Psychiatrists in 07753

Photo of Joseph Spitalieri, MSN, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joseph Spitalieri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Neptune, NJ 07753
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach to mental health care is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and holistic well-being. I believe that each individual is unique, deserving of personalized care that acknowledges their specific needs, experiences, and goals. My philosophy centers on the idea that mental health is an integral part of overall wellness. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued. By building strong, trusting relationships, I empower individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions, fostering self-discovery and resilience.
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach to mental health care is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and holistic well-being. I believe that each individual is unique, deserving of personalized care that acknowledges their specific needs, experiences, and goals. My philosophy centers on the idea that mental health is an integral part of overall wellness. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued. By building strong, trusting relationships, I empower individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions, fostering self-discovery and resilience.
(646) 580-1030 View (646) 580-1030
Photo of Alexander Iofin, MD, Psychiatrist
Alexander Iofin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Neptune City, NJ 07753  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to providing personalized and quality psychiatric care to help achieve the life you have always wanted. I specialize in Adult ADHD, ADD, and Anxiety disorders. I look at the whole individual, not just your symptoms, to better understand underlying components that may be affecting your mental health. Many adults who suffer from ADHD don't know they have the condition. Currently, its thought that only 10.9% of adults with ADHD are getting the necessary treatment. A self-report screener is available on my website for Adult ADHD. Don't let Anxiety or ADHD keep you from living your best life.
I am dedicated to providing personalized and quality psychiatric care to help achieve the life you have always wanted. I specialize in Adult ADHD, ADD, and Anxiety disorders. I look at the whole individual, not just your symptoms, to better understand underlying components that may be affecting your mental health. Many adults who suffer from ADHD don't know they have the condition. Currently, its thought that only 10.9% of adults with ADHD are getting the necessary treatment. A self-report screener is available on my website for Adult ADHD. Don't let Anxiety or ADHD keep you from living your best life.
(732) 528-3232 View (732) 528-3232
Photo of Christala Cherry, MSN, APN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christala Cherry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Neptune, NJ 07753  (Online Only)
My focus is a spiritual, integrative, holistic approach to assist you in your journey to optimal mental health and wellness. My clients enjoy a partnership being an active participant in their well being, and are willing to participate in talk therapy if medication is required. My clients prefer take fewer prescription medications, and to taper down dosing of their medications as much as possible. They are open to alternative therapies because they want to feel better and be the best version of themselves.
My focus is a spiritual, integrative, holistic approach to assist you in your journey to optimal mental health and wellness. My clients enjoy a partnership being an active participant in their well being, and are willing to participate in talk therapy if medication is required. My clients prefer take fewer prescription medications, and to taper down dosing of their medications as much as possible. They are open to alternative therapies because they want to feel better and be the best version of themselves.
(848) 204-1251 View (848) 204-1251
Photo of Ashley Fernandez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Fernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tinton Falls, NJ 07753  (Online Only)
I am thrilled to have joined Mavida Health as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Head of Prescriber Development. Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
I am thrilled to have joined Mavida Health as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Head of Prescriber Development. Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
(628) 432-7476 View (628) 432-7476
Photo of L. E. Loray, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
L. E. Loray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Neptune, NJ 07753
As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have worked with clients across the lifespan, specializing in depression and anxiety disorders, mood dysregulation, trauma, addictions, attachment disruptions, and those struggling with adjustment and difficult transitions through life. My main approach to treatment is developing a collaborative relationship with my clients to enhance and foster an environment where patients feel validated while working to improve their psychosocial functioning. For those looking for a more holistic approach to treating mental health issues, I also offer Integrative Psychiatry services.
As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have worked with clients across the lifespan, specializing in depression and anxiety disorders, mood dysregulation, trauma, addictions, attachment disruptions, and those struggling with adjustment and difficult transitions through life. My main approach to treatment is developing a collaborative relationship with my clients to enhance and foster an environment where patients feel validated while working to improve their psychosocial functioning. For those looking for a more holistic approach to treating mental health issues, I also offer Integrative Psychiatry services.
Photo of Arjun(AJ) Swamy, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Arjun(AJ) Swamy
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Wall Township, NJ 07753
I’m a Psychiatry PA that treats children, adolescents and adults with OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD and Alcohol Use Disorder. I believe less medication is better - however, I work with people to find a regimen that might help improve their lives. I have experience with treating various members of the community including healthcare workers, veterans, police officers, teachers, clergy, LGBTQA+, BIPOC and more. In my free time I like to spend time with my wife and son, hike, play guitar, go on meditation retreats and perform improv comedy.
I’m a Psychiatry PA that treats children, adolescents and adults with OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD and Alcohol Use Disorder. I believe less medication is better - however, I work with people to find a regimen that might help improve their lives. I have experience with treating various members of the community including healthcare workers, veterans, police officers, teachers, clergy, LGBTQA+, BIPOC and more. In my free time I like to spend time with my wife and son, hike, play guitar, go on meditation retreats and perform improv comedy.
(848) 285-6213 View (848) 285-6213
Photo of Dr. Victor G Grosu, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Victor G Grosu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Neptune, NJ 07753  (Online Only)
Quick appointments are available. I am board certified in Child & Adolescent psychiatry and provide medication management and psychotherapy services to children, adolescents and young adults, ages 6-22, with mental health conditions, including but not limited to ADHD, Depression, OCD, Panic, Mood Disorder, Stress, and Anxiety. I have been practicing psychiatry for over 17 years and was recognized by the NJ Top Doctor magazine as a Top Psychiatrist in 2019. I provide help using a comprehensive approach to treatment. I have frequent sessions with patients which allows me to monitor them closely to minimize side effects.
Quick appointments are available. I am board certified in Child & Adolescent psychiatry and provide medication management and psychotherapy services to children, adolescents and young adults, ages 6-22, with mental health conditions, including but not limited to ADHD, Depression, OCD, Panic, Mood Disorder, Stress, and Anxiety. I have been practicing psychiatry for over 17 years and was recognized by the NJ Top Doctor magazine as a Top Psychiatrist in 2019. I provide help using a comprehensive approach to treatment. I have frequent sessions with patients which allows me to monitor them closely to minimize side effects.
(848) 600-5264 View (848) 600-5264
Photo of Dr. Ruben Rupendra Singh - Ruben Singh MD LLC, MD, DABPN, Psychiatrist
Ruben Singh MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Verified Verified
Tinton Falls, NJ 07753  (Online Only)
I offer a very empathic, compassionate, and individualized evaluation and treatment of a diverse population of every persuasion without any biases or prejudices and treat everyone with respect and dignity, no matter of their background or past history, and expect openness to reveal their innermost feelings for growth to happen to reach their highest potential. If you have treatment-resistant or complex problems in need of fine-tuning your medication regimen I will be able to provide the most up-to-date treatment modalities. To begin it's very easy all you have to do is be yourself and the rest therapist will handle.
I offer a very empathic, compassionate, and individualized evaluation and treatment of a diverse population of every persuasion without any biases or prejudices and treat everyone with respect and dignity, no matter of their background or past history, and expect openness to reveal their innermost feelings for growth to happen to reach their highest potential. If you have treatment-resistant or complex problems in need of fine-tuning your medication regimen I will be able to provide the most up-to-date treatment modalities. To begin it's very easy all you have to do is be yourself and the rest therapist will handle.
(732) 517-7599 View (732) 517-7599

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer O'Scanlon, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer O'Scanlon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ocean, NJ 07712
You have probably been going to therapy for some time now. You've made progress but there are still days when you feel anxious or depressed. This may be holding you back from meeting your goals and it's where I can help. I offer medication management at the lowest doses possible to help reduce your symptoms allowing you to fully engage in your therapy. With symptoms reduced you will be able to fully utilize all the skills you’ve learned, allowing you to heal and better handle life's stressors.
You have probably been going to therapy for some time now. You've made progress but there are still days when you feel anxious or depressed. This may be holding you back from meeting your goals and it's where I can help. I offer medication management at the lowest doses possible to help reduce your symptoms allowing you to fully engage in your therapy. With symptoms reduced you will be able to fully utilize all the skills you’ve learned, allowing you to heal and better handle life's stressors.
(732) 795-2202 View (732) 795-2202
Photo of Peter Litwin, MD, Psychiatrist
Peter Litwin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asbury Park, NJ 07712
Dr. Peter Litwin is an Adult Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 1995. He completed medical school at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, after which he did his adult psychiatric residency at Albert Einstein. Dr. Litwin offers all his clients support, hope, and education about their clinical issues. He also connects with them on a personal level, and truly appreciates their commitment to treatment. Dr. Litwin is accountable and reliable. His medication management skills have been honed over 30 years of clinical practice.
Dr. Peter Litwin is an Adult Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 1995. He completed medical school at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, after which he did his adult psychiatric residency at Albert Einstein. Dr. Litwin offers all his clients support, hope, and education about their clinical issues. He also connects with them on a personal level, and truly appreciates their commitment to treatment. Dr. Litwin is accountable and reliable. His medication management skills have been honed over 30 years of clinical practice.
(848) 266-5326 View (848) 266-5326
NJ Behavioral Health - A LifeStance Health Affilia
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asbury Park, NJ 07712
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(855) 262-3895 View (855) 262-3895
Photo of Guerline Dume-Lotin, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Guerline Dume-Lotin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wall Township, NJ 07719
I treat every individual uniquely. I take the time to learn about every client, to diagnose and to treat accordingly. I feel that sharing the plan of care with my clients and make them an essential key player in the success of the treatment. My goal is to assist my clients to reach their goals and live their life to their optimal capacity as they desire.
I treat every individual uniquely. I take the time to learn about every client, to diagnose and to treat accordingly. I feel that sharing the plan of care with my clients and make them an essential key player in the success of the treatment. My goal is to assist my clients to reach their goals and live their life to their optimal capacity as they desire.
(848) 301-1483 View (848) 301-1483
Photo of Staci Barilari, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Staci Barilari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belmar, NJ 07719  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Staci. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is dedicated to integrative care, specializing in anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health. I am committed to fostering holistic well-being and empowering individuals on their mental health journey. My appointments typically include medication management with talk therapy. I strive to create a strong relationship with my clients. Please send me an email to schedule an initial consultation. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
Hi! I'm Staci. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is dedicated to integrative care, specializing in anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health. I am committed to fostering holistic well-being and empowering individuals on their mental health journey. My appointments typically include medication management with talk therapy. I strive to create a strong relationship with my clients. Please send me an email to schedule an initial consultation. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
(848) 272-7153 View (848) 272-7153
Photo of Abir Marcus, MD, Psychiatrist
Abir Marcus
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asbury Park, NJ 07712
Dr. Marcus offers individualized approach in her treatments. She uses state of art treatments recommendations for the presenting problem while tailoring it to your personality and life style. Dr. Marcus is specialized in working with mood disorders such as Depression and Bipolar Disorders spectrum, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders. She is also certified in addiction treatments including Detoxification, working on abstinence or harm reduction through the use of medications and therapy. Dr. Marcus is certified to prescribe Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol.
Dr. Marcus offers individualized approach in her treatments. She uses state of art treatments recommendations for the presenting problem while tailoring it to your personality and life style. Dr. Marcus is specialized in working with mood disorders such as Depression and Bipolar Disorders spectrum, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders. She is also certified in addiction treatments including Detoxification, working on abstinence or harm reduction through the use of medications and therapy. Dr. Marcus is certified to prescribe Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol.
(732) 656-8701 View (732) 656-8701
Photo of Liju Mathew - Lumina Psychiatry LLC, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lumina Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Bradley Beach, NJ 07720  (Online Only)
As a dual-certified nurse practitioner specializing in both psychiatric mental health and family health, I bring over 14 years of experience to each consultation. I am particularly skilled in addressing a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD/ADD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and panic disorders. My expertise extends to initiating and managing complex medication regimes, such as stimulant therapies for ADHD and long-term benzodiazepine treatment, ensuring safety and effectiveness.
As a dual-certified nurse practitioner specializing in both psychiatric mental health and family health, I bring over 14 years of experience to each consultation. I am particularly skilled in addressing a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD/ADD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and panic disorders. My expertise extends to initiating and managing complex medication regimes, such as stimulant therapies for ADHD and long-term benzodiazepine treatment, ensuring safety and effectiveness.
(609) 293-2448 View (609) 293-2448
Photo of Samantha Colón, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Colón
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wall, NJ 07719
Do you struggle with Anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, attention difficulties, life challenges that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, education? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, lost, by different but relatable problems? Just getting through the day, or the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you wish that life could be better? I offer safe, individualized treatments, and a seamless experience, so you can move forward, and feel like you’re being heard. Living “easier” is my mission. Book online at www.arieswellness.info today
Do you struggle with Anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, attention difficulties, life challenges that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, education? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, lost, by different but relatable problems? Just getting through the day, or the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you wish that life could be better? I offer safe, individualized treatments, and a seamless experience, so you can move forward, and feel like you’re being heard. Living “easier” is my mission. Book online at www.arieswellness.info today
(732) 392-7477 View (732) 392-7477
Photo of Treasure Santos, PMHNP, Mount L, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Treasure Santos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, Mount L
Verified Verified
Wall Township, NJ 07719
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.
(609) 905-5460 View (609) 905-5460
Photo of Geralda Vilus - Graceful Beginnings LLC, RN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Graceful Beginnings LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocean, NJ 07712  (Online Only)
My name is Geralda Vilus, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with over six years of experience in mental health. My journey in healthcare began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Science from Rutgers University, followed by a Master’s degree in Science, and a Post-Master’s certification in advanced practice nursing. I am certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners as a Family Nurse Practitioner and by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
My name is Geralda Vilus, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with over six years of experience in mental health. My journey in healthcare began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Science from Rutgers University, followed by a Master’s degree in Science, and a Post-Master’s certification in advanced practice nursing. I am certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners as a Family Nurse Practitioner and by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(908) 808-5327 View (908) 808-5327
Photo of Dr. Andrew Manoski, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrew Manoski
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wall, NJ 07719
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently looking for clients interested in working on their mental well-being through a deeper understanding of themselves. Through this work of introspection, we hope to better manage relationship conflicts, recurring issues with anxiety or moods, and self-sabotaging behaviors. By better understanding our past ways of interacting and experiencing the world, we can more more consciously work toward goals for the future.
I am currently looking for clients interested in working on their mental well-being through a deeper understanding of themselves. Through this work of introspection, we hope to better manage relationship conflicts, recurring issues with anxiety or moods, and self-sabotaging behaviors. By better understanding our past ways of interacting and experiencing the world, we can more more consciously work toward goals for the future.
(609) 928-7115 View (609) 928-7115
Photo of Jason Leon Cohen - The Cohen Center, MD, Psychiatrist
The Cohen Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wall, NJ 07719
Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the first step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment
Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the first step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment
(732) 675-0011 View (732) 675-0011

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07753

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07753 who prioritize treating:

88% Depression
88% Anxiety
88% Medication Management
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Sleep or Insomnia
63% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% Aetna
71% Cigna and Evernorth
71% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield

How Psychiatrists in 07753 see their clients

62% Online Only
38% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

71% Male
29% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07753?

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.