Psychiatrists in Sicklerville, NJ

Photo of Robert Briglia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Robert Briglia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Sicklerville, NJ 08081
My personal professional philosophy encompasses the emphasis on individualized and integrative treatment plans, which address the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. I believe addressing the patient as whole person, in an individualized fashion, promotes the most optimal patient outcomes, which facilitate overall well-being and sustainable health.
My personal professional philosophy encompasses the emphasis on individualized and integrative treatment plans, which address the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. I believe addressing the patient as whole person, in an individualized fashion, promotes the most optimal patient outcomes, which facilitate overall well-being and sustainable health.
(856) 517-2838 View (856) 517-2838
Photo of Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Sicklerville, NJ 08081
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and in-patient settings.
(856) 644-4428 View (856) 644-4428
Photo of Amanda Guarnere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sicklerville, NJ 08081
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to the patient's needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to the patient's needs.
(856) 356-0170 View (856) 356-0170
Photo of Sherie Reed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Sherie Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Welcome! I am Sherie Reed a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting individuals on their mental health journey. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s unique needs. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, I work collaboratively with clients to manage conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel empowered to achieve mental wellness and improve their quality of life.
Welcome! I am Sherie Reed a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting individuals on their mental health journey. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s unique needs. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, I work collaboratively with clients to manage conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel empowered to achieve mental wellness and improve their quality of life.
(856) 492-6047 View (856) 492-6047
Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRM, FNC-C, PMHNP, -BC
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRM, FNC-C, PMHNP, -BC
Sicklerville, NJ 08081
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve their mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stop socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and fail college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with your current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve their mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stop socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and fail college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with your current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
(856) 595-0476 View (856) 595-0476
Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Sicklerville, NJ 08081
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together. Through psychotherapy and at times medication management. I strive in truly allowing the client to feel heard, spending time with the client to understand their symptoms and provide good competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together. Through psychotherapy and at times medication management. I strive in truly allowing the client to feel heard, spending time with the client to understand their symptoms and provide good competent care.
(856) 335-7739 View (856) 335-7739
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Sicklerville, NJ 08081
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
(856) 565-4024 View (856) 565-4024
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN , PMHNP, -BC
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN , PMHNP, -BC
Sicklerville, NJ 08081
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for professionally, compassionately, and non-judgmentally. They should also be educated on their treatment options, including medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for professionally, compassionately, and non-judgmentally. They should also be educated on their treatment options, including medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
(856) 475-6687 View (856) 475-6687
Photo of Bradford Bobrin, Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FACLP
Bradford Bobrin
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FACLP
Sicklerville, NJ 08081
I don't have an ideal client, except they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are 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 they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are 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.
(856) 636-4140 View (856) 636-4140
Photo of Andrea Papa, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrea Papa
Psychiatrist, MD
Sicklerville, NJ 08081
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.
(856) 626-7882 View (856) 626-7882
Photo of Dr. Rafia Grooms, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dr. Rafia Grooms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sicklerville, NJ 08081
I am a nurse practitioner board certified in family medicine(FNP) and mental Health(PMHNP).
I am a nurse practitioner board certified in family medicine(FNP) and mental Health(PMHNP).
(856) 658-1890 View (856) 658-1890
Photo of Loveline Awa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Loveline Awa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Sicklerville, NJ 08081
The focused is understanding the various psychological issues face by individual clients, identifying appropriate treatment approach based on individual needs and issues and provide interventions to meet each client's needs and goals accordingly. For example Client's emotional distress, physical health issues, behavioral and cognitive challenges
The focused is understanding the various psychological issues face by individual clients, identifying appropriate treatment approach based on individual needs and issues and provide interventions to meet each client's needs and goals accordingly. For example Client's emotional distress, physical health issues, behavioral and cognitive challenges
(856) 880-6560 View (856) 880-6560
Photo of Theodora Nwosu - J&T Behavioral Health and Counseling Services, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, BC
J&T Behavioral Health and Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Sicklerville, NJ 08081
I am an experienced and compassionate board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have cared and provided mental health services to individuals and their families ages 14 and above. My experience comes from working in diverse settings that includes the prison system, state psychiatric hospitals, Inpatient psychiatric hospitals, Outpatient community clinics and Crisis centers. I will work with you to reach your goal of obtaining mental wellness, "being yourself again".
I am an experienced and compassionate board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have cared and provided mental health services to individuals and their families ages 14 and above. My experience comes from working in diverse settings that includes the prison system, state psychiatric hospitals, Inpatient psychiatric hospitals, Outpatient community clinics and Crisis centers. I will work with you to reach your goal of obtaining mental wellness, "being yourself again".
(856) 281-3942 View (856) 281-3942
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Sicklerville, NJ 08081
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.
(856) 880-7462 View (856) 880-7462
Photo of Rachel Gbuo Horace - Core Wellness Behavioral Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Core Wellness Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Welcome to My Telehealth Practice As a dedicated and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I offer personalized and evidence-based mental health care through convenient telehealth services. I invite you to collaborate with me in addressing your mental health needs. Whether you are seeking relief from distressing symptoms, enhancing your coping strategies, or aiming to improve your overall well-being, I am here to provide support throughout your journey.
Welcome to My Telehealth Practice As a dedicated and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I offer personalized and evidence-based mental health care through convenient telehealth services. I invite you to collaborate with me in addressing your mental health needs. Whether you are seeking relief from distressing symptoms, enhancing your coping strategies, or aiming to improve your overall well-being, I am here to provide support throughout your journey.
(856) 329-5148 View (856) 329-5148
Photo of Serena M Natal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, FPMHNP
Serena M Natal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, FPMHNP
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Natal is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 24 years experience in the field of mental health. Dr. Natal is a compassionate supportive practitioner that takes pride in providing quality comprehensive psychiatric treatment. Services are provided throughout the developmental lifespan, from age three to senior.
Dr. Natal is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 24 years experience in the field of mental health. Dr. Natal is a compassionate supportive practitioner that takes pride in providing quality comprehensive psychiatric treatment. Services are provided throughout the developmental lifespan, from age three to senior.
(856) 924-6932 View (856) 924-6932
Photo of Lisa Scarlatella, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lisa Scarlatella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
When you're overwhelmed by anxiety, burnout, relationship strain, or deep sadness, it can feel like there's no room to breathe. Many of my patients come to me navigating eating disorders, depression, OCD, PTSD, grief, or the emotional weight of major life transitions such as divorce or identity shifts. My role is to create a space where your story is heard, and your needs guide the path forward. Together, we’ll build a personalized plan that combines supportive therapy with thoughtful medication management to help you feel more grounded, capable, and empowered.
When you're overwhelmed by anxiety, burnout, relationship strain, or deep sadness, it can feel like there's no room to breathe. Many of my patients come to me navigating eating disorders, depression, OCD, PTSD, grief, or the emotional weight of major life transitions such as divorce or identity shifts. My role is to create a space where your story is heard, and your needs guide the path forward. Together, we’ll build a personalized plan that combines supportive therapy with thoughtful medication management to help you feel more grounded, capable, and empowered.
(551) 210-4766 View (551) 210-4766
Photo of Juliet Chhor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Juliet Chhor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Hi! My name is Juliet & I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP. I am qualified to diagnose & treat mental health disorders in all ages. I am originally from Philly & graduated with my BSN at LaSalle University. I then studied & earned my MSN at Walden University with a focus in mental health & psychiatry. I have been a nurse for 6 years & hope to continue to advocate for patients & promote autonomy. I am dedicated to providing quality, holistic, & evidence-based care in the form of med management, supportive therapy,& lifestyle optimization to best support my patients to accomplish their goals & overcome life obstacles.
Hi! My name is Juliet & I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP. I am qualified to diagnose & treat mental health disorders in all ages. I am originally from Philly & graduated with my BSN at LaSalle University. I then studied & earned my MSN at Walden University with a focus in mental health & psychiatry. I have been a nurse for 6 years & hope to continue to advocate for patients & promote autonomy. I am dedicated to providing quality, holistic, & evidence-based care in the form of med management, supportive therapy,& lifestyle optimization to best support my patients to accomplish their goals & overcome life obstacles.
(856) 544-0660 View (856) 544-0660
Photo of Dr. Edna Hiers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Dr. Edna Hiers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Online Only
We create a safe space for clients to get their mental health needs met. Seeking mental health care is not a sign of weakness. It is a form of strength. Our doctoral-level psychiatric nurse practitioner, Dr. Edna Hiers, focuses on the whole person. Her style is addressing the whole person while focusing on how the mental, physical, spiritual, and psychosocial aspects of an individual contributes to their mental wellness which is the key to diagnosis. She strives to provide high quality of care by actively listening to the needs of her clients and by providing psychiatric evaluations, therapy, medication management, referrals.
We create a safe space for clients to get their mental health needs met. Seeking mental health care is not a sign of weakness. It is a form of strength. Our doctoral-level psychiatric nurse practitioner, Dr. Edna Hiers, focuses on the whole person. Her style is addressing the whole person while focusing on how the mental, physical, spiritual, and psychosocial aspects of an individual contributes to their mental wellness which is the key to diagnosis. She strives to provide high quality of care by actively listening to the needs of her clients and by providing psychiatric evaluations, therapy, medication management, referrals.
(732) 795-5227 View (732) 795-5227

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Psychiatric and Recovery Services
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Marlton, NJ 08053
Edward Baruch, MD of Psychiatric and Recovery Services (formerly Psychiatric and Addiction Services or PASSNJ) offers treatment for: depression, anxiety disorders, opiate/narcotic addiction, alcoholism, sedative/benzodiazepin dependence, ADD/ADHD, OCD, psychosis, schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder and more. The safest, most effective treatments are provided to get you or your loved one back on track. Dr. Baruch has been Board Certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. He treats children, adults, older adults and Developmental Disabilities. We provide Suboxone or Buprenorphine, for those who are struggling with opiate addiction.
Edward Baruch, MD of Psychiatric and Recovery Services (formerly Psychiatric and Addiction Services or PASSNJ) offers treatment for: depression, anxiety disorders, opiate/narcotic addiction, alcoholism, sedative/benzodiazepin dependence, ADD/ADHD, OCD, psychosis, schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder and more. The safest, most effective treatments are provided to get you or your loved one back on track. Dr. Baruch has been Board Certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. He treats children, adults, older adults and Developmental Disabilities. We provide Suboxone or Buprenorphine, for those who are struggling with opiate addiction.
(856) 872-2693 View (856) 872-2693

See more therapy options for Sicklerville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Sicklerville, NJ

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Sicklerville, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
84% Bipolar Disorder
79% ADHD
79% Trauma and PTSD
58% Addiction
53% Eating Disorders

Average years in practice

2 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
89% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield

How Psychiatrists in Sicklerville, NJ see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
19% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Sicklerville?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.