Psychiatrists in New Jersey
Shannon Bucciarelli (adolescent/teen specialist)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
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.
Tri America is thrilled to introduce Andrew Kuiken, a certified physician assistant with over 12 years of clinical experience and is accepting new clients for in-person or online in NJ and online in NY and FL. PA Kuiken recently earned his Doctorate of Medical Science degree from Rocky Mountain University, showcasing his unwavering commitment to staying at the forefront of medical knowledge. In addition to Psychiatry, PA Kuiken has in neurosurgical and intensive care services, giving him a well rounded background in complex medical problems and how they may interact with psychiatric conditions.
Tri America is thrilled to introduce Andrew Kuiken, a certified physician assistant with over 12 years of clinical experience and is accepting new clients for in-person or online in NJ and online in NY and FL. PA Kuiken recently earned his Doctorate of Medical Science degree from Rocky Mountain University, showcasing his unwavering commitment to staying at the forefront of medical knowledge. In addition to Psychiatry, PA Kuiken has in neurosurgical and intensive care services, giving him a well rounded background in complex medical problems and how they may interact with psychiatric conditions.
I am a Psychiatrist 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 Psychiatrist 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 believe that everyone deserves access to compassionate, comprehensive mental health care. My mission is to empower you to overcome personal obstacles to improve your life, fostering a sense of hope, resilience, and self-efficacy. Together, we can work to manage your symptoms, understand your experiences, and cultivate a more fulfilling life.
I believe that everyone deserves access to compassionate, comprehensive mental health care. My mission is to empower you to overcome personal obstacles to improve your life, fostering a sense of hope, resilience, and self-efficacy. Together, we can work to manage your symptoms, understand your experiences, and cultivate a more fulfilling life.
Reservoir Health Psychiatry - Jenika L. Miles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Marlton, NJ 08053 (Online Only)
My ideal client is motivated to improve their mental health, regardless of their specific condition. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, or other symptoms. They want a safe, supportive environment where they can develop coping skills and explore their thoughts and feelings. My goal is to provide personalized treatment and help them achieve their goals, whether that's managing their symptoms or feeling more content in daily life.
My ideal client is motivated to improve their mental health, regardless of their specific condition. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, or other symptoms. They want a safe, supportive environment where they can develop coping skills and explore their thoughts and feelings. My goal is to provide personalized treatment and help them achieve their goals, whether that's managing their symptoms or feeling more content in daily life.
Luminous Cares, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, MBA, APN-C
Verified Verified
East Orange, NJ 07018
Luminous Cares, LLC, is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Provider, an expertise in psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, psychotherapy, medication management, and consultation, from children to adults (including Geriatrics) with psychiatric-mental health concerns. We pride ourselves in providing care dedicated to the spirit, soul and body of the individual; placing compassion, empathy and immediate response to emerging recovery/wellness issues. We maintain a data base of referrals for special therapies and for clients with medical problems. To foster the mental health of our population, we accept other insurances, plus medicare.
Luminous Cares, LLC, is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Provider, an expertise in psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, psychotherapy, medication management, and consultation, from children to adults (including Geriatrics) with psychiatric-mental health concerns. We pride ourselves in providing care dedicated to the spirit, soul and body of the individual; placing compassion, empathy and immediate response to emerging recovery/wellness issues. We maintain a data base of referrals for special therapies and for clients with medical problems. To foster the mental health of our population, we accept other insurances, plus medicare.
Kristine Hart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CARN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manahawkin, NJ 08050 (Online Only)
Together, we'll unravel your potential, heal your mind, and embrace a life of more positivity and fulfillment. I am dedicated to delivering meaningful and competent care for the issues you are facing. I recognize that every individual's mental health journey is distinct, and thus, I tailor my approaches to suit each person's specific needs. Your journey is your story, and I offer unwavering compassion and support to guide you to your wellness goals. I approach mental wellness holistically, considering all facets of your well-being. From therapy to medication management, I customize treatment plans that prioritize your unique goals.
Together, we'll unravel your potential, heal your mind, and embrace a life of more positivity and fulfillment. I am dedicated to delivering meaningful and competent care for the issues you are facing. I recognize that every individual's mental health journey is distinct, and thus, I tailor my approaches to suit each person's specific needs. Your journey is your story, and I offer unwavering compassion and support to guide you to your wellness goals. I approach mental wellness holistically, considering all facets of your well-being. From therapy to medication management, I customize treatment plans that prioritize your unique goals.
Maguire Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Emerson, NJ 07630
The ideal client for Maguire Psychiatry would be someone who is seeking compassionate and expert care for a wide range of mental health conditions. This individual may be facing issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, psychotic disorders, chronic illnesses, sleep disorders, or trauma-related concerns. Their needs would include a safe and confidential environment where they can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment, as well as access to personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. Their goals would likely revolve around achieving improved mental health and overall well-being.
The ideal client for Maguire Psychiatry would be someone who is seeking compassionate and expert care for a wide range of mental health conditions. This individual may be facing issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, psychotic disorders, chronic illnesses, sleep disorders, or trauma-related concerns. Their needs would include a safe and confidential environment where they can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment, as well as access to personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. Their goals would likely revolve around achieving improved mental health and overall well-being.
My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.
My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.
I see clients for med evals & management, 2nd opinions and robust patient edu. My clients are wide-ranging: some are brand new to treatment; others have chronic mental illness, whether stable or during an acute episode; I accept pt's looking for a f/u provider after a psych hospitalization; I accept new-onset mental illness, whether due to substance use, an acute stressor or another factors. Some pts who anticipate difficult upcoming life-changes, like a pregnancy, job change, in-laws moving in, etc., may choose to see me prophylactically — often, some of these patients find quick relief just knowing there’s a plan in place.
I see clients for med evals & management, 2nd opinions and robust patient edu. My clients are wide-ranging: some are brand new to treatment; others have chronic mental illness, whether stable or during an acute episode; I accept pt's looking for a f/u provider after a psych hospitalization; I accept new-onset mental illness, whether due to substance use, an acute stressor or another factors. Some pts who anticipate difficult upcoming life-changes, like a pregnancy, job change, in-laws moving in, etc., may choose to see me prophylactically — often, some of these patients find quick relief just knowing there’s a plan in place.
Through Inside Out CURE, my focus is to help individuals become more Compassionate, Understanding, and aware of their strengths and vulnerabilities, while developing Resilience & Empathy. I am a Harvard trained infant, child, & adult psychiatrist. Because of my unique background in infancy, parenting, perinatal health, ADHD, child and adult psychiatry, I offer services to all age groups by applying principals of psychotherapy, pharmacology, and neuroscience. I also do school consultation and provide comprehensive evaluations for excessive social media use, PTSD, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and stress or burnout.
Through Inside Out CURE, my focus is to help individuals become more Compassionate, Understanding, and aware of their strengths and vulnerabilities, while developing Resilience & Empathy. I am a Harvard trained infant, child, & adult psychiatrist. Because of my unique background in infancy, parenting, perinatal health, ADHD, child and adult psychiatry, I offer services to all age groups by applying principals of psychotherapy, pharmacology, and neuroscience. I also do school consultation and provide comprehensive evaluations for excessive social media use, PTSD, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and stress or burnout.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Avenel, NJ 07001
Gary C. Jean, MPH, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner currently practicing in New York and New Jersey. He earned his BSN from New Jersey City University and his MSN with a specialization in Psychiatry from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychoeducation to improve patient mental health. His clinical expertise covers a wide range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance abuse, grief, and life transitions.
Gary C. Jean, MPH, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner currently practicing in New York and New Jersey. He earned his BSN from New Jersey City University and his MSN with a specialization in Psychiatry from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychoeducation to improve patient mental health. His clinical expertise covers a wide range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance abuse, grief, and life transitions.
"Listen to me." "Try to understand me." "Talk to me and work with me to explore solutions." I am board certified in General Psychiatry and I am a member of the Clinical TMS Society. I have been in practice for 25 years. My practice specialty is depression and anxiety. To implement change, I strongly believe in the importance of understanding your goals in entering treatment. Understanding your current and past life experiences is crucial to working with you to make sound recommendations.
"Listen to me." "Try to understand me." "Talk to me and work with me to explore solutions." I am board certified in General Psychiatry and I am a member of the Clinical TMS Society. I have been in practice for 25 years. My practice specialty is depression and anxiety. To implement change, I strongly believe in the importance of understanding your goals in entering treatment. Understanding your current and past life experiences is crucial to working with you to make sound recommendations.
In my work as a psychiatrist I recognize that my patients are more than a list of symptoms. My goal is to offer a consultation and assessment that is tailored to my patient’s needs.
In my work as a psychiatrist I recognize that my patients are more than a list of symptoms. My goal is to offer a consultation and assessment that is tailored to my patient’s needs.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience diagnosing mental health issues, prescribing psychotropic medications and counseling patients and their families. Specific areas of clinical interest include: child/teen/young adult mental health and wellness, the neurobiology and treatment of pediatric eating disorders and pharmacological approaches to the treatment of ADHD, including cases complicated by other mental health issues.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience diagnosing mental health issues, prescribing psychotropic medications and counseling patients and their families. Specific areas of clinical interest include: child/teen/young adult mental health and wellness, the neurobiology and treatment of pediatric eating disorders and pharmacological approaches to the treatment of ADHD, including cases complicated by other mental health issues.
We specialize in Treatment Resistant Depression- offering State of the art TMS ( Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) therapy, IV Ketamine and Spravato treatment. We look forward to helping you or a loved one. Dr. Srisai Gowda is a leading double Board–Certified Psychiatrist practicing over 25 years at the Jersey Shore. Dr. Gowda is committed to improving patients’ overall wellness, avoiding “Pill for every ill mantra”. We provide Suboxone therapy, TMS & IV Ketamine/ Esketamine therapy in office.
We specialize in Treatment Resistant Depression- offering State of the art TMS ( Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) therapy, IV Ketamine and Spravato treatment. We look forward to helping you or a loved one. Dr. Srisai Gowda is a leading double Board–Certified Psychiatrist practicing over 25 years at the Jersey Shore. Dr. Gowda is committed to improving patients’ overall wellness, avoiding “Pill for every ill mantra”. We provide Suboxone therapy, TMS & IV Ketamine/ Esketamine therapy in office.
Letisha Hogans Evolve N Change
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laurel Springs, NJ 08021
Threat Assessments. Accepting New Clients. We will work with you to help you develop the strategies you need to get back on the path that leads to happiness, joy and success. Together, we will work to address the issues you are facing and come through on the other side with a new way of thinking, and confidently take on a new direction in life. We will work closely together to analyze what struggles you are facing and their underlying causes and try to change the behaviors and thought patterns that are keeping you from being the person you want to be.
Threat Assessments. Accepting New Clients. We will work with you to help you develop the strategies you need to get back on the path that leads to happiness, joy and success. Together, we will work to address the issues you are facing and come through on the other side with a new way of thinking, and confidently take on a new direction in life. We will work closely together to analyze what struggles you are facing and their underlying causes and try to change the behaviors and thought patterns that are keeping you from being the person you want to be.
Nixon Oloo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, CDDN, CDP
Verified Verified
Edison, NJ 08837 (Online Only)
My goal is to democratize mental health treatment and ensure that all my clients are stabilized and assisted to return back to their prior baseline pre-illness. The client is a crucial member of the treatment team and is included in all discussions pertaining to their care. I meet all my clients where they are clinically. Each clinical goal is based on the needs and wishes of the client. A stable mental health will certainly promote optimum physical wellbeing.
My goal is to democratize mental health treatment and ensure that all my clients are stabilized and assisted to return back to their prior baseline pre-illness. The client is a crucial member of the treatment team and is included in all discussions pertaining to their care. I meet all my clients where they are clinically. Each clinical goal is based on the needs and wishes of the client. A stable mental health will certainly promote optimum physical wellbeing.
I'm a board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist trained at the University of Michigan. I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavioral Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Personality Disorders, to name a few. By nature, I'm a warm, empathetic, and compassionate person who can often identify gaps in maladaptive thoughts and behaviors and guide others towards better outcomes.
I'm a board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist trained at the University of Michigan. I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavioral Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Personality Disorders, to name a few. By nature, I'm a warm, empathetic, and compassionate person who can often identify gaps in maladaptive thoughts and behaviors and guide others towards better outcomes.
Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the first step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment
Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the first step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment
See more therapy options for New Jersey
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in New Jersey who prioritize treating:
92% | Depression |
92% | Anxiety |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Medication Management |
72% | ADHD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
76% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in New Jersey see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
30% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in New Jersey?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.