Psychiatrists in Warren, NJ

Photo of Racquel San Juan, DO, Psychiatrist
Racquel San Juan
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
I'm dedicated to treating patients with compassion. I have a history of positive outcomes, and I am well respected in my field. Patients find that my approach to care is individualized and collaborative. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist passionate about helping patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, and other mental health diagnoses.
I'm dedicated to treating patients with compassion. I have a history of positive outcomes, and I am well respected in my field. Patients find that my approach to care is individualized and collaborative. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist passionate about helping patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, and other mental health diagnoses.
(848) 359-5805 View (848) 359-5805
Photo of Brook Evans, PA-C, MSPAS, Physician Assistant
Brook Evans
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MSPAS
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts? Is your goal to tune down the impulsive, negative talk and to be able to cope and manage daily anxiety? I am here to help. I am fully transparent with my patients about my own mental health struggles. I believe sharing my own experiences allows patients to better relate and recognize that I am able to understand what they are experiencing.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts? Is your goal to tune down the impulsive, negative talk and to be able to cope and manage daily anxiety? I am here to help. I am fully transparent with my patients about my own mental health struggles. I believe sharing my own experiences allows patients to better relate and recognize that I am able to understand what they are experiencing.
(848) 600-5437 View (848) 600-5437
Photo of Julia Foxworth, MCMSc, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Julia Foxworth
Physician Assistant, MCMSc, PA-C
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
My ideal client is someone who is invested in working collaboratively toward their mental wellness. Each person is unique and warrants an individualized approach with methods specifically tailored to their own needs. I take a holistic approach to working with my patients. It is important to recognize and work on all aspects of your life that impact your mental wellness. Providing ample education on treatment modalities and working as a team with the patient towards their goals of mental wellness are of the upmost importance.
My ideal client is someone who is invested in working collaboratively toward their mental wellness. Each person is unique and warrants an individualized approach with methods specifically tailored to their own needs. I take a holistic approach to working with my patients. It is important to recognize and work on all aspects of your life that impact your mental wellness. Providing ample education on treatment modalities and working as a team with the patient towards their goals of mental wellness are of the upmost importance.
(848) 266-6890 View (848) 266-6890
Photo of Padma Palvai - Mindspace Psychiatry , MD, Psychiatrist
Mindspace Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
(908) 913-7531 View (908) 913-7531

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Emad Mounir - Christian Wellness Center of NJ LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Christian Wellness Center of NJ LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
Dr. Emad Mounir is a Licensed Psychiatrist and ABPN board-certified in Psychiatry and Neurology, boasting 24+ years of experience. Dr. Mounir offers empathetic, reflective evaluation, and attentive listening during treatment. He suggests pharmacological and psycho-therapeutic interventions to alleviate suffering and elevate functioning, aligning with individual aspirations.
Dr. Emad Mounir is a Licensed Psychiatrist and ABPN board-certified in Psychiatry and Neurology, boasting 24+ years of experience. Dr. Mounir offers empathetic, reflective evaluation, and attentive listening during treatment. He suggests pharmacological and psycho-therapeutic interventions to alleviate suffering and elevate functioning, aligning with individual aspirations.
(732) 978-9633 View (732) 978-9633
Photo of Ronke Babalola, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Ronke Babalola
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Everyone deserves the best care and this is why this practice was created. We provide personalized and quality psychiatric care to children, adolescent and adult.​
Everyone deserves the best care and this is why this practice was created. We provide personalized and quality psychiatric care to children, adolescent and adult.​
(848) 225-9177 View (848) 225-9177
Photo of Gabriell Budoff, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gabriell Budoff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
Raritan, NJ 08869
I am a board-certified behavioral health nurse practitioner, specializing in the mental health needs of adults and older adults. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Brandeis University and a Master’s Degree in Nursing from Boston College William F. Connell School. I provide a nurturing and safe space, in which you can express yourself freely without fear of judgment. I practice with patience and compassion and promise to take the time to get to know who you are as an individual and your unique needs and strengths. I will work with you to come up with a treatment plan you are comfortable with.
I am a board-certified behavioral health nurse practitioner, specializing in the mental health needs of adults and older adults. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Brandeis University and a Master’s Degree in Nursing from Boston College William F. Connell School. I provide a nurturing and safe space, in which you can express yourself freely without fear of judgment. I practice with patience and compassion and promise to take the time to get to know who you are as an individual and your unique needs and strengths. I will work with you to come up with a treatment plan you are comfortable with.
(908) 224-5598 View (908) 224-5598
Photo of Ololade Ekwere, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ololade Ekwere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ololade "Lola" Ekwere is a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has practiced for over 12 years in various capacities in healthcare serving patients and their families. During her career and education, Lola developed comfort treating individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, sleep disorders and other common psychiatric disorders.
Ololade "Lola" Ekwere is a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has practiced for over 12 years in various capacities in healthcare serving patients and their families. During her career and education, Lola developed comfort treating individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, sleep disorders and other common psychiatric disorders.
(908) 460-7101 View (908) 460-7101
Photo of Padma Palvai - Mindspace Psychiatry LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Mindspace Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Somerville, NJ 08876
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with autism, depression, or anxiety? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults in both the United States and India, I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with autism, depression, or anxiety? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults in both the United States and India, I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
(908) 224-4074 View (908) 224-4074
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(973) 798-9979 View (973) 798-9979
Photo of Dr. Mona Williams-Gregory, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Mona Williams-Gregory
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with two doctoral degrees. I am qualified to practice in Psychiatry and Internal Medicine to counsel, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for patients of all age groups. I have 25 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner and have worked extensively in inpatient and outpatient settings.
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with two doctoral degrees. I am qualified to practice in Psychiatry and Internal Medicine to counsel, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for patients of all age groups. I have 25 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner and have worked extensively in inpatient and outpatient settings.
(732) 507-9413 View (732) 507-9413
Photo of Catherine C Nwanonyiri, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine C Nwanonyiri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey. I received my Bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) at University of Medicine and Dentistry, New Jersey, Master's in Nursing at Walden university and Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Walden University. My goal is to provide individualized and client-focused care utilizing a psychosocial and holistic approach to improve my client's condition. I am compassionate, personable, empathetic and very patient. I will work with each individual patient to help them reach their goal.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey. I received my Bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) at University of Medicine and Dentistry, New Jersey, Master's in Nursing at Walden university and Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Walden University. My goal is to provide individualized and client-focused care utilizing a psychosocial and holistic approach to improve my client's condition. I am compassionate, personable, empathetic and very patient. I will work with each individual patient to help them reach their goal.
(848) 331-2183 View (848) 331-2183
Photo of Zona Alabi, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zona Alabi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07105
Eagle Health Services provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health needs to a variety of clients. We offer psychiatry and counseling services both in-person and via Telehealth. We offer offices both in Northern and Central New Jersey. Nurse Practitioner Zona Alabi, a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse, offers assessment, therapy, and medication management. Every client is unique in their mental health needs and I strive to provide compassionate holistic care and treatment plan geared at improving the overall mental health and well being of all clients across the lifespan.
Eagle Health Services provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health needs to a variety of clients. We offer psychiatry and counseling services both in-person and via Telehealth. We offer offices both in Northern and Central New Jersey. Nurse Practitioner Zona Alabi, a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse, offers assessment, therapy, and medication management. Every client is unique in their mental health needs and I strive to provide compassionate holistic care and treatment plan geared at improving the overall mental health and well being of all clients across the lifespan.
(973) 381-2503 View (973) 381-2503
Photo of Bianca K. Robinson, PMHNP , MSN , APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bianca K. Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , MSN , APN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Masters degree as a PMHNP-BC from Rutgers University in 2018. Since working under the umbrella of mental health since I was an RN (Hampton University graduate) having overall experience for 15yrs including 5 years and current as an APN, I believe with a pinch of mustard seed faith, time, patience and effort, the road to improving mental illness becomes less cluttered and more clear.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received my Masters degree as a PMHNP-BC from Rutgers University in 2018. Since working under the umbrella of mental health since I was an RN (Hampton University graduate) having overall experience for 15yrs including 5 years and current as an APN, I believe with a pinch of mustard seed faith, time, patience and effort, the road to improving mental illness becomes less cluttered and more clear.
(908) 409-3134 View (908) 409-3134
Photo of Immaculata Ada Emesue - Trinity Psychiatry (Immaculata Emesue), PMHNP, AGNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trinity Psychiatry (Immaculata Emesue)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Immaculata Emesue, I am a board-certified Mental Health and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience in psychiatry. I am well experienced in the management of various psychiatry/mental illness. We all aware that life could be extremely stressful and especially with the ongoing chaos in our world today. We are here to help you to navigate through your life struggles and optimize your quality of life. Our goal is to help our patient to achieve optimal serenity and to bring life back to normal once again. We offer medication management and counselling for coping with your daily mental stress.
My name is Immaculata Emesue, I am a board-certified Mental Health and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience in psychiatry. I am well experienced in the management of various psychiatry/mental illness. We all aware that life could be extremely stressful and especially with the ongoing chaos in our world today. We are here to help you to navigate through your life struggles and optimize your quality of life. Our goal is to help our patient to achieve optimal serenity and to bring life back to normal once again. We offer medication management and counselling for coping with your daily mental stress.
(732) 582-5713 View (732) 582-5713
Photo of Arnaldo Negron, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Arnaldo Negron
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Online Only
We specialize in the Evaluation and Management of Adults with Psychiatric conditions. Aroga offer specialized treatment for medication resistant depressed patients such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Intranasal Ketamine and Spravato. We are the only center in the area to offer QB Test, a FDA cleared test to assess treatment optimization in ADHD. We also offer treatment for Eating disorders and Obesity, as well as Office-based treatment of opioid dependence and Addiction. Our therapies provide multiple psychotherapy techniques to help our patients to achieve complete treatment success.
We specialize in the Evaluation and Management of Adults with Psychiatric conditions. Aroga offer specialized treatment for medication resistant depressed patients such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Intranasal Ketamine and Spravato. We are the only center in the area to offer QB Test, a FDA cleared test to assess treatment optimization in ADHD. We also offer treatment for Eating disorders and Obesity, as well as Office-based treatment of opioid dependence and Addiction. Our therapies provide multiple psychotherapy techniques to help our patients to achieve complete treatment success.
(609) 279-1339 View (609) 279-1339
Tina Pryor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
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.
(973) 791-7369 View (973) 791-7369
Photo of Akhtar Hossain, MD, Psychiatrist
Akhtar Hossain
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Somerville, NJ 08876
I have been a physician for over 30 years, a board-certified psychiatrist, specialized in child and adolescent psychiatry, but offer services to all age groups. I have held a directorship position at various mental health facilities over the years, supervised many psychiatrists, and APNs. I have a vast experience in helping people with serious mental illnesses, including but limited to Major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, ADHD, autistic spectrum disorder, substance use disorders.
I have been a physician for over 30 years, a board-certified psychiatrist, specialized in child and adolescent psychiatry, but offer services to all age groups. I have held a directorship position at various mental health facilities over the years, supervised many psychiatrists, and APNs. I have a vast experience in helping people with serious mental illnesses, including but limited to Major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, ADHD, autistic spectrum disorder, substance use disorders.
(908) 574-1567 View (908) 574-1567
Photo of Blessing Nwele Apn-Bc, MSN, PMHNP, APN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Blessing Nwele Apn-Bc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
My Name is Blessing Nwele and I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. Psychiatric/mental health disorders and behavioral health have been the focal point of my professional life for a decade, culminating in my opening of a mental health private practice. The Positive Touch Behavioral Health Services was born out of almost a decade entirely dedicated to promoting a culture of health and health equity.
My Name is Blessing Nwele and I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. Psychiatric/mental health disorders and behavioral health have been the focal point of my professional life for a decade, culminating in my opening of a mental health private practice. The Positive Touch Behavioral Health Services was born out of almost a decade entirely dedicated to promoting a culture of health and health equity.
(908) 509-6114 View (908) 509-6114
Photo of Matthew E Barnas - Pelorus Elder & Behavioral Health and Pelorus TMS, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Pelorus Elder & Behavioral Health and Pelorus TMS
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927
My practice specializes in Geriatric and Adult Psychiatry. We offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of cognitive disorders (i.e. Alzheimer's, Lewy Body, Vascular, and Frontotemporal Dementias), mood and anxiety disorders (i.e. Depression, Bipolar Disorder, GAD, Panic DO, etc), Insomnia, and "Behavioral Disturbances" associated with Dementia (including agitation, delusions, and hallucinations).
My practice specializes in Geriatric and Adult Psychiatry. We offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of cognitive disorders (i.e. Alzheimer's, Lewy Body, Vascular, and Frontotemporal Dementias), mood and anxiety disorders (i.e. Depression, Bipolar Disorder, GAD, Panic DO, etc), Insomnia, and "Behavioral Disturbances" associated with Dementia (including agitation, delusions, and hallucinations).
(973) 295-6335 View (973) 295-6335

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Warren, NJ

< 10

Psychiatrists in Warren, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Trauma and PTSD
50% Psychosis
50% Bipolar Disorder
50% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

19 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Medicare
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Warren, NJ see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Warren?

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.