Psychiatrists in Morristown, NJ
![Photo of Edward Ratush, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40d8146a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you know that you need Suboxone to get clean. If you believe that you need anxiety treatment to stay sober. If you hope that long term psychotherapy can improve your navigation through life. If you are open to learning about meditation and want to try yoga. If you have been to rehab only to realize that it was a waste of money. If you want to design your own recovery with the best available evidence for success. If you see that investing in improving your mental health will pay dividends in life. These are all good reasons to meet Dr. Ratush. If cost and frequency of visits is restraining then Dr. Ratush may not be good fit.
If you know that you need Suboxone to get clean. If you believe that you need anxiety treatment to stay sober. If you hope that long term psychotherapy can improve your navigation through life. If you are open to learning about meditation and want to try yoga. If you have been to rehab only to realize that it was a waste of money. If you want to design your own recovery with the best available evidence for success. If you see that investing in improving your mental health will pay dividends in life. These are all good reasons to meet Dr. Ratush. If cost and frequency of visits is restraining then Dr. Ratush may not be good fit.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eded0d85-8fc5-4d1b-a4c1-5b567cd2f3ef/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 Eronmwon Balogun, MSN, ANP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ecbd5ce-31e3-492c-beb5-5de7f3411415/2/320x400.png)
Eronmwon Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ANP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
![Photo of Dr. Bradford Bobrin, MD , FASAM , FACLP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68ff894c-6d15-4953-905c-db15f3407f63/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Jeffrey Wolff, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c328b6b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Many of my clients have battled symptoms for years. Some have been in psychotherapy and some have tried psychiatric medications. Few have been able to work with one care provider in both modalities simultaneously. I offer this possibility- the option that many research studies have shown to be the most effective!
As a physician I will take your overall health and nutritional status into account in formulating an approach to your care. I will make sure you are totally comfortable with our plan.
Many of my clients have battled symptoms for years. Some have been in psychotherapy and some have tried psychiatric medications. Few have been able to work with one care provider in both modalities simultaneously. I offer this possibility- the option that many research studies have shown to be the most effective!
As a physician I will take your overall health and nutritional status into account in formulating an approach to your care. I will make sure you are totally comfortable with our plan.
![Photo of Omar Canosa, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ea95130-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am board-certified in both adult and child/adolescent psychiatry, and do my best work with adolescent clients, and their families. I am intensively trained in DBT, and its principles inform my practice, even when the full model is not applied. I am also trained in medical acupuncture, and have practiced martial arts and meditative systems for over two decades. By virtue of this unique training, I am dedicated to an integrative approach which both addresses symptoms and problems, while also seeking to maximize the capacity for attaining and sustaining wellbeing. I am equally fluent in English and Spanish.
I am board-certified in both adult and child/adolescent psychiatry, and do my best work with adolescent clients, and their families. I am intensively trained in DBT, and its principles inform my practice, even when the full model is not applied. I am also trained in medical acupuncture, and have practiced martial arts and meditative systems for over two decades. By virtue of this unique training, I am dedicated to an integrative approach which both addresses symptoms and problems, while also seeking to maximize the capacity for attaining and sustaining wellbeing. I am equally fluent in English and Spanish.
![Photo of Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a77b17d1-0f3e-4ddd-8cf5-7c57c89d5784/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d846a4d-7e20-4c7b-8afd-8b88f1c07f10/1/320x400.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 Dr. Lily Arora, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e022e264-1381-4518-a527-9db8d04eac77/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help you become your best self. I believe in personalized, holistic care taking into account not only your symptoms but their impact on your daily life in context of your relationship and career goals. My approach to treatment involves forming a partnership with you to not only work towards healing your symptoms but to help you recognize and implement modes of thinking and behavior that lend themselves to a more harmonious and fulfilling lifestyle.
My goal is to help you become your best self. I believe in personalized, holistic care taking into account not only your symptoms but their impact on your daily life in context of your relationship and career goals. My approach to treatment involves forming a partnership with you to not only work towards healing your symptoms but to help you recognize and implement modes of thinking and behavior that lend themselves to a more harmonious and fulfilling lifestyle.
![Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/027df33a-66e9-41eb-81ae-03ad43a03fc2/2/320x400.png)
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
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 Roy Bachar - Roy Bachar MD, MD, 3300001, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce10967d-8ed2-4cae-879d-24b45d393f61/2/320x400.jpeg)
In my practice, I bring a very broad set of experiences from inpatient psychiatry on the vanguard of psychopharmacological medication treatment, psychoanalytic and psychodynamic talk therapy, all in one place offering safe, tele-health as well as in-person consultations and expertly tailored treatment for those suffering from mood, anxiety, or interpersonal difficulties. There is never a better time than now to begin the process of connecting and working upon your health, wellness, and improving your mental wellbeing than now.
In my practice, I bring a very broad set of experiences from inpatient psychiatry on the vanguard of psychopharmacological medication treatment, psychoanalytic and psychodynamic talk therapy, all in one place offering safe, tele-health as well as in-person consultations and expertly tailored treatment for those suffering from mood, anxiety, or interpersonal difficulties. There is never a better time than now to begin the process of connecting and working upon your health, wellness, and improving your mental wellbeing than now.
15 Second Videos
Andrea Papa-Molter
Michelle McCarthy
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Howard S Rudominer, MD,PA
Susan Jackson
Darian Kopp
![Photo of Tom Zaubler, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6da1aadf-601c-46ac-bbaf-15f5db3c6a4d/3/320x400.jpeg)
I combine my decades of experience in academic psychiatry and my extensive knowledge of psychotherapeutic methods and psychopharmacology with empathy, focused listening and a caring responsiveness to provide personalized care to the patients in my practice, Pegasus Psychiatry Associates (www.PegasusPsych.com). I was Chair of the Dept. of Psychiatry at Morristown Medical Center (NJ's #1 rated hospital) for 21 years and am a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Thomas Jefferson University's Medical School. I am widely published, have national recognition for my research and have served on state-wide mental health committees.
I combine my decades of experience in academic psychiatry and my extensive knowledge of psychotherapeutic methods and psychopharmacology with empathy, focused listening and a caring responsiveness to provide personalized care to the patients in my practice, Pegasus Psychiatry Associates (www.PegasusPsych.com). I was Chair of the Dept. of Psychiatry at Morristown Medical Center (NJ's #1 rated hospital) for 21 years and am a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Thomas Jefferson University's Medical School. I am widely published, have national recognition for my research and have served on state-wide mental health committees.
![Photo of Murla Ecclesiaste, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9252665c-5aee-47a4-9a3c-51175586a63e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Greetings! I am Murla, Do you experience lack of motivation, hopelessness and sadness? Do you feel overwhelmed with tasks? Are you dealing with anxiety that leaves you incapacitated? Are mood swings keeping you from reaching your best potential?
Greetings! I am Murla, Do you experience lack of motivation, hopelessness and sadness? Do you feel overwhelmed with tasks? Are you dealing with anxiety that leaves you incapacitated? Are mood swings keeping you from reaching your best potential?
![Photo of Danijela Ivelja-Hill, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5ddeb4b-f95f-4885-ada9-4a2d922cfa3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat depression, mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, stress, addictions, grief, life transitions, work-life balance issues, interpersonal and relationship problems, self esteem issues and more. I will take the time to get to know you and your individual needs and healing goals through compassionate and caring listening and exploration. My mission is to help you find your balance, regain and rediscover your strengths so that you can live your best life.
I treat depression, mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, stress, addictions, grief, life transitions, work-life balance issues, interpersonal and relationship problems, self esteem issues and more. I will take the time to get to know you and your individual needs and healing goals through compassionate and caring listening and exploration. My mission is to help you find your balance, regain and rediscover your strengths so that you can live your best life.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4b0afca-62dc-41fb-a5c5-649bc978f17b/2/320x400.png)
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 Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a20ff3a-0913-4bd0-8f07-3a9f3a614e6b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Amanda Guarnere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd5e3c22-25d2-4ab4-b619-bf9a8771aa8e/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.
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety and/or depression and is seeking services to find balance.
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety and/or depression and is seeking services to find balance.
![Photo of Mark Rosato, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7d1b1ec-83b1-4d0c-9d8b-cf6a7f5e6625/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have many years of experience engaging with children, adolescents and their families. I have dealt with all mental health issues affecting that population. At Pegasus Psychiatry Associates, I use my experience to focus on treating patients and their families with the compassionate, active listening and evidence-based approach I have found to be the most effective. After an extensive evaluation combined with appropriate objective measures, a comprehensive treatment plan is implemented. Judicious use of medication with or without therapy is offered. I encourage patients and their families to participate in their treatment planning.
I have many years of experience engaging with children, adolescents and their families. I have dealt with all mental health issues affecting that population. At Pegasus Psychiatry Associates, I use my experience to focus on treating patients and their families with the compassionate, active listening and evidence-based approach I have found to be the most effective. After an extensive evaluation combined with appropriate objective measures, a comprehensive treatment plan is implemented. Judicious use of medication with or without therapy is offered. I encourage patients and their families to participate in their treatment planning.
![Photo of Valeria Dworkowitz, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50438cbd-c386-4478-b7c3-a453778be0d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Valeria Dworkowitz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morristown, NJ 07960
I am an integrative practitioner licensed in NJ, MA, & NH who can assess biochemistry to identify important abnormalities that may be related to mental health symptoms. I can provide genetic testing for med management. Patients often seek integrative psychiatry after they have trialed multiple medications, experienced unpleasant/unremitting side effects, and have not been able to obtain symptom alleviation with traditional psychiatry. I believe strongly in psychotherapy to help patients work towards healing their minds and bodies. I work collaboratively with other treatment providers and am a strong advocate for my patients needs.
I am an integrative practitioner licensed in NJ, MA, & NH who can assess biochemistry to identify important abnormalities that may be related to mental health symptoms. I can provide genetic testing for med management. Patients often seek integrative psychiatry after they have trialed multiple medications, experienced unpleasant/unremitting side effects, and have not been able to obtain symptom alleviation with traditional psychiatry. I believe strongly in psychotherapy to help patients work towards healing their minds and bodies. I work collaboratively with other treatment providers and am a strong advocate for my patients needs.
See more therapy options for Morristown
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Morristown, NJ
60+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Morristown, NJ who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
92% | Anxiety |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Medication Management |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | ADHD |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
76% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Morristown, NJ see their clients
82% | In Person and Online | |
18% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Morristown?
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.