a proportional reason? Can you not pay attention or accomplish a task? Are you not enthusiastic anymore? Are you stressed or overwhelmed?

Wendy Ann Reiss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Wendy specializes in Depression, Anxiety and Addiction. She has been trained across lifespan, which allows her to treat patients of all ages. She will be your ally in your quest for well-being and balance. Wendy believes utilizing a holistic approach to wellness including emotional and physical health. She strives to provide culturally informed, and patient centered care tailored to each individual needs. Currently we are accepting new patients.
Wendy specializes in Depression, Anxiety and Addiction. She has been trained across lifespan, which allows her to treat patients of all ages. She will be your ally in your quest for well-being and balance. Wendy believes utilizing a holistic approach to wellness including emotional and physical health. She strives to provide culturally informed, and patient centered care tailored to each individual needs. Currently we are accepting new patients.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Ringoes, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Ringoes, NJ who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Ringoes, NJ see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Ringoes?
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.