Psychiatrists in Boonton, NJ
![Photo of Javeria Sahib Din, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f54a19e-a78d-4ddf-981d-a4a139b09775/1/320x400.jpeg)
Every day life can become difficult when it is not supposed to be difficult. You have a right to enjoy life like everyone else. If life is giving you a hard time, and you fail to enjoy it, you need to get assessed by a mental health practitioner. Depression is as real as us. Anxiety is as real as us.
Every day life can become difficult when it is not supposed to be difficult. You have a right to enjoy life like everyone else. If life is giving you a hard time, and you fail to enjoy it, you need to get assessed by a mental health practitioner. Depression is as real as us. Anxiety is as real as us.
![Photo of Emmanuel Adjin, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79c52306-2e5f-4da3-abfa-85fabeed0adb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emmanuel Adjin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Boonton, NJ 07005 (Online Only)
A key component of growth and development is to gain control and mastery in areas we find challenging. And sometimes, disruption in one’s mental health can get in the way of acquiring such mastery. Seeking help to improve your mental wellbeing is what can make the difference.
A key component of growth and development is to gain control and mastery in areas we find challenging. And sometimes, disruption in one’s mental health can get in the way of acquiring such mastery. Seeking help to improve your mental wellbeing is what can make the difference.
![Photo of Valerie Thertus - Behavioral Psychiatry , MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/073aee8b-d8d2-4102-b38b-72a8851fffe3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Thertus completed medical school at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, followed by residency and fellowship in psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. She has broad experience treating a variety of psychiatric conditions, patients from diverse backgrounds and is double board certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry. She emphasizes shared decision making , encouraging personal input in goal setting and the recovery process.
Dr. Thertus completed medical school at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, followed by residency and fellowship in psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. She has broad experience treating a variety of psychiatric conditions, patients from diverse backgrounds and is double board certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry. She emphasizes shared decision making , encouraging personal input in goal setting and the recovery process.
![Photo of Ayodele Green - Greenhouse For Mental Health Development, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb44361e-1012-44b5-943b-becb1a91e8dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Ayodele Green is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who completed her undergraduate degree at Columbia University. She obtained her MD from Temple University School of Medicine in NJ. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at Harlem Hospital of Columbia University and completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at UMDNJ(Rutgers) in Newark NJ. Her methods are patient centered and holistic. Dr. Green accepts patients that have insurance and will file Out of Network Claims on behalf of patients so that they can be reimbursed. She also offers a sliding scale fee and is accepting new patients.
Dr Ayodele Green is a Board-Certified psychiatrist who completed her undergraduate degree at Columbia University. She obtained her MD from Temple University School of Medicine in NJ. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at Harlem Hospital of Columbia University and completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at UMDNJ(Rutgers) in Newark NJ. Her methods are patient centered and holistic. Dr. Green accepts patients that have insurance and will file Out of Network Claims on behalf of patients so that they can be reimbursed. She also offers a sliding scale fee and is accepting new patients.
![Photo of Frederick S Starr - New Jersey Mental Wellness, MD, FAACAP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/568d99f2-1555-4b6e-abed-21a3dca2925c/2/320x400.jpeg)
New Jersey Mental Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD, FAACAP
Verified Verified
Boonton, NJ 07005
Waitlist for new clients
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Yelena Khaysman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f2159ff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult and geriatric psychiatry. I have 13 years of clinical experience. I completed residency at NS-LIJ Zucker Hillside Hospital followed by a fellowship in Consultation Liaison/Psychosomatic medicine at Long Island Jewish Katz Hospital. I specialize in a broad range of psychiatric disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a particular focus in geriatric psychiatry and offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of dementia.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult and geriatric psychiatry. I have 13 years of clinical experience. I completed residency at NS-LIJ Zucker Hillside Hospital followed by a fellowship in Consultation Liaison/Psychosomatic medicine at Long Island Jewish Katz Hospital. I specialize in a broad range of psychiatric disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a particular focus in geriatric psychiatry and offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of dementia.
![Photo of Hong Kim, PMHNP, NP-P, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b93cb9f-b6ea-4a82-ad6e-5cc289db6b63/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hong Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
![Photo of Michael John Krysko, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f22ad57-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I focus on mental illness that affects people's day to day lives. I work with people by actively listening to people, and by guiding them and educating them about their problems, as well as by prescribing medications that will help them meet their goals.
I focus on mental illness that affects people's day to day lives. I work with people by actively listening to people, and by guiding them and educating them about their problems, as well as by prescribing medications that will help them meet their goals.
![Photo of Lydie-Danielle Frederic, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f245eebc-d7c0-48dd-8650-603e519d87ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lydie-Danielle Frederic
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046 (Online Only)
Lydie-Danielle Frederic, PA-C, is a certified physician assistant with over a decade of experience treating complex neurological conditions. PA Frederic stays up-to-date with recent research, ensuring her patients a rapid return to the quality of life they are seeking. She is committed to ensuring his patients have a detailed evaluation and prides herself on exploring the best holistic and medication management options available that best suit each unique patient. PA Frederic works to ensure each patient has a treatment plan that is individually tailored to their needs
Lydie-Danielle Frederic, PA-C, is a certified physician assistant with over a decade of experience treating complex neurological conditions. PA Frederic stays up-to-date with recent research, ensuring her patients a rapid return to the quality of life they are seeking. She is committed to ensuring his patients have a detailed evaluation and prides herself on exploring the best holistic and medication management options available that best suit each unique patient. PA Frederic works to ensure each patient has a treatment plan that is individually tailored to their needs
![Photo of Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed20f915-7f92-4e85-93e1-bdd83e262a86/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
![Photo of Melanie Fillian - Counseling & Consulting Services of North Jersey, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3634ae12-82a5-46e3-85bd-7e98eb744a9f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling & Consulting Services of North Jersey
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Montville, NJ 07045
We provide the highest quality of care in prescribing mental health medications. CCSNJ is a beautiful and established facility that individualizes ALL our patients. You will have direct access to your prescriber and can contact them at any time. New medication, Side effects, text us! We are flexible to accommodate you offering Tele-health and flexible hours for treatment. The turn around time for appointments can be anywhere from 4-48 hours. We also have a staff of specialists offering comprehensive treatment if you are in need of psychotherapy ,kids, couples,or family counseling, in addition to your medication.
We provide the highest quality of care in prescribing mental health medications. CCSNJ is a beautiful and established facility that individualizes ALL our patients. You will have direct access to your prescriber and can contact them at any time. New medication, Side effects, text us! We are flexible to accommodate you offering Tele-health and flexible hours for treatment. The turn around time for appointments can be anywhere from 4-48 hours. We also have a staff of specialists offering comprehensive treatment if you are in need of psychotherapy ,kids, couples,or family counseling, in addition to your medication.
![Photo of Madiha Syed, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d12f4ca9-588d-4fff-98fc-f80b5acb030f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Madiha Syed is a Psychiatrist in Texas with three years of experience. She completed her Residency at St. Mary Mercy Hospital in Michigan and then completed an Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx, New York. Madiha believes in an integrated approach to both mind and body. She is a board-certified Psychiatrist with special interest in addictions, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma related mental health. Madiha practices medication management with involvement of therapy and coaching in sessions.
Madiha Syed is a Psychiatrist in Texas with three years of experience. She completed her Residency at St. Mary Mercy Hospital in Michigan and then completed an Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx, New York. Madiha believes in an integrated approach to both mind and body. She is a board-certified Psychiatrist with special interest in addictions, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma related mental health. Madiha practices medication management with involvement of therapy and coaching in sessions.
![Photo of Margaret Gorny, APN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ddc3472-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have treated adults ranging in age from 18 to 80. I have also done extensive work with couples and families. My clients have had a wide variety of presenting problems from depression, anger management, relationships issues, anxiety, mood disorders, marital problems, phobias and obsessive compulsive behaviors. I see my client as a whole person not as a person with a problem. A person with strengths and weaknesses. Our job together is to find the answers and develop the skills to move forward to an enriching life.
I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have treated adults ranging in age from 18 to 80. I have also done extensive work with couples and families. My clients have had a wide variety of presenting problems from depression, anger management, relationships issues, anxiety, mood disorders, marital problems, phobias and obsessive compulsive behaviors. I see my client as a whole person not as a person with a problem. A person with strengths and weaknesses. Our job together is to find the answers and develop the skills to move forward to an enriching life.
![Photo of Michael Barness - Mindful Medicine, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/504e217c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Please visit our website and read our google reviews! www.mindfulmedicinemd.com
Please visit our website and read our google reviews! www.mindfulmedicinemd.com
![Photo of Diane Jasmin, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68875fb3-fc37-4d3d-916c-c56df3bca32b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jasmin’s goal is to help individuals across improve the quality of their lives. She provides a range of client-centered services for adults, adolescents, and families treating a number of mental health disorders. Utilizing an environment that is supportive her ultimate goal is the promotion of healing and personal growth. Dr. Jasmin's experience enables her to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care.
Dr. Jasmin’s goal is to help individuals across improve the quality of their lives. She provides a range of client-centered services for adults, adolescents, and families treating a number of mental health disorders. Utilizing an environment that is supportive her ultimate goal is the promotion of healing and personal growth. Dr. Jasmin's experience enables her to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care.
![Photo of Vaishali Desai, DNP, BA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/337ac5bb-cf6c-4389-b8fc-0370acee1442/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vaishali Desai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated by just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls? Do you hope that life could be better? Now more than ever all people are feeling uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated by just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls? Do you hope that life could be better? Now more than ever all people are feeling uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life.
![Photo of Ayodele Green, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4916990-1807-4447-9ad6-7311c6ec5cc3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist. After I completed Medical School at Temple University in PA, I matriculated to a Psychiatry Residency at Harlem Hospital, NY and a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in Newark, NJ. I have been seeing both adults, Children and Adolescents providing psychotherapy as well as medication management.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist. After I completed Medical School at Temple University in PA, I matriculated to a Psychiatry Residency at Harlem Hospital, NY and a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in Newark, NJ. I have been seeing both adults, Children and Adolescents providing psychotherapy as well as medication management.
![Photo of Cynthia Spellman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f091d68d-ac7c-444a-908e-d139f8e479f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have an exclusive private practice, with a limited number of clients. I provide a very high level of care, with appointments available this week and 50-minute sessions that cover both psychotherapy and medication. Not your typical psychiatrist, I safeguard your privacy from Big Data's (b)reach by handwriting all records. I am available via text for quick questions between appointments. This is possible only on a private-pay basis, remaining Out-Of-Network with all insurances. Nevertheless, it's possible that your insurance might offer partial reimbursement, which requires only a simple claim form. Call to see if I can help you.
I have an exclusive private practice, with a limited number of clients. I provide a very high level of care, with appointments available this week and 50-minute sessions that cover both psychotherapy and medication. Not your typical psychiatrist, I safeguard your privacy from Big Data's (b)reach by handwriting all records. I am available via text for quick questions between appointments. This is possible only on a private-pay basis, remaining Out-Of-Network with all insurances. Nevertheless, it's possible that your insurance might offer partial reimbursement, which requires only a simple claim form. Call to see if I can help you.
![Photo of Raynald Joseph, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5e1bc83-9b25-411f-90e9-e31a2b8875ea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Raynald Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years in nursing including emergency/crisis, acute, chronic, legal and intermediate care. I work with patients with the following diagnoses including but not limited to: Major depressive disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Sleep issues, and PTSD.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years in nursing including emergency/crisis, acute, chronic, legal and intermediate care. I work with patients with the following diagnoses including but not limited to: Major depressive disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Sleep issues, and PTSD.
![Photo of Annette Allegra, DNP, APN-C, MSN, PMHNP, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44d0c3f3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Annette Allegra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-C, MSN, PMHNP, LLC
Verified Verified
Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046
I enjoy helping clients work toward feeling their best by medically treating and coaching them toward their greatest potential to live a more rewarding life. Due to my background of working with critically ill clients, as well as acute psychiatric and co-morbid illnesses, I am prepared to assist my clients in their journey towards better health. I work collaboratively with health providers as needed, and welcome collateral support for my clients if available. My experience includes treating a wide spectrum of conditions, which include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
I enjoy helping clients work toward feeling their best by medically treating and coaching them toward their greatest potential to live a more rewarding life. Due to my background of working with critically ill clients, as well as acute psychiatric and co-morbid illnesses, I am prepared to assist my clients in their journey towards better health. I work collaboratively with health providers as needed, and welcome collateral support for my clients if available. My experience includes treating a wide spectrum of conditions, which include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
See more therapy options for Boonton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Boonton, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Boonton, NJ who prioritize treating:
80% | Depression |
80% | Anxiety |
60% | ADHD |
60% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
60% | Trauma and PTSD |
60% | Bipolar Disorder |
60% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
100% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Boonton, NJ see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Male | |
34% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Boonton?
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.