Psychiatrists in Barnegat, NJ
![Photo of Michael Enwere - St. Michael Mental Care Consult, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73a6a17b-624d-4e95-b80b-5f9dc460050b/2/320x400.jpeg)
St. Michael Mental Care Consult
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Barnegat, NJ 08005 (Online Only)
Have you encountered challenges in locating a service provider who is dedicated to thoroughly understanding and assisting you? The task of finding a qualified professional capable of genuinely perceiving and acknowledging your needs can prove arduous. You may be grappling with depression, anxiety, or residual effects of past trauma. My expertise lies in aiding individuals to conquer such symptoms, alongside navigating an array of mental health and wellness obstacles. Above all, my role is to listen and facilitate your self-awareness, by providing utmost care and improving lifestyle betterment.
Have you encountered challenges in locating a service provider who is dedicated to thoroughly understanding and assisting you? The task of finding a qualified professional capable of genuinely perceiving and acknowledging your needs can prove arduous. You may be grappling with depression, anxiety, or residual effects of past trauma. My expertise lies in aiding individuals to conquer such symptoms, alongside navigating an array of mental health and wellness obstacles. Above all, my role is to listen and facilitate your self-awareness, by providing utmost care and improving lifestyle betterment.
![Photo of Ernest Akwaboah - Mega Professional Healthcare Services , PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad50025f-b45c-4587-9064-64bccc052cc3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mega Professional Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Barnegat, NJ 08005 (Online Only)
Mega Professional Healthcare Services, manage by Ernest Akwaboah, APN, PMHNP-BC, provides comprehensive evidence based mental health treatments for children, adults and elderly individuals with various mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, major depression, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, personality disorders and other mental health disorders. Feeling down, sad or persistent anxiety, or need mental health support, then we do it all! We perform mental health evaluation, all-inclusive behavioral treatment, medication management and symptoms monitoring. Call or Email ernestakwaboah@gmail.com, call 973-342-6323
Mega Professional Healthcare Services, manage by Ernest Akwaboah, APN, PMHNP-BC, provides comprehensive evidence based mental health treatments for children, adults and elderly individuals with various mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, major depression, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, personality disorders and other mental health disorders. Feeling down, sad or persistent anxiety, or need mental health support, then we do it all! We perform mental health evaluation, all-inclusive behavioral treatment, medication management and symptoms monitoring. Call or Email ernestakwaboah@gmail.com, call 973-342-6323
![Photo of Dr. Madeleine R. Eugene - Relax Your Mind Services, LLC, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc1bf64d-8369-4bb4-bb26-a3a0af0b7a49/1/320x400.jpeg)
Relax Your Mind Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Barnegat, NJ 08005
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - -
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - -
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Syed Tirmazi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a0f7751-4913-4033-8839-9409d0070919/3/320x400.jpeg)
In my online practice, I specialize in addressing psychiatric issues in both children and adults. I focus on conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, bipolar disorder, psychosis, childhood ADHD, and behavioral issues. Empathetic listening and involving your family and social contacts in treatment process where possible are focus of my management strategy. If you or your child are dealing with any of these challenges, I am here to provide support and guidance. Feel free to reach out to schedule an appointment or visit my website www.childadultpsych.com.
In my online practice, I specialize in addressing psychiatric issues in both children and adults. I focus on conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, bipolar disorder, psychosis, childhood ADHD, and behavioral issues. Empathetic listening and involving your family and social contacts in treatment process where possible are focus of my management strategy. If you or your child are dealing with any of these challenges, I am here to provide support and guidance. Feel free to reach out to schedule an appointment or visit my website www.childadultpsych.com.
![Photo of Grant Myers, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d313cabc-2c78-4631-9dc5-96f0dec898d2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Grant Myers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Manahawkin, NJ 08050
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for a provider that will listen to you? I collaborate with my clients to find the best way to improve their health. Not sure if you are on the right medication? This practice specializes in medication management. Learn simple tools to assist you in decreasing your anxiety and improving your mood. I see clients online and in my Toms River office. Go to website now and book an appointment by filling out request form today! www.gardenstatepsych.net
Are you looking for a provider that will listen to you? I collaborate with my clients to find the best way to improve their health. Not sure if you are on the right medication? This practice specializes in medication management. Learn simple tools to assist you in decreasing your anxiety and improving your mood. I see clients online and in my Toms River office. Go to website now and book an appointment by filling out request form today! www.gardenstatepsych.net
![Photo of Robert Bishop, APN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42a809fc-152a-4926-9b54-bdbb4af5065b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robert Bishop
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Manahawkin, NJ 08050 (Online Only)
The clients that I treat are looking for help. They are either seeking medication to help with their mental illness or in need of someone to manage them. They are at the point where they need medical help due to a mental illness that impairs them from living a healthy, productive life.
The clients that I treat are looking for help. They are either seeking medication to help with their mental illness or in need of someone to manage them. They are at the point where they need medical help due to a mental illness that impairs them from living a healthy, productive life.
![Photo of Irene Marsh, APN, PMHNP, IBCLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b467bdf-2a5f-4cc9-afdd-cac604021778/3/320x400.jpeg)
Irene Marsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, IBCLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forked River, NJ 08731
Talking about Mental Health openly is a new concept. As the light is shed on mental health in general, there is another population that is struggling. This is the Perinatal population. Pregnancy is a wonderful time for some, while others struggle with anxiety and depression. Others do great during the pregnancy but struggle postpartum. Do you feel you need medication management? We can build a collaborative relationship and discuss the risks and benefits of all available treatments. Medication is an option, not a requirement.
Talking about Mental Health openly is a new concept. As the light is shed on mental health in general, there is another population that is struggling. This is the Perinatal population. Pregnancy is a wonderful time for some, while others struggle with anxiety and depression. Others do great during the pregnancy but struggle postpartum. Do you feel you need medication management? We can build a collaborative relationship and discuss the risks and benefits of all available treatments. Medication is an option, not a requirement.
![Photo of Mary May Montenegro - Euthymia Mental Health Services , FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d0df31-9501-44e2-a39a-b7d4c4c1c6b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Euthymia Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Stafford Township, NJ 08050 (Online Only)
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Let's work together for you to reach a goal which is to achieve a tranquil mental state or mood. We will have a thorough discussion regarding your issues and concerns about your mental health and we will come up with a solution and intervention not only beneficial to your mental health but also to your overall well- being.
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Let's work together for you to reach a goal which is to achieve a tranquil mental state or mood. We will have a thorough discussion regarding your issues and concerns about your mental health and we will come up with a solution and intervention not only beneficial to your mental health but also to your overall well- being.
![Photo of Latifah Idowu Oparison - Vioral Health and Behavioral Services, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b51a54e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vioral Health and Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forked River, NJ 08731 (Online Only)
Are you looking for medication management and/or therapy? Our practice consists of a psychiatric nurse practitioner and psychotherapists who work collaboratively to provide you with the best care possible. In addition to providing traditional outpatient services, we provide Intensive Out Patient (IOP) treatment for patients who would benefit from a group setting and more intensive support.
Are you looking for medication management and/or therapy? Our practice consists of a psychiatric nurse practitioner and psychotherapists who work collaboratively to provide you with the best care possible. In addition to providing traditional outpatient services, we provide Intensive Out Patient (IOP) treatment for patients who would benefit from a group setting and more intensive support.
![Photo of Felix Geller - Modern Psychiatry, MD, LCSW, LMFT, PMHNP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b159000-85b3-4291-9e84-346f44060f3d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now Accepting New Patients- - Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - At Modern Psychiatry, our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, therapists, case managers, and primary care physicians provides comprehensive mental health care across multiple states, both in-person and virtually. We address a range of concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety, and depression, matching clients with the right provider. We offer neuropsychological testing for Autism, ADHD, and academic challenges. We also offer executive function coaching to enhance skills like organization, time management, and emotional regulation.
Now Accepting New Patients- - Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - At Modern Psychiatry, our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, therapists, case managers, and primary care physicians provides comprehensive mental health care across multiple states, both in-person and virtually. We address a range of concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety, and depression, matching clients with the right provider. We offer neuropsychological testing for Autism, ADHD, and academic challenges. We also offer executive function coaching to enhance skills like organization, time management, and emotional regulation.
![Photo of Liju Mathew - Lumina Psychiatry LLC, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f6cd9d4-5540-4243-8f93-ea03362ed311/2/320x400.png)
Lumina Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Forked River, NJ 08731 (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.
![Photo of Kristine Hart, MSN, PMHNP, CARN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2cc908cf-300b-42d0-9d03-9e5ba824057a/1/320x400.png)
Kristine Hart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CARN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manahawkin, NJ 08050 (Online Only)
Together, we'll unravel your potential, heal your mind, and embrace a life of more positivity and fulfillment. I am dedicated to delivering meaningful and competent care for the issues you are facing. I recognize that every individual's mental health journey is distinct, and thus, I tailor my approaches to suit each person's specific needs. Your journey is your story, and I offer unwavering compassion and support to guide you to your wellness goals. I approach mental wellness holistically, considering all facets of your well-being. From therapy to medication management, I customize treatment plans that prioritize your unique goals.
Together, we'll unravel your potential, heal your mind, and embrace a life of more positivity and fulfillment. I am dedicated to delivering meaningful and competent care for the issues you are facing. I recognize that every individual's mental health journey is distinct, and thus, I tailor my approaches to suit each person's specific needs. Your journey is your story, and I offer unwavering compassion and support to guide you to your wellness goals. I approach mental wellness holistically, considering all facets of your well-being. From therapy to medication management, I customize treatment plans that prioritize your unique goals.
![Photo of Latisha L Marshall, MSN, RN, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a0904c2-c1f4-46bf-ac57-6304ecd483aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Latisha L Marshall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Forked River, NJ 08731
My name is Latisha L. Marshall, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in many psychiatric and mental health disorders. I have been practicing for many years and have experience in numerous psychiatric disorders. I also have experience working in outpatient settings, inpatient psychiatric units, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. I also have experience working as a consultation-liaison. Working together is my approach to helping guide my clients through any issues or obstacles they face.
My name is Latisha L. Marshall, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in many psychiatric and mental health disorders. I have been practicing for many years and have experience in numerous psychiatric disorders. I also have experience working in outpatient settings, inpatient psychiatric units, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. I also have experience working as a consultation-liaison. Working together is my approach to helping guide my clients through any issues or obstacles they face.
![Photo of Jacqueline M Iannacone, MSN, PMHNP , CARN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d89bfa0e-cc23-455a-95d6-de7668b814bb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline M Iannacone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP , CARN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manahawkin, NJ 08050
Behavioral Health services provided by a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that is dedicated to providing quality care and treating the whole person, including the body, mind and spirit. With experience in evaluation and medication management across the lifespan, I treat a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and substance use disorders, including opiate and alcohol use, anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders.
Behavioral Health services provided by a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that is dedicated to providing quality care and treating the whole person, including the body, mind and spirit. With experience in evaluation and medication management across the lifespan, I treat a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and substance use disorders, including opiate and alcohol use, anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders.
latifah Dosunmu Oparison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forked River, NJ 08731 (Online Only)
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of George Ellis, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfb39165-4eaf-4938-b73d-5ef639003c23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ellis is a staff psychiatrist for Talkiatry. He has been practicing for more than 28 years. He is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. In addition, Dr. Ellis is certified by the American Board of Adolescent Psychiatry and is a member of the American Society for Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Ellis provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations. He offers follow-up medication management and incorporates supportive therapy and CBT in subsequent 30-minute visits. When indicated, Dr. Ellis encourages family involvement in the treatment process.
Dr. Ellis is a staff psychiatrist for Talkiatry. He has been practicing for more than 28 years. He is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. In addition, Dr. Ellis is certified by the American Board of Adolescent Psychiatry and is a member of the American Society for Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Ellis provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations. He offers follow-up medication management and incorporates supportive therapy and CBT in subsequent 30-minute visits. When indicated, Dr. Ellis encourages family involvement in the treatment process.
![Photo of Martin Forsberg - PTSD Rx, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ac25a4f-0f0d-475e-b74e-c0cf5775b249/1/320x400.png)
Are nightmares and flashbacks related to trauma disrupting your life? At PTSD Rx, we understand the impact of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on your well-being. Our compassionate team has over 10 years of experience treating nightmares and flashbacks and is here to guide you toward healing and recovery.
Are nightmares and flashbacks related to trauma disrupting your life? At PTSD Rx, we understand the impact of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on your well-being. Our compassionate team has over 10 years of experience treating nightmares and flashbacks and is here to guide you toward healing and recovery.
![Photo of Ijeoma Jennifer Hassan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f0ae61a-62f6-4be7-b691-946cce763d4e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I am Dr. Ijeoma Hassan is a board certified adult and forensic psychiatrist. I am licensed in NJ, NY, and PA. I combine psychopharmacology along with various modalities of psychotherapy in order to tackle mental health issues.
Hi, I am Dr. Ijeoma Hassan is a board certified adult and forensic psychiatrist. I am licensed in NJ, NY, and PA. I combine psychopharmacology along with various modalities of psychotherapy in order to tackle mental health issues.
![Photo of Melissa Scollan-Koliopoulos - Nu Imagery Healthcare LLC, EdD, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CDCES, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b3018d7-5c94-4682-bc36-c780621f65c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nu Imagery Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CDCES
Verified Verified
Haskell, NJ 07420
We have specialists in pediatric and adolescent mental health, diabetes care, medical metabolic and weight management. We ensure that you understand how your own neuroendocrine system is influencing your symptoms through psycho-education, psychotherapy, and pharmacologic treatment options. Melissa Scollan-Koliopoulos, EDD, DNP, PMHNP and Michelle Reeves, DNP, PMHNP are certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners providing psychotherapy, diagnosis, and medication management. Ann Pinon, MSN, FNP & Donna Naturale, DNP, ANP, CDCES are nurse practitioners focusing on primary mental health care and obesity & diabetes.
We have specialists in pediatric and adolescent mental health, diabetes care, medical metabolic and weight management. We ensure that you understand how your own neuroendocrine system is influencing your symptoms through psycho-education, psychotherapy, and pharmacologic treatment options. Melissa Scollan-Koliopoulos, EDD, DNP, PMHNP and Michelle Reeves, DNP, PMHNP are certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners providing psychotherapy, diagnosis, and medication management. Ann Pinon, MSN, FNP & Donna Naturale, DNP, ANP, CDCES are nurse practitioners focusing on primary mental health care and obesity & diabetes.
See more therapy options for Barnegat
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Barnegat, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Barnegat, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Medicaid |
How Psychiatrists in Barnegat, NJ see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
66% | Male | |
34% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Barnegat?
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.