Psychiatrists in Somerville, NJ

Photo of Dr. Ceretha Hall-Dyke, DNP, APN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Ceretha Hall-Dyke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somerville, NJ 08876
My approach revolves around personalized care, prioritizing each individual's unique needs to address their mental health concerns effectively. I offer a range of treatments, including therapy, medication management, or a combination thereof. My aim is to cultivate a secure environment where clients can comfortably meet their mental health needs. Seeking help for mental health is not a sign of weakness but a display of strength.
My approach revolves around personalized care, prioritizing each individual's unique needs to address their mental health concerns effectively. I offer a range of treatments, including therapy, medication management, or a combination thereof. My aim is to cultivate a secure environment where clients can comfortably meet their mental health needs. Seeking help for mental health is not a sign of weakness but a display of strength.
(908) 628-1444 View (908) 628-1444
Photo of Akhtar Hossain, MD, Psychiatrist
Akhtar Hossain
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Somerville, NJ 08876
I have been a physician for over 30 years, a board-certified psychiatrist, specialized in child and adolescent psychiatry, but offer services to all age groups. I have held a directorship position at various mental health facilities over the years, supervised many psychiatrists, and APNs. I have a vast experience in helping people with serious mental illnesses, including but limited to Major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, ADHD, autistic spectrum disorder, substance use disorders.
I have been a physician for over 30 years, a board-certified psychiatrist, specialized in child and adolescent psychiatry, but offer services to all age groups. I have held a directorship position at various mental health facilities over the years, supervised many psychiatrists, and APNs. I have a vast experience in helping people with serious mental illnesses, including but limited to Major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, ADHD, autistic spectrum disorder, substance use disorders.
(908) 574-1567 View (908) 574-1567
Universal Behavioral Health Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Somerville, NJ 08876
Many people today are faced with mental health challenges that could prevent them from achieving their dreams. I understand that we all have goals and aspirations and everyone should be given the opportunity to reach their highest potential in life and impact their generation. I have been privileged to work with clients experiencing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, fear, low self-esteem, psychosis and drug addiction to ensure that they get back to a state of emotional well-being and mental health. I worked with clients using psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy interventions with excellent results.
Many people today are faced with mental health challenges that could prevent them from achieving their dreams. I understand that we all have goals and aspirations and everyone should be given the opportunity to reach their highest potential in life and impact their generation. I have been privileged to work with clients experiencing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, fear, low self-esteem, psychosis and drug addiction to ensure that they get back to a state of emotional well-being and mental health. I worked with clients using psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy interventions with excellent results.
(973) 510-2076 View (973) 510-2076
Photo of Padma Palvai - Mindspace Psychiatry , MD, Psychiatrist
Mindspace Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Somerville, NJ 08876
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
(908) 913-7531 View (908) 913-7531
Photo of Padma Palvai - Mindspace Psychiatry LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Mindspace Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Somerville, NJ 08876
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with autism, depression, or anxiety? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults in both the United States and India, I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with autism, depression, or anxiety? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults in both the United States and India, I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
(908) 224-4074 View (908) 224-4074
Photo of Donna Gunther, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Donna Gunther
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(908) 263-1085 View (908) 263-1085
Photo of Nkem Ani - Cognicare Psychological Services, APN , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cognicare Psychological Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is NP Nkem. I am a caring and passionate Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10+ years of experience in the healthcare/ public health field. I understand how resilient and strong human spirits are as they can overcome so many challenges of the past and create the life they want to live. I take a holistic approach toward making sure that the patient’s mental health needs are met. I am also passionate about the benefit of initiating psychotropic medications if needed. I collaborate with patients on what treatment plan will yield the expected health outcome.
Hello, my name is NP Nkem. I am a caring and passionate Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10+ years of experience in the healthcare/ public health field. I understand how resilient and strong human spirits are as they can overcome so many challenges of the past and create the life they want to live. I take a holistic approach toward making sure that the patient’s mental health needs are met. I am also passionate about the benefit of initiating psychotropic medications if needed. I collaborate with patients on what treatment plan will yield the expected health outcome.
(908) 800-9590 View (908) 800-9590
Photo of Jennifer Bright Dismukes - Bright Futures Psychiatry, DO, Psychiatrist
Bright Futures Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Jennifer Dismukes, DO combines exceptional knowledge and skills with compassionate therapeutic services. Her practice combines skilled psychotherapists with expert medical expertise. She seeks to understand how experiences, biology, family history and personality traits contribute to your current suffering and symptoms. Dr. Dismukes is double Board-Certified Adult and Pediatric medical physician of Psychiatry, a Doctor-of-Medicine, specifically Osteopathic Medicine, which is the study of the entire body as a system. As such, She is an expert in the treatment of medical, psychiatric, psychological, and developmental problems.
Dr. Jennifer Dismukes, DO combines exceptional knowledge and skills with compassionate therapeutic services. Her practice combines skilled psychotherapists with expert medical expertise. She seeks to understand how experiences, biology, family history and personality traits contribute to your current suffering and symptoms. Dr. Dismukes is double Board-Certified Adult and Pediatric medical physician of Psychiatry, a Doctor-of-Medicine, specifically Osteopathic Medicine, which is the study of the entire body as a system. As such, She is an expert in the treatment of medical, psychiatric, psychological, and developmental problems.
(609) 722-7046 View (609) 722-7046
Photo of Dolores Suzansky, MSN, RN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dolores Suzansky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or going through a challenging period in your life? Have your symptoms persisted despite multiple medication trials without success? I am Dolores Suzansky (MSN, RN, APN, PMHNP-BC, RNC-NIC), a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practicing with Oasis Better Health, working with clients to manage symptoms via psychopharmacology. I also have twenty years of experience as an RN supporting parents of babies in the NICU and mothers during the peripartum period. I work with adolescent, adult, and older adult clients.
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or going through a challenging period in your life? Have your symptoms persisted despite multiple medication trials without success? I am Dolores Suzansky (MSN, RN, APN, PMHNP-BC, RNC-NIC), a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practicing with Oasis Better Health, working with clients to manage symptoms via psychopharmacology. I also have twenty years of experience as an RN supporting parents of babies in the NICU and mothers during the peripartum period. I work with adolescent, adult, and older adult clients.
(732) 538-9295 View (732) 538-9295
Photo of Gabriell Budoff, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gabriell Budoff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a board-certified behavioral health nurse practitioner, specializing in the mental health needs of adults and older adults. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Brandeis University and a Master’s Degree in Nursing from Boston College William F. Connell School. I provide a nurturing and safe space, in which you can express yourself freely without fear of judgment. I practice with patience and compassion and promise to take the time to get to know who you are as an individual and your unique needs and strengths. I will work with you to come up with a treatment plan you are comfortable with.
I am a board-certified behavioral health nurse practitioner, specializing in the mental health needs of adults and older adults. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Brandeis University and a Master’s Degree in Nursing from Boston College William F. Connell School. I provide a nurturing and safe space, in which you can express yourself freely without fear of judgment. I practice with patience and compassion and promise to take the time to get to know who you are as an individual and your unique needs and strengths. I will work with you to come up with a treatment plan you are comfortable with.
(908) 224-5598 View (908) 224-5598
Photo of Farheen Fahim - livingston heathcare llc, MD, Psychiatrist
livingston heathcare llc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My philosophy of working with my patients is to first and foremost clarify the diagnosis. It can take few visits to do so and I like to spend time with you going over few things from past history. I believe in the importance of a Bio-psycho-social profile and getting to know different facets of your life - It is very important for me to get to know you as a person not just someone with symptoms of a disorder . I like to stay in touch with other treatment providers such as medical doctors and Psychotherapists as I believe coordination of care is very important.
My philosophy of working with my patients is to first and foremost clarify the diagnosis. It can take few visits to do so and I like to spend time with you going over few things from past history. I believe in the importance of a Bio-psycho-social profile and getting to know different facets of your life - It is very important for me to get to know you as a person not just someone with symptoms of a disorder . I like to stay in touch with other treatment providers such as medical doctors and Psychotherapists as I believe coordination of care is very important.
(908) 791-5960 View (908) 791-5960
Photo of Joseph A Donnellan - Joseph A. Donnellan, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Joseph A. Donnellan, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi! I have 27 years experience as a board-certified psychiatrist in central New Jersey. My specialties are eating disorders, depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I have been the medical director of the Eating Disorders Program at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset (formerly Somerset Medical Center) for 22 years and I am the Chief of Psychiatry there, a position I have held since 1999. I have a private-practice in Hillsborough, which I started in 1993. I believe that one size does NOT fit all and every patient needs a unique treatment plan that should be developed together between professional and patient.
Hi! I have 27 years experience as a board-certified psychiatrist in central New Jersey. My specialties are eating disorders, depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I have been the medical director of the Eating Disorders Program at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset (formerly Somerset Medical Center) for 22 years and I am the Chief of Psychiatry there, a position I have held since 1999. I have a private-practice in Hillsborough, which I started in 1993. I believe that one size does NOT fit all and every patient needs a unique treatment plan that should be developed together between professional and patient.
(908) 332-5624 View (908) 332-5624
Photo of David Heekin, MD, Psychiatrist
David Heekin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Please visit my website (see address on this page) to schedule an initial consultation. 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.
Please visit my website (see address on this page) to schedule an initial consultation. 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.
(908) 529-0519 View (908) 529-0519

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Immaculata Ada Emesue - Trinity Psychiatry (Immaculata Emesue), PMHNP, AGNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trinity Psychiatry (Immaculata Emesue)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Immaculata Emesue, I am a board-certified Mental Health and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience in psychiatry. I am well experienced in the management of various psychiatry/mental illness. We all aware that life could be extremely stressful and especially with the ongoing chaos in our world today. We are here to help you to navigate through your life struggles and optimize your quality of life. Our goal is to help our patient to achieve optimal serenity and to bring life back to normal once again. We offer medication management and counselling for coping with your daily mental stress.
My name is Immaculata Emesue, I am a board-certified Mental Health and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience in psychiatry. I am well experienced in the management of various psychiatry/mental illness. We all aware that life could be extremely stressful and especially with the ongoing chaos in our world today. We are here to help you to navigate through your life struggles and optimize your quality of life. Our goal is to help our patient to achieve optimal serenity and to bring life back to normal once again. We offer medication management and counselling for coping with your daily mental stress.
(732) 582-5713 View (732) 582-5713
Photo of Andrea Papa, DO, Psychiatrist
Andrea Papa
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
(908) 304-9687 View (908) 304-9687
Photo of Dr. Mona Williams-Gregory, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Mona Williams-Gregory
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with two doctoral degrees. I am qualified to practice in Psychiatry and Internal Medicine to counsel, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for patients of all age groups. I have 25 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner and have worked extensively in inpatient and outpatient settings.
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with two doctoral degrees. I am qualified to practice in Psychiatry and Internal Medicine to counsel, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for patients of all age groups. I have 25 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner and have worked extensively in inpatient and outpatient settings.
(732) 507-9413 View (732) 507-9413
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(973) 798-9979 View (973) 798-9979
Photo of Julian Fils, PMHNP-, MSN, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julian Fils
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, MSN, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedminster, NJ 07921
Do you ever wonder if the feelings you are experiencing are normal? Are you wondering why you are so forgetful, why you have trouble concentrating, or why you are easily distracted? Perhaps you find it difficult to wake up in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you are sometimes tearful for no apparent reason? Are you having difficulty falling asleep at night or waking up multiple times throughout the night, leaving you feeling exhausted the following day? Did you experience trauma that left you feeling anxious and tense? These challenges do not have to be faced alone!
Do you ever wonder if the feelings you are experiencing are normal? Are you wondering why you are so forgetful, why you have trouble concentrating, or why you are easily distracted? Perhaps you find it difficult to wake up in the morning, you lack the motivation to participate in life anymore, and you are sometimes tearful for no apparent reason? Are you having difficulty falling asleep at night or waking up multiple times throughout the night, leaving you feeling exhausted the following day? Did you experience trauma that left you feeling anxious and tense? These challenges do not have to be faced alone!
(908) 280-1242 View (908) 280-1242
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(908) 676-6592 View (908) 676-6592
Photo of Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Carol Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
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.
(973) 358-0428 View (973) 358-0428

See more therapy options for Somerville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Somerville, NJ

10+

Average cost per session

$324

Psychiatrists in Somerville, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
92% Anxiety
92% ADHD
85% Bipolar Disorder
77% Trauma and PTSD
77% Medication Management

Average years in practice

19 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% Cigna and Evernorth
70% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield
60% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Somerville, NJ see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Somerville?

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.