Psychiatrists in Spotswood, NJ

Photo of Mesode Sobe Uduaghan - BrighterSpace Mental Healthcare , PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BrighterSpace Mental Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spotswood, NJ 08884
Mesode is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who empowers individuals to achieve mental wellness from pre-adolescent to adulthood. She is committed to providing compassionate/empathetic care and personalized treatment plans. With expertise in assessment, diagnosis, relationship-building skills, and medication management. She strives to foster a supportive therapeutic environment where clients can thrive and regain control of their lives. Collaborating with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams, she aims to promote holistic well-being and resilience in the face of mental challenges.
Mesode is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who empowers individuals to achieve mental wellness from pre-adolescent to adulthood. She is committed to providing compassionate/empathetic care and personalized treatment plans. With expertise in assessment, diagnosis, relationship-building skills, and medication management. She strives to foster a supportive therapeutic environment where clients can thrive and regain control of their lives. Collaborating with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams, she aims to promote holistic well-being and resilience in the face of mental challenges.
(848) 266-6982 View (848) 266-6982
Photo of Taylor Marie Zembricki, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taylor Marie Zembricki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spotswood, NJ 08884
Taylor Zembricki is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who received her Doctorate in Nursing practice from Rutgers University. Her style can be described as person-centered, goal-directed and compassionate. She incorporates a multitude of psychotherapeutic techniques, depending on what best fits your needs. She uses an integrative approach, with a thorough understanding of the mind-body connection, treating her patients' in the most holistic way possible.
Taylor Zembricki is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who received her Doctorate in Nursing practice from Rutgers University. Her style can be described as person-centered, goal-directed and compassionate. She incorporates a multitude of psychotherapeutic techniques, depending on what best fits your needs. She uses an integrative approach, with a thorough understanding of the mind-body connection, treating her patients' in the most holistic way possible.
(862) 640-2183 View (862) 640-2183
Photo of Mesode Sobe-Uduaghan, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mesode Sobe-Uduaghan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spotswood, NJ 08884
Mesode is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who empowers individuals to achieve mental wellness from pre-adolescent to adulthood. She is committed to providing compassionate/empathetic care and personalized treatment plans. With expertise in assessment, diagnosis, relationship-building skills, and medication management. She strives to foster a supportive therapeutic environment where clients can thrive and regain control of their lives. Collaborating with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams, she aims to promote holistic well-being and resilience in the face of mental challenges.
Mesode is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who empowers individuals to achieve mental wellness from pre-adolescent to adulthood. She is committed to providing compassionate/empathetic care and personalized treatment plans. With expertise in assessment, diagnosis, relationship-building skills, and medication management. She strives to foster a supportive therapeutic environment where clients can thrive and regain control of their lives. Collaborating with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams, she aims to promote holistic well-being and resilience in the face of mental challenges.
(609) 403-3055 View (609) 403-3055
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include 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 in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
(848) 360-4792 View (848) 360-4792
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(732) 217-4693 View (732) 217-4693
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(732) 538-8139 View (732) 538-8139
Photo of Amanda Guarnere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(732) 889-7293 View (732) 889-7293

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Phenita Mouzon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Phenita Mouzon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Take the first step. Imagine how much better life will be without feelings of depression or anxiety. I can help whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, OCD, schizophrenia, bipolar, ADHD or self confidence. My goal is to always build trusting relationships with my clients. Providing an environment that is comforting and safe. I have helped many clients become the best version of themselves again. Treatment is always individualized to your specific needs, with a holistic approach. Together we can work to come up with a plan that works best for you. Please feel free to call 732-998-7191 for appointments.
Take the first step. Imagine how much better life will be without feelings of depression or anxiety. I can help whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, OCD, schizophrenia, bipolar, ADHD or self confidence. My goal is to always build trusting relationships with my clients. Providing an environment that is comforting and safe. I have helped many clients become the best version of themselves again. Treatment is always individualized to your specific needs, with a holistic approach. Together we can work to come up with a plan that works best for you. Please feel free to call 732-998-7191 for appointments.
(732) 998-7191 View (732) 998-7191
Photo of Barbara Darko, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Barbara Darko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Iam a dual board-certified, experienced primary care and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in adults 18 years and older. My approach is to target the body as a whole, as the body system is interconnected; a break in one section can cause a ripple effect in another. I am passionate about providing the best care and support my patients need to recover and maintain wellness.
Iam a dual board-certified, experienced primary care and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in adults 18 years and older. My approach is to target the body as a whole, as the body system is interconnected; a break in one section can cause a ripple effect in another. I am passionate about providing the best care and support my patients need to recover and maintain wellness.
(973) 836-5751 View (973) 836-5751
Photo of Gloria Akunna, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gloria Akunna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
We work with patients seeking to uncover the root cause of their symptoms and provide evidence-based solutions. Symptoms of anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders can manifest in several ways and interfere with day-to-day functioning. If you are experiencing sadness, mood swings, irritability, tiredness, low energy, trouble concentrating, poor sleep, or appetite changes, you have come to the right place! At PsychCare Health & Wellness, we begin with a comprehensive assessment and work with you to devise an evidence-based treatment plan that focuses on your unique needs. We also offer pharmacogenomic tests to guide medication management.
We work with patients seeking to uncover the root cause of their symptoms and provide evidence-based solutions. Symptoms of anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders can manifest in several ways and interfere with day-to-day functioning. If you are experiencing sadness, mood swings, irritability, tiredness, low energy, trouble concentrating, poor sleep, or appetite changes, you have come to the right place! At PsychCare Health & Wellness, we begin with a comprehensive assessment and work with you to devise an evidence-based treatment plan that focuses on your unique needs. We also offer pharmacogenomic tests to guide medication management.
(908) 503-2992 View (908) 503-2992
Photo of Akosua Ababio Constance Ababio - Clear Healthy Mind LLC, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Clear Healthy Mind LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747
Akosua C. Ababio is a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. She trained at Northern Kentucky University in both medication management and psychotherapy. Akosua is also a trained Family Nurse Practitioner-BC. She treats patients of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors. Her non-judgemental approach to her practice in mental health is what makes her unique.
Akosua C. Ababio is a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. She trained at Northern Kentucky University in both medication management and psychotherapy. Akosua is also a trained Family Nurse Practitioner-BC. She treats patients of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors. Her non-judgemental approach to her practice in mental health is what makes her unique.
(732) 365-4448 View (732) 365-4448
Photo of Sandra Masino-Kalinowski, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandra Masino-Kalinowski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747
Feeling anxious or overwhelmed? You're not alone. My ideal client is looking for a path through anxiety, seeking peace and understanding. They aim to overcome feelings of overwhelm, desiring a life filled with balance and joy. They want a compassionate partner who listens and guides them towards achieving personal wellness.
Feeling anxious or overwhelmed? You're not alone. My ideal client is looking for a path through anxiety, seeking peace and understanding. They aim to overcome feelings of overwhelm, desiring a life filled with balance and joy. They want a compassionate partner who listens and guides them towards achieving personal wellness.
(732) 355-3730 View (732) 355-3730
Photo of Kathryn Martinez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathryn Martinez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Middlesex, NJ 08846
I believe that treatment is specific to each individual and I have the ability to incorporate an interdisciplinary evidence-based treatment approach through therapy, medication management, and holistic care in order to treat specific individualized symptoms.
I believe that treatment is specific to each individual and I have the ability to incorporate an interdisciplinary evidence-based treatment approach through therapy, medication management, and holistic care in order to treat specific individualized symptoms.
(908) 840-8486 View (908) 840-8486
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli - Shannon Bucciarelli (adolescent/teen specialist), MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli (adolescent/teen specialist)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner 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 Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner 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.
(609) 928-7935 View (609) 928-7935
Photo of Michelle Matusalem, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Matusalem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Kendall Park, NJ 08824
I specialize in diagnosing and managing psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, mood disorders, and more. I am licensed to prescribe medication and offer medication management to individuals of all ages seeking to improve their mental health. I am committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based care, and I believe in building trusting relationships with my patients through active listening and honest communication.
I specialize in diagnosing and managing psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, mood disorders, and more. I am licensed to prescribe medication and offer medication management to individuals of all ages seeking to improve their mental health. I am committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based care, and I believe in building trusting relationships with my patients through active listening and honest communication.
(732) 978-9127 View (732) 978-9127
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 Julie Jacob, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julie Jacob
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner with 7 years of experience diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practices, community settings, and through telehealth. I specialize in providing individualized psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, and the geriatric population.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner with 7 years of experience diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practices, community settings, and through telehealth. I specialize in providing individualized psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, and the geriatric population.
(908) 641-2459 View (908) 641-2459
Photo of Dr. Suneeta Kumari, MD, MPH, CCDS, Psychiatrist
Dr. Suneeta Kumari
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, CCDS
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am passionate about helping people with mental health challenges. I received a master's degree in public health from George Washington University and finished my residency at Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) in NJ. Currently working as an inpatient psychiatrist at LifeBridge Health in Baltimore, Maryland. My experience spans a variety of fields in the healthcare industry, including public health, research, consulting and psychiatric medication management and therapy. Over the past several years, I have successfully managed patients of all ages with various psychiatric conditions, Depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD.
I am passionate about helping people with mental health challenges. I received a master's degree in public health from George Washington University and finished my residency at Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) in NJ. Currently working as an inpatient psychiatrist at LifeBridge Health in Baltimore, Maryland. My experience spans a variety of fields in the healthcare industry, including public health, research, consulting and psychiatric medication management and therapy. Over the past several years, I have successfully managed patients of all ages with various psychiatric conditions, Depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD.
(443) 870-5821 View (443) 870-5821
Photo of Nkem Ani, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nkem Ani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
You’re tired of not doing your best at school and work. Well, you’re not just tired of it… it makes you sick to your stomach. You know you can do better, and you feel guilty and ashamed that it’s not happening. Promise after promise to improve… but nothing ever changes. Maybe it’s the ADHD, or the anxiety, or the depression, or the trauma you’ve suffered. Truth be told, you really don’t know why you keep struggling despite your best efforts. All you know is that your failure is on full display, and you don’t know how much longer you can bear looking at it in the mirror.
You’re tired of not doing your best at school and work. Well, you’re not just tired of it… it makes you sick to your stomach. You know you can do better, and you feel guilty and ashamed that it’s not happening. Promise after promise to improve… but nothing ever changes. Maybe it’s the ADHD, or the anxiety, or the depression, or the trauma you’ve suffered. Truth be told, you really don’t know why you keep struggling despite your best efforts. All you know is that your failure is on full display, and you don’t know how much longer you can bear looking at it in the mirror.
(848) 360-6684 View (848) 360-6684
Photo of Christopher Hannon - Family Psychiatry and Therapy, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Edison, NJ 08837
Family Psychiatry and Therapy (FPT) is now in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), making high-quality psychiatric and therapeutic care more affordable and accessible for patients across New Jersey and New York. We provide telehealth services that allow you to receive care from the comfort of your home, office, or anywhere. Our expert providers offer support for children, adolescents, and adults, and we offer same-day crisis appointments to ensure you get help when you need it most.
Family Psychiatry and Therapy (FPT) is now in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), making high-quality psychiatric and therapeutic care more affordable and accessible for patients across New Jersey and New York. We provide telehealth services that allow you to receive care from the comfort of your home, office, or anywhere. Our expert providers offer support for children, adolescents, and adults, and we offer same-day crisis appointments to ensure you get help when you need it most.
(973) 221-8577 View (973) 221-8577

See more therapy options for Spotswood

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Spotswood, NJ

< 10

Psychiatrists in Spotswood, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
86% Depression
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Bipolar Disorder
86% Stress
71% Addiction
71% Substance Use

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Oxford

How Psychiatrists in Spotswood, NJ see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Spotswood?

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.