Psychiatrists in 07666

Photo of Jason Dean, MD, Psychiatrist
Jason Dean
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666  (Online Only)
Dr. Dean is a child and adolescent psychiatrist, specializing in a combination of psychotherapy and medication management. Dr. Dean delves deep into the root causes of anxiety and behavioral issues. Unlike many psychiatrists, Dr. Dean understands that symptoms are merely the surface of a much larger picture. By treating the whole person, not just the symptoms, Dr. Dean uncovers the underlying issues in social-emotional development, paving the way for a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Dr. Dean is a child and adolescent psychiatrist, specializing in a combination of psychotherapy and medication management. Dr. Dean delves deep into the root causes of anxiety and behavioral issues. Unlike many psychiatrists, Dr. Dean understands that symptoms are merely the surface of a much larger picture. By treating the whole person, not just the symptoms, Dr. Dean uncovers the underlying issues in social-emotional development, paving the way for a healthier and more fulfilling life.
(551) 239-1303 View (551) 239-1303
Photo of Shani Stein, MD, Psychiatrist
Shani Stein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
I am a licensed adult Psychiatrist with over 12 years of experience in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorders, ADHD and Perinatal disorders. I offer both medication management and therapy in my practice. I am dedicated to helping my patients get back on their feet and helping them live a more happy and productive life.
I am a licensed adult Psychiatrist with over 12 years of experience in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorders, ADHD and Perinatal disorders. I offer both medication management and therapy in my practice. I am dedicated to helping my patients get back on their feet and helping them live a more happy and productive life.
(201) 992-4247 View (201) 992-4247
Photo of Matisyahu Shulman, MD, Psychiatrist
Matisyahu Shulman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666
I offer a unique mix of scientific knowledge and humanistic, patient centered medicine. I provide holistic care within a caring environment for my patients. This means developing a unique combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and possibly medication. People are complex and anyone struggling with mental illness, addiction, or other issues needs a treatment plan that considers each person in his or her entirety.
I offer a unique mix of scientific knowledge and humanistic, patient centered medicine. I provide holistic care within a caring environment for my patients. This means developing a unique combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and possibly medication. People are complex and anyone struggling with mental illness, addiction, or other issues needs a treatment plan that considers each person in his or her entirety.
(201) 720-6721 View (201) 720-6721
Photo of Morton Fridman, MD, Psychiatrist
Morton Fridman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist & Psychoanalyst. As an M.D. & Psychoanalyst, I have the unique perspective offered by an appreciation of the interplay of mind & brain in influencing the human condition. I have been practicing for more than twenty years treating children, adolescents , adults, couples & families with psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, & medication for issues ranging from anxiety,mood difficulties, ADHD,marital discord & divorce to existential, personality & character issues. Please call & I will be glad to offer you the caring, humanistic approach I share with others.
I am a Board Certified Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist & Psychoanalyst. As an M.D. & Psychoanalyst, I have the unique perspective offered by an appreciation of the interplay of mind & brain in influencing the human condition. I have been practicing for more than twenty years treating children, adolescents , adults, couples & families with psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, & medication for issues ranging from anxiety,mood difficulties, ADHD,marital discord & divorce to existential, personality & character issues. Please call & I will be glad to offer you the caring, humanistic approach I share with others.
(201) 805-5974 View (201) 805-5974
Photo of Joel Pierre - Jericho Healthcare Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jericho Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666  (Online Only)
Jericho Healthcare was founded and operated by a board of certified mental health nurse practitioners with several years of psychiatric experience. Here at Jericho Healthcare quality mental health care is provided and the provider collaborates collectively with the clients. The areas of clinical expertise and interests at Jericho Healthcare include working with clients from all walks of life, individuals, healthcare professionals, first responders, military populations, LGBTQ population, etc.
Jericho Healthcare was founded and operated by a board of certified mental health nurse practitioners with several years of psychiatric experience. Here at Jericho Healthcare quality mental health care is provided and the provider collaborates collectively with the clients. The areas of clinical expertise and interests at Jericho Healthcare include working with clients from all walks of life, individuals, healthcare professionals, first responders, military populations, LGBTQ population, etc.
(201) 584-8639 View (201) 584-8639
Photo of Seokkoon Cho, MD, Psychiatrist
Seokkoon Cho
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
I am a truly caring, board certified psychiatrist, with extensive knowledge and experience in psychopharmacology. In order to bring peacefulness of mind and soul you desire and to ease your symptoms back to manageable levels, I believe it is essential to get the correct diagnosis and also the best treatments. I work with my clients to help them develop real comprehensive understanding using different approaches. I am experienced in several areas, including fatigue, pain syndrome, and insomnia, as well as anxiety, depression, ADHD, addictive behaviors of gambling, eating, alcohol, opiates, and other substances;
I am a truly caring, board certified psychiatrist, with extensive knowledge and experience in psychopharmacology. In order to bring peacefulness of mind and soul you desire and to ease your symptoms back to manageable levels, I believe it is essential to get the correct diagnosis and also the best treatments. I work with my clients to help them develop real comprehensive understanding using different approaches. I am experienced in several areas, including fatigue, pain syndrome, and insomnia, as well as anxiety, depression, ADHD, addictive behaviors of gambling, eating, alcohol, opiates, and other substances;
(201) 425-1130 View (201) 425-1130
Photo of Theresa Flanagan, MD, Psychiatrist
Theresa Flanagan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666  (Online Only)
Dr. Flanagan is a child and adolescent psychiatrist who understands the challenges that children and their families face. With her compassionate and empathetic approach, she provides a holistic and comprehensive treatment plan that goes beyond just prescribing medication. Dr. Flanagan believes in the power of combining psychotherapy and parent guidance with medication management. She recognizes that mental health issues can have an impact on a child's daily life, and by addressing both the emotional and biological aspects, she aims to create lasting positive changes. What sets her apart understanding of lifestyle factors as well.
Dr. Flanagan is a child and adolescent psychiatrist who understands the challenges that children and their families face. With her compassionate and empathetic approach, she provides a holistic and comprehensive treatment plan that goes beyond just prescribing medication. Dr. Flanagan believes in the power of combining psychotherapy and parent guidance with medication management. She recognizes that mental health issues can have an impact on a child's daily life, and by addressing both the emotional and biological aspects, she aims to create lasting positive changes. What sets her apart understanding of lifestyle factors as well.
(201) 903-9520 View (201) 903-9520
Photo of Keeva Madden, MD, Psychiatrist
Keeva Madden
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666  (Online Only)
Born and raised in Ontario, Canada, Dr. Madden attended the University of Ottawa as an undergraduate, before attending Trinity College Dublin School of Medicine. She then completed her adult psychiatry residency at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, where she served as chief resident, subsequently completing her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Vermont. Dr. Madden treats most conditions, with particular expertise in ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and autism spectrum disorder. She treats children, teenagers, and adults, providing medication management, as well as psychotherapy.
Born and raised in Ontario, Canada, Dr. Madden attended the University of Ottawa as an undergraduate, before attending Trinity College Dublin School of Medicine. She then completed her adult psychiatry residency at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, where she served as chief resident, subsequently completing her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Vermont. Dr. Madden treats most conditions, with particular expertise in ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and autism spectrum disorder. She treats children, teenagers, and adults, providing medication management, as well as psychotherapy.
(201) 431-3271 View (201) 431-3271
Photo of Michael Petetit, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Petetit
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666  (Online Only)
Most psychiatrists do not practice psychotherapy, but this impairs a more holistic and complex appreciation for their clients, which can create a disjointed experience for many people that leads them to disengage from treatment. My approach to treatment is non-judgmental, collaborative, holistic, direct, and uses the latest evidence-based interventions. I’m fortunate to have joined like-minded doctors in a practice where you can have dedicated time for both psychotherapy and medical services, direct access to me, and a working relationship that affords you a better understanding of and control over how you address your goals.
Most psychiatrists do not practice psychotherapy, but this impairs a more holistic and complex appreciation for their clients, which can create a disjointed experience for many people that leads them to disengage from treatment. My approach to treatment is non-judgmental, collaborative, holistic, direct, and uses the latest evidence-based interventions. I’m fortunate to have joined like-minded doctors in a practice where you can have dedicated time for both psychotherapy and medical services, direct access to me, and a working relationship that affords you a better understanding of and control over how you address your goals.
(201) 389-2890 View (201) 389-2890
Photo of Christine Naungayan - Total Wellness Center, M, D, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Total Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, M, D
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
Total Wellness Center provides expert mental health care through a comprehensive range of services, including individual therapy, couples therapy, marriage counseling, family therapy, and medication management. Our team of experienced psychiatric nurse practitioners and therapists tailors each treatment plan to meet the unique needs of every patient. Whether in-person or via telehealth, we prioritize compassionate care, ensuring that patients feel supported on their journey to improved mental well-being. We accept major insurance plans and offer private pay options.
Total Wellness Center provides expert mental health care through a comprehensive range of services, including individual therapy, couples therapy, marriage counseling, family therapy, and medication management. Our team of experienced psychiatric nurse practitioners and therapists tailors each treatment plan to meet the unique needs of every patient. Whether in-person or via telehealth, we prioritize compassionate care, ensuring that patients feel supported on their journey to improved mental well-being. We accept major insurance plans and offer private pay options.
(862) 263-7056 x1 View (862) 263-7056 x1
Photo of Christine Naungayan, MD, Psychiatrist
Christine Naungayan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666
I am a general and forensic psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience, specializing in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, and mood disorders. I completed my residency and forensic fellowship at Yale, where I also served as chief resident. My practice can combine medication management and psychotherapy to help patients achieve their mental health goals, allowing patients to choose a combination of therapy and medication management or engage in therapy alone. I offer both in-person and telepsychiatry options, working collaboratively with patients to provide compassionate care tailored to their needs.
I am a general and forensic psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience, specializing in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, and mood disorders. I completed my residency and forensic fellowship at Yale, where I also served as chief resident. My practice can combine medication management and psychotherapy to help patients achieve their mental health goals, allowing patients to choose a combination of therapy and medication management or engage in therapy alone. I offer both in-person and telepsychiatry options, working collaboratively with patients to provide compassionate care tailored to their needs.
(973) 600-5465 x1 View (973) 600-5465 x1
Photo of Douglas Saphier - Saphier Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Saphier Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
In my private practice I treat patients of all ages and at various stages of life. I have particular expertise in diagnosing and treating numerous neurodevelopmental disorders including ADHD, behaviors related to autism spectrum disorder as well as mood and anxiety disorders. I provide both medication management as well as supportive psychotherapy.
In my private practice I treat patients of all ages and at various stages of life. I have particular expertise in diagnosing and treating numerous neurodevelopmental disorders including ADHD, behaviors related to autism spectrum disorder as well as mood and anxiety disorders. I provide both medication management as well as supportive psychotherapy.
(917) 746-1421 View (917) 746-1421
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
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.
(201) 685-4044 View (201) 685-4044
Photo of Michael Lienhard, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Lienhard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666
Mental illness refers to a variety of health conditions that can affect a person’s thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and perceptions. While mental health concerns can come-and-go, they become significantly problematic when they cause persistent stress, interfere with relationships, and affect daily functioning. With the appropriate treatment, the majority of individuals with mental illness continue to function in their daily lives.
Mental illness refers to a variety of health conditions that can affect a person’s thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and perceptions. While mental health concerns can come-and-go, they become significantly problematic when they cause persistent stress, interfere with relationships, and affect daily functioning. With the appropriate treatment, the majority of individuals with mental illness continue to function in their daily lives.
(201) 885-5537 View (201) 885-5537
Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
(551) 210-8937 View (551) 210-8937
Photo of Ali Ahsan Ali, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist
Ali Ahsan Ali
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
As a psychiatrist with advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy I bring a wealth of experience working with people from various cultures, backgrounds and sensitivities. Through collaborative efforts, I can help you identify the roots of your struggles and develop alternative ways of relating. If needed, I can also prescribe medications carefully.
As a psychiatrist with advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy I bring a wealth of experience working with people from various cultures, backgrounds and sensitivities. Through collaborative efforts, I can help you identify the roots of your struggles and develop alternative ways of relating. If needed, I can also prescribe medications carefully.
(646) 832-3973 View (646) 832-3973
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(201) 690-1049 View (201) 690-1049
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
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.
(201) 500-3625 View (201) 500-3625
Photo of Naomi Noble, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Naomi Noble
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
Hi, I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are dealing with OCD and mood disorders. I also specialize in working with healthcare professionals. Before becoming a PMHNP, my inspiration to pursue this path came from seeing my family member struggle with OCD as well as my coworkers experience burn out, fatigue, and stress, especially during COVID-19. These experiences ignited a deep desire in me to assist people in optimizing both their physical and mental health, so that we not just survive, but thrive!
Hi, I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are dealing with OCD and mood disorders. I also specialize in working with healthcare professionals. Before becoming a PMHNP, my inspiration to pursue this path came from seeing my family member struggle with OCD as well as my coworkers experience burn out, fatigue, and stress, especially during COVID-19. These experiences ignited a deep desire in me to assist people in optimizing both their physical and mental health, so that we not just survive, but thrive!
(551) 282-9528 View (551) 282-9528
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
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) 605-7952 View (856) 605-7952
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07666

20+

Average cost per session

$350

Psychiatrists in 07666 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
88% Bipolar Disorder
85% Trauma and PTSD
77% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% ADHD
69% Medication Management

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield
92% Aetna
92% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 07666 see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

68% Female
32% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07666?

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.