Psychiatrists in 07054

Photo of Sandhya C Praveen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandhya C Praveen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054  (Online Only)
Sandhya praveen is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry to diagnose, treat and prescribe medications for children, adolescent and adults. Some of her practice specialty includes ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorders and Schizophrenia. Sandhya has a Masters of Science degree in nursing.)
Sandhya praveen is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry to diagnose, treat and prescribe medications for children, adolescent and adults. Some of her practice specialty includes ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorders and Schizophrenia. Sandhya has a Masters of Science degree in nursing.)
(862) 325-5506 View (862) 325-5506
Photo of Ozan Toy - Telapsychiatry LLC, Psychiatrist
Telapsychiatry LLC
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054  (Online Only)
We are a psychiatric practice treating patients in New Jersey at this time through telehealth visits. We are comprised of psychiatrists, psychiatric physician assistants, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. We are committed to providing accessible, low cost, and high quality mental health care with an emphasis on maximizing lifestyle changes and prescribing medications at the lowest effective dose. We participate with insurance plans and offer self-pay options as well. We currently accept Aetna, Cigna, Bluecross Blueshield, Optum, among other plans.
We are a psychiatric practice treating patients in New Jersey at this time through telehealth visits. We are comprised of psychiatrists, psychiatric physician assistants, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. We are committed to providing accessible, low cost, and high quality mental health care with an emphasis on maximizing lifestyle changes and prescribing medications at the lowest effective dose. We participate with insurance plans and offer self-pay options as well. We currently accept Aetna, Cigna, Bluecross Blueshield, Optum, among other plans.
(862) 247-4356 View (862) 247-4356
Photo of Vaishali Desai, DNP, BA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vaishali Desai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated by just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls? Do you hope that life could be better? Now more than ever all people are feeling uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated by just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls? Do you hope that life could be better? Now more than ever all people are feeling uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life.
(862) 346-5841 View (862) 346-5841
Photo of Glenn Ludan - BirchWood Health, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BirchWood Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054  (Online Only)
At BirchWood Health we have psychiatrist that accept NJ Medicaid. We envision our ideal client as someone courageously facing mental health challenges, seeking a nurturing environment to heal and grow. Whether grappling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other Mental Health hurdles, they long for understanding and relief. Their goal is to reclaim balance in their life, learn effective coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being. They yearn for a compassionate approach that honors their unique story, fostering a journey towards self-discovery, resilience, and a more enriching, fulfilling life.
At BirchWood Health we have psychiatrist that accept NJ Medicaid. We envision our ideal client as someone courageously facing mental health challenges, seeking a nurturing environment to heal and grow. Whether grappling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other Mental Health hurdles, they long for understanding and relief. Their goal is to reclaim balance in their life, learn effective coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being. They yearn for a compassionate approach that honors their unique story, fostering a journey towards self-discovery, resilience, and a more enriching, fulfilling life.
(862) 306-1180 View (862) 306-1180
Photo of Yelena Khaysman, MD, Psychiatrist
Yelena Khaysman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult and geriatric psychiatry. I have 13 years of clinical experience. I completed residency at NS-LIJ Zucker Hillside Hospital followed by a fellowship in Consultation Liaison/Psychosomatic medicine at Long Island Jewish Katz Hospital. I specialize in a broad range of psychiatric disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a particular focus in geriatric psychiatry and offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of dementia.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult and geriatric psychiatry. I have 13 years of clinical experience. I completed residency at NS-LIJ Zucker Hillside Hospital followed by a fellowship in Consultation Liaison/Psychosomatic medicine at Long Island Jewish Katz Hospital. I specialize in a broad range of psychiatric disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a particular focus in geriatric psychiatry and offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of dementia.
(973) 359-5798 View (973) 359-5798
Photo of Jacquelyn Zagone - BirchWood Health - Jacquelyn Zagone, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BirchWood Health - Jacquelyn Zagone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054  (Online Only)
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health
(862) 356-6293 View (862) 356-6293
Photo of Raynald Joseph, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Raynald Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years in nursing including emergency/crisis, acute, chronic, legal and intermediate care. I work with patients with the following diagnoses including but not limited to: Major depressive disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Sleep issues, and PTSD.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years in nursing including emergency/crisis, acute, chronic, legal and intermediate care. I work with patients with the following diagnoses including but not limited to: Major depressive disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Sleep issues, and PTSD.
(929) 590-9720 View (929) 590-9720
Photo of Sinead Sobers - BirchWood Health - Sinead Sobers, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BirchWood Health - Sinead Sobers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054  (Online Only)
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health www.birchwood.health
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health www.birchwood.health
(862) 829-3368 View (862) 829-3368
Photo of Samantha O'Donnell - BirchWood Health - Samantha O'Donnell, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BirchWood Health - Samantha O'Donnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054  (Online Only)
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health
(862) 259-6968 View (862) 259-6968
BirchWood Health - Lily Tung
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), my heart is fully committed to nurturing and providing gentle, comprehensive mental health care. I deeply empathize with the intricate challenges of psychiatric conditions and passionately embrace a patient-centered approach in my treatment plans. My focus is always on recognizing and honoring the unique journey and needs of each individual. I warmly invite you to learn more about my compassionate practice and how we can walk together towards healing at www.BirchWood.Health.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), my heart is fully committed to nurturing and providing gentle, comprehensive mental health care. I deeply empathize with the intricate challenges of psychiatric conditions and passionately embrace a patient-centered approach in my treatment plans. My focus is always on recognizing and honoring the unique journey and needs of each individual. I warmly invite you to learn more about my compassionate practice and how we can walk together towards healing at www.BirchWood.Health.
(862) 352-7930 View (862) 352-7930
Photo of Michael John Krysko, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael John Krysko
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054
I focus on mental illness that affects people's day to day lives. I work with people by actively listening to people, and by guiding them and educating them about their problems, as well as by prescribing medications that will help them meet their goals.
I focus on mental illness that affects people's day to day lives. I work with people by actively listening to people, and by guiding them and educating them about their problems, as well as by prescribing medications that will help them meet their goals.
(973) 359-5798 View (973) 359-5798
Photo of William D Becker, MD, Psychiatrist
William D Becker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054
I am Board-Certified in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have 25 years experience doing evaluations, psychopharmacology, and/or psychotherapy. I have expertise working with most psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Depression, Suicide Risk Assessment, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Psychosis.
I am Board-Certified in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have 25 years experience doing evaluations, psychopharmacology, and/or psychotherapy. I have expertise working with most psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Depression, Suicide Risk Assessment, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Psychosis.
(973) 292-0758 View (973) 292-0758
Photo of Hong Kim, PMHNP, NP-P, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hong Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
(917) 727-6576 View (917) 727-6576
Photo of Margaret Gorny, APN, Psychiatric Nurse
Margaret Gorny
Psychiatric Nurse, APN
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054
I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have treated adults ranging in age from 18 to 80. I have also done extensive work with couples and families. My clients have had a wide variety of presenting problems from depression, anger management, relationships issues, anxiety, mood disorders, marital problems, phobias and obsessive compulsive behaviors. I see my client as a whole person not as a person with a problem. A person with strengths and weaknesses. Our job together is to find the answers and develop the skills to move forward to an enriching life.
I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have treated adults ranging in age from 18 to 80. I have also done extensive work with couples and families. My clients have had a wide variety of presenting problems from depression, anger management, relationships issues, anxiety, mood disorders, marital problems, phobias and obsessive compulsive behaviors. I see my client as a whole person not as a person with a problem. A person with strengths and weaknesses. Our job together is to find the answers and develop the skills to move forward to an enriching life.
(973) 845-4092 View (973) 845-4092
Merritt Hubsher
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054  (Online Only)
Specializes in the treatment of all child and adolescent emotional, behavioral, social and academic disorders. He possesses an expertise in the treatment of mood disorders in children, adolescents and adults, (such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and OCD Disorders), behavior disorders (such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder), as well as Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Specializes in the treatment of all child and adolescent emotional, behavioral, social and academic disorders. He possesses an expertise in the treatment of mood disorders in children, adolescents and adults, (such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and OCD Disorders), behavior disorders (such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder), as well as Autism Spectrum Disorders.
(973) 233-4109 View (973) 233-4109
Photo of Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
(973) 566-5742 View (973) 566-5742
Photo of Henry Adewole Ibitokun, PMHNP, FNP-C, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse
Henry Adewole Ibitokun
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, FNP-C, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Henry A. Ibitokun is a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about improving mental health and well-being. With over a decade's worth of experience in the field, Nurse practitioner Henry has honed expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, bipolar disorders, and more. Book your Psych evaluation, medication management, and talk therapy sessions at www.hoclinical.com
Henry A. Ibitokun is a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about improving mental health and well-being. With over a decade's worth of experience in the field, Nurse practitioner Henry has honed expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, bipolar disorders, and more. Book your Psych evaluation, medication management, and talk therapy sessions at www.hoclinical.com
(732) 479-7169 View (732) 479-7169
Photo of Dr. Jada Marie Khosla - Partners In Integrative Healing, State Street TMS, MD, Psychiatrist
Partners In Integrative Healing, State Street TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054
My current expertise and interests are; Community Psychiatry and building relationships within the natural environment. I perform second opinion consultations for complex cases or people who feel misdiagnosed. I have a focus on Women’s health and Reproductive Psychiatry, treating persons throughout the perinatal journey, I am an advocate and ally of LGBTQ and BIPOC community and am committed to an anti-racist and inclusive therapeutic stance. Integrative General Psychiatry, which includes traditional approaches in addition to holistic approaches. Interventional Psychiatry; transcranial magnetic stimulation and esketamine.
My current expertise and interests are; Community Psychiatry and building relationships within the natural environment. I perform second opinion consultations for complex cases or people who feel misdiagnosed. I have a focus on Women’s health and Reproductive Psychiatry, treating persons throughout the perinatal journey, I am an advocate and ally of LGBTQ and BIPOC community and am committed to an anti-racist and inclusive therapeutic stance. Integrative General Psychiatry, which includes traditional approaches in addition to holistic approaches. Interventional Psychiatry; transcranial magnetic stimulation and esketamine.
(802) 300-3569 View (802) 300-3569
Photo of Dr. Kofoworola Ojo, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Kofoworola Ojo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Dr Ojo is a psychiatrist at SK Lifestyle Psychiatry. Dr. Ojo is a double-board certified Psychiatrist, with experience in treating a variety of psychiatric illnesses, ranging from mood, anxiety, psychosis, trauma, and stress-related disorders. Additionally, her advance training in psychosomatic medicine allows for a more in-depth understanding of the interplay between physical and mental health. Dr. Ojo has been exposed to diverse backgrounds differing from her own–she is well aware of the importance and impact this can have on an individual.
Dr Ojo is a psychiatrist at SK Lifestyle Psychiatry. Dr. Ojo is a double-board certified Psychiatrist, with experience in treating a variety of psychiatric illnesses, ranging from mood, anxiety, psychosis, trauma, and stress-related disorders. Additionally, her advance training in psychosomatic medicine allows for a more in-depth understanding of the interplay between physical and mental health. Dr. Ojo has been exposed to diverse backgrounds differing from her own–she is well aware of the importance and impact this can have on an individual.
(201) 389-2729 View (201) 389-2729
Photo of Lorraine Wallace, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lorraine Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054
(862) 420-0331 View (862) 420-0331
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07054

20+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 07054 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
90% Bipolar Disorder
81% ADHD
81% Trauma and PTSD
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
76% Medication Management

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% Aetna
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
56% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 07054 see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07054?

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.