Psychiatrists in Cliffwood, NJ
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- - -
Clear Healthy Mind LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Cliffwood, NJ 07721
Akosua C. Ababio is a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. She trained at Northern Kentucky University in both medication management and psychotherapy. Akosua is also a trained Family Nurse Practitioner-BC. She treats patients of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors. Her non-judgemental approach to her practice in mental health is what makes her unique.
Akosua C. Ababio is a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. She trained at Northern Kentucky University in both medication management and psychotherapy. Akosua is also a trained Family Nurse Practitioner-BC. She treats patients of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors. Her non-judgemental approach to her practice in mental health is what makes her unique.
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Positive Impact Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metuchen, NJ 08840
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.
I am dedicated to providing personalized and quality psychiatric care to help achieve the life you have always wanted. I specialize in Adult ADHD, ADD, and Anxiety disorders. I look at the whole individual, not just your symptoms, to better understand underlying components that may be affecting your mental health. Many adults who suffer from ADHD don't know they have the condition. Currently, its thought that only 10.9% of adults with ADHD are getting the necessary treatment. A self-report screener is available on my website for Adult ADHD. Don't let Anxiety or ADHD keep you from living your best life.
I am dedicated to providing personalized and quality psychiatric care to help achieve the life you have always wanted. I specialize in Adult ADHD, ADD, and Anxiety disorders. I look at the whole individual, not just your symptoms, to better understand underlying components that may be affecting your mental health. Many adults who suffer from ADHD don't know they have the condition. Currently, its thought that only 10.9% of adults with ADHD are getting the necessary treatment. A self-report screener is available on my website for Adult ADHD. Don't let Anxiety or ADHD keep you from living your best life.
You Bridge Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Do You Truly Want a Quality Service & a Better Mental Health? Hi! Welcome! Yes We treat all Mental Health Conditions and provide supportive therapy and medication for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar etc - All diagnoses! If you want Right Mental Health Care! We're here for you! Yes! We are accepting all patients! All ages. Yes! You will be Supported. We provide Quality Mental Health Care - the Right way! Lets help you get to the bottom of your concerns. Feel free to Self schedule at You Bridge Health. Our clients testify to our approach (read our google reviews) and We are certain - so will you! Let Pave the path to a better YOU!
Do You Truly Want a Quality Service & a Better Mental Health? Hi! Welcome! Yes We treat all Mental Health Conditions and provide supportive therapy and medication for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar etc - All diagnoses! If you want Right Mental Health Care! We're here for you! Yes! We are accepting all patients! All ages. Yes! You will be Supported. We provide Quality Mental Health Care - the Right way! Lets help you get to the bottom of your concerns. Feel free to Self schedule at You Bridge Health. Our clients testify to our approach (read our google reviews) and We are certain - so will you! Let Pave the path to a better YOU!
Abby Road Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Keansburg, NJ 07734
Mental illness and addiction overtakes all aspects of a person's life. Too often the resources that are available to help are out of reach for most. Our practice offers the compassion, empathy, and time that you may not have been offered in the past. You and your family deserve to be treated in a professional environment by staff that care. Our focus is guiding you through the healing process and keeping control of your mental health and recovery in your hands.
Mental illness and addiction overtakes all aspects of a person's life. Too often the resources that are available to help are out of reach for most. Our practice offers the compassion, empathy, and time that you may not have been offered in the past. You and your family deserve to be treated in a professional environment by staff that care. Our focus is guiding you through the healing process and keeping control of your mental health and recovery in your hands.
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.
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.
Kolli Psychiatric & Associates
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marlboro, NJ 07746
With empathy, patience, and an approachable style, Kolli Psychiatric & Associates provides comprehensive mental health services to children, adults, and their families. Through the use of therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, we strive to help you reach your full wellness potential. Our practice consists of- Dr. Sireesha Kolli, a board-certified psychiatrist with training in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. While medical expertise forms the foundation of her treatment, her warmth, and sense of compassion are often cited by patients, families, and professionals as key motivating factors for success
With empathy, patience, and an approachable style, Kolli Psychiatric & Associates provides comprehensive mental health services to children, adults, and their families. Through the use of therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, we strive to help you reach your full wellness potential. Our practice consists of- Dr. Sireesha Kolli, a board-certified psychiatrist with training in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. While medical expertise forms the foundation of her treatment, her warmth, and sense of compassion are often cited by patients, families, and professionals as key motivating factors for success
Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? 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 first 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 the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment
Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? 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 first 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 the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APN
Verified Verified
Holmdel, NJ 07733
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services of New Jersey is a private psychiatric practice that provides a full range of outpatient mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual, family and group psychotherapy for clients at all stages of life; children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services of New Jersey is a private psychiatric practice that provides a full range of outpatient mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual, family and group psychotherapy for clients at all stages of life; children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
Wellness & Behavioral Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RASHIDA, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Mrs. Rashidah Garrett-Hall is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, and Bipolar. Rashidah's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) or alternative medicine (natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management). She believes in balance.
Mrs. Rashidah Garrett-Hall is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, and Bipolar. Rashidah's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) or alternative medicine (natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management). She believes in balance.
Alexandra (Sopher) Ruane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Middletown, NJ 07748 (Online Only)
As a mental health consumer myself, I understand what it feels like to have mental health affect your life. You may have tried therapy or medication, which may have helped a little or not at all. I believe that you and I are a team in deciding the best treatment for you and that by explaining the options available, you can make an informed decision on how you want to proceed. I believe that listening to your treatment goals gives us the best chance of success in helping you. Please be advised that Brightside Health does not allow prescribing of controlled substances.
As a mental health consumer myself, I understand what it feels like to have mental health affect your life. You may have tried therapy or medication, which may have helped a little or not at all. I believe that you and I are a team in deciding the best treatment for you and that by explaining the options available, you can make an informed decision on how you want to proceed. I believe that listening to your treatment goals gives us the best chance of success in helping you. Please be advised that Brightside Health does not allow prescribing of controlled substances.
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.
Dr. Cidambi is board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine (ABAM). She completed her residency in Psychiatry from Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn and a Fellowship in Addiction Medicine from NYU/Bellevue. Dr. Cidambi was the Director of Chemical Dependency at New Jersey's oldest inpatient mental health/substance abuse hospital. In 2010, Dr. Cidambi started her own substance abuse treatment facility, Center for Network Therapy (RecoveryCNT.com), providing outpatient detoxification from alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates and suboxone, and partial care and IOP programs. All payments are by cash only - No insurance accepted
Dr. Cidambi is board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine (ABAM). She completed her residency in Psychiatry from Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn and a Fellowship in Addiction Medicine from NYU/Bellevue. Dr. Cidambi was the Director of Chemical Dependency at New Jersey's oldest inpatient mental health/substance abuse hospital. In 2010, Dr. Cidambi started her own substance abuse treatment facility, Center for Network Therapy (RecoveryCNT.com), providing outpatient detoxification from alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates and suboxone, and partial care and IOP programs. All payments are by cash only - No insurance accepted
Dianne Ocampo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psych, MSN APN
Verified Verified
Holmdel, NJ 07777 (Online Only)
Are you suffering from poor sleep, crying episodes, racing thoughts, panic attacks, irritability, mood swings, poor focus, agitation, distractibility, nightmares, negative thoughts, or suicide thoughts? I have more than 10 years' experience as a psych RN and currently works an APN for the last three years. I specialize in Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, and OCD. I keep up with latest research based treatments for Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety, and OCD. My goal is to get my clients back on their feet and live happier.
Are you suffering from poor sleep, crying episodes, racing thoughts, panic attacks, irritability, mood swings, poor focus, agitation, distractibility, nightmares, negative thoughts, or suicide thoughts? I have more than 10 years' experience as a psych RN and currently works an APN for the last three years. I specialize in Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, and OCD. I keep up with latest research based treatments for Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety, and OCD. My goal is to get my clients back on their feet and live happier.
Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Marlboro, NJ 07746 (Online Only)
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
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.
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 Cliffwood
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Cliffwood, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Cliffwood, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Behavioral Issues |
100% | Borderline Personality (BPD) |
100% | Coping Skills |
100% | Medication Management |
67% | Depression |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
100% | Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield |
How Psychiatrists in Cliffwood, NJ see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Cliffwood?
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.