Psychiatrists in Roselle, NJ

Photo of Fiona A Farquharson - FullVisionNJ,LLC, MSN, APN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
FullVisionNJ,LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roselle, NJ 07203  (Online Only)
Fiona is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that treats psychiatric conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. She obtained her undergraduate degree in Nursing from Pennsylvania State University and her post-masters degree from Monmouth University. From there, she has been a dedicated psychiatric nurse at various hospitals, a few being Hoboken University Medical Center, Hoboken Community Center, Princeton University Medical Center EDU and Hackensack Meridian Hospital.
Fiona is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner that treats psychiatric conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. She obtained her undergraduate degree in Nursing from Pennsylvania State University and her post-masters degree from Monmouth University. From there, she has been a dedicated psychiatric nurse at various hospitals, a few being Hoboken University Medical Center, Hoboken Community Center, Princeton University Medical Center EDU and Hackensack Meridian Hospital.
(908) 402-0905 View (908) 402-0905
Photo of Annecie Barriere, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Annecie Barriere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Roselle, NJ 07203  (Online Only)
Welcome, and thank you for considering me as part of your journey towards mental wellness. My name is Dr. Annecie Barriere, and I am a dedicated Psychiatric Doctor of Nursing Practice with a passion for providing compassionate and comprehensive psychiatric care. My practice is built on a foundation of respect and dignity, where the value of each patient is at the forefront of everything I do. Effective communication and excellent interpersonal abilities are central to my practice, as I believe that a trusting and open relationship between patient and provider is essential for healing.
Welcome, and thank you for considering me as part of your journey towards mental wellness. My name is Dr. Annecie Barriere, and I am a dedicated Psychiatric Doctor of Nursing Practice with a passion for providing compassionate and comprehensive psychiatric care. My practice is built on a foundation of respect and dignity, where the value of each patient is at the forefront of everything I do. Effective communication and excellent interpersonal abilities are central to my practice, as I believe that a trusting and open relationship between patient and provider is essential for healing.
(908) 529-8928 View (908) 529-8928
Photo of Azuka Ofodike - Mental Health Clinic of Elizabeth, MSN, APN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mental Health Clinic of Elizabeth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Roselle, NJ 07203
Welcome! I am a Rutgers University educated Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in Medication management and Psychotherapy. My over 10years experience in clinical practice and experience enable me in addressing both personal and systematic problems of each individual. I take cognizance of the whole individual in my treatment focus with an emphasis on every aspect of the individual functioning and existence. In so doing, a unique and integrative treatment plan for each individual is formulated to enhance adequate functioning of all encountered individuals.
Welcome! I am a Rutgers University educated Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in Medication management and Psychotherapy. My over 10years experience in clinical practice and experience enable me in addressing both personal and systematic problems of each individual. I take cognizance of the whole individual in my treatment focus with an emphasis on every aspect of the individual functioning and existence. In so doing, a unique and integrative treatment plan for each individual is formulated to enhance adequate functioning of all encountered individuals.
(862) 225-6751 View (862) 225-6751

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Teju Odumosu - H & O Clinical PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
H & O Clinical PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Linden, NJ 07036
As a dedicated and compassionate Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing holistic healthcare that addresses both the physical and mental well-being of my patients. With a background in primary care and specialized training in mental health, I strive to offer comprehensive and integrated care that promotes overall health and quality of life. I am passionate about fostering a collaborative and empathetic relationship with my patients. I believe in active listening and open communication to truly understand each individual's unique needs and concerns.
As a dedicated and compassionate Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing holistic healthcare that addresses both the physical and mental well-being of my patients. With a background in primary care and specialized training in mental health, I strive to offer comprehensive and integrated care that promotes overall health and quality of life. I am passionate about fostering a collaborative and empathetic relationship with my patients. I believe in active listening and open communication to truly understand each individual's unique needs and concerns.
(914) 730-5192 View (914) 730-5192
Photo of Henry Ibitokun, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Henry Ibitokun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Linden, NJ 07036
I am currently accepting new patients, and an ideal client is a patient seeking psychiatric care and mental health services who is willing to be dedicated, devoted, and involved in their treatment plan and overall success. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Family Nurse practitioner, and Adult and Gerontology Nurse practitioner, focusing on providing evidence-based, patient-centered, and culturally appropriate care to all patients.
I am currently accepting new patients, and an ideal client is a patient seeking psychiatric care and mental health services who is willing to be dedicated, devoted, and involved in their treatment plan and overall success. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Family Nurse practitioner, and Adult and Gerontology Nurse practitioner, focusing on providing evidence-based, patient-centered, and culturally appropriate care to all patients.
(908) 651-9974 View (908) 651-9974
Photo of Catherine “Kasia” Bodnar, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine “Kasia” Bodnar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Linden, NJ 07036
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your well-being! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring to my practice not only clinical expertise but also compassion, empathy, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. My journey in mental health care has been driven by a deep-rooted passion to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals facing various mental health challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia or other mental illness I am here to offer my help.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your well-being! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring to my practice not only clinical expertise but also compassion, empathy, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. My journey in mental health care has been driven by a deep-rooted passion to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals facing various mental health challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia or other mental illness I am here to offer my help.
(908) 895-6131 View (908) 895-6131
Photo of Dr. Bradford Bobrin, MD , FASAM , FACLP, Psychiatrist
Dr. Bradford Bobrin
Psychiatrist, MD , FASAM , FACLP
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
(908) 336-9639 View (908) 336-9639
Photo of Olaitan Eboda - Rhapsody Healthcare Systems, DNPc, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rhapsody Healthcare Systems
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNPc, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Kenilworth, NJ 07033
“A listening ear and a caring heart”. We manage mental and behavioral health with an individualized approach, providing care in person or via telepsychiatry. Providing care with empathy and compassion is paramount for all new or recurring mental health / behavioral diagnoses. We manage care using both pharmacological and non-pharmacological / holistic intervention.
“A listening ear and a caring heart”. We manage mental and behavioral health with an individualized approach, providing care in person or via telepsychiatry. Providing care with empathy and compassion is paramount for all new or recurring mental health / behavioral diagnoses. We manage care using both pharmacological and non-pharmacological / holistic intervention.
(609) 316-5794 View (609) 316-5794
Photo of Ruth MacKenzie - Ruth MacKenzie (adolescent/teen specialist), APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ruth MacKenzie (adolescent/teen specialist)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
(908) 498-7061 View (908) 498-7061
Photo of Mahamaya Bhattacharyya, MD, Psychiatrist
Mahamaya Bhattacharyya
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016  (Online Only)
Dr Bhattacharyya works with the bio-psycho-social-spiritual model in mind and enjoys forming long term meaningful connections with her patients. She has a special interest in Women s health.
Dr Bhattacharyya works with the bio-psycho-social-spiritual model in mind and enjoys forming long term meaningful connections with her patients. She has a special interest in Women s health.
(908) 224-7118 View (908) 224-7118
Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
(732) 782-9146 View (732) 782-9146
Photo of Dr. Fehintola Ogunsakin - PMC Psychiatric Mental Health, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
PMC Psychiatric Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, APN
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07208
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
(908) 840-8719 View (908) 840-8719
Photo of Dr. Tola Ogunsakin - Precious Medical Care, DNP,  PMHNP, FNP-C, MHA, NEA-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Precious Medical Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MHA, NEA-BC
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07208
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind.
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind.
(908) 768-3907 View (908) 768-3907
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(908) 948-8705 View (908) 948-8705
Photo of Ramandeep Kaur, MD, Psychiatrist
Ramandeep Kaur
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Linden, NJ 07036
Welcome to my practice. I am a dual board-certified Adult and Child- Adolescent Psychiatrist. I completed my General Psychiatry residency and Fellowship in Child- Adolescent Psychiatry from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, where I was appointed as chief fellow. I have been working as an attending psychiatrist with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care, in the school-based programs, where I provide full range of psychiatric services to youths (5-21) in out of district therapeutic schools. I also work with Robert Wood Johnson- Barnabas Health, covering psychiatric emergency room and consultation services.
Welcome to my practice. I am a dual board-certified Adult and Child- Adolescent Psychiatrist. I completed my General Psychiatry residency and Fellowship in Child- Adolescent Psychiatry from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, where I was appointed as chief fellow. I have been working as an attending psychiatrist with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care, in the school-based programs, where I provide full range of psychiatric services to youths (5-21) in out of district therapeutic schools. I also work with Robert Wood Johnson- Barnabas Health, covering psychiatric emergency room and consultation services.
(732) 334-3281 View (732) 334-3281
Photo of Henrietta Udeh, MSN, CSN-NJ, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Henrietta Udeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CSN-NJ, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
My ideal client presents with anxiety; she has been experiencing a lot of panic attacks. She has been to the ER over three times in the past two months, where they ruled out cardiac problems. They always give her benzodiazepine and follow up with a psychiatrist. She does not want to be on medications, so she tried psychotherapy. She was then referred by her therapist. Her goal is to stay on medication for a short time. She prefers to use natural remedies. She is very fearful of science and the long-term effects of medications.
My ideal client presents with anxiety; she has been experiencing a lot of panic attacks. She has been to the ER over three times in the past two months, where they ruled out cardiac problems. They always give her benzodiazepine and follow up with a psychiatrist. She does not want to be on medications, so she tried psychotherapy. She was then referred by her therapist. Her goal is to stay on medication for a short time. She prefers to use natural remedies. She is very fearful of science and the long-term effects of medications.
(908) 498-7560 View (908) 498-7560
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(732) 314-7072 View (732) 314-7072
Photo of Antonio Pedulla - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07208  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients. I'm a dual certified FNP/ PMHNP. Taking a holistic approach is important to me and I feel this approach is of most benefit for my clients. I enjoy helping all types of clients but I gravitate towards working with individuals who are reaching out for help for the first time. This is because I feel I offer a positive initial encounter that will encourage them to continue seeking help in order to reach their goals but I will work with any client that needs assistance. We offer affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting New Patients. I'm a dual certified FNP/ PMHNP. Taking a holistic approach is important to me and I feel this approach is of most benefit for my clients. I enjoy helping all types of clients but I gravitate towards working with individuals who are reaching out for help for the first time. This is because I feel I offer a positive initial encounter that will encourage them to continue seeking help in order to reach their goals but I will work with any client that needs assistance. We offer affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting some insurances.
(201) 212-6834 View (201) 212-6834
Photo of Dr. Jordan Metsky, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jordan Metsky
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
Hello, I’m Dr. Jordan Metsky, a double Board Certified child and adult psychiatrist. I am currently welcoming new patients into my practice including children, teens, and adults and can get you or your child scheduled from our initial phone call. My areas of expertise include treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and tics. I evaluate and treat autism and ADHD in children and adults and I can work with your child's school to help get them the accommodations they need to succeed. I offer patients psychiatric medication as well as other non-pharmacologic treatment options.
Hello, I’m Dr. Jordan Metsky, a double Board Certified child and adult psychiatrist. I am currently welcoming new patients into my practice including children, teens, and adults and can get you or your child scheduled from our initial phone call. My areas of expertise include treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and tics. I evaluate and treat autism and ADHD in children and adults and I can work with your child's school to help get them the accommodations they need to succeed. I offer patients psychiatric medication as well as other non-pharmacologic treatment options.
(908) 840-8045 View (908) 840-8045
Photo of Henry Adewole Ibitokun, PMHNP, FNP-C, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse
Henry Adewole Ibitokun
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, FNP-C, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
Linden, NJ 07036
Henry A. Ibitokun is a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about improving mental health and well-being. With over a decade's worth of experience in the field, Nurse practitioner Henry has honed expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, bipolar disorders, and more. Book your Psych evaluation, medication management, and talk therapy sessions at www.hoclinical.com
Henry A. Ibitokun is a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about improving mental health and well-being. With over a decade's worth of experience in the field, Nurse practitioner Henry has honed expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, bipolar disorders, and more. Book your Psych evaluation, medication management, and talk therapy sessions at www.hoclinical.com
(732) 479-7169 View (732) 479-7169

See more therapy options for Roselle

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Roselle, NJ

< 10

Psychiatrists in Roselle, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Psychosis
100% Oppositional Defiance (ODD)

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Roselle, NJ see their clients

66% Online Only
34% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Roselle?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.