Psychiatrists in Union, NJ

Union Healthcare of New Jersey, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, Juliet Ajayi, PMHNP-BC, founder of Union Healthcare of New Jersey, LLC. My ideal client is an adult seeking support for mental health conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, or Bipolar Disorder. They're looking for expert guidance in managing their symptoms through medication/therapy, aiming for stability and improved quality of life. Their needs include understanding their condition, finding the right treatment regimen, and achieving a sense of balance. They value a collaborative, compassionate, and informed approach to their treatment, wishing for a partnership that respects their experiences and goals for wellness.
Hi, Juliet Ajayi, PMHNP-BC, founder of Union Healthcare of New Jersey, LLC. My ideal client is an adult seeking support for mental health conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, or Bipolar Disorder. They're looking for expert guidance in managing their symptoms through medication/therapy, aiming for stability and improved quality of life. Their needs include understanding their condition, finding the right treatment regimen, and achieving a sense of balance. They value a collaborative, compassionate, and informed approach to their treatment, wishing for a partnership that respects their experiences and goals for wellness.

Dr.B~BlessedFamilyCareMentalWellness ADHD Testing!
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083
At Blessed Family Care & Mental Wellness, Dr. Bola Fadipe provides comprehensive psychiatric services through an integrative and functional approach. We deliver a unique focus depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, substance abuse, pregnant women during antenatal care and postpartum. Our services include the diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders, medication management, appropriate screenings, psychotherapy. We also strive to reduce stigma and to help you face stressful challenges and milestones in your life. We provide ADHD testing for children and adults. Call to get tested!
At Blessed Family Care & Mental Wellness, Dr. Bola Fadipe provides comprehensive psychiatric services through an integrative and functional approach. We deliver a unique focus depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, substance abuse, pregnant women during antenatal care and postpartum. Our services include the diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders, medication management, appropriate screenings, psychotherapy. We also strive to reduce stigma and to help you face stressful challenges and milestones in your life. We provide ADHD testing for children and adults. Call to get tested!

Chinenye Okoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083
I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner/ Family practice Nurse Practitioner that provides tailored, compassionate care for clients with ADHD, anxiety depression, substance abuse, and other mental health issues.
Having worked with varied clients, I've developed a time-tested, tried-and-true playbook that will help you:
1. Identify the root cause of your challenges.
2. Create a tailored plan using a collaborative care model that puts you in the driver’s seat of your treatment plan.
I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner/ Family practice Nurse Practitioner that provides tailored, compassionate care for clients with ADHD, anxiety depression, substance abuse, and other mental health issues.
Having worked with varied clients, I've developed a time-tested, tried-and-true playbook that will help you:
1. Identify the root cause of your challenges.
2. Create a tailored plan using a collaborative care model that puts you in the driver’s seat of your treatment plan.

I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 10+ years professional nursing experience in the field of mental health. I am committed to providing care to patients from all walks of life by bringing my unique experience in caring for people from diverse cultural backgrounds and life experiences. I look forward to helping our communities overcome the stigma and barriers associated with mental health and seeking mental health care. I am also an ADHD Certified Clinical Service Provider- ( ADHD-CCSP)
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 10+ years professional nursing experience in the field of mental health. I am committed to providing care to patients from all walks of life by bringing my unique experience in caring for people from diverse cultural backgrounds and life experiences. I look forward to helping our communities overcome the stigma and barriers associated with mental health and seeking mental health care. I am also an ADHD Certified Clinical Service Provider- ( ADHD-CCSP)

I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a master's degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University. With over 18 years of experience in psychiatry, I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults navigate a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, schizophrenia, bipolar and more.
My approach is warm, open-minded, and tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I believe in creating a safe, supportive space where you can openly address your concerns and work towards healing.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a master's degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University. With over 18 years of experience in psychiatry, I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults navigate a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, schizophrenia, bipolar and more.
My approach is warm, open-minded, and tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I believe in creating a safe, supportive space where you can openly address your concerns and work towards healing.

I am Beatrice Mebude, a family psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. I offers my expertise virtually through Mercy Throne Behavioral Health Institute LLC. I understand that mental well-being is essential for a fulfilling and meaningful life. Therefore, I strive to provide care that prepare client for living a fulfilling and productive live as a member of the community. Everyone is unique in their treatment needs, so I uses individualized treatment plan in my practice. I believe in a collaborative approach to practice and am looking forward to working with you in crafting the best treatment plan to improve your life.
I am Beatrice Mebude, a family psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. I offers my expertise virtually through Mercy Throne Behavioral Health Institute LLC. I understand that mental well-being is essential for a fulfilling and meaningful life. Therefore, I strive to provide care that prepare client for living a fulfilling and productive live as a member of the community. Everyone is unique in their treatment needs, so I uses individualized treatment plan in my practice. I believe in a collaborative approach to practice and am looking forward to working with you in crafting the best treatment plan to improve your life.

Shiy Ajao
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I prioritize a holistic and patient-centered approach, recognizing the importance of mental health is just as crucial as physical well-being (Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, across all life stages). I am dedicated to provide comprehensive care, that focuses on the individual's unique needs. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of an initial psychiatric evaluation to gain a deep understanding of a patient's mental health status. I am committed to taking the time necessary to listen attentively to my patients, fostering a secure environment for open communication and trust-building.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I prioritize a holistic and patient-centered approach, recognizing the importance of mental health is just as crucial as physical well-being (Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, across all life stages). I am dedicated to provide comprehensive care, that focuses on the individual's unique needs. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of an initial psychiatric evaluation to gain a deep understanding of a patient's mental health status. I am committed to taking the time necessary to listen attentively to my patients, fostering a secure environment for open communication and trust-building.

Mercy Throne Behavioral Health institute LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Beatrice Mebude a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years experience as a certified psychiatric mental health nurse and family psychiatric nurse practitioner in the community. I understands that mental wellbeing is essential for a fulfilling and meaningful life. Therefore I have dedicated my practice to provide comprehensive services tailored to each individual's unique needs.
I am Beatrice Mebude a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years experience as a certified psychiatric mental health nurse and family psychiatric nurse practitioner in the community. I understands that mental wellbeing is essential for a fulfilling and meaningful life. Therefore I have dedicated my practice to provide comprehensive services tailored to each individual's unique needs.

At Kayla’s Creative Mind, we believe mental wellness is a journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. Our mission is to empower you to create a life that feels fulfilling, balanced, and uniquely yours. Through compassionate care and creative solutions, we’re here to help you turn challenges into opportunities for transformation.
At Kayla’s Creative Mind, we believe mental wellness is a journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. Our mission is to empower you to create a life that feels fulfilling, balanced, and uniquely yours. Through compassionate care and creative solutions, we’re here to help you turn challenges into opportunities for transformation.

Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in mental health and caring for those suffering from psychiatric disorders, mental illnesses, or emotional crises.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in mental health and caring for those suffering from psychiatric disorders, mental illnesses, or emotional crises.
I have 33 years experience in treating clients. I believe in connecting with my clients and making them relaxed and comfortable. My care is individualized to soothe my clients needs at an affordable cost. I have vast experience in Psychopharmacology, Psychotherapy especially CBT, Behavioral Modification and Interpersonal Therapies, Addiction Treatment and Forensic Psychiatry.
I have 33 years experience in treating clients. I believe in connecting with my clients and making them relaxed and comfortable. My care is individualized to soothe my clients needs at an affordable cost. I have vast experience in Psychopharmacology, Psychotherapy especially CBT, Behavioral Modification and Interpersonal Therapies, Addiction Treatment and Forensic Psychiatry.
Meet Our Psychiatrists
Chioma Ugo-Ogbuewu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I'm deeply passionate about guiding individuals through mental health challenges with compassion and expertise. I prioritize holistic care and therapeutic relationships, aiming to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where patients feel valued and understood. My practice is evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and collaborative, tailored to each person's unique needs and goals. I advocate for patients' rights and strive to reduce mental health stigma, viewing my role not just as a profession, but as a calling to bring hope, healing, and empowerment to those I serve.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I'm deeply passionate about guiding individuals through mental health challenges with compassion and expertise. I prioritize holistic care and therapeutic relationships, aiming to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where patients feel valued and understood. My practice is evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and collaborative, tailored to each person's unique needs and goals. I advocate for patients' rights and strive to reduce mental health stigma, viewing my role not just as a profession, but as a calling to bring hope, healing, and empowerment to those I serve.

Dr. Daniel Okoro, DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC, FNP-BC, provides compassionate and personalized care for those experiencing Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, other mental health issues, as well as those dealing with drug, alcohol and other substance abuse. Dr. Okoro always had a passion for, and is very proficient at psychological and physiological management of patients, able to quickly gain the trust and confidence of clients, very much cherishes teaching clients and able to take charge of management of their psychiatric and medical conditions.
Dr. Daniel Okoro, DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC, FNP-BC, provides compassionate and personalized care for those experiencing Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, other mental health issues, as well as those dealing with drug, alcohol and other substance abuse. Dr. Okoro always had a passion for, and is very proficient at psychological and physiological management of patients, able to quickly gain the trust and confidence of clients, very much cherishes teaching clients and able to take charge of management of their psychiatric and medical conditions.

Amity Healthcare Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Union, NJ 07083
Benedicta Akpahu, MSN, APN, and PMHNP-BC, goal-oriented and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Benedicta has over 23 years of experience in Psychiatric and mental health as a nurse and she has many years of Nursing home experience working with elderly patients with Alzheimer's disease and other health issues. Benedicta obtained her bachelor's from the University of Phoenix and Master of Science with a focus on Psychiatric Mental Health throughout life span from Walden University. Benedicta is board-certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC).
Benedicta Akpahu, MSN, APN, and PMHNP-BC, goal-oriented and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Benedicta has over 23 years of experience in Psychiatric and mental health as a nurse and she has many years of Nursing home experience working with elderly patients with Alzheimer's disease and other health issues. Benedicta obtained her bachelor's from the University of Phoenix and Master of Science with a focus on Psychiatric Mental Health throughout life span from Walden University. Benedicta is board-certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC).

I aspire to help those that are struggling navigating the complexity of their relationships or for those that feel relationships are challenging and difficult. Whether it is navigating the modern dating world, dealing with a long-term partner, recovering from a friendship breakup, feeling lonely with your current friends, or not getting a long with a boss or colleague, relationships are at the essence of our every day lives. So it is my aim to help you connect better all around.
I aspire to help those that are struggling navigating the complexity of their relationships or for those that feel relationships are challenging and difficult. Whether it is navigating the modern dating world, dealing with a long-term partner, recovering from a friendship breakup, feeling lonely with your current friends, or not getting a long with a boss or colleague, relationships are at the essence of our every day lives. So it is my aim to help you connect better all around.

Bola is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has about 17 years of clinical experience in mental health and neuroscience. She is a good listener, and she is passionate about caring for clients with mental health disorders. She cares for adults and adolescents with various diagnoses: Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety disorder, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Schizophrenia, OCD, etc.
Bola is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has about 17 years of clinical experience in mental health and neuroscience. She is a good listener, and she is passionate about caring for clients with mental health disorders. She cares for adults and adolescents with various diagnoses: Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety disorder, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Schizophrenia, OCD, etc.

Welcome! I'm a board certified Psych NP with over 10 years of experience in meeting the needs of my clients. My specific focus includes diagnosing, treating and preventing mental, emotional and behavioral disorders across the life span. I also specialize in substance abuse and addiction treatment. I provide holistic and patient centered care by partnering with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals.
Welcome! I'm a board certified Psych NP with over 10 years of experience in meeting the needs of my clients. My specific focus includes diagnosing, treating and preventing mental, emotional and behavioral disorders across the life span. I also specialize in substance abuse and addiction treatment. I provide holistic and patient centered care by partnering with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals.

Owens Health care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Union, NJ 07083
My ideal client seeks support for issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship difficulties. They desire a safe space, compassionate listening, tailored treatment options, and effective coping strategies. Their goals include finding relief, developing healthier relationships, improving well-being, fostering personal growth and regaining balance and purpose. They choose professional help to gain expert guidance, evidence-based treatments, and a path towards empowerment and a meaningful life.
My ideal client seeks support for issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship difficulties. They desire a safe space, compassionate listening, tailored treatment options, and effective coping strategies. Their goals include finding relief, developing healthier relationships, improving well-being, fostering personal growth and regaining balance and purpose. They choose professional help to gain expert guidance, evidence-based treatments, and a path towards empowerment and a meaningful life.

Trinity Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am Dr. Angela Anukam, a board certified doctorate prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) currently licensed to practice in New Jersey. I graduated with a Bachelor's degree of nursing from Felician College in Lodi new Jersey. I earned Master of Nursing (MSN), and Advance Practice Nurse (APN) from Fairleigh Dickenson University in Teaneck New Jersey. I completed my Doctorate degree of Nursing (DNP) from Grand Canyon University Phoenix Arizona.
I am Dr. Angela Anukam, a board certified doctorate prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) currently licensed to practice in New Jersey. I graduated with a Bachelor's degree of nursing from Felician College in Lodi new Jersey. I earned Master of Nursing (MSN), and Advance Practice Nurse (APN) from Fairleigh Dickenson University in Teaneck New Jersey. I completed my Doctorate degree of Nursing (DNP) from Grand Canyon University Phoenix Arizona.

I am committed to empowering individuals facing mental health challenges. My ideal client is someone navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking compassionate, evidence-based care to regain balance and purpose. They need a provider who listens deeply, fosters trust, and collaborates to develop personalized treatment plans that honor their unique journey. The goal is to achieve emotional resilience, improved relationships, and overall well-being. I am driven by their courage and determination, striving to guide them with empathy, expertise, and unwavering support toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
I am committed to empowering individuals facing mental health challenges. My ideal client is someone navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking compassionate, evidence-based care to regain balance and purpose. They need a provider who listens deeply, fosters trust, and collaborates to develop personalized treatment plans that honor their unique journey. The goal is to achieve emotional resilience, improved relationships, and overall well-being. I am driven by their courage and determination, striving to guide them with empathy, expertise, and unwavering support toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
See more therapy options for Union
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Union, NJ
40+
Average cost per session
$185
Psychiatrists in Union, NJ who prioritize treating:
91% | Depression |
91% | Anxiety |
78% | ADHD |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Medication Management |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
62% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
90% | Cigna and Evernorth |
68% | Oxford |
How Psychiatrists in Union, NJ see their clients
56% | In Person and Online | |
44% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Union?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.