Psychiatrists in Cinnaminson, NJ
![Photo of Ade Adeyemo - Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Care LLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56b85bbe-bc65-479c-811e-d5827df23f5d/1/320x400.png)
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Cinnaminson, NJ 08077
ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in the States of New Jersey and Pennsylvania and providing treatment for patients with substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar and related disorders, attention-deficit /hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder, and PTSD. Philosophy of care is based on the foundations of respect and promotion of self-determination for all patients. These two attributes promotes trust, patient satisfaction, and improved quality of life for my patients.
ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in the States of New Jersey and Pennsylvania and providing treatment for patients with substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar and related disorders, attention-deficit /hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder, and PTSD. Philosophy of care is based on the foundations of respect and promotion of self-determination for all patients. These two attributes promotes trust, patient satisfaction, and improved quality of life for my patients.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Arif Patel, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41197bfb-a234-4211-a247-ec6027f82ede/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Arif Patel is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He obtained his medical degree from Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his residency training at Authority Health, an affiliate of Michigan State University. In addition, he has completed a Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Fellowship from the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute. He has 4 years of clinical experience. Dr. Patel's practice focuses primarily on medication management. Follow-up appointments are typically 30 minutes and incorporate elements of supportive psychotherapy, CBT, and motivational interviewing.
Dr. Arif Patel is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He obtained his medical degree from Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his residency training at Authority Health, an affiliate of Michigan State University. In addition, he has completed a Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Fellowship from the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute. He has 4 years of clinical experience. Dr. Patel's practice focuses primarily on medication management. Follow-up appointments are typically 30 minutes and incorporate elements of supportive psychotherapy, CBT, and motivational interviewing.
![Photo of Alyssa Killion, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b466a40-f3bf-4225-ad0b-2ba2f5255433/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa Killion
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
49 Endorsed
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
The first step is the hardest - finding a provider to manage your medications and also develop a positive therapeutic relationship with! As a seasoned board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring over 12 years of prescribing experience across diverse settings. My practice spans inpatient, outpatient, and private settings, offering a comprehensive understanding of mental health care needs. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety disorders (GAD, OCD, Panic disorder), PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and substance abuse concerns.
The first step is the hardest - finding a provider to manage your medications and also develop a positive therapeutic relationship with! As a seasoned board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring over 12 years of prescribing experience across diverse settings. My practice spans inpatient, outpatient, and private settings, offering a comprehensive understanding of mental health care needs. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety disorders (GAD, OCD, Panic disorder), PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and substance abuse concerns.
![Photo of Brenda Camacho, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98b2b528-0f82-4217-89d5-8409b9082d21/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Brenda Y. Camacho holds the position of Staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is board-certified in Adult Psychiatry. She has been practicing for over 25 years. Dr. Brenda Y. Camacho’s practice focuses on medication management. Typically she offers this in conjunction with supportive or insight-oriented therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. On occasion, Dr. Camacho will believe additional therapy is also needed and asks that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Dr. Brenda Y. Camacho holds the position of Staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is board-certified in Adult Psychiatry. She has been practicing for over 25 years. Dr. Brenda Y. Camacho’s practice focuses on medication management. Typically she offers this in conjunction with supportive or insight-oriented therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. On occasion, Dr. Camacho will believe additional therapy is also needed and asks that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
![Photo of Murla Ecclesiaste, PMHNP, AGNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/792529a3-816d-45bc-8395-66d9e8dc93a6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Murla Ecclesiaste
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marlton, NJ 08053 (Online Only)
Greetings! I am Murla Ecclesiaste, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. I am also dual certified in Adult Gerontology. I have a passion for helping others and strive to empower individuals in their journey towards mental well-being. I have over 10 years of experience managing different areas in healthcare. I understand that seeking help can be daunting, and I aim to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where individuals can express themselves freely. Trust, empathy and respect are the cornerstone of my practice..
Greetings! I am Murla Ecclesiaste, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. I am also dual certified in Adult Gerontology. I have a passion for helping others and strive to empower individuals in their journey towards mental well-being. I have over 10 years of experience managing different areas in healthcare. I understand that seeking help can be daunting, and I aim to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where individuals can express themselves freely. Trust, empathy and respect are the cornerstone of my practice..
![Photo of Meghann Alcala, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3a07b6b-89d8-49bb-a732-82b887c9d790/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meghann Alcala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
21 Endorsed
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054 (Online Only)
I am passionate about providing quality, comprehensive, and compassionate patient-centered care. A facet of my therapy style that I take pride in is treating the person as a whole. Past experiences have given me training geared towards utilizing individualized approaches to further assist diverse populations in coping with personal obstacles through psychiatric evaluations, and medication management sessions with psychotherapy. My ultimate goal is to assist you with achieving the highest quality of life by utilizing your strengths in an environment of warmth, patience, understanding, and trust
I am passionate about providing quality, comprehensive, and compassionate patient-centered care. A facet of my therapy style that I take pride in is treating the person as a whole. Past experiences have given me training geared towards utilizing individualized approaches to further assist diverse populations in coping with personal obstacles through psychiatric evaluations, and medication management sessions with psychotherapy. My ultimate goal is to assist you with achieving the highest quality of life by utilizing your strengths in an environment of warmth, patience, understanding, and trust
![Photo of Dr. Chizoba O Mbachu, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b3148d2-f4fb-49c4-9810-db7b19597e38/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chizoba O Mbachu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, BSN
Verified Verified
Marlton, NJ 08053 (Online Only)
My ideal client is anyone who is taking the leap into handling their own mental health and trying to better themselves. I primarily work with people who have hard-hitting diagnosis' or issues that they feel they need an elevated level of care for. Essentially, as long as you looking for help; I am here to help.
My ideal client is anyone who is taking the leap into handling their own mental health and trying to better themselves. I primarily work with people who have hard-hitting diagnosis' or issues that they feel they need an elevated level of care for. Essentially, as long as you looking for help; I am here to help.
![Photo of Asia Morrison, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/991de56d-6209-4563-aba7-efc6a23c0b41/1/320x400.jpeg)
Asia Morrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Marlton, NJ 08053 (Online Only)
Your mental health care starts here! With a profound commitment to physical and mental well-being, I am a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. Prior to the master's level degrees awarded by the University of Cincinnati, I obtained a Bachelor's in Psychology from Rutgers University, studying the human mind, its functions, and how it affects behavior. As a specialized Psychiatric Mental Health NP, I treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, as well as other complex mental health disorders. I strongly encourage your autonomy & participation in a mutually-agreed upon treatment plan.
Your mental health care starts here! With a profound commitment to physical and mental well-being, I am a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. Prior to the master's level degrees awarded by the University of Cincinnati, I obtained a Bachelor's in Psychology from Rutgers University, studying the human mind, its functions, and how it affects behavior. As a specialized Psychiatric Mental Health NP, I treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, as well as other complex mental health disorders. I strongly encourage your autonomy & participation in a mutually-agreed upon treatment plan.
![Photo of Yetunde Fadeyibi, PMHNP, -BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d5b56cb-d4ac-4b26-9f13-d6700af0539b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yetunde Fadeyibi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Willingboro, NJ 08046 (Online Only)
When human beings experience severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. These life stressors can occur in any stage of life. I specialize in providing care to adolescent and adults that struggle with acute or chronic depression, anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and psychosis, among others. I understand the vulnerability that comes with sharing your in-depth symptoms.
When human beings experience severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. These life stressors can occur in any stage of life. I specialize in providing care to adolescent and adults that struggle with acute or chronic depression, anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and psychosis, among others. I understand the vulnerability that comes with sharing your in-depth symptoms.
![Photo of Bryana Carrea - New You Radiense, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13b5dc71-c9ba-4ac4-973e-8918d1b4b811/2/320x400.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. We specialize in helping individuals diagnosed with a substance use disorder. Whether it’s medication you need or a counseling session we are here to help. You can never progress until you take that first step. Call or email us we are here to help you, not judge you.
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. We specialize in helping individuals diagnosed with a substance use disorder. Whether it’s medication you need or a counseling session we are here to help. You can never progress until you take that first step. Call or email us we are here to help you, not judge you.
![Photo of Heather Wilmore - Caring Counselors, Inc. (Heather Wilmore, APN), APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c993b016-b8a0-4c0e-b9ac-cad71201de22/2/320x400.png)
Caring Counselors, Inc. (Heather Wilmore, APN)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
My name is Heather Wilmore, APN and I am the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Caring Counselors, Inc. For some, obtaining psychiatric medication management services may feel like a daunting task. When individuals come to my office, my goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where they feel comfortable and heard. I recognize that my patients are the experts when it comes to how they are feeling. So, it’s important for me to really listen to them. I believe it’s my job to help my patients through medication and/or psycho-education to live their best life.
My name is Heather Wilmore, APN and I am the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Caring Counselors, Inc. For some, obtaining psychiatric medication management services may feel like a daunting task. When individuals come to my office, my goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where they feel comfortable and heard. I recognize that my patients are the experts when it comes to how they are feeling. So, it’s important for me to really listen to them. I believe it’s my job to help my patients through medication and/or psycho-education to live their best life.
![Photo of Niles Drake, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/405cd846-b492-4018-b928-a241438adb57/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Niles Drake is a board certified psychiatrist skilled in prescribing medications and working in psychotherapy. He combines a warm demeanor with excellent clinical skills, and has over 15 years’ experience working with adult patients of all ages and many walks of life. He has special expertise combining medication and psychotherapy to help patients reduce symptoms and grow as individuals. Dr. Drake’s additional training and experience in psychological modes of treatment enhance the quality of care he provides to all his patients, to meet them where they are and prioritize their individual needs and goals.
Dr. Niles Drake is a board certified psychiatrist skilled in prescribing medications and working in psychotherapy. He combines a warm demeanor with excellent clinical skills, and has over 15 years’ experience working with adult patients of all ages and many walks of life. He has special expertise combining medication and psychotherapy to help patients reduce symptoms and grow as individuals. Dr. Drake’s additional training and experience in psychological modes of treatment enhance the quality of care he provides to all his patients, to meet them where they are and prioritize their individual needs and goals.
Ruth MacKenzie (adolescent/teen specialist)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
![Photo of Babatunde Adetunji - The Executive Center for Psychological Medicine, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26f591d0-9b93-4682-853f-0cd9c6a7578b/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Executive Center for Psychological Medicine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Marlton, NJ 08053
Dr. Adetunji is Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine and Psychological Medicine. He was trained in Psychiatry in England (At the prestigious Guys and St Thomas’s Hospital, London) as well as in USA (Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia). He completed fellowship training in Forensic Psychiatry at the New York University Medical Center. Dr Adetunji is well versed in addiction medicine and child and adolescent psychiatry. He is certified to prescribe Buprenorphine (Suboxone) for opioid addiction.
Dr. Adetunji is Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine and Psychological Medicine. He was trained in Psychiatry in England (At the prestigious Guys and St Thomas’s Hospital, London) as well as in USA (Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia). He completed fellowship training in Forensic Psychiatry at the New York University Medical Center. Dr Adetunji is well versed in addiction medicine and child and adolescent psychiatry. He is certified to prescribe Buprenorphine (Suboxone) for opioid addiction.
![Photo of Vincent Di Antonio, MSN, APN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afcacac4-620e-495b-8a22-b6c3ea8f6455/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vincent L. Di Antonio is a BS, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC who assesses and treats adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and personality disorders through the use of medications and other therapeutic modalities. Vince is a firm believer in the mind-body-spirit connection and is passionate about providing quality, empathetic, and comprehensive mental health services.
Vincent L. Di Antonio is a BS, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC who assesses and treats adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and personality disorders through the use of medications and other therapeutic modalities. Vince is a firm believer in the mind-body-spirit connection and is passionate about providing quality, empathetic, and comprehensive mental health services.
![Photo of Mahip Gupta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0739279-9c80-4838-abf0-81e8f5186b35/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mahip Gupta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marlton, NJ 08053 (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), has worked in this field for 9 + years. I provide medication management for young to older adults. My areas of focus include but are not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorder, psychotic disorder, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. My professional goal is to restore and solidify feelings of stability and well-being for each of my clients.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), has worked in this field for 9 + years. I provide medication management for young to older adults. My areas of focus include but are not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorder, psychotic disorder, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. My professional goal is to restore and solidify feelings of stability and well-being for each of my clients.
![Photo of Devon Young, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6355006-987f-491e-828d-c13ea9de0018/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. With a decade of experience as a nurse practitioner and 15 years in nursing, I've worked in a variety of medical settings, including inpatient (hospital) and outpatient.
Hi! I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. With a decade of experience as a nurse practitioner and 15 years in nursing, I've worked in a variety of medical settings, including inpatient (hospital) and outpatient.
![Photo of Justin Pereira, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce45fbe8-c429-4218-946b-4ef84339e75b/2/320x400.jpeg)
This provider currently serves NY, CT and NJ. Dr. Pereira is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who is dedicated to providing compassionate care for a wide range of mental health concerns. He received his Bachelor of Arts from Harvard University and his medical degree from The Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, where he graduated with the Department of Psychiatry's award of distinction. He went on to complete his psychiatric residency training at Northwell Health's Zucker Hillside Hospital, with a specialization in the assessment and treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and related conditions.
This provider currently serves NY, CT and NJ. Dr. Pereira is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who is dedicated to providing compassionate care for a wide range of mental health concerns. He received his Bachelor of Arts from Harvard University and his medical degree from The Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, where he graduated with the Department of Psychiatry's award of distinction. He went on to complete his psychiatric residency training at Northwell Health's Zucker Hillside Hospital, with a specialization in the assessment and treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and related conditions.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2cadca9-095c-4bd4-9bc3-922f31f2f496/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Elaine Kwok, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ba1bdf9-e744-407a-b202-c653258526c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Elaine Kwok is a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist who has been practicing for 9 years. She specializes in depression and anxiety and believes in a holistic approach to the wellness of both the mind and body. Dr. Kwok conducts a comprehensive and individualized assessment for each patient utilizing a combination of medication management, lifestyle changes, and coping skills, creating a safe and therapeutic environment to facilitate healing and growth. Dr. Kwok received her undergraduate degree from New York University and her medical degree from St. George’s University.
Dr. Elaine Kwok is a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist who has been practicing for 9 years. She specializes in depression and anxiety and believes in a holistic approach to the wellness of both the mind and body. Dr. Kwok conducts a comprehensive and individualized assessment for each patient utilizing a combination of medication management, lifestyle changes, and coping skills, creating a safe and therapeutic environment to facilitate healing and growth. Dr. Kwok received her undergraduate degree from New York University and her medical degree from St. George’s University.
See more therapy options for Cinnaminson
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Cinnaminson, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Cinnaminson, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Psychosis |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Cinnaminson, NJ see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Cinnaminson?
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.