Psychiatrists in Union County, NJ

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Photo of Veronica Adeoye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, B-C
Veronica Adeoye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
At NJPsychmed, you can expect a positive, evidence-based mental health care approach for medication management, psychiatric evaluation care, substance abuse care, individual and family therapy. We are currently seeing clients from New Jersey and New York.
At NJPsychmed, you can expect a positive, evidence-based mental health care approach for medication management, psychiatric evaluation care, substance abuse care, individual and family therapy. We are currently seeing clients from New Jersey and New York.
(908) 540-7578 View (908) 540-7578
Photo of Johnson S Babayemi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, APN
Johnson S Babayemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, APN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am here to provide assistance tailored towards your mental health needs in a holistic manner. Your complaints and needs will be listened to, and together we shall work out preferred solutions.
I am here to provide assistance tailored towards your mental health needs in a holistic manner. Your complaints and needs will be listened to, and together we shall work out preferred solutions.
(908) 540-6466 View (908) 540-6466
Photo of Selam Koch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Selam Koch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Choosing the right provider doesn’t have to be a challenge—I’m here to support you every step of the way. I provide tailored medication management and compassionate care to help you thrive. As a board-certified Provider with more than 10 years of experience, I focus on treating a variety of mental health conditions, such as depression, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use issues, and psychotic disorders.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Choosing the right provider doesn’t have to be a challenge—I’m here to support you every step of the way. I provide tailored medication management and compassionate care to help you thrive. As a board-certified Provider with more than 10 years of experience, I focus on treating a variety of mental health conditions, such as depression, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use issues, and psychotic disorders.
(908) 774-9325 View (908) 774-9325
Photo of Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
(908) 895-6542 View (908) 895-6542
Photo of Ngozi Beatrice Amadiegwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Ngozi Beatrice Amadiegwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elizabeth, NJ 07208
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner-Board certified, and I see children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I offer diagnostic evaluations, psycho-education, treatment planning sessions, and comprehensive psychopharmacological interventions. I have over 23 years of Psychiatric experience in my career, and I have earned the ability to diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental and psychological issues in all life span.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner-Board certified, and I see children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I offer diagnostic evaluations, psycho-education, treatment planning sessions, and comprehensive psychopharmacological interventions. I have over 23 years of Psychiatric experience in my career, and I have earned the ability to diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental and psychological issues in all life span.
(908) 866-5178 View (908) 866-5178
Photo of Isaac Oke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Isaac Oke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Union, NJ 07083
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.
(908) 916-3552 View (908) 916-3552
Photo of Dr. Leopold Bolona, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Leopold Bolona
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Dr. Leopold Bolona is a compassionate psychiatrist in private practice in Westfield and Wall Township NJ seeing adults only at this time. The practice has 24 providers including Nurse Practitioners and Therapists offering comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment for a variety of issues such as: Depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, addiction and more.The practice offers both in person and telehealth. All offices offer Genetic testing and Neuropsych testing. Both offices also offers both TMS and Spravato treatments.
Dr. Leopold Bolona is a compassionate psychiatrist in private practice in Westfield and Wall Township NJ seeing adults only at this time. The practice has 24 providers including Nurse Practitioners and Therapists offering comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment for a variety of issues such as: Depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, addiction and more.The practice offers both in person and telehealth. All offices offer Genetic testing and Neuropsych testing. Both offices also offers both TMS and Spravato treatments.
(732) 440-3179 View (732) 440-3179
Tina Pryor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety and/or depression and is seeking services to find balance.
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety and/or depression and is seeking services to find balance.
(908) 460-5271 View (908) 460-5271
Photo of Paula George, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP, MSN
Paula George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083
I am Paula George, a Family Nurse practitioner (FNP-C) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am currently licensed to practice in the state of New Jersey. I earned a bachelor's degree in nursing from Felician University, NJ, with high honors (magna cum laude). I completed my Master of Science degree from Rutgers University School of Health-Related Professions in Newark, NJ, and post-certification in Psychiatry from Wilkes University, Pennsylvania.
I am Paula George, a Family Nurse practitioner (FNP-C) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am currently licensed to practice in the state of New Jersey. I earned a bachelor's degree in nursing from Felician University, NJ, with high honors (magna cum laude). I completed my Master of Science degree from Rutgers University School of Health-Related Professions in Newark, NJ, and post-certification in Psychiatry from Wilkes University, Pennsylvania.
(973) 620-7271 View (973) 620-7271
Photo of Altagracia Gomez Aracena, Psychiatrist, MD
Altagracia Gomez Aracena
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
Dr. Altagracia Gomez Aracena is a Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Specialist. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Instituto Tecnologico and completed her residency and subsequently her fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, where she was appointed Chief in both programs. She has been working as an attending psychiatrist at Robert Wood Johnson- Barnabas Health covering adult program and the child and adolescent outpatient clinic. Dr. Gomez Aracena provides non-judgmental and compassionate care and strategies to achieve and embrace one's full potential.
Dr. Altagracia Gomez Aracena is a Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Specialist. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Instituto Tecnologico and completed her residency and subsequently her fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, where she was appointed Chief in both programs. She has been working as an attending psychiatrist at Robert Wood Johnson- Barnabas Health covering adult program and the child and adolescent outpatient clinic. Dr. Gomez Aracena provides non-judgmental and compassionate care and strategies to achieve and embrace one's full potential.
(201) 584-4676 View (201) 584-4676
Photo of Patrick Obinna Oledimmah - Family Mental Health Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Family Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Union, NJ 07083
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD, OCD, ODD, ADHD, Alzheimer Dementia and substance abuse? My name is Patrick Obinna Oledimmah, PMHNP-BC. I can provide psychiatric services such as psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individual psychotherapy. I am certified in Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) to prescribe Suboxone.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD, OCD, ODD, ADHD, Alzheimer Dementia and substance abuse? My name is Patrick Obinna Oledimmah, PMHNP-BC. I can provide psychiatric services such as psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individual psychotherapy. I am certified in Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) to prescribe Suboxone.
(908) 443-7049 View (908) 443-7049
Photo of Gideon Thuo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Gideon Thuo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
I am pleased to offer Saturday Morning appointments to accommodate the needs of working individuals. I will use my listening skills and knowledge of pharmacology to enhance your mental health care so we can work together towards wellness.
I am pleased to offer Saturday Morning appointments to accommodate the needs of working individuals. I will use my listening skills and knowledge of pharmacology to enhance your mental health care so we can work together towards wellness.
(908) 388-9071 View (908) 388-9071
Photo of Kesha Cheron, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN
Kesha Cheron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is broadly experienced both as nurse and nurse practitioner. She works closely with her patients to help them meet their treatment goals. Kesha believes in a holistic approach and encourages patients to be active in their treatment plan to ensure desired outcomes are met. She helps patients manage their anxiety, depression, and many other conditions with new patient appointments available within 1-2 weeks currently (oct 2023).
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is broadly experienced both as nurse and nurse practitioner. She works closely with her patients to help them meet their treatment goals. Kesha believes in a holistic approach and encourages patients to be active in their treatment plan to ensure desired outcomes are met. She helps patients manage their anxiety, depression, and many other conditions with new patient appointments available within 1-2 weeks currently (oct 2023).
(908) 774-2629 View (908) 774-2629
Photo of Ashley Blake Strongwater, Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, PMH-C
Ashley Blake Strongwater
Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
I am dedicated to providing warm, skillful, compassionate, and personalized care to each patient for a variety of mental health conditions via a combination of therapy and medication when indicated. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of successful treatment. I work diligently to create a safe, stigma-free, and welcoming environment where you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts, feelings, and to increase your general wellbeing using a whole-body approach. I tailor my treatment approach collaboratively with you to meet your unique needs and goals.
I am dedicated to providing warm, skillful, compassionate, and personalized care to each patient for a variety of mental health conditions via a combination of therapy and medication when indicated. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of successful treatment. I work diligently to create a safe, stigma-free, and welcoming environment where you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts, feelings, and to increase your general wellbeing using a whole-body approach. I tailor my treatment approach collaboratively with you to meet your unique needs and goals.
(908) 308-4500 View (908) 308-4500
Photo of Clifford Goldman, Psychiatrist, MD
Clifford Goldman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I am an adult psychiatrist in Westfield and Hoboken. I graduated with honors and majored in the Biological Sciences at The Johns Hopkins University. I optained my medical degree at NYU. My psychiatric training took place at Mount Sinai Hospital and then I served as chief resident and then unit chief on the teaching unit of the Bronx VA Hospital. I was medical director at Fair Oaks Hospital and then Charter Behavioral in Summit. I am a Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, I am providing telepsychiatry to all my patients.
I am an adult psychiatrist in Westfield and Hoboken. I graduated with honors and majored in the Biological Sciences at The Johns Hopkins University. I optained my medical degree at NYU. My psychiatric training took place at Mount Sinai Hospital and then I served as chief resident and then unit chief on the teaching unit of the Bronx VA Hospital. I was medical director at Fair Oaks Hospital and then Charter Behavioral in Summit. I am a Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, I am providing telepsychiatry to all my patients.
(908) 543-7935 View (908) 543-7935
Photo of Julie Gbogi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Julie Gbogi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in treating people who are seeking support for various mental health challenges or just wanting someone to speak with. You might often face difficulties managing stress, navigating life transitions, or maintaining healthy relationships. You may also be dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, or other emotional struggles. If you match any of the above and feel overwhelmed by your circumstances, you may need professional guidance to effectively address and manage these challenges. Come and see if I am the right therapist for you.
I specialize in treating people who are seeking support for various mental health challenges or just wanting someone to speak with. You might often face difficulties managing stress, navigating life transitions, or maintaining healthy relationships. You may also be dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, or other emotional struggles. If you match any of the above and feel overwhelmed by your circumstances, you may need professional guidance to effectively address and manage these challenges. Come and see if I am the right therapist for you.
(908) 364-9544 View (908) 364-9544
Photo of Francois Nguetsop - Innerpeace Health LLC. , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Innerpeace Health LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
Francois Nguetsop is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing holistic and comprehensive mental health services to clients across the lifespan. He believes that people are more than the sum of their experiences; illness is more than the sum of its symptoms and works with you to get to the root cause of your condition. Known for his warmth and personal approach, Francois collaborates with you to help you on your journey to optimal health and well-being.
Francois Nguetsop is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing holistic and comprehensive mental health services to clients across the lifespan. He believes that people are more than the sum of their experiences; illness is more than the sum of its symptoms and works with you to get to the root cause of your condition. Known for his warmth and personal approach, Francois collaborates with you to help you on your journey to optimal health and well-being.
(973) 382-9081 View (973) 382-9081
Photo of Sandra Gomez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC
Sandra Gomez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC
Verified Verified
New Providence, NJ 07974
I'm a New Jersey, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I practice utilizing up-to-date evidence-based guidelines, clinical expertise, and professional experience. I diagnose, manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADD/ADHD, mild substance use disorders, and others.
I'm a New Jersey, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I practice utilizing up-to-date evidence-based guidelines, clinical expertise, and professional experience. I diagnose, manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADD/ADHD, mild substance use disorders, and others.
(973) 339-7021 View (973) 339-7021
Photo of Emmanuel Anyanwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Emmanuel Anyanwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
Dr. Emmanuel Anyanwu, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP-BC is a Doctoral-Prepared and Board-Certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing a holistic and comprehensive mental health services to clients across all ages. I am registered in NJ and NY. If you are struggling with Depression and Anxiety, Bipolar and Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, ADHD, PTSD and Substance Use, Dr. Emmanuel is here to help. I have over 15 years clinical background in nursing and psychiatric mental health and substance use. At Sunrise Health, we work with our clients and their families to optimize patient outcomes and improve their quality of life.
Dr. Emmanuel Anyanwu, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP-BC is a Doctoral-Prepared and Board-Certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing a holistic and comprehensive mental health services to clients across all ages. I am registered in NJ and NY. If you are struggling with Depression and Anxiety, Bipolar and Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, ADHD, PTSD and Substance Use, Dr. Emmanuel is here to help. I have over 15 years clinical background in nursing and psychiatric mental health and substance use. At Sunrise Health, we work with our clients and their families to optimize patient outcomes and improve their quality of life.
(908) 373-5789 View (908) 373-5789
Photo of Angela Nnenne Anukam - Trinity Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Trinity Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
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.
(862) 420-0372 View (862) 420-0372
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See more therapy options for Union County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Union County, NJ

200+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Union County, NJ who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
93% Anxiety
77% ADHD
75% Bipolar Disorder
74% Medication Management
71% Trauma and PTSD
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Union County, NJ see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Union County?

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.