Psychiatrists in 07735
Michael Volodarskiy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Keyport, NJ 07735
Hello, my name is Michael Volodarskiy, APRN, PMHNP-BC. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I take a holistic approach to client care, emphasizing collaboration and evidence-based individual treatment plans. With an additional certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner, I have worked in a variety of settings including primary care practice, community mental health centers, and inpatient and outpatient co-occurring MH/substance use facilities. My main focus is clients with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I value open communication and believe it is crucial to actively participate in the client's mental health journey.
Hello, my name is Michael Volodarskiy, APRN, PMHNP-BC. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I take a holistic approach to client care, emphasizing collaboration and evidence-based individual treatment plans. With an additional certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner, I have worked in a variety of settings including primary care practice, community mental health centers, and inpatient and outpatient co-occurring MH/substance use facilities. My main focus is clients with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I value open communication and believe it is crucial to actively participate in the client's mental health journey.
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Jeffrey Dynof
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Amboy, NJ 08879 (Online Only)
Jeffrey Dynof is a doctorally-prepared Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to the delivery of compassionate and high-quality healthcare for clients. He has extensive experience in providing evidenced-based and effective psychiatric care for adults and partnering with clients to meet their mental health goals.
Jeffrey Dynof is a doctorally-prepared Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to the delivery of compassionate and high-quality healthcare for clients. He has extensive experience in providing evidenced-based and effective psychiatric care for adults and partnering with clients to meet their mental health goals.
Positive Impact Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747
Hi! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and owner of Positive Impact Behavioral Health Services LLC. If you are flipping through psychology today, in search of a psychiatrist who listens and cares, then search no further. I will work with you through psychotherapy and medication management to make a positive impact on your mental health that will transcend into your general physical wellbeing.
Hi! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and owner of Positive Impact Behavioral Health Services LLC. If you are flipping through psychology today, in search of a psychiatrist who listens and cares, then search no further. I will work with you through psychotherapy and medication management to make a positive impact on your mental health that will transcend into your general physical wellbeing.
Mental Makeup Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself struggling to get through the most basic tasks, can’t keep still enough to concentrate on the task at hand, or can barely get through the day? Do you feel like past traumatic events have significantly altered the cause of your life, and you can’t seem to chart a productive path for yourself? Whatever the issue may be, I am willing to help you begin your journey of introspection, healing, and restoration as you discover the confident, fulfilled, and more aware. My personalized approach is rooted in empathy, being attentive, active listening, and transparency in every session.
Do you find yourself struggling to get through the most basic tasks, can’t keep still enough to concentrate on the task at hand, or can barely get through the day? Do you feel like past traumatic events have significantly altered the cause of your life, and you can’t seem to chart a productive path for yourself? Whatever the issue may be, I am willing to help you begin your journey of introspection, healing, and restoration as you discover the confident, fulfilled, and more aware. My personalized approach is rooted in empathy, being attentive, active listening, and transparency in every session.
Yale University trained psychiatrist, Dr. Stephen Jaeger’s philosophy on psychiatric care is grounded in his belief that every client is entitled to the highest quality personalized care. His unique approach focuses on individualized treatment plans. His mission is to optimize every aspect of your life and the individualized treatment plans are designed to do just that. Clients play an active role in tailoring their personalized treatment plan with Dr. Jaeger.
Yale University trained psychiatrist, Dr. Stephen Jaeger’s philosophy on psychiatric care is grounded in his belief that every client is entitled to the highest quality personalized care. His unique approach focuses on individualized treatment plans. His mission is to optimize every aspect of your life and the individualized treatment plans are designed to do just that. Clients play an active role in tailoring their personalized treatment plan with Dr. Jaeger.
Center for Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Holmdel, NJ 07733
My practice specializes in treating adults and geriatrics with a full range of diagnoses including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, dementia, psychosis, and Alzheimer's. The geriatric population presents unique health needs such as chronic diseases, sensory problems, cognitive loss, memory impairment, and balance issues. Molly's goal is to help treat symptoms that disrupt daily living and provide support and safety to patients and their families. Our office participates in Medicare, and although our focus is on geriatrics, Molly is happy to provide care for all adults. Sliding scale fees are available for those out of network.
My practice specializes in treating adults and geriatrics with a full range of diagnoses including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, dementia, psychosis, and Alzheimer's. The geriatric population presents unique health needs such as chronic diseases, sensory problems, cognitive loss, memory impairment, and balance issues. Molly's goal is to help treat symptoms that disrupt daily living and provide support and safety to patients and their families. Our office participates in Medicare, and although our focus is on geriatrics, Molly is happy to provide care for all adults. Sliding scale fees are available for those out of network.
Lightwood Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747 (Online Only)
Esther Kuffour is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who treats clients across the lifespan with various mental health and behavioral issues. She works with clients of all ages and treats clients with several moods and mental health disorders, which include but are not limited to bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, psychotic disorders, anxiety, panic attacks, sleep issues, etc. She is passionate about her work and treats clients with respect and dignity.
Esther Kuffour is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who treats clients across the lifespan with various mental health and behavioral issues. She works with clients of all ages and treats clients with several moods and mental health disorders, which include but are not limited to bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, psychotic disorders, anxiety, panic attacks, sleep issues, etc. She is passionate about her work and treats clients with respect and dignity.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects, and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often, this approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects, and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often, this approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
At Noble Care LLC, we offer many types of therapy to treat Stress, Anxiety, Depression PTSD, and ADHD, OCD Bipolar disorder, Addiction/Substance abuse and many other Mental Health Disorder. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or want to take a new direction in your life, we are here to help.
At Noble Care LLC, we offer many types of therapy to treat Stress, Anxiety, Depression PTSD, and ADHD, OCD Bipolar disorder, Addiction/Substance abuse and many other Mental Health Disorder. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or want to take a new direction in your life, we are here to help.
You have tried breathing techniques, watched numerous social media videos from celebrity psychiatrists, and still can't shake the feeling that something may be wrong. Perhaps you are always tired, can't seem to shake the daily worry or sadness you feel? You may be concerned about a loved one’s recent behavior, and need help to learn how to support them. We are here to support you on your mental wellness journey.
You have tried breathing techniques, watched numerous social media videos from celebrity psychiatrists, and still can't shake the feeling that something may be wrong. Perhaps you are always tired, can't seem to shake the daily worry or sadness you feel? You may be concerned about a loved one’s recent behavior, and need help to learn how to support them. We are here to support you on your mental wellness journey.
Relax Your Mind Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Cliffwood, NJ 07721
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - -
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - -
I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry and have had training and experience in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have practiced psychiatry in different settings. My professional knowledge and interests include treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric disorders, including mood, anxiety, psychotic, impulse control and substance abuse. I focuse on stabilization of patient's condition with medication and educate patients about their disorder and available treatments. I work with patients and their families in order to improve patients' adjustment and functioning in community. I help my patients build up confidence and enable them to change their lives for better.
I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry and have had training and experience in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have practiced psychiatry in different settings. My professional knowledge and interests include treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric disorders, including mood, anxiety, psychotic, impulse control and substance abuse. I focuse on stabilization of patient's condition with medication and educate patients about their disorder and available treatments. I work with patients and their families in order to improve patients' adjustment and functioning in community. I help my patients build up confidence and enable them to change their lives for better.
I have a background that includes over 30 years experience and knowledge in providing mental health care to clients who need help dealing with diverse mental health issues and problems. Those who desire improved and better quality relationships whether in marriage, as a parent, in friendships, with relatives, including extended family, or in the workplace should contact me. I also have extensive experience working with clients who suffer from low self esteem, self-worth concerns and the illnesses that emanate from that like substances abuse, depression and anxiety. Improving quality of life addressing forgiveness issues is also a specialty.
I have a background that includes over 30 years experience and knowledge in providing mental health care to clients who need help dealing with diverse mental health issues and problems. Those who desire improved and better quality relationships whether in marriage, as a parent, in friendships, with relatives, including extended family, or in the workplace should contact me. I also have extensive experience working with clients who suffer from low self esteem, self-worth concerns and the illnesses that emanate from that like substances abuse, depression and anxiety. Improving quality of life addressing forgiveness issues is also a specialty.
Dr. Rosemary Mensah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747 (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients. As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment dedicated to your mental well-being. I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable, heard, and understood. With a solid educational background and clinical experience, my primary focus is on the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and various mental health challenges. I believe in building a solid therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and empathy. I aim to create a collaborative and culturally sensitive environment where we can establish treatment goals.
I am accepting new clients. As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment dedicated to your mental well-being. I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable, heard, and understood. With a solid educational background and clinical experience, my primary focus is on the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and various mental health challenges. I believe in building a solid therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and empathy. I aim to create a collaborative and culturally sensitive environment where we can establish treatment goals.
All Services are offered in person and via Tele Health. We are specialized in depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, addictions, sexuality, relationships and weight issues. Our psychiatrist combines medication, supplements and bio identical hormones in order to address the symptoms and their origin. We will match you with the best therapeutic approach based on your symptoms, preferences and personality: psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioral, Christian counseling or life coaching. We also offer outpatient detoxification for different drugs of abuse and alcohol, combined with counseling for relapse prevention and coping skills.
All Services are offered in person and via Tele Health. We are specialized in depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, addictions, sexuality, relationships and weight issues. Our psychiatrist combines medication, supplements and bio identical hormones in order to address the symptoms and their origin. We will match you with the best therapeutic approach based on your symptoms, preferences and personality: psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioral, Christian counseling or life coaching. We also offer outpatient detoxification for different drugs of abuse and alcohol, combined with counseling for relapse prevention and coping skills.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you ready to see if medications, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely so that you don't needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you ready to see if medications, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely so that you don't needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Kara Rafael is a distinguished board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, renowned for her comprehensive expertise in adolescent and adult mental health. Kara earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, which was followed by an accelerated nursing program at New Jersey City University, leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She further advanced her specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health with a master’s degree from Monmouth University. Kara’s professional path is marked by significant experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, where she has adeptly managed a spectrum of mental health diagnoses.
Kara Rafael is a distinguished board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, renowned for her comprehensive expertise in adolescent and adult mental health. Kara earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, which was followed by an accelerated nursing program at New Jersey City University, leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She further advanced her specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health with a master’s degree from Monmouth University. Kara’s professional path is marked by significant experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, where she has adeptly managed a spectrum of mental health diagnoses.
I find helping people who want to make their life better and more satisfying the most rewarding part of my work. When I am with a patient, I see them for who they are and what gets in their way, rather than a list of symptoms. Looking and listening to people, where they are in their life and how their problems block them from expressing their underlying health is important in order for people to feel heard and understood. This is the basis for making an accurate diagnosis which is the foundation for all therapy, whether it be with or without the support of medication.
I find helping people who want to make their life better and more satisfying the most rewarding part of my work. When I am with a patient, I see them for who they are and what gets in their way, rather than a list of symptoms. Looking and listening to people, where they are in their life and how their problems block them from expressing their underlying health is important in order for people to feel heard and understood. This is the basis for making an accurate diagnosis which is the foundation for all therapy, whether it be with or without the support of medication.
Dr. Ihab Ibrahim is a dedicated and caring psychiatrist, specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, serving the community of New York and New Jersey.He complete his residency in psychiatry at Delaware Psychiatric Center. He also completed a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at North Shore-LIJ Health System. He is certified in General Psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is a member of American Psychiatric association and AACAP.
Dr. Ihab Ibrahim is a dedicated and caring psychiatrist, specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, serving the community of New York and New Jersey.He complete his residency in psychiatry at Delaware Psychiatric Center. He also completed a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at North Shore-LIJ Health System. He is certified in General Psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is a member of American Psychiatric association and AACAP.
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.
See more therapy options for 07735
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 07735
< 10
Psychiatrists in 07735 who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Life Coaching |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 07735 see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 07735?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.