Psychiatrists in Burlington, NJ
![Photo of Mathias Omon Ologbosele - Blessed Healthcare Services, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/935d5907-b3fb-4e4d-9e3e-9268160c476d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Blessed Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burlington, NJ 08016 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Healt Health Nurse Practitioner with diverse cultural background, with over 20 years' experience and extensive background in both in-person and outpatient settings. Iam very dependable and reliable provider with varied experience in mental health services. Iam ready to work with patients in realizing their goals.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Healt Health Nurse Practitioner with diverse cultural background, with over 20 years' experience and extensive background in both in-person and outpatient settings. Iam very dependable and reliable provider with varied experience in mental health services. Iam ready to work with patients in realizing their goals.
![Photo of Alice Kalu - Alice Kalu , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86acee11-ccc5-4d23-a262-e513b437c20c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alice Kalu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlington, NJ 08016 (Online Only)
Alice Kalu is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner with a culturally diverse background. Alice uses an evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and client-centered approach in her treatment modules. Alice provides Psychiatric evaluations and medication management to clients of all age groups. Alice is passionate about what she does and wants to see everyone at their best
Alice Kalu is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner with a culturally diverse background. Alice uses an evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and client-centered approach in her treatment modules. Alice provides Psychiatric evaluations and medication management to clients of all age groups. Alice is passionate about what she does and wants to see everyone at their best
![Photo of Tiffiny Green, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dae56f2-8c0c-4ae1-ac7d-fae866ab3e88/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffiny Green
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, NJ 08016 (Online Only)
Tiffiny is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner with a culturally diverse background. Tiffiny uses an evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and client-centered approach in her treatment modules. Tiffiny provides Psychiatric evaluations and medication management to clients of all age groups. Tiffiny is passionate about what she does and works closely with the clients to meet their mental health goals.
Tiffiny is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner with a culturally diverse background. Tiffiny uses an evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and client-centered approach in her treatment modules. Tiffiny provides Psychiatric evaluations and medication management to clients of all age groups. Tiffiny is passionate about what she does and works closely with the clients to meet their mental health goals.
![Photo of Mulikat 'moyo' Otepola, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27c92936-82aa-40f4-915b-6ed3c722aa88/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mulikat 'moyo' Otepola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, NJ 08016 (Online Only)
Mulikat is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who treats clients across the lifespan with various mental health and behavioral issues. She works with clients of all ages and treats clients with several moods and mental health disorders which include but are not limited to bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, psychotic disorders, anxiety, panic attacks, sleep issues, etc. Moyo is passionate about what she does and treats clients with respect and dignity. Moyo also works with children, teenagers, and clients of all ages.
Mulikat is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who treats clients across the lifespan with various mental health and behavioral issues. She works with clients of all ages and treats clients with several moods and mental health disorders which include but are not limited to bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, psychotic disorders, anxiety, panic attacks, sleep issues, etc. Moyo is passionate about what she does and treats clients with respect and dignity. Moyo also works with children, teenagers, and clients of all ages.
![Photo of Fatmata Raymond, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7446e62d-514a-424f-9aa4-01d151eb3cbe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fatmata Raymond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burlington, NJ 08016 (Online Only)
Hello, Do you feel stressed, less motivated, tired and struggling to keep up with life's challenges? It's okay not to be okay, your struggles do not define you. Taking the first step towards improving your mental well-being can feel daunting, but by reaching out, you've already displayed tremendous courage. I understand that finding the right path to recovery can be overwhelming, which is why I am here to help you.
Hello, Do you feel stressed, less motivated, tired and struggling to keep up with life's challenges? It's okay not to be okay, your struggles do not define you. Taking the first step towards improving your mental well-being can feel daunting, but by reaching out, you've already displayed tremendous courage. I understand that finding the right path to recovery can be overwhelming, which is why I am here to help you.
![Photo of Edwin Bonilla, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81c4626f-668b-4cf9-9437-31205dbcfebb/2/320x400.png)
I'm a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of experience in the healthcare field. I offer medication management for a variety of mental health conditions in adults ages 18+, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and more. I work with clients across the lifespan in developing a collaborative relationship to improve their mental health symptoms. I’m currently Accepting new patients for both in-person and telehealth appointments and will work with you in developing a plan towards managing and improving their mental health.
I'm a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of experience in the healthcare field. I offer medication management for a variety of mental health conditions in adults ages 18+, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and more. I work with clients across the lifespan in developing a collaborative relationship to improve their mental health symptoms. I’m currently Accepting new patients for both in-person and telehealth appointments and will work with you in developing a plan towards managing and improving their mental health.
![Photo of Consolata Mulli - RIMU health and Wellness , FNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c94e903d-a0fe-4d5a-af9d-27dfd2222ccc/1/320x400.jpeg)
At RIMU Health we acknowledge the pandemic has greatly impacted mental and general health of our society. We strive to address these challenges by making mental and general health care easily accessible through tele health or tele medicine on our HIPPA compliant Platform. Our services are easily accessible on a computers, smartphones or tablets.
At RIMU Health we acknowledge the pandemic has greatly impacted mental and general health of our society. We strive to address these challenges by making mental and general health care easily accessible through tele health or tele medicine on our HIPPA compliant Platform. Our services are easily accessible on a computers, smartphones or tablets.
![Photo of Erica Saliu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a041f9c-1ad2-43ae-9882-b515475802cd/1/320x400.jpeg)
My interests are in Psychiatric and Addiction Medicine, treating adolescence through geriatric depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and substance abuse disorders.
My interests are in Psychiatric and Addiction Medicine, treating adolescence through geriatric depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and substance abuse disorders.
![Photo of Nicole Ibe, APN, AGNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa930c14-2ead-40f3-99de-95ba5b55a891/2/320x400.png)
Nicole Ibe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burlington, NJ 08016
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction or any other behavioral health concern, Nicole is here to help. Her mission is committed to helping individuals achieve emotional well-being, navigate life's unique challenges, and develop the skills and resilience needed for a happier and more fulfilling life.
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction or any other behavioral health concern, Nicole is here to help. Her mission is committed to helping individuals achieve emotional well-being, navigate life's unique challenges, and develop the skills and resilience needed for a happier and more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Bryana Carrea - New You Radiense , APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c15d11f2-d828-40f8-9a72-a06d721d5686/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be stressful at times and we believe no one should suffer in silence. Your mental health is vital part of you, and its important to address any addiction, or mental health issues you may have. We can help you if your experiencing anxiety, depression, an addiction issue, or just need someone to talk to.
Life can be stressful at times and we believe no one should suffer in silence. Your mental health is vital part of you, and its important to address any addiction, or mental health issues you may have. We can help you if your experiencing anxiety, depression, an addiction issue, or just need someone to talk to.
![Photo of Dr. Tony Issac, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df38d981-5825-41d4-887d-e9595e330e1c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
![Photo of Jessica Vann, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c202344-81df-4857-9394-a740e6bdbe8c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Vann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Burlington, NJ 08016 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jessica and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Chronic Illness, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Loss, Grief and Bereavement, Life Transitions, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Race/Cultural Identity and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jessica and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Chronic Illness, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Loss, Grief and Bereavement, Life Transitions, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Race/Cultural Identity and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
![Photo of Tonnesha Kidd, PMHNP, BC, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b781e1d2-6923-4561-bc1a-689b1858cac3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tonnesha Kidd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APN
Verified Verified
Burlington, NJ 08016 (Online Only)
Every client is unique in their mental health needs. I strive to provide holistic care, and treatment plan geared at improving the overall mental health well being of all clients across the lifespan.
Every client is unique in their mental health needs. I strive to provide holistic care, and treatment plan geared at improving the overall mental health well being of all clients across the lifespan.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Carolyn Costella, DNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9f0696c-20a5-4c7b-b6da-06521dcd8c63/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyn Costella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eastampton Township, NJ 08060
I'm deeply passionate about guiding those battling tough conditions like treatment-resistant depression, OCD, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar, and schizophrenia. I dream of teaming up with clients who are ready to face these hurdles head-on, aiming for a life marked by strength and empowerment. If you're longing to really grasp your condition, learn how to cope effectively, and cherish a caring partnership on your path to healing, I'm here for you. Together, we'll craft creative, custom treatment plans just for you, embarking on a healing journey that leads to a hopeful and radiant tomorrow.
I'm deeply passionate about guiding those battling tough conditions like treatment-resistant depression, OCD, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar, and schizophrenia. I dream of teaming up with clients who are ready to face these hurdles head-on, aiming for a life marked by strength and empowerment. If you're longing to really grasp your condition, learn how to cope effectively, and cherish a caring partnership on your path to healing, I'm here for you. Together, we'll craft creative, custom treatment plans just for you, embarking on a healing journey that leads to a hopeful and radiant tomorrow.
![Photo of Deborah Marie Toole - Deborah Toole LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fc3a771-b79e-4f1e-b59c-d26a354e5b83/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Toole LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Holly, NJ 08060
My approach to treating my clients consists of compassion, client centered treatments. I offer medication management as well as some therapy. The most important aspect of treatment is good communication and really listening to the client and their experiences. Personal trauma and experiences along with current events have created an increasingly stressful environment. It is more important than ever that clients have access to mental health services. Using compassion and empathy I will create a safe environment for YOU the client.
My approach to treating my clients consists of compassion, client centered treatments. I offer medication management as well as some therapy. The most important aspect of treatment is good communication and really listening to the client and their experiences. Personal trauma and experiences along with current events have created an increasingly stressful environment. It is more important than ever that clients have access to mental health services. Using compassion and empathy I will create a safe environment for YOU the client.
![Photo of Constance Courduff - Mendful Minds, LLC, MHS, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29f474ca-4353-4bf1-8f5f-7a8876f896f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mendful Minds, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHS, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mount Holly, NJ 08060
I am a highly skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping individuals overcome their mental health challenges and lead fulfilling lives. I'm passionate about empowering patients to take an active role in their mental health and well-being. I work collaboratively with patients to educate them about their conditions, help them develop coping skills, and encourage them to make positive lifestyle changes.
I am a highly skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping individuals overcome their mental health challenges and lead fulfilling lives. I'm passionate about empowering patients to take an active role in their mental health and well-being. I work collaboratively with patients to educate them about their conditions, help them develop coping skills, and encourage them to make positive lifestyle changes.
![Photo of Danielle Couture, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fc59f76-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are currently searching for a therapist or psychiatrist, it may be because you would like some help dealing with current unhappiness or dissatisfaction in your life. I collaboratively work with patients to identify issues, make goals, and create personalized treatment plans. My practice is focused on treatment for adults with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (adult ADHD), and mood disorders. I can also help you deal with life transitions, low motivation, grief, stress, establishing relationships, and work-life balance.
If you are currently searching for a therapist or psychiatrist, it may be because you would like some help dealing with current unhappiness or dissatisfaction in your life. I collaboratively work with patients to identify issues, make goals, and create personalized treatment plans. My practice is focused on treatment for adults with anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (adult ADHD), and mood disorders. I can also help you deal with life transitions, low motivation, grief, stress, establishing relationships, and work-life balance.
![Photo of April Adkins, DNP, APN-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47cbd8c1-a251-40ee-a622-56b0d4ae98d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
April Adkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Moorestown, NJ 08057 (Online Only)
I am a Doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 24 years of healthcare experience working with patients. I work with clients aged 18 + who suffer from depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and grief. I also work with clients struggling with overwhelming life difficulties, such as the death of a loved one or the end of a relationship. My approach to care is tailored to your needs and may include medication, nutritional supplementation, and therapy. If you desire, we may incorporate your loved ones in your treatment to help them learn to support you on the pathway to recovery.
I am a Doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 24 years of healthcare experience working with patients. I work with clients aged 18 + who suffer from depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and grief. I also work with clients struggling with overwhelming life difficulties, such as the death of a loved one or the end of a relationship. My approach to care is tailored to your needs and may include medication, nutritional supplementation, and therapy. If you desire, we may incorporate your loved ones in your treatment to help them learn to support you on the pathway to recovery.
![Photo of Chika C Ibeku, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99cdedb7-ef46-434a-b239-5241599d6074/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chika C Ibeku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Roebling, NJ 08554 (Online Only)
Divine Mental Healthcare focuses on the holistic care of patients. I have more than 12 years of experience as a doctorate graduate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. I strive to connect, support and balance the mental and physical needs of my patients to help them achieve a healthy whole person. In providing compassionate care to patients, I treat every patient as unique and work together with each patient to develop an evidence-based individualized care plan that will achieve their health goals. We are available to help any patient at any time. Just take the bold step and call 9084164288.
Divine Mental Healthcare focuses on the holistic care of patients. I have more than 12 years of experience as a doctorate graduate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. I strive to connect, support and balance the mental and physical needs of my patients to help them achieve a healthy whole person. In providing compassionate care to patients, I treat every patient as unique and work together with each patient to develop an evidence-based individualized care plan that will achieve their health goals. We are available to help any patient at any time. Just take the bold step and call 9084164288.
![Photo of Ernestina Archer, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfb2d655-ac52-4470-b35d-99891ed01607/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ernestina Archer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Moorestown, NJ 08057
I am a dual Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of healthcare experience. I attended Chamberlain University, where I received my Degree In Family Nurse Practitioner, and was also inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau Foundation of the Phi Pi Chapter in 2017. I also went ahead and graduated with my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in 2023, with the zeal to help with the Mental Health and addiction crisis in the world now. I have worked in diverse fields while on the journey to complete my academic achievements.
I am a dual Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of healthcare experience. I attended Chamberlain University, where I received my Degree In Family Nurse Practitioner, and was also inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau Foundation of the Phi Pi Chapter in 2017. I also went ahead and graduated with my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in 2023, with the zeal to help with the Mental Health and addiction crisis in the world now. I have worked in diverse fields while on the journey to complete my academic achievements.
See more therapy options for Burlington
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Burlington, NJ
10+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Burlington, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
92% | Bipolar Disorder |
85% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
85% | Medication Management |
54% | ADHD |
54% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Burlington, NJ see their clients
53% | Online Only | |
47% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Burlington?
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.