Psychiatrists in 07652

Photo of Derek Berberian, MD, Psychiatrist
Derek Berberian
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Dr. Berberian is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Neurologist who has extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, PSTD, OCD, ADHD, mood disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, neuropathies, headaches and addiction. In addition, he performs outpatient bariatric screening, biofeedback, neurofeedback and EEG evaluations. Care is goal-oriented, addressing each individual's needs using a variety of patient-centered approaches. His focus includes adolescent, adult and geriatric populations.
Dr. Berberian is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Neurologist who has extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, PSTD, OCD, ADHD, mood disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, neuropathies, headaches and addiction. In addition, he performs outpatient bariatric screening, biofeedback, neurofeedback and EEG evaluations. Care is goal-oriented, addressing each individual's needs using a variety of patient-centered approaches. His focus includes adolescent, adult and geriatric populations.
(551) 292-7298 View (551) 292-7298
Photo of Ramakrishna Gudapati - Ramakrishna Gudapati MD LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Ramakrishna Gudapati MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
Dr. Ramakrishna Gudapati, MD is a board certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience including as a Medical Director. Accepting new patients. Weekend appointments available.
Dr. Ramakrishna Gudapati, MD is a board certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience including as a Medical Director. Accepting new patients. Weekend appointments available.
(201) 862-7157 View (201) 862-7157
Photo of Jane O'Rourke, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jane O'Rourke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
The foundation of my practice is compassion and a genuine sense of caring for my client's well being and quality of life. I treat my clients holistically while emphasizing a "partnership in care". My practice and expertise is across the lifespan and I care for children, adolescents, adults and elders.
The foundation of my practice is compassion and a genuine sense of caring for my client's well being and quality of life. I treat my clients holistically while emphasizing a "partnership in care". My practice and expertise is across the lifespan and I care for children, adolescents, adults and elders.
(551) 313-9518 View (551) 313-9518
Photo of Dr. Rosita Rodriguez - Family Psychiatry and Therapy, DNP, RN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Dr. Rosita Rodriguez is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She obtained his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the Rutgers School of nursing . Additionally, Dr. Rodriguez has worked in the nursing field for over 20 years and has earned several national certifications in nursing. Dr. Rodriguez incorporates holistic therapeutic modalities into her clinical practice that focus on an individual’s strengths, wellness, and resilience-building strategies. She utilizes the trauma-informed approach while providing mental health care to persons across the lifespan
Dr. Rosita Rodriguez is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She obtained his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the Rutgers School of nursing . Additionally, Dr. Rodriguez has worked in the nursing field for over 20 years and has earned several national certifications in nursing. Dr. Rodriguez incorporates holistic therapeutic modalities into her clinical practice that focus on an individual’s strengths, wellness, and resilience-building strategies. She utilizes the trauma-informed approach while providing mental health care to persons across the lifespan
(973) 832-1883 View (973) 832-1883
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
FPT
FPT
(551) 230-6998 View (551) 230-6998
Photo of Yasir Ahmad - Hamilton Behavioral, MD, Psychiatrist
Hamilton Behavioral
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
At Hamilton Behavioral MDPA you will receive in depth psychiatric evaluation and treatment. Hamilton Behavioral is dedicated to provide individualized mental health treatment. We work with all ages from children to late adulthood. Utilizing the biopsychosocial approach we believe in integrating the various tangible issues whether it be a chemical imbalance, or combination of socioeconomic stressors. Everyone has a separate set of issues and there is no one universal treatment that fits all. Our goal it to cover your needs, however complicated they may be. We offer various services and have late hours. Conveniently located, try us!
At Hamilton Behavioral MDPA you will receive in depth psychiatric evaluation and treatment. Hamilton Behavioral is dedicated to provide individualized mental health treatment. We work with all ages from children to late adulthood. Utilizing the biopsychosocial approach we believe in integrating the various tangible issues whether it be a chemical imbalance, or combination of socioeconomic stressors. Everyone has a separate set of issues and there is no one universal treatment that fits all. Our goal it to cover your needs, however complicated they may be. We offer various services and have late hours. Conveniently located, try us!
(551) 234-0303 View (551) 234-0303
Photo of Gail Bergin, FNP, PMHNP, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gail Bergin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, CNS
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
Clients who are committed to becoming well and functioning at a level that expresses their ideal self are the clients that I most seek because my goal is to help clients achieve their best. The issues are always varied but their goals are aligned with a desire to achieve the best that they can be. I am not just about symptom relief as most medication prescribers are. I practice at Specialized Therapy Associates, LLC where clients can access a full range of services for mind-body health, such as, nutrition counseling to help overcome mood and sleep issues as an example or Yoga Therapy and mindfulness.
Clients who are committed to becoming well and functioning at a level that expresses their ideal self are the clients that I most seek because my goal is to help clients achieve their best. The issues are always varied but their goals are aligned with a desire to achieve the best that they can be. I am not just about symptom relief as most medication prescribers are. I practice at Specialized Therapy Associates, LLC where clients can access a full range of services for mind-body health, such as, nutrition counseling to help overcome mood and sleep issues as an example or Yoga Therapy and mindfulness.
(551) 209-2246 View (551) 209-2246
Photo of Stephanie Morgana, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Morgana
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Stephanie Morgana, MSN, PMHNP-BC, extends a warm welcome to individuals seeking transformative mental health support at Baker Street Behavioral Health. Specializing in evidence-based medication management, Stephanie's clients are people looking for help with navigating issues such as ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, stress, PTSD, and/or LGBTQ+ issues, in a confidential space for self-exploration and growth.
Stephanie Morgana, MSN, PMHNP-BC, extends a warm welcome to individuals seeking transformative mental health support at Baker Street Behavioral Health. Specializing in evidence-based medication management, Stephanie's clients are people looking for help with navigating issues such as ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, stress, PTSD, and/or LGBTQ+ issues, in a confidential space for self-exploration and growth.
(973) 949-0753 View (973) 949-0753
Photo of Christopher Hannon - Family Psychiatry and Therapy, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Dr. Christopher Hannon is a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He obtained his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Louisville. His training covers mental health treatment across the lifespan including psychopharmacological management of psychiatric conditions and a host of therapeutic modalities. Areas of particular interest include trauma/PTSD, depression/anxiety, substance use disorders, as well as stigma around mental illness and in general.
Dr. Christopher Hannon is a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He obtained his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Louisville. His training covers mental health treatment across the lifespan including psychopharmacological management of psychiatric conditions and a host of therapeutic modalities. Areas of particular interest include trauma/PTSD, depression/anxiety, substance use disorders, as well as stigma around mental illness and in general.
(973) 221-8577 View (973) 221-8577
Photo of Rosamaria Verdadeiro - Family Psychiatry and Therapy, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
RosaMaria Verdadiero is an experienced adult and pediatric nurse practitioner. She is bilingual in Spanish and Portuguese. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, and childhood disorders, including ADHD, behavioral dysregulation, and autism. She’s been a school nurse for over a decade, and is she is fully versed in the day-to-day complex issues regarding children and teens. Rosa also has expertise in the subtleties of anxiety and depression amongst college students and young adults, a population that is often misunderstood.
RosaMaria Verdadiero is an experienced adult and pediatric nurse practitioner. She is bilingual in Spanish and Portuguese. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, and childhood disorders, including ADHD, behavioral dysregulation, and autism. She’s been a school nurse for over a decade, and is she is fully versed in the day-to-day complex issues regarding children and teens. Rosa also has expertise in the subtleties of anxiety and depression amongst college students and young adults, a population that is often misunderstood.
(973) 846-9298 View (973) 846-9298
Photo of Shilpika Varma, MD, Psychiatrist
Shilpika Varma
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Welcome to LIFE stance! I am Dr. Shilpika Varma a Board-Certified Psychiatrist dedicated to providing compassionate, culturally informed, and gender-affirming mental health care. As a native of Bergen County, NJ, I am proud to have returned home as a mental health advocate at Life stance. I have been practicing for over a decade in NY.
Welcome to LIFE stance! I am Dr. Shilpika Varma a Board-Certified Psychiatrist dedicated to providing compassionate, culturally informed, and gender-affirming mental health care. As a native of Bergen County, NJ, I am proud to have returned home as a mental health advocate at Life stance. I have been practicing for over a decade in NY.
(973) 313-5972 View (973) 313-5972
Photo of Allen Masry - Victory Bay Recovery Center - Detox, MD, Psychiatrist
Victory Bay Recovery Center - Detox
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
(201) 571-1759 View (201) 571-1759
Photo of Helene Anne Miller - Family Psychiatry and Therapy, MD, Psychiatrist
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
We pride ourselves in providing a nurturing, clean and confidential atmosphere for our patients. We treat all ages and stages of development. We have emergency and same-day appointments. Confidentiality and privacy are maintained to the strictest of standards. We have modern electronic medical records and electronic prescribing.
We pride ourselves in providing a nurturing, clean and confidential atmosphere for our patients. We treat all ages and stages of development. We have emergency and same-day appointments. Confidentiality and privacy are maintained to the strictest of standards. We have modern electronic medical records and electronic prescribing.
(201) 258-3240 View (201) 258-3240
Photo of Alena Antohina, MD, Psychiatrist
Alena Antohina
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Dr. Alena Antohina is a Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2011. She received her MD degree from Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Republic of Moldova and later completed a Psychiatry Residency at The Albany Medical Center, NY and a Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Beth Israel Hospital in New York City. Dr. Antohina's professional services include treatment and consultations for mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and sleep problems.
Dr. Alena Antohina is a Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2011. She received her MD degree from Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Republic of Moldova and later completed a Psychiatry Residency at The Albany Medical Center, NY and a Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Beth Israel Hospital in New York City. Dr. Antohina's professional services include treatment and consultations for mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and sleep problems.
(973) 240-9379 View (973) 240-9379
Photo of Bhavin Gajera, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Bhavin Gajera
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am a board certified Psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. After completing my medical school education, I achieved a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Arcadia University. I completed my adult psychiatry residency training at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. During my training at AEMC, I was awarded the prestigious national Distinguished Laughlin Fellow Merit Award for professional achievement and scholarship. I completed my Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the Mount Sinai Health system - St Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center in Manhattan where I also served as a Chief Fellow.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. After completing my medical school education, I achieved a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Arcadia University. I completed my adult psychiatry residency training at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. During my training at AEMC, I was awarded the prestigious national Distinguished Laughlin Fellow Merit Award for professional achievement and scholarship. I completed my Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the Mount Sinai Health system - St Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center in Manhattan where I also served as a Chief Fellow.
(201) 820-0888 View (201) 820-0888
Photo of Nirmal Sathaye, MD, Psychiatrist
Nirmal Sathaye
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist with additional certification in Geriatrics. I have 20 plus years of experience treating patients in an outpatient setting. I provide diagnostic evaluation and medication monitoring for adults. I treat patients with different symptoms including anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolarity and attentional issues. I believe in a collaborative and team approach to treatment. I like to understand the patient’s goals and needs and formulate a personalized treatment plan. I provide telepsychiatry to all my patients. “
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist with additional certification in Geriatrics. I have 20 plus years of experience treating patients in an outpatient setting. I provide diagnostic evaluation and medication monitoring for adults. I treat patients with different symptoms including anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolarity and attentional issues. I believe in a collaborative and team approach to treatment. I like to understand the patient’s goals and needs and formulate a personalized treatment plan. I provide telepsychiatry to all my patients. “
(908) 883-3879 View (908) 883-3879
Photo of Sajid Baig, MD, Psychiatrist
Sajid Baig
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy for the general adult population. After finishing medical school, I completed my Psychiatric residency in 2016 at Howard University in Washington, DC where I served as chief resident in my senior year. Since then, I have worked in a variety of different settings including inpatient, outpatient, community center and forensics.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy for the general adult population. After finishing medical school, I completed my Psychiatric residency in 2016 at Howard University in Washington, DC where I served as chief resident in my senior year. Since then, I have worked in a variety of different settings including inpatient, outpatient, community center and forensics.
(201) 817-6230 View (201) 817-6230
Photo of Linda Chuang, MD, Psychiatrist
Linda Chuang
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am a Cornell and NYU educated board certified psychiatrist with extensive training in both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Because of my belief in the connection between mind and body, I trained in both psychiatry and internal medicine. I approach patients from a humanistic and holistic view, with an awareness of the interactions of stress and it's impact on the body. My practice is eclectic and I see patients with a variety of psychiatric disorders or patients who simply want to achieve greater happiness and satisfaction in their lives.
I am a Cornell and NYU educated board certified psychiatrist with extensive training in both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Because of my belief in the connection between mind and body, I trained in both psychiatry and internal medicine. I approach patients from a humanistic and holistic view, with an awareness of the interactions of stress and it's impact on the body. My practice is eclectic and I see patients with a variety of psychiatric disorders or patients who simply want to achieve greater happiness and satisfaction in their lives.
(201) 820-0658 View (201) 820-0658
Photo of Samuel Okechukwu - My Psych Provider., MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
My Psych Provider.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
Samuel Okechukwu, APN, PMHNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of My Psych Provider LLC. He has over a decade of experience in Acute care and Psychiatry, both as a medical surgical nurse, psychiatric registered nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner. He possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by his natural ability to build rapport with patients and their families. He uses an individualized approach to care and listens because every patient has a unique story. His goal is to improve the quality of life by following evidence-based guidelines while providing quality and comprehensive mental care.
Samuel Okechukwu, APN, PMHNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of My Psych Provider LLC. He has over a decade of experience in Acute care and Psychiatry, both as a medical surgical nurse, psychiatric registered nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner. He possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by his natural ability to build rapport with patients and their families. He uses an individualized approach to care and listens because every patient has a unique story. His goal is to improve the quality of life by following evidence-based guidelines while providing quality and comprehensive mental care.
(201) 594-6782 View (201) 594-6782
Dr. Esha Khoshnu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Where special concerns deserve special care, Specialized Therapy Associates has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. We are staffed with Board certified adult & child psychiatrists & psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, licensed clinical alcohol & drug counselors & licensed professional counselors.
Where special concerns deserve special care, Specialized Therapy Associates has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. We are staffed with Board certified adult & child psychiatrists & psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, licensed clinical alcohol & drug counselors & licensed professional counselors.
(201) 488-6678 View (201) 488-6678
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07652

30+

Average cost per session

$190

Psychiatrists in 07652 who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
87% Depression
87% ADHD
87% Trauma and PTSD
84% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
81% Bipolar Disorder
81% Medication Management

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth
56% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 07652 see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07652?

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.