Psychiatrists in Manalapan, NJ
Laura Bastone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726 (Online Only)
Laura Bastone is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides personalized mental health services to adults with an approachable style. She believes in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches. She strives to help you reach your full wellness potential.
Laura Bastone is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides personalized mental health services to adults with an approachable style. She believes in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches. She strives to help you reach your full wellness potential.
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.
Providing mental health services specializing in geriatrics. Addressing the many complex issues that can cause psychological disorders. Assisting in finding ways to cope more effectively with family and every day stressors. Grief counseling for the loss of a loved one. Helping to achieve a well balanced mental state and assisting in finding inner peace and happiness. Solution oriented and will work with the client to identify issues so that a resolution may be obtained.
Providing mental health services specializing in geriatrics. Addressing the many complex issues that can cause psychological disorders. Assisting in finding ways to cope more effectively with family and every day stressors. Grief counseling for the loss of a loved one. Helping to achieve a well balanced mental state and assisting in finding inner peace and happiness. Solution oriented and will work with the client to identify issues so that a resolution may be obtained.
Remi's Room, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, NE-BC
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726 (Online Only)
As individuals, we are very much influenced by what our eyes have seen, our ears have heard, and what our hearts have felt. With over 25 years of healthcare experience in various clinical settings I understand the need for care that is individualized, delivered with cultural competence and designed to empower. I am a provider who understands stress, coping and the beauty of transformation.
As individuals, we are very much influenced by what our eyes have seen, our ears have heard, and what our hearts have felt. With over 25 years of healthcare experience in various clinical settings I understand the need for care that is individualized, delivered with cultural competence and designed to empower. I am a provider who understands stress, coping and the beauty of transformation.
Lee Ann Colleton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-C , PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Life can be "overwhelming" leaving you feeling "off-track" at times. My practice is dedicated to empowering clients with strategies to balance areas of anxiety, depression and mood disorders. Having a background in family medicine and family psychiatric mental health, helps to evaluate each client from a psychiatric perspective and incorporate their medical issues. I can provide behavioral and psychiatric services to clients across the lifespan.
Life can be "overwhelming" leaving you feeling "off-track" at times. My practice is dedicated to empowering clients with strategies to balance areas of anxiety, depression and mood disorders. Having a background in family medicine and family psychiatric mental health, helps to evaluate each client from a psychiatric perspective and incorporate their medical issues. I can provide behavioral and psychiatric services to clients across the lifespan.
Treasure Santos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, Mount L
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
I received my Master of Science in Nursing, with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, from LaSalle University in Philadelphia, PA. I am certified through the American Nurses Credentialing center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and am licensed through the state of New Jersey as an Advanced Practice Nurse. I am also a member of the American Nurses Association and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. The focus of the majority of my experience has been with adult populations within the inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use treatment settings.
I received my Master of Science in Nursing, with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, from LaSalle University in Philadelphia, PA. I am certified through the American Nurses Credentialing center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and am licensed through the state of New Jersey as an Advanced Practice Nurse. I am also a member of the American Nurses Association and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. The focus of the majority of my experience has been with adult populations within the inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use treatment settings.
Nicholas Mwangi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Mood and behavior issues affecting optimal functionality including and not limited to loss of interest in pleasant activities and activities of daily living, gross psychotic disturbances like hallucinations, paranoia and delusions, disturbances in behavior patterns like compulsion, obsession, attention deficits, sleep and appetite impairment. Mood lability, ie agitation, manic and hypomanic symptoms, 1 deficits in general coping mechanisms and stress management, impaired grief, and coping with life stressors , hopelessness and suicide ideations among others.
Mood and behavior issues affecting optimal functionality including and not limited to loss of interest in pleasant activities and activities of daily living, gross psychotic disturbances like hallucinations, paranoia and delusions, disturbances in behavior patterns like compulsion, obsession, attention deficits, sleep and appetite impairment. Mood lability, ie agitation, manic and hypomanic symptoms, 1 deficits in general coping mechanisms and stress management, impaired grief, and coping with life stressors , hopelessness and suicide ideations among others.
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 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 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 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 leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 20 years, seeing patients with multiple mental health issues including, but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia and Substance Use Disorder.
I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 20 years, seeing patients with multiple mental health issues including, but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia and Substance Use Disorder.
Natalya Csatari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
I utilize a comprehensive approach to any struggle the client may be going through with medication paired with psychotherapy. My goal is to get the client in a place of confidence and fully functioning in their life as well as their relationships. This is done by giving the highest quality of care and customizing a treatment plan for each individual.
I utilize a comprehensive approach to any struggle the client may be going through with medication paired with psychotherapy. My goal is to get the client in a place of confidence and fully functioning in their life as well as their relationships. This is done by giving the highest quality of care and customizing a treatment plan for each individual.
Blessing Nwele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
My Name is Blessing Nwele and I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. Psychiatric/mental health disorders and behavioral health have been the focal point of my professional life for a decade, culminating in my opening of a mental health private practice. The Positive Touch Behavioral Health Services was born out of almost a decade entirely dedicated to promoting a culture of health and health equity.
My Name is Blessing Nwele and I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. Psychiatric/mental health disorders and behavioral health have been the focal point of my professional life for a decade, culminating in my opening of a mental health private practice. The Positive Touch Behavioral Health Services was born out of almost a decade entirely dedicated to promoting a culture of health and health equity.
OCA Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B, APN
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
OCA Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively. Evaluation & Follow-up is now available via Telehealth due to the COVID-19 Health Crisis.
OCA Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively. Evaluation & Follow-up is now available via Telehealth due to the COVID-19 Health Crisis.
The practice of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, as well as Adult Psychiatry, is as exciting as it is varied.
This specialty is truly one of the last bastions in modern medicine that allows the practitioner to 'connect' with the patient, and one where the value of the patient's input is not underestimated.
My clinical interests include childhood and adolescent depression, other mood disorders, ADHD, child and adolescent anxiety disorders such as OCD, and post traumatic stress disorder. I also work with adults on all of the above issues. I look forward to helping you!
The practice of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, as well as Adult Psychiatry, is as exciting as it is varied.
This specialty is truly one of the last bastions in modern medicine that allows the practitioner to 'connect' with the patient, and one where the value of the patient's input is not underestimated.
My clinical interests include childhood and adolescent depression, other mood disorders, ADHD, child and adolescent anxiety disorders such as OCD, and post traumatic stress disorder. I also work with adults on all of the above issues. I look forward to helping you!
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
Sajjad Zaidi, M.D. is Medical Director and founder of Freehold Child Diagnostic Center, Inc. Dr. Zaidi is Triple Board Certified in Psychiatry/Neurology, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Zaidi's background has encompassed over thirty years of extensive and diverse experience in the field of Child, Adolescent & Family Psychiatry. Our office is located in Freehold NJ.
Sajjad Zaidi, M.D. is Medical Director and founder of Freehold Child Diagnostic Center, Inc. Dr. Zaidi is Triple Board Certified in Psychiatry/Neurology, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Zaidi's background has encompassed over thirty years of extensive and diverse experience in the field of Child, Adolescent & Family Psychiatry. Our office is located in Freehold NJ.
With empathy, patience, and an approachable style, Dr. Naqvi provides comprehensive mental health services to children, adults, and their families. Through the use of therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, she strives to help you reach your full wellness potential. She is 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, Dr. Naqvi provides comprehensive mental health services to children, adults, and their families. Through the use of therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, she strives to help you reach your full wellness potential. She is 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
Alice Kalu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726 (Online Only)
Alice Kalu is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner with a culturally diverse background. Alice uses an evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and client-centered approach in her treatment modules. Alice provides Psychiatric evaluations and medication management to clients of all age groups. Alice is passionate about what she does and wants to see everyone at their best
Alice Kalu is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner with a culturally diverse background. Alice uses an evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and client-centered approach in her treatment modules. Alice provides Psychiatric evaluations and medication management to clients of all age groups. Alice is passionate about what she does and wants to see everyone at their best
I have been in practice for over 10 years and specialize in medication treatments for ADHD, Oppositional defiant disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, Autism spectrum disorder and tic disorders. I pursue a working alliance with families, schools, therapists, and pediatricians, including the review of prior assessments, as the basis of the treatment plan. My approach is to start with a thorough diagnosis and formulate a plan that includes medications, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, sleep hygiene, lab work and other lifestyle modifications to provide an individual treatment plan for each of my patients.
I have been in practice for over 10 years and specialize in medication treatments for ADHD, Oppositional defiant disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, Autism spectrum disorder and tic disorders. I pursue a working alliance with families, schools, therapists, and pediatricians, including the review of prior assessments, as the basis of the treatment plan. My approach is to start with a thorough diagnosis and formulate a plan that includes medications, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, sleep hygiene, lab work and other lifestyle modifications to provide an individual treatment plan for each of my patients.
Mark Sedlak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes an integrative, patient-centered, holistic approach to mental health. I work with both children and adults. My approach utilizes the latest evidence-based treatment guidelines and incorporates medications, therapy, natural supplements, and life style changes to nourish a client’s overall well-being. My goal is to assist patients in obtaining their optimal mental health. Learn more www.risingswellmentalhealth.com
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes an integrative, patient-centered, holistic approach to mental health. I work with both children and adults. My approach utilizes the latest evidence-based treatment guidelines and incorporates medications, therapy, natural supplements, and life style changes to nourish a client’s overall well-being. My goal is to assist patients in obtaining their optimal mental health. Learn more www.risingswellmentalhealth.com
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Mendful Minds, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHS, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Freehold, NJ 07728
I am a highly skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping individuals overcome their mental health challenges and lead fulfilling lives. I'm passionate about empowering patients to take an active role in their mental health and well-being. I work collaboratively with patients to educate them about their conditions, help them develop coping skills, and encourage them to make positive lifestyle changes.
I am a highly skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping individuals overcome their mental health challenges and lead fulfilling lives. I'm passionate about empowering patients to take an active role in their mental health and well-being. I work collaboratively with patients to educate them about their conditions, help them develop coping skills, and encourage them to make positive lifestyle changes.
See more therapy options for Manalapan
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Manalapan, NJ
10+
Average cost per session
$260
Psychiatrists in Manalapan, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
84% | ADHD |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Medication Management |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
77% | Cigna and Evernorth |
77% | Oxford |
How Psychiatrists in Manalapan, NJ see their clients
85% | In Person and Online | |
15% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Manalapan?
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.