Psychiatrists in Rockaway, NJ

My Psych Provider.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockaway, NJ 07866
Dr. Samuel Okechukwu, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of My Psych Provider LLC. With over a decade of experience in acute care and psychiatry, he combines strong clinical skills with a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Dr. Okechukwu uses a personalized, evidence-based approach to deliver compassionate care, recognizing that every patient has a unique story. His goal is to enhance quality of life by providing comprehensive, high-quality mental health services.
Dr. Samuel Okechukwu, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of My Psych Provider LLC. With over a decade of experience in acute care and psychiatry, he combines strong clinical skills with a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Dr. Okechukwu uses a personalized, evidence-based approach to deliver compassionate care, recognizing that every patient has a unique story. His goal is to enhance quality of life by providing comprehensive, high-quality mental health services.

CEAN Mental Wellness Services LLC aims to address mental issues, promote self-care and awareness of all ages. Sometimes, the chains that prevent our freedom are more mental than physical. If you are diagnosed or experiencing any mental breakdown such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, dementia or mood disorder with psychotic features, we are here to help.
CEAN Mental Wellness Services LLC aims to address mental issues, promote self-care and awareness of all ages. Sometimes, the chains that prevent our freedom are more mental than physical. If you are diagnosed or experiencing any mental breakdown such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, dementia or mood disorder with psychotic features, we are here to help.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Raynald Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years in nursing including emergency/crisis, acute, chronic, legal and intermediate care. I work with patients with the following diagnoses including but not limited to: Major depressive disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Sleep issues, and PTSD.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years in nursing including emergency/crisis, acute, chronic, legal and intermediate care. I work with patients with the following diagnoses including but not limited to: Major depressive disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Sleep issues, and PTSD.

BirchWood Health - Jacquelyn Zagone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health

Maxicare Healthcare Consult LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, HERBAL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Succasunna, NJ 07876
Trauma changes us; life stressors can cause our lives to unravel, it is all part of the normal human experience. Dr Tosin places emphasis on humans as we are. While incorporating psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, his passion encourages healing, and teaches coping skills. With years of experience in Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Schizophrenia, Clinical Depression, PTSD, and Substance Abuse, Dr Tosin has served as a guide to many families in both inpatient and out patient settings.
Trauma changes us; life stressors can cause our lives to unravel, it is all part of the normal human experience. Dr Tosin places emphasis on humans as we are. While incorporating psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, his passion encourages healing, and teaches coping skills. With years of experience in Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Schizophrenia, Clinical Depression, PTSD, and Substance Abuse, Dr Tosin has served as a guide to many families in both inpatient and out patient settings.

Roger Granet MD blends cutting edge academic psychiatry with years of empathic clinical practice. Dr. Granet is Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Medical College of Cornell University, Lecturer in Psychiatry at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Consultant at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Attending Psychiatrist at New York Presbyterian Hospital-Cornell Division and Morristown Memorial Hospital. Dr. Granet is author of: If You Think You Have Depression (Dell,1998), If you Think You Have Panic Disorder (Dell, 1998), Is it Alzheimer’s? What To Do When Loved Ones Can’t Remember What They Should (Avon, 1998), and Why Am I Up, Why Am I Down: Understanding Bipolar Disorder (Dell, 1999), Surviving Cancer Emotionally: Learning How to Heal, (John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2001
Roger Granet MD blends cutting edge academic psychiatry with years of empathic clinical practice. Dr. Granet is Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Medical College of Cornell University, Lecturer in Psychiatry at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Consultant at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Attending Psychiatrist at New York Presbyterian Hospital-Cornell Division and Morristown Memorial Hospital. Dr. Granet is author of: If You Think You Have Depression (Dell,1998), If you Think You Have Panic Disorder (Dell, 1998), Is it Alzheimer’s? What To Do When Loved Ones Can’t Remember What They Should (Avon, 1998), and Why Am I Up, Why Am I Down: Understanding Bipolar Disorder (Dell, 1999), Surviving Cancer Emotionally: Learning How to Heal, (John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2001

Depression, fear, and anxiety are common emotions that we experience at some point in our lives and sometimes these emotions can feel overpowering. Many individuals also experience lingering anxiety, fear, and hopelessness, associated with painful and traumatic events. My goal is to help you rediscover your innate strength and empower you to navigate life’s challenges and ultimately reclaim joy. My approach is collaborative and often includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication. I am an IFS (Internal Family System) level 1 trained therapist, certified schema therapist, and integrate a somatic approach.
Depression, fear, and anxiety are common emotions that we experience at some point in our lives and sometimes these emotions can feel overpowering. Many individuals also experience lingering anxiety, fear, and hopelessness, associated with painful and traumatic events. My goal is to help you rediscover your innate strength and empower you to navigate life’s challenges and ultimately reclaim joy. My approach is collaborative and often includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication. I am an IFS (Internal Family System) level 1 trained therapist, certified schema therapist, and integrate a somatic approach.

Dr. Richard Kleinmann has over 20 years of experience providing psychiatric care to children, adolescents and adults. He also provides independent psychiatric evaluations for elementary, middle and high schools. Areas of interest include depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (manic depression and psychotic disorders). Dr. Kleinmann believes in a collaborative approach when recommending utilization of medication. He recognizes that all medications have side effects and that it is therefore important to discuss the relative advantages and risks of any medication under consideration.
Dr. Richard Kleinmann has over 20 years of experience providing psychiatric care to children, adolescents and adults. He also provides independent psychiatric evaluations for elementary, middle and high schools. Areas of interest include depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (manic depression and psychotic disorders). Dr. Kleinmann believes in a collaborative approach when recommending utilization of medication. He recognizes that all medications have side effects and that it is therefore important to discuss the relative advantages and risks of any medication under consideration.

At Mindful Medicine, we understand that choosing the right psychiatrist for yourself or a loved one is a deeply personal decision. We invite you to explore our website www.mindfulmedicinemd.com to learn more about our practice and read our outstanding Google reviews, which reflect the compassionate care we provide. The insightful mental health content, follow us on social media! Look for mindfulmedicinemd on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok , LinkedIn and YouTube Channel to find engaging videos and resources.
At Mindful Medicine, we understand that choosing the right psychiatrist for yourself or a loved one is a deeply personal decision. We invite you to explore our website www.mindfulmedicinemd.com to learn more about our practice and read our outstanding Google reviews, which reflect the compassionate care we provide. The insightful mental health content, follow us on social media! Look for mindfulmedicinemd on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok , LinkedIn and YouTube Channel to find engaging videos and resources.

I focus on mental illness that affects people's day to day lives. I work with people by actively listening to people, and by guiding them and educating them about their problems, as well as by prescribing medications that will help them meet their goals.
I focus on mental illness that affects people's day to day lives. I work with people by actively listening to people, and by guiding them and educating them about their problems, as well as by prescribing medications that will help them meet their goals.

Eronmwon Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ANP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.

I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.

Jacqueline Hunterton-Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860
During the many changes and challenges we face in life it is essential at times to seek help. This can be a tedious venture and finding the right provider can be complicated. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am able to not only provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications but also become a part of your support system. Using psychotherapy and medication management I can help you gain the tools needed to move past the hard times. As a team we will be able to assess what your needs are and what the best possible treatment plan and outcomes can be obtained.
During the many changes and challenges we face in life it is essential at times to seek help. This can be a tedious venture and finding the right provider can be complicated. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am able to not only provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications but also become a part of your support system. Using psychotherapy and medication management I can help you gain the tools needed to move past the hard times. As a team we will be able to assess what your needs are and what the best possible treatment plan and outcomes can be obtained.

Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Darian and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Chronic illness and Depression. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Darian and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Chronic illness and Depression. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.

Dr. Leydi Marcela Espinosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-c, PMHNP-c
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a dedicated provider specializing in psychiatric mental health and family practice. I take a holistic approach to care, customizing treatment to meet the unique needs of each individual. My areas of specialty include management of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder.
I am a dedicated provider specializing in psychiatric mental health and family practice. I take a holistic approach to care, customizing treatment to meet the unique needs of each individual. My areas of specialty include management of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder.

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.

Dr. Lehrhoff is a psychiatrist, a therapist, & life coach who believes in the gray area of mental health. With a functional medicine and holistic background, Dr. L understands that treatment may need to be just as unique as the person requiring it. Some may benefit from medication, others may prefer guidance on weening off medications and/or be guided through life challenges in a nonjudgemental presence. With a goal to make each client feel seen, heard & understood, Dr. Lehrhoff ensures a safe space to move through current difficulties. No topic is unwelcome, as Dr. Lehrhoff is also a trained sex and relationship therapist.
Dr. Lehrhoff is a psychiatrist, a therapist, & life coach who believes in the gray area of mental health. With a functional medicine and holistic background, Dr. L understands that treatment may need to be just as unique as the person requiring it. Some may benefit from medication, others may prefer guidance on weening off medications and/or be guided through life challenges in a nonjudgemental presence. With a goal to make each client feel seen, heard & understood, Dr. Lehrhoff ensures a safe space to move through current difficulties. No topic is unwelcome, as Dr. Lehrhoff is also a trained sex and relationship therapist.

Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.

There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.

Hello, I am Dr. Shilin Pandya, Board Certified Psychiatrist. I have been helping people just like you for many years. I concentrate on treating the whole patient and not just the symptoms of a problem. This holistic approach takes into account any factors affecting you - culture, job, school, medical issues, family, religion, sleep, appetite, past trauma, etc. Issues that are unique to every human being and require individual attention and treatment. The goal of each visit is to leave you empowered to live a more content life.
Hello, I am Dr. Shilin Pandya, Board Certified Psychiatrist. I have been helping people just like you for many years. I concentrate on treating the whole patient and not just the symptoms of a problem. This holistic approach takes into account any factors affecting you - culture, job, school, medical issues, family, religion, sleep, appetite, past trauma, etc. Issues that are unique to every human being and require individual attention and treatment. The goal of each visit is to leave you empowered to live a more content life.
See more therapy options for Rockaway
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Rockaway, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Rockaway, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Rockaway, NJ see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Rockaway?
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.