Psychiatrists in Jersey City, NJ
![Photo of Pamela Garcia-Roman - Mindful Approach LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c764c2e-68d8-4e99-aa9b-e14f60bc7eb4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with patients who have a wide range of mental health conditions as well as patients from diverse cultural backgrounds who may benefit from a PMHNP who is sensitive to their cultural beliefs and practices. I am passionate about cultural competency and enjoy working with a diverse patient population.
I enjoy working with patients who have a wide range of mental health conditions as well as patients from diverse cultural backgrounds who may benefit from a PMHNP who is sensitive to their cultural beliefs and practices. I am passionate about cultural competency and enjoy working with a diverse patient population.
![Photo of Ritu Chandak, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d732106-a7ec-4385-bdcd-4a0ab0d61224/2/320x400.jpeg)
No matter what life circumstances bring you to seek treatment, you will find a compassionate and empathetic listener. My evaluation and treatment approach is thorough, professional and evidence based. I take a holistic view of the needs of my patients and recognize that a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, stress management and life style modification might achieve the best and sustained outcome for them.
No matter what life circumstances bring you to seek treatment, you will find a compassionate and empathetic listener. My evaluation and treatment approach is thorough, professional and evidence based. I take a holistic view of the needs of my patients and recognize that a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, stress management and life style modification might achieve the best and sustained outcome for them.
As a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with years of experience, I treat the full spectrum of psychiatric conditions. The enitire focus of my practice is personal empowerment and the elimination of shame in regard to mental, behavioral and emotional health. It is my delight to help bring dignity back to the lives of adults and children. If you have taken the first steps to go see a psychiatrist for whatever the reason, reaching is a sign of strength, not weakness. The goal of my practice is for my patients to gain strength, useful tools and insight to successfully manage
As a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with years of experience, I treat the full spectrum of psychiatric conditions. The enitire focus of my practice is personal empowerment and the elimination of shame in regard to mental, behavioral and emotional health. It is my delight to help bring dignity back to the lives of adults and children. If you have taken the first steps to go see a psychiatrist for whatever the reason, reaching is a sign of strength, not weakness. The goal of my practice is for my patients to gain strength, useful tools and insight to successfully manage
![Photo of Dr. Jude C. Emelumba, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6481b3ab-d0d9-4498-805d-075b81a59a89/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jude C. Emelumba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07304 (Online Only)
Dr. Jude C. Emelumba is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He received his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Rutgers University. Dr. Emelumba has a vast clinical experience that covers both inpatient and outpatient adult psychiatric care settings, addiction treatment, clinical supervision, and advanced nursing students' preceptorship. He has the MAT training and is affiliated to Christ Hospital In Jersey City, New Jersey. His expertise is anchored on a treatment modality that combines psychopharmacology and psychotherapy approaches to psychiatric care while advocating for patient wellness and health promotion.
Dr. Jude C. Emelumba is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He received his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Rutgers University. Dr. Emelumba has a vast clinical experience that covers both inpatient and outpatient adult psychiatric care settings, addiction treatment, clinical supervision, and advanced nursing students' preceptorship. He has the MAT training and is affiliated to Christ Hospital In Jersey City, New Jersey. His expertise is anchored on a treatment modality that combines psychopharmacology and psychotherapy approaches to psychiatric care while advocating for patient wellness and health promotion.
Lavanya Kamineni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07310 (Online Only)
There is no such a thing as “Ideal client”. Each individual is unique and tailored to fit needs. If you are having mood up and down, feeling sad, not able to concentrate or focus at work or school, irritability or anger, I am here to help you to get through it. I believe in a holistic approach, take time to understand each individual's needs and tailor a treatment plan accordingly. I practice evidence-based medication treatment along with talk therapy. Specialized in treating common issues like ADHD, anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder and mood disorders.
There is no such a thing as “Ideal client”. Each individual is unique and tailored to fit needs. If you are having mood up and down, feeling sad, not able to concentrate or focus at work or school, irritability or anger, I am here to help you to get through it. I believe in a holistic approach, take time to understand each individual's needs and tailor a treatment plan accordingly. I practice evidence-based medication treatment along with talk therapy. Specialized in treating common issues like ADHD, anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder and mood disorders.
![Photo of Nerisa Bryan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/231f62a2-4bc4-413e-9e4e-3ce3e082f8c2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nerisa Bryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07302 (Online Only)
I grew up witnessing people with mental illness being teased and physically abused on the streets by the people around them. Seeing some of our most vulnerable population being mistreated in this way left an indelible impression on me and I believe that experience, in part, influenced my decision to enter a profession that was all about caring for others.
I grew up witnessing people with mental illness being teased and physically abused on the streets by the people around them. Seeing some of our most vulnerable population being mistreated in this way left an indelible impression on me and I believe that experience, in part, influenced my decision to enter a profession that was all about caring for others.
![Photo of Cecilia Belardinelli, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a9285f1-222a-4b4d-96e1-8e8fb7c786ed/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Cecilia Belardinelli is Board Certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Her expertise is working with children, adolescents, and adults in their parents’ role to promote a nurturing environment and the development of a child's full potential. Dr. Belardinelli has been practicing for twenty years, addressing developmental and behavioral problems, mood and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Cecilia Belardinelli is Board Certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Her expertise is working with children, adolescents, and adults in their parents’ role to promote a nurturing environment and the development of a child's full potential. Dr. Belardinelli has been practicing for twenty years, addressing developmental and behavioral problems, mood and anxiety disorders.
Paula Weisman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07306
Are you having difficulty with Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Insomnia? Or have you had a history of Mental Health Issues that you want to discuss? Do you have Addiction to Opiates, Narcotics, Alcohol? Just Relapsed and Need Help Now? We are here to help. Our Mental Health and Addiction Center is Open 5 days a week with multiple providers to help you. We Proudly Accept Medicaid of New Jersey and also Commercial Insurance with out of network benefits.
Are you having difficulty with Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Insomnia? Or have you had a history of Mental Health Issues that you want to discuss? Do you have Addiction to Opiates, Narcotics, Alcohol? Just Relapsed and Need Help Now? We are here to help. Our Mental Health and Addiction Center is Open 5 days a week with multiple providers to help you. We Proudly Accept Medicaid of New Jersey and also Commercial Insurance with out of network benefits.
We are navigating a different world. Sometimes we need a professional to help guide us along the way. Here to help Navigate your journey
We are navigating a different world. Sometimes we need a professional to help guide us along the way. Here to help Navigate your journey
![Photo of Oluseyi Aluko, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e140389d-83b4-4cd3-b888-90b51988ebe7/2/320x400.png)
Oluseyi Aluko, PMHNP-BC is a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at Mindful Care New Jersey. Oluseyi holds a Masters of Science in Nursing Informatics from Excelsior College, Albany NY and a Post-Masters Certificate in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing from Fairleigh Dickinson University NJ. In his practice, he believes the most important part of patient care is "the ability to really listen to the patient and to focus intensely on what the patient really needs."
Oluseyi Aluko, PMHNP-BC is a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at Mindful Care New Jersey. Oluseyi holds a Masters of Science in Nursing Informatics from Excelsior College, Albany NY and a Post-Masters Certificate in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing from Fairleigh Dickinson University NJ. In his practice, he believes the most important part of patient care is "the ability to really listen to the patient and to focus intensely on what the patient really needs."
![Photo of Emmanuel Sanchez - Alter Self Psychiatry LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8da0f576-351a-4a3f-9677-5ed41d3f47ec/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Alter Self Psychiatry LLC, we follow a patient-centered, biopsychosocial model. We carefully assesses each patient's unique needs and concerns to create tailored treatment plans and accurate diagnoses. With a belief in the potential for positive change in every patient, we foster a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship. We are dedicated to helping individuals on their journey towards mental wellness, offering a range of evidence-based treatments and the expertise to guide you towards a happier, healthier life. Contact us today to embark on your path to mental well-being. (Website is under construction)
At Alter Self Psychiatry LLC, we follow a patient-centered, biopsychosocial model. We carefully assesses each patient's unique needs and concerns to create tailored treatment plans and accurate diagnoses. With a belief in the potential for positive change in every patient, we foster a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship. We are dedicated to helping individuals on their journey towards mental wellness, offering a range of evidence-based treatments and the expertise to guide you towards a happier, healthier life. Contact us today to embark on your path to mental well-being. (Website is under construction)
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![Photo of Krista Panella, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3acca4e-5804-4658-8243-a6efca7f3ca8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Krista Panella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07307 (Online Only)
My name is Krista Panella, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children and adults.
My name is Krista Panella, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children and adults.
![Photo of Sarah Oreck - Mavida Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9f08e2c-b854-4e49-8179-fcb5cdf93767/1/320x400.png)
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
![Photo of Olukemi Owoseni - Harmony & Unity Mental Health, PMHNP, FNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41b64679-f994-4346-9658-3a3663dc02ae/1/320x400.png)
Harmony & Unity Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07305 (Online Only)
Welcome all! My name is Kemi and I am the Owner of Harmony & Unity Mental Health. I am a Dual Board Certified Psychiatric & Family Nurse Practitioner. I have over 15 years of experience in healthcare. I enjoy helping clients meet their goals and improve their overall health. Taking the first step can be a tough decision, but it can also be fulfilling over time. I believe my job is to appropriately help you on your goal towards betterment of body and mind.
Welcome all! My name is Kemi and I am the Owner of Harmony & Unity Mental Health. I am a Dual Board Certified Psychiatric & Family Nurse Practitioner. I have over 15 years of experience in healthcare. I enjoy helping clients meet their goals and improve their overall health. Taking the first step can be a tough decision, but it can also be fulfilling over time. I believe my job is to appropriately help you on your goal towards betterment of body and mind.
![Photo of Justin Salandanan, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/293fe6aa-8140-4fe7-a0bf-79e1c667d2df/2/320x400.png)
Justin Salandanan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07302
Justin Salandanan specializes in medication management of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbance in adults. He takes a non-judgmental and collaborative approach with each of his clients. Justin utilizes GeneSight genetic testing when necessary to help guide treatment. To BOOK an Appointment online, visit: sigmund.headway.co, call 201-305-0456, or email.
Justin Salandanan specializes in medication management of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbance in adults. He takes a non-judgmental and collaborative approach with each of his clients. Justin utilizes GeneSight genetic testing when necessary to help guide treatment. To BOOK an Appointment online, visit: sigmund.headway.co, call 201-305-0456, or email.
![Photo of Stella Okah, DNP, MSN, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88472bce-9f8b-4cdc-b98e-19e07606a171/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stella Okah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07306
Are you having difficulty with Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Insomnia? Or have you had a history of Mental Health Issues that you want to discuss? Do you have Addiction to Opiates, Narcotics, Alcohol? Just Relapsed and Need Help Now? We are here to help. Our Mental Health and Addiction Center is Open 5 days a week with multiple providers to help you. We Proudly Accept Medicaid of New Jersey and also Commercial Insurance with out of network benefits.
Are you having difficulty with Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Insomnia? Or have you had a history of Mental Health Issues that you want to discuss? Do you have Addiction to Opiates, Narcotics, Alcohol? Just Relapsed and Need Help Now? We are here to help. Our Mental Health and Addiction Center is Open 5 days a week with multiple providers to help you. We Proudly Accept Medicaid of New Jersey and also Commercial Insurance with out of network benefits.
![Photo of Oladunni Liyele, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e980ce09-2aec-4953-b575-4a5fc294aaf7/2/320x400.png)
Oladunni Liyele, MSN, PMHNP-BC, BSN, RN, is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner on the team at Mindful Care. In her practice, Oladunni believes the most important part of patient care is providing a judgement-free zone, being empathetic, listening and communicating, and understanding that a patient's needs are most important.
Oladunni Liyele, MSN, PMHNP-BC, BSN, RN, is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner on the team at Mindful Care. In her practice, Oladunni believes the most important part of patient care is providing a judgement-free zone, being empathetic, listening and communicating, and understanding that a patient's needs are most important.
![Photo of Olukayode Agunbiade - Da Brij LLC (Psychiatry and Mental Health Care), APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a700e6a0-2128-4597-84e4-87079a19bc99/2/320x400.jpeg)
Da Brij LLC (Psychiatry and Mental Health Care)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07302
Olukayode Agunbiade offers psychiatry and counseling services both in-person and via Telehealth in Newark and Jersey City areas. I am a board certified nurse practitioner who offers assessment, counseling and medication management to children, adolescents and adults as may be required. My goal is to take good care of mentally-ill patients, assist clients in the journey of life, and foster a safe environment for all patients.
Olukayode Agunbiade offers psychiatry and counseling services both in-person and via Telehealth in Newark and Jersey City areas. I am a board certified nurse practitioner who offers assessment, counseling and medication management to children, adolescents and adults as may be required. My goal is to take good care of mentally-ill patients, assist clients in the journey of life, and foster a safe environment for all patients.
![Photo of Bolanle Ahazie, NP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd8d1e2c-0cee-488e-96ea-b206d889b5fe/1/320x400.png)
My name is Bolanle Ahazie, NP and I am a licensed nurse practitioner offering online behavioral health services to adults and children. I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
My name is Bolanle Ahazie, NP and I am a licensed nurse practitioner offering online behavioral health services to adults and children. I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
![Photo of Dr. Thomas Driscoll, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/049f0bac-49e9-42bc-99ef-f22d66a52028/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Thomas Driscoll, MD, and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering medication management to adults.
My name is Thomas Driscoll, MD, and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering medication management to adults.
See more therapy options for Jersey City
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Jersey City, NJ
100+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Jersey City, NJ who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
76% | ADHD |
74% | Bipolar Disorder |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Medication Management |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
82% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | Aetna |
76% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Jersey City, NJ see their clients
55% | Online Only | |
45% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
62% | Female | |
37% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Jersey City?
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.