Psychiatrists in Old Bridge, NJ
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18a81991-bca5-4822-b9af-747bebae135e/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02667f26-4649-4521-9ef6-6c6be81fe014/2/320x400.png)
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
![Photo of Amanda Guarnere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9cd43732-a6e3-43d8-9304-1ab5ebf6a176/2/320x400.png)
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
![Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b2bcfcd-fc22-4e81-b03f-32c6d3ab9e6b/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Galina Grapp, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/117ac400-47e1-4390-9a4c-07ea2fd180bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
In my opinion, my ideal client is the person who can benefit the most from the services, my expertise and unique approach to each patient and therapy that I offer.
In my opinion, my ideal client is the person who can benefit the most from the services, my expertise and unique approach to each patient and therapy that I offer.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/281a244b-b883-41ce-a81b-f1e1afb9fd12/2/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
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.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a1b8e3c-370b-4e1c-b7fa-4486ff85fc08/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5650f69-b233-44ef-9d36-abd54949f9b5/2/320x400.png)
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
![Photo of Jason Leon Cohen - The Cohen Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c74c50d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you ready to see if medications, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely so that you don't needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you ready to see if medications, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely so that you don't needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
![Photo of Ngozi Nwobi - OCA Behavioral Health Services LLC, DNP , PMHNP-B, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6136ac38-34cf-4971-b87a-cabf6d85d2e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
OCA Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-B, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
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.
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.
![Photo of Natalya Csatari, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65cbb7e4-3086-47af-9370-0cc3c118923e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Natalya Csatari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
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.
![Photo of Donna Gunther, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6b46329-8ee2-4b56-845c-6b02e4930eea/1/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Donna and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. I am a prescriber for Family and Youth services located in New Jersey. One very important thing I have learned through my years in practice is that the relationship and connection formed between a patient and their provider is paramount. It is a solid foundation from which someone can truly move forward with their mental health goals.
Hello, my name is Donna and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. I am a prescriber for Family and Youth services located in New Jersey. One very important thing I have learned through my years in practice is that the relationship and connection formed between a patient and their provider is paramount. It is a solid foundation from which someone can truly move forward with their mental health goals.
![Photo of Lydia Keise - Insyte Psychiatric, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5cd7dd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist . I see individuals in need of medication management. I strongly believe that clients should be well informed about their treatment . Clients participate in treatment planning and their needs are always taken into consideration. My clients feel well cared for and walk away knowing that at all times I have their best interests in mind. It is my hope that clients feel we are taking a journey together in terms of their treatment. I specialize in postpartum depression, major depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse, psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist . I see individuals in need of medication management. I strongly believe that clients should be well informed about their treatment . Clients participate in treatment planning and their needs are always taken into consideration. My clients feel well cared for and walk away knowing that at all times I have their best interests in mind. It is my hope that clients feel we are taking a journey together in terms of their treatment. I specialize in postpartum depression, major depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse, psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder.
![Photo of Rashidah Garrett-Hall - Wellness & Behavioral Solutions, RASHIDA, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/091456e6-c700-4014-92fc-db4ab29f76b2/1/320x400.png)
Wellness & Behavioral Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RASHIDA, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
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.
![Photo of Akosua Ababio Constance Ababio - Clear Healthy Mind LLC, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0c97f73-3433-4793-b7ab-9df0d4a73ae3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clear Healthy Mind LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
Akosua C. Ababio is a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. She trained at Northern Kentucky University in both medication management and psychotherapy. Akosua is also a trained Family Nurse Practitioner-BC. She treats patients of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors. Her non-judgemental approach to her practice in mental health is what makes her unique.
Akosua C. Ababio is a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. She trained at Northern Kentucky University in both medication management and psychotherapy. Akosua is also a trained Family Nurse Practitioner-BC. She treats patients of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors. Her non-judgemental approach to her practice in mental health is what makes her unique.
Alexis Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Bridge, NJ 08857 (Online Only)
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Prince Kena, PMHNP, BC, APN-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c9d6f60-2047-4ba2-84d2-91bd5c26eab8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Prince Kena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APN-C
Verified Verified
East Brunswick, NJ 08816 (Online Only)
My name is Prince Kena. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I have been involved in the care of individuals with mental health disorders since 1994. I provide treatment and support to adult patients with psychotic disorders including schizophrenia, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as Medication Assisted Treatment for opioid use disorder and other substance use disorders.
My name is Prince Kena. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I have been involved in the care of individuals with mental health disorders since 1994. I provide treatment and support to adult patients with psychotic disorders including schizophrenia, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as Medication Assisted Treatment for opioid use disorder and other substance use disorders.
![Photo of Leonid Vorobyev - Jersey Medical Care, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f1a24dc-9f3e-4061-b8e3-09f014be97a0/2/320x400.jpeg)
You have tried breathing techniques, watched numerous social media videos from celebrity psychiatrists, and still can't shake the feeling that something may be wrong. Perhaps you are always tired, can't seem to shake the daily worry or sadness you feel? You may be concerned about a loved one’s recent behavior, and need help to learn how to support them. We are here to support you on your mental wellness journey.
You have tried breathing techniques, watched numerous social media videos from celebrity psychiatrists, and still can't shake the feeling that something may be wrong. Perhaps you are always tired, can't seem to shake the daily worry or sadness you feel? You may be concerned about a loved one’s recent behavior, and need help to learn how to support them. We are here to support you on your mental wellness journey.
![Photo of Marina Moshkovich, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cea1435-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry and have had training and experience in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have practiced psychiatry in different settings. My professional knowledge and interests include treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric disorders, including mood, anxiety, psychotic, impulse control and substance abuse. I focuse on stabilization of patient's condition with medication and educate patients about their disorder and available treatments. I work with patients and their families in order to improve patients' adjustment and functioning in community. I help my patients build up confidence and enable them to change their lives for better.
I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry and have had training and experience in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have practiced psychiatry in different settings. My professional knowledge and interests include treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric disorders, including mood, anxiety, psychotic, impulse control and substance abuse. I focuse on stabilization of patient's condition with medication and educate patients about their disorder and available treatments. I work with patients and their families in order to improve patients' adjustment and functioning in community. I help my patients build up confidence and enable them to change their lives for better.
![Photo of Esther Onwu - Kairos care connection, APN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/135c8588-5945-482c-a4be-435b7b83b8d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kairos care connection
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sayreville, NJ 08872 (Online Only)
Kairos care connection is a psychiatric Mental Health Provider, in which the pioneer has over 10 years experience working with clients various mental health problems such as Depression, Mood disorders, Anxiety, PTSD and medication management in both inpatient and outpatient. We aim to address mental issues and promote selfcare
Kairos care connection is a psychiatric Mental Health Provider, in which the pioneer has over 10 years experience working with clients various mental health problems such as Depression, Mood disorders, Anxiety, PTSD and medication management in both inpatient and outpatient. We aim to address mental issues and promote selfcare
See more therapy options for Old Bridge
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Old Bridge, NJ
10+
Average cost per session
$400
Psychiatrists in Old Bridge, NJ who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
81% | Trauma and PTSD |
81% | Medication Management |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | ADHD |
69% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
93% | Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Old Bridge, NJ see their clients
94% | In Person and Online | |
6% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
18% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Old Bridge?
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.