Psychiatrists in Voorhees, NJ

Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
(856) 420-7362 View (856) 420-7362
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
(856) 955-1857 View (856) 955-1857
Ruth MacKenzie (adolescent/teen specialist)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
(856) 565-3673 View (856) 565-3673
Photo of Amanda Guarnere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
(856) 865-5273 View (856) 865-5273
Photo of Dr. Elina Maymind, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Elina Maymind
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
If you are reading my profile you are looking for a well-trained psychiatrist with expertise in psychiatric assessment and development of treatment plans. I am a Cornell and Jefferson trained physician, with multiple publications and a track record of excellent care. I believe that both medication and psychotherapy can help decrease suffering and help a person reach his/her own full potential. I often collaborate with other therapists, nutritionists, and physicians to create a multidimensional approach to treatment.
If you are reading my profile you are looking for a well-trained psychiatrist with expertise in psychiatric assessment and development of treatment plans. I am a Cornell and Jefferson trained physician, with multiple publications and a track record of excellent care. I believe that both medication and psychotherapy can help decrease suffering and help a person reach his/her own full potential. I often collaborate with other therapists, nutritionists, and physicians to create a multidimensional approach to treatment.
(856) 636-4095 View (856) 636-4095
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(856) 347-5942 View (856) 347-5942
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(856) 677-5895 View (856) 677-5895
Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
(856) 699-6509 View (856) 699-6509
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
(856) 955-1857 View (856) 955-1857
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli - Shannon Bucciarelli (adolescent/teen specialist), MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli (adolescent/teen specialist)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
(856) 408-2142 View (856) 408-2142
Photo of Prisca Ogbonnaya, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Prisca Ogbonnaya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
My ideal client will be a patient who has a mental health disorder, which could either be depression, anxiety, or something else. Together, we can figure out the root of your problems and your needs, determine the best treatment for you, and create attainable goals and a better lifestyle.
My ideal client will be a patient who has a mental health disorder, which could either be depression, anxiety, or something else. Together, we can figure out the root of your problems and your needs, determine the best treatment for you, and create attainable goals and a better lifestyle.
(856) 955-1857 View (856) 955-1857
Photo of Babatunde Adetunji - The Executive Center for Psychological Medicine, MD, Psychiatrist
The Executive Center for Psychological Medicine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
Dr. Adetunji is Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine and Psychological Medicine. He was trained in Psychiatry in England (At the prestigious Guys and St Thomas’s Hospital, London) as well as in USA (Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia). He completed fellowship training in Forensic Psychiatry at the New York University Medical Center. Dr Adetunji is well versed in addiction medicine and child and adolescent psychiatry. He is certified to prescribe Buprenorphine (Suboxone) for opioid addiction.
Dr. Adetunji is Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine and Psychological Medicine. He was trained in Psychiatry in England (At the prestigious Guys and St Thomas’s Hospital, London) as well as in USA (Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia). He completed fellowship training in Forensic Psychiatry at the New York University Medical Center. Dr Adetunji is well versed in addiction medicine and child and adolescent psychiatry. He is certified to prescribe Buprenorphine (Suboxone) for opioid addiction.
(856) 619-8540 View (856) 619-8540
Daisy's Place
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Voorhees, NJ 08043
My goal is to foster a supportive and empowering environment where individuals feel heard, valued, and understood. By establishing trusting relationships with patients, I collaborate with them to develop tailored treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals. Whether managing psychiatric disorders, supporting individuals through life transitions, or promoting overall well-being, I prioritize the holistic health of each person under their care.
My goal is to foster a supportive and empowering environment where individuals feel heard, valued, and understood. By establishing trusting relationships with patients, I collaborate with them to develop tailored treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals. Whether managing psychiatric disorders, supporting individuals through life transitions, or promoting overall well-being, I prioritize the holistic health of each person under their care.
(856) 997-2175 View (856) 997-2175
Photo of Mathias Omon Ologbosele - Blessed Healthcare Services, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Blessed Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Healt Health Nurse Practitioner with diverse cultural background, with over 20 years' experience and extensive background in both in-person and outpatient settings. Iam very dependable and reliable provider with varied experience in mental health services. Iam ready to work with patients in realizing their goals.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Healt Health Nurse Practitioner with diverse cultural background, with over 20 years' experience and extensive background in both in-person and outpatient settings. Iam very dependable and reliable provider with varied experience in mental health services. Iam ready to work with patients in realizing their goals.
(640) 214-5036 View (640) 214-5036
Photo of Dr. Fausat Funmilola Odubiyi - Ablehealthcare, DNP, PMHNP, BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ablehealthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC, APRN
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in working with adults in behavioral health. Funmi's experience in adults diagnosed with ADHD, ADD, mood, and anxiety disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, and PTSD. I have devoted 21 years of experience in treating patients with mental health. Practicing kindness and compassion has been essential. Able health care accepting Medicare, Medicaid, Aetna, Cigna Optum UBH, Oxford Health Plan, Compsych, Maritain, Multiplan for New York, and self cash payment.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in working with adults in behavioral health. Funmi's experience in adults diagnosed with ADHD, ADD, mood, and anxiety disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, and PTSD. I have devoted 21 years of experience in treating patients with mental health. Practicing kindness and compassion has been essential. Able health care accepting Medicare, Medicaid, Aetna, Cigna Optum UBH, Oxford Health Plan, Compsych, Maritain, Multiplan for New York, and self cash payment.
(856) 263-2751 View (856) 263-2751
Photo of Serena M Natal, DNP, APN, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serena M Natal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, FPMHNP
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Natal is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 24 years experience in the field of mental health. Dr. Natal is a compassionate supportive practitioner that takes pride in providing quality comprehensive psychiatric treatment. Services are provided throughout the developmental lifespan, from age three to senior.
Dr. Natal is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 24 years experience in the field of mental health. Dr. Natal is a compassionate supportive practitioner that takes pride in providing quality comprehensive psychiatric treatment. Services are provided throughout the developmental lifespan, from age three to senior.
(856) 924-6932 View (856) 924-6932
Photo of Dr. LaTia Pierce - Bright Side Wellness / Dr. LaTia Pierce DNP, APN, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC, FNPC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bright Side Wellness / Dr. LaTia Pierce DNP, APN
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC, FNPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Equal opportunity for mental health and wellness implies that everyone, regardless of their socio-economic status, race, gender, age, or geographical location, should have access to quality mental health services. I seek to provide all patients with respect, personalized treatment plans, education, support, empathy, time, shared decision-making, and quality care. I accept most insurance including Medicaid and Medicare health plans and have a strong background in working within underserved communities as well as with the developmentally disabled. I have experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders.
Equal opportunity for mental health and wellness implies that everyone, regardless of their socio-economic status, race, gender, age, or geographical location, should have access to quality mental health services. I seek to provide all patients with respect, personalized treatment plans, education, support, empathy, time, shared decision-making, and quality care. I accept most insurance including Medicaid and Medicare health plans and have a strong background in working within underserved communities as well as with the developmentally disabled. I have experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders.
(609) 793-9077 View (609) 793-9077
Photo of Dr. Oliver Moore, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Oliver Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
When an individual experiences behavioral health challenges it is often disheartening. The feeling of loneliness, negative self talk, and "why me" statements are a shared reality. The truth is you are not alone, and behavioral health challenges can often build resolve and character when appropriate interventions are utilized to combat these experiences. I am consistently amazed at the strength of those who take the first step towards healing, as this is the most difficult. My focus is positive psychology, strength building, and providing my clients with evidence based pharmacotherapies to produce the changes they desire.
When an individual experiences behavioral health challenges it is often disheartening. The feeling of loneliness, negative self talk, and "why me" statements are a shared reality. The truth is you are not alone, and behavioral health challenges can often build resolve and character when appropriate interventions are utilized to combat these experiences. I am consistently amazed at the strength of those who take the first step towards healing, as this is the most difficult. My focus is positive psychology, strength building, and providing my clients with evidence based pharmacotherapies to produce the changes they desire.
(609) 773-8507 View (609) 773-8507
Photo of Jamal Mahmud - Positive Beginnings, MD, Psychiatrist
Positive Beginnings
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
Dr. Jamal Mahmud is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He completed his residency training from Drexel University College of Medicine where he served as Chief Resident. Currently he is an Associate Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Drexel Iniversity/tower health. He is well-published in local and international journals.
Dr. Jamal Mahmud is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He completed his residency training from Drexel University College of Medicine where he served as Chief Resident. Currently he is an Associate Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Drexel Iniversity/tower health. He is well-published in local and international journals.
(856) 644-3052 View (856) 644-3052
Photo of Lisa Dipietropolo, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa Dipietropolo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. With an extensive background in inpatient and outpatient settings, I bring a comprehensive understanding of psychiatric conditions and a holistic approach to treatment. My focus is helping clients to achieve their wellness goals through personalized care plans. I am dedicated to fostering a therapeutic partnership that supports lasting recovery and overall well-being.
Hello! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. With an extensive background in inpatient and outpatient settings, I bring a comprehensive understanding of psychiatric conditions and a holistic approach to treatment. My focus is helping clients to achieve their wellness goals through personalized care plans. I am dedicated to fostering a therapeutic partnership that supports lasting recovery and overall well-being.
(856) 215-4650 View (856) 215-4650
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Voorhees, NJ

20+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in Voorhees, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
96% Anxiety
81% Bipolar Disorder
81% Medication Management
77% ADHD
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
65% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Voorhees, NJ see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Voorhees?

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.