Psychiatrists in 07062

Photo of Johnson S Babayemi, PMHNP-, BC, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Johnson S Babayemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, APN
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07062  (Online Only)
I am here to provide assistance tailored towards your mental health needs in a holistic manner. Your complaints and needs will be listened to, and together we shall work out preferred solutions.
I am here to provide assistance tailored towards your mental health needs in a holistic manner. Your complaints and needs will be listened to, and together we shall work out preferred solutions.
(908) 540-6466 View (908) 540-6466
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07062
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
(908) 641-3292 View (908) 641-3292
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07062
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(908) 540-6707 View (908) 540-6707
Photo of Dr. Bradford Bobrin, MD , FASAM , FACLP, Psychiatrist
Dr. Bradford Bobrin
Psychiatrist, MD , FASAM , FACLP
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07062
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
(908) 529-8707 View (908) 529-8707
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07062
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(908) 676-6575 View (908) 676-6575
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07062
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(908) 540-7278 View (908) 540-7278
Photo of Pattie James, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pattie James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07062
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.
(908) 574-1213 View (908) 574-1213
Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07062
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
(908) 866-5126 View (908) 866-5126
Photo of Eronmwon Balogun, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eronmwon Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07062
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
(908) 676-7208 View (908) 676-7208
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07062
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
(908) 356-5886 View (908) 356-5886

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Racquel San Juan, DO, Psychiatrist
Racquel San Juan
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07060
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 Ashley Kwafo, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
(856) 605-7987 View (856) 605-7987
Photo of Neha Gupta, MD, Psychiatrist
Neha Gupta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
I'm a Triple Board Certified Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Forensic Psychiatrist. I grew up in Westfield, NJ and am well connected to the area. I've completed my residency training in Adult Psychiatry and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. I went on to do a 2nd fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. I'm a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
I'm a Triple Board Certified Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Forensic Psychiatrist. I grew up in Westfield, NJ and am well connected to the area. I've completed my residency training in Adult Psychiatry and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. I went on to do a 2nd fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. I'm a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
(848) 244-8678 View (848) 244-8678
Photo of Amaka Ikemefuna, PMHNP, -BC, APN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse
Amaka Ikemefuna
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, -BC, APN, RN
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07060  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Amaka. I have 8 years' experience as a psychiatric nurse and almost 9 years’ experience as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, within in-patient, out-patient and crisis intervention settings. I have also worked with multi-disciplinary teams to provide services to patients from adolescent to geriatric population (across life span).
Hello, my name is Amaka. I have 8 years' experience as a psychiatric nurse and almost 9 years’ experience as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, within in-patient, out-patient and crisis intervention settings. I have also worked with multi-disciplinary teams to provide services to patients from adolescent to geriatric population (across life span).
(732) 537-8197 View (732) 537-8197
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
(856) 605-7987 View (856) 605-7987
Photo of Grace Nwokike, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Grace Nwokike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I understand that life’s challenges can feel overwhelming at times. Whether you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, or persistent feelings of unease, I’m here to help. My approach is centered on you — your unique struggles, your goals, and your journey toward feeling better. Together, we can explore the underlying causes of your emotional pain and find the most effective treatment plan tailored to your needs. You don’t have to face this alone; let’s take the steps toward your healing, one day at a time.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I understand that life’s challenges can feel overwhelming at times. Whether you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, or persistent feelings of unease, I’m here to help. My approach is centered on you — your unique struggles, your goals, and your journey toward feeling better. Together, we can explore the underlying causes of your emotional pain and find the most effective treatment plan tailored to your needs. You don’t have to face this alone; let’s take the steps toward your healing, one day at a time.
(908) 888-9251 View (908) 888-9251
Photo of Pearl Louie, MD, Psychiatrist
Pearl Louie
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07060
I am a board certified psychiatrist and a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I am also among one of the first psychiatrists in the country to also be board certified in the subspecialty of Psychosomatic Medicine. Prior to joining the Westfield practice, I was an instructor in psychiatry and clinical fellow on the faculty of Harvard Medical School. I graduated cum laude from Columbia University in NYC. I completed a medical psychiatry fellowship at the Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston as well as a research fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital. Due to COVID-19 I am now providing telepsychiatry.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I am also among one of the first psychiatrists in the country to also be board certified in the subspecialty of Psychosomatic Medicine. Prior to joining the Westfield practice, I was an instructor in psychiatry and clinical fellow on the faculty of Harvard Medical School. I graduated cum laude from Columbia University in NYC. I completed a medical psychiatry fellowship at the Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston as well as a research fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital. Due to COVID-19 I am now providing telepsychiatry.
(908) 913-6576 View (908) 913-6576
Photo of Akinlabi Sanusi, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Akinlabi Sanusi
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I completed a residency training in General and Adult Psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York, an affiliate program of the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York. My treatment approach is based on the understanding that every individual is unique in their experience and needs. After a careful assessment of your symptoms, I will work with you in creating the treatment plan that suits you best.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I completed a residency training in General and Adult Psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York, an affiliate program of the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York. My treatment approach is based on the understanding that every individual is unique in their experience and needs. After a careful assessment of your symptoms, I will work with you in creating the treatment plan that suits you best.
(848) 206-3679 View (848) 206-3679
Photo of Hong Kim - One Mind Psychiatry NP PLLC, PMHNP, NP-P, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
One Mind Psychiatry NP PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07060  (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.
(201) 969-5923 View (201) 969-5923
Photo of Helen Blackman, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Helen Blackman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07060
Dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for delivering comprehensive care to individuals experiencing a range of mental health disorders and addictions. With a Master of Science in Nursing from Fairleigh Dickinson University, I bring over 3 years of clinical expertise in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning for diverse populations. Specialized in mental health disorder and addiction.
Dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for delivering comprehensive care to individuals experiencing a range of mental health disorders and addictions. With a Master of Science in Nursing from Fairleigh Dickinson University, I bring over 3 years of clinical expertise in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning for diverse populations. Specialized in mental health disorder and addiction.
(732) 782-1186 View (732) 782-1186

See more therapy options for 07062

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07062

10+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in 07062 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
90% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
90% Trauma and PTSD
90% Bipolar Disorder
80% ADHD
70% Substance Use

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% AmeriHealth
100% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 07062 see their clients

90% In Person and Online
10% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07062?

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.