Psychiatrists in Tinton Falls, NJ

Photo of Nicole Hraniotis, MD, Psychiatrist
Nicole Hraniotis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
I am a Board Certified and experienced adolescent, adult, and child psychiatrist who has helped patients just like you build richer more rewarding lives for over 6 years. Through a combination of therapeutic techniques, I help identify limiting beliefs and outmoded coping mechanisms that may be standing in your way.
I am a Board Certified and experienced adolescent, adult, and child psychiatrist who has helped patients just like you build richer more rewarding lives for over 6 years. Through a combination of therapeutic techniques, I help identify limiting beliefs and outmoded coping mechanisms that may be standing in your way.
(732) 603-1298 View (732) 603-1298
Photo of Jessica Kirby-Smith, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Kirby-Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am experienced in working with patients who experience anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, psychosis, and other concerns. We will work together integrating medication management and therapeutic techniques to help you address your concerns, allowing you to heal, grow, and reach your goals. Book with me now using my website link.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am experienced in working with patients who experience anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, psychosis, and other concerns. We will work together integrating medication management and therapeutic techniques to help you address your concerns, allowing you to heal, grow, and reach your goals. Book with me now using my website link.
(732) 838-9326 View (732) 838-9326
Photo of Ashley Fernandez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Fernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
(848) 220-1102 View (848) 220-1102
Photo of Dr. Rosemary Mensah, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Rosemary Mensah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I am accepting new clients. As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment dedicated to your mental well-being. I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable, heard, and understood. With a solid educational background and clinical experience, my primary focus is on the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and various mental health challenges. I believe in building a solid therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and empathy. I aim to create a collaborative and culturally sensitive environment where we can establish treatment goals.
I am accepting new clients. As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment dedicated to your mental well-being. I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable, heard, and understood. With a solid educational background and clinical experience, my primary focus is on the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and various mental health challenges. I believe in building a solid therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and empathy. I aim to create a collaborative and culturally sensitive environment where we can establish treatment goals.
(848) 280-7941 View (848) 280-7941
Photo of Shannon Parks - The Parks Center for Women's Wellness & Medicine, DO, Psychiatrist
The Parks Center for Women's Wellness & Medicine
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Tinton Falls, NJ 07701
The Parks Center for Women’s Wellness and Medicine treats women of all ages 18 years and older. We treat a broad range of mental heath issues including anxiety, depression, and bipolar illness in all phases of life. This includes, but is not limited too, comprehensive treatment of mood disorders during the reproductive years including mood disorders during the premenstrual period, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. www.theparkscenter.com
The Parks Center for Women’s Wellness and Medicine treats women of all ages 18 years and older. We treat a broad range of mental heath issues including anxiety, depression, and bipolar illness in all phases of life. This includes, but is not limited too, comprehensive treatment of mood disorders during the reproductive years including mood disorders during the premenstrual period, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. www.theparkscenter.com
(732) 945-8942 View (732) 945-8942
Photo of Dr. Svetlana Beskina, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Svetlana Beskina
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
My interest in medicine can be traced back to my early childhood. I come from a family with several generations of physicians. My father, a pediatrician, had the greatest influence on me. What amazed me the most about him was the amount of care and genuine concern that he demonstrated for his patients, which in my mind are essential for an ideal physician. I received my bachelors degree from Columbia University, majoring in psychology. Vincent Van Gogh once said: "After all there is nothing in the world as interesting as people, and one can never study them enough."
My interest in medicine can be traced back to my early childhood. I come from a family with several generations of physicians. My father, a pediatrician, had the greatest influence on me. What amazed me the most about him was the amount of care and genuine concern that he demonstrated for his patients, which in my mind are essential for an ideal physician. I received my bachelors degree from Columbia University, majoring in psychology. Vincent Van Gogh once said: "After all there is nothing in the world as interesting as people, and one can never study them enough."
(347) 983-2310 View (347) 983-2310
Photo of Olga Katz, Psychiatrist
Olga Katz
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Olga Katz, MD is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and a recognized expert in treating psychiatric disorders in children, adolescents and adults. As the founder and Medical Director of Crasmere Psychiatric Services for 23 years, Dr. Olga Katz dedicated her career to improving the mental health of her patients. She utilizes bio psychosocial model which allows her to focus on the appropriate medications and psychodynamic psychotherapy to successfully treating the most challenging variety of psychiatric pathologies, including Panic Disorder, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD.
Olga Katz, MD is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and a recognized expert in treating psychiatric disorders in children, adolescents and adults. As the founder and Medical Director of Crasmere Psychiatric Services for 23 years, Dr. Olga Katz dedicated her career to improving the mental health of her patients. She utilizes bio psychosocial model which allows her to focus on the appropriate medications and psychodynamic psychotherapy to successfully treating the most challenging variety of psychiatric pathologies, including Panic Disorder, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD.
(561) 956-4377 View (561) 956-4377
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects, and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often, this approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects, and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often, this approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
(732) 675-0011 View (732) 675-0011
Photo of Valerie DeGirolamo, PMHNP, APN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Valerie DeGirolamo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN, RN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have worked in a variety of Mental Health settings throughout my career. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
I have worked in a variety of Mental Health settings throughout my career. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(732) 393-8391 View (732) 393-8391
Photo of Stephen Jaeger, MD, Psychiatrist
Stephen Jaeger
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Yale University trained psychiatrist, Dr. Stephen Jaeger’s philosophy on psychiatric care is grounded in his belief that every client is entitled to the highest quality personalized care. His unique approach focuses on individualized treatment plans. His mission is to optimize every aspect of your life and the individualized treatment plans are designed to do just that. Clients play an active role in tailoring their personalized treatment plan with Dr. Jaeger.
Yale University trained psychiatrist, Dr. Stephen Jaeger’s philosophy on psychiatric care is grounded in his belief that every client is entitled to the highest quality personalized care. His unique approach focuses on individualized treatment plans. His mission is to optimize every aspect of your life and the individualized treatment plans are designed to do just that. Clients play an active role in tailoring their personalized treatment plan with Dr. Jaeger.
(732) 334-7946 View (732) 334-7946
Photo of Dr. Ruben Rupendra Singh - Ruben Singh MD LLC, MD, DABPN, Psychiatrist
Ruben Singh MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I offer a very empathic, compassionate, and individualized evaluation and treatment of a diverse population of every persuasion without any biases or prejudices and treat everyone with respect and dignity, no matter of their background or past history, and expect openness to reveal their innermost feelings for growth to happen to reach their highest potential. If you have treatment-resistant or complex problems in need of fine-tuning your medication regimen I will be able to provide the most up-to-date treatment modalities. To begin it's very easy all you have to do is be yourself and the rest therapist will handle.
I offer a very empathic, compassionate, and individualized evaluation and treatment of a diverse population of every persuasion without any biases or prejudices and treat everyone with respect and dignity, no matter of their background or past history, and expect openness to reveal their innermost feelings for growth to happen to reach their highest potential. If you have treatment-resistant or complex problems in need of fine-tuning your medication regimen I will be able to provide the most up-to-date treatment modalities. To begin it's very easy all you have to do is be yourself and the rest therapist will handle.
(732) 517-7599 View (732) 517-7599

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Abir Marcus, MD, Psychiatrist
Abir Marcus
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Dr. Marcus offers individualized approach in her treatments. She uses state of art treatments recommendations for the presenting problem while tailoring it to your personality and life style. Dr. Marcus is specialized in working with mood disorders such as Depression and Bipolar Disorders spectrum, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders. She is also certified in addiction treatments including Detoxification, working on abstinence or harm reduction through the use of medications and therapy. Dr. Marcus is certified to prescribe Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol.
Dr. Marcus offers individualized approach in her treatments. She uses state of art treatments recommendations for the presenting problem while tailoring it to your personality and life style. Dr. Marcus is specialized in working with mood disorders such as Depression and Bipolar Disorders spectrum, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders. She is also certified in addiction treatments including Detoxification, working on abstinence or harm reduction through the use of medications and therapy. Dr. Marcus is certified to prescribe Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol.
(732) 656-8701 View (732) 656-8701
Photo of Francine Dygulski - Lotus Mental Health & Wellness, APN-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lotus Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Dual Certified Practitioner, board certified in both Psychiatry and Adult Medicine. I have worked in many settings, psychiatric hospital, hospital ICU, Inpatient detox, outpatient psychiatric and addiction treatment. I also specialize in Medical & Psychiatric patient education.
I am a Dual Certified Practitioner, board certified in both Psychiatry and Adult Medicine. I have worked in many settings, psychiatric hospital, hospital ICU, Inpatient detox, outpatient psychiatric and addiction treatment. I also specialize in Medical & Psychiatric patient education.
(732) 631-3575 View (732) 631-3575
Photo of Martins Akhibi, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Martins Akhibi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Are You Feeling Overwhelmed, Stuck, or Alone in Your Struggles? Life can feel heavy when you're battling anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges. Maybe you’re exhausted from trying to keep it all together, feeling misunderstood, or struggling to find someone who truly listens. Perhaps your thoughts feel overwhelming, your emotions unpredictable, or daily life harder than it should be. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to go through it alone.
Are You Feeling Overwhelmed, Stuck, or Alone in Your Struggles? Life can feel heavy when you're battling anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges. Maybe you’re exhausted from trying to keep it all together, feeling misunderstood, or struggling to find someone who truly listens. Perhaps your thoughts feel overwhelming, your emotions unpredictable, or daily life harder than it should be. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to go through it alone.
(732) 592-5740 View (732) 592-5740
Photo of Kenneth Lichtman, MD, Psychiatrist
Kenneth Lichtman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Looking forward to meeting and treating you! I enjoy treating adolescents and adults of all ages. I am particularly interested and involved in treating Mood Disorders, as they are among the most devastating psychological illnesses. Anxiety disorders are also an incredibly common presenting problem, and I have much experience in this area. A team approach for all psychological illnesses is often most desirable. In all cases, a full recovery is my constant goal.
Looking forward to meeting and treating you! I enjoy treating adolescents and adults of all ages. I am particularly interested and involved in treating Mood Disorders, as they are among the most devastating psychological illnesses. Anxiety disorders are also an incredibly common presenting problem, and I have much experience in this area. A team approach for all psychological illnesses is often most desirable. In all cases, a full recovery is my constant goal.
(732) 549-2220 View (732) 549-2220
Photo of Jennifer Levine, APRNC, Psychiatric Nurse
Jennifer Levine
Psychiatric Nurse, APRNC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Red Bank, NJ 07701
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been in practice since 2004. I have expertise in understanding and treating a wide range of emotional problems. I received my masters degree from Rutgers university and I have years of postgraduate psychoanalytic training. My education and years of experience have enabled me to provide a therapeutic non judgmental environment.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been in practice since 2004. I have expertise in understanding and treating a wide range of emotional problems. I received my masters degree from Rutgers university and I have years of postgraduate psychoanalytic training. My education and years of experience have enabled me to provide a therapeutic non judgmental environment.
(732) 852-7228 View (732) 852-7228
Photo of Gabriella Parisi, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gabriella Parisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! My name is Gabriella Parisi and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have received my Master's degree from Fairleigh Dickinson, and my Bachelor's degree from Wagner College. My 10+ years of work experience and training in the medical field has taken me from working in hospitals, private practices, and outpatient clinics – giving me a unique perspective on the challenges people face when it comes to their mental health.
Hello! My name is Gabriella Parisi and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have received my Master's degree from Fairleigh Dickinson, and my Bachelor's degree from Wagner College. My 10+ years of work experience and training in the medical field has taken me from working in hospitals, private practices, and outpatient clinics – giving me a unique perspective on the challenges people face when it comes to their mental health.
(848) 279-4814 View (848) 279-4814
Photo of Jamie Pacilio, MSPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Jamie Pacilio
Physician Assistant, MSPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
My goal is to help patients who are struggling with their mental health optimize the quality of their life through symptom management. I am experienced at treating a wide range of psychiatric diagnoses through medication, Spravato (esketamine), and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy. My “ideal” patient is someone who is suffering with a mood disorder, personality disorder, psychotic disorder, or any variation of the three, and wants help with managing their symptoms. I work well with both men and women. I am very comfortable working with patients who are aligned with LGBQT+.
My goal is to help patients who are struggling with their mental health optimize the quality of their life through symptom management. I am experienced at treating a wide range of psychiatric diagnoses through medication, Spravato (esketamine), and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy. My “ideal” patient is someone who is suffering with a mood disorder, personality disorder, psychotic disorder, or any variation of the three, and wants help with managing their symptoms. I work well with both men and women. I am very comfortable working with patients who are aligned with LGBQT+.
(732) 347-8625 View (732) 347-8625
Photo of Clairemeda Pacius-Joseph, BSN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Clairemeda Pacius-Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, my name is Claire. I am a board-certified PMHNP specializing in psychiatric care with over 18 years of nursing experience. I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate mental health challenges, using holistic approaches that combine compassion with evidence-based practices to create a supportive environment. My goal is to help clients live lives to their fullest potential.
Hello, my name is Claire. I am a board-certified PMHNP specializing in psychiatric care with over 18 years of nursing experience. I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate mental health challenges, using holistic approaches that combine compassion with evidence-based practices to create a supportive environment. My goal is to help clients live lives to their fullest potential.
(848) 308-7248 View (848) 308-7248
Photo of Jacqueline M Iannacone, MSN, PMHNP , CARN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline M Iannacone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP , CARN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manasquan, NJ 08736
Behavioral Health services provided by a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that is dedicated to providing quality care and treating the whole person, including the body, mind and spirit. With experience in evaluation and medication management across the lifespan, I treat a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and substance use disorders, including opiate and alcohol use, anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders.
Behavioral Health services provided by a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that is dedicated to providing quality care and treating the whole person, including the body, mind and spirit. With experience in evaluation and medication management across the lifespan, I treat a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and substance use disorders, including opiate and alcohol use, anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders.
(609) 557-3636 View (609) 557-3636

See more therapy options for Tinton Falls

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Tinton Falls, NJ

10+

Average cost per session

$275

Psychiatrists in Tinton Falls, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Medication Management
91% ADHD
91% Trauma and PTSD
82% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

40 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
71% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Tinton Falls, NJ see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

88% Female
12% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Tinton Falls?

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.