Psychiatrists in Eatontown, NJ
![Photo of Natalya Csatari, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65cbb7e4-3086-47af-9370-0cc3c118923e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Natalya Csatari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
I utilize a comprehensive approach to any struggle the client may be going through with medication paired with psychotherapy. My goal is to get the client in a place of confidence and fully functioning in their life as well as their relationships. This is done by giving the highest quality of care and customizing a treatment plan for each individual.
I utilize a comprehensive approach to any struggle the client may be going through with medication paired with psychotherapy. My goal is to get the client in a place of confidence and fully functioning in their life as well as their relationships. This is done by giving the highest quality of care and customizing a treatment plan for each individual.
![Photo of Nicholas Mwangi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c09d8b30-faaa-411f-9dbf-252661a7a3d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicholas Mwangi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
Mood and behavior issues affecting optimal functionality including and not limited to loss of interest in pleasant activities and activities of daily living, gross psychotic disturbances like hallucinations, paranoia and delusions, disturbances in behavior patterns like compulsion, obsession, attention deficits, sleep and appetite impairment. Mood lability, ie agitation, manic and hypomanic symptoms, 1 deficits in general coping mechanisms and stress management, impaired grief, and coping with life stressors , hopelessness and suicide ideations among others.
Mood and behavior issues affecting optimal functionality including and not limited to loss of interest in pleasant activities and activities of daily living, gross psychotic disturbances like hallucinations, paranoia and delusions, disturbances in behavior patterns like compulsion, obsession, attention deficits, sleep and appetite impairment. Mood lability, ie agitation, manic and hypomanic symptoms, 1 deficits in general coping mechanisms and stress management, impaired grief, and coping with life stressors , hopelessness and suicide ideations among others.
![Photo of David Wolff, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a71728dd-4404-4550-9da3-1a5a75c612b1/3/320x400.jpeg)
"Listen to me." "Try to understand me." "Talk to me and work with me to explore solutions." I am board certified in General Psychiatry and I am a member of the Clinical TMS Society. I have been in practice for 25 years. My practice specialty is depression and anxiety. To implement change, I strongly believe in the importance of understanding your goals in entering treatment. Understanding your current and past life experiences is crucial to working with you to make sound recommendations.
"Listen to me." "Try to understand me." "Talk to me and work with me to explore solutions." I am board certified in General Psychiatry and I am a member of the Clinical TMS Society. I have been in practice for 25 years. My practice specialty is depression and anxiety. To implement change, I strongly believe in the importance of understanding your goals in entering treatment. Understanding your current and past life experiences is crucial to working with you to make sound recommendations.
![Photo of Blessing Nwele, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d99d809-4742-487d-a0d2-ac6e8e737072/3/320x400.jpeg)
Blessing Nwele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Eatontown, NJ 07724
My Name is Blessing Nwele and I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. Psychiatric/mental health disorders and behavioral health have been the focal point of my professional life for a decade, culminating in my opening of a mental health private practice. The Positive Touch Behavioral Health Services was born out of almost a decade entirely dedicated to promoting a culture of health and health equity.
My Name is Blessing Nwele and I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. Psychiatric/mental health disorders and behavioral health have been the focal point of my professional life for a decade, culminating in my opening of a mental health private practice. The Positive Touch Behavioral Health Services was born out of almost a decade entirely dedicated to promoting a culture of health and health equity.
![Photo of Joseph L Spitalieri, MSN, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59c90210-fe43-4504-82a8-bb90c2ef4be4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joseph L Spitalieri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my ideal client would be someone who is actively seeking support for a complex mental health issue and is motivated to engage in the therapeutic process.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my ideal client would be someone who is actively seeking support for a complex mental health issue and is motivated to engage in the therapeutic process.
![Photo of Peter Litwin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9267f477-9ca8-4781-92c6-de98a53bcc4e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Peter Litwin is an Adult Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 1995. He completed medical school at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, after which he did his adult psychiatric residency at Albert Einstein. Dr. Litwin offers all his clients support, hope, and education about their clinical issues. He also connects with them on a personal level, and truly appreciates their commitment to treatment. Dr. Litwin is accountable and reliable. His medication management skills have been honed over 30 years of clinical practice.
Dr. Peter Litwin is an Adult Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 1995. He completed medical school at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, after which he did his adult psychiatric residency at Albert Einstein. Dr. Litwin offers all his clients support, hope, and education about their clinical issues. He also connects with them on a personal level, and truly appreciates their commitment to treatment. Dr. Litwin is accountable and reliable. His medication management skills have been honed over 30 years of clinical practice.
![Photo of Jennifer Bowen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36d94497-ffe0-46af-adcc-7d42c06c1427/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jennifer Bowen is a seasoned Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her academic journey includes a diverse range of studies, beginning with a Neuroscience degree from Tulane University and then advancing to nursing degrees, culminating in a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the MGH Institute of Health Professions. In her practice, Jennifer provides a holistic approach to mental health care, with a particular focus on treating trauma-related disorders across all age groups. Her six years of experience in community mental health have cultivated her ability to empathize and collaborate with her patients.
Dr. Jennifer Bowen is a seasoned Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her academic journey includes a diverse range of studies, beginning with a Neuroscience degree from Tulane University and then advancing to nursing degrees, culminating in a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the MGH Institute of Health Professions. In her practice, Jennifer provides a holistic approach to mental health care, with a particular focus on treating trauma-related disorders across all age groups. Her six years of experience in community mental health have cultivated her ability to empathize and collaborate with her patients.
![Photo of Denise Daley, MLP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3deb49c-f3f1-475e-b42a-981e0e4ab11d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 20 years, seeing patients with multiple mental health issues including, but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia and Substance Use Disorder.
I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 20 years, seeing patients with multiple mental health issues including, but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia and Substance Use Disorder.
![Photo of Valerie Magrino - Shrewsbury Wellness Center, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40a0e69d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shrewsbury Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07799
I truly enjoy connecting with my patients and understanding their lives. I am grateful every day for this fulfilling career that allows me to help my patients feel better. Work has become a source of pleasure for me; as it lifts my spirits when others become happier, more content with their lives, and more balanced. I have had the privilege of starting my private practice in the tiny and friendly town of Shrewsbury, NJ, a borough of Monmouth County, in 2017. My practice has grown to over 400 patients, and I diagnose and treat many conditions there including: ADHD, GAD, MDD, OCD, Bipolar Disorders, Mood disorders, Insomnia.
I truly enjoy connecting with my patients and understanding their lives. I am grateful every day for this fulfilling career that allows me to help my patients feel better. Work has become a source of pleasure for me; as it lifts my spirits when others become happier, more content with their lives, and more balanced. I have had the privilege of starting my private practice in the tiny and friendly town of Shrewsbury, NJ, a borough of Monmouth County, in 2017. My practice has grown to over 400 patients, and I diagnose and treat many conditions there including: ADHD, GAD, MDD, OCD, Bipolar Disorders, Mood disorders, Insomnia.
![Photo of Jason Leon Cohen - The Cohen Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e698217-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the first step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment
Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the first step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment
![Photo of Nilda L Chapema, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3428e8d-d8dd-4d38-ad17-09e8d81590d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nilda L Chapema
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Eatontown, NJ 07799 (Online Only)
As a dedicated and experienced Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Care, I am here to guide you on your journey towards optimal mental health and overall well-being. With a decade of hands-on clinical expertise, I am committed to elevating the standard of mental healthcare through compassionate engagement, preventive strategies, and tailored treatments. My patient-centric approach ensures that your unique needs are met with the utmost care and attention. Together, we can achieve consistently high-quality outcomes, empowering you to lead a fulfilling and balanced life. Let's work together to break the stigma surrounding mental heal
As a dedicated and experienced Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Care, I am here to guide you on your journey towards optimal mental health and overall well-being. With a decade of hands-on clinical expertise, I am committed to elevating the standard of mental healthcare through compassionate engagement, preventive strategies, and tailored treatments. My patient-centric approach ensures that your unique needs are met with the utmost care and attention. Together, we can achieve consistently high-quality outcomes, empowering you to lead a fulfilling and balanced life. Let's work together to break the stigma surrounding mental heal
![Photo of Jennifer O'Scanlon, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4db6b5d-438b-497a-8719-a83a49cb2786/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer O'Scanlon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
You have probably been going to therapy for some time now. You've made progress but there are still days when you feel anxious or depressed. This may be holding you back from meeting your goals and it's where I can help. I offer medication management at the lowest doses possible to help reduce your symptoms allowing you to fully engage in your therapy. With symptoms reduced you will be able to fully utilize all the skills you’ve learned, allowing you to heal and better handle life's stressors.
You have probably been going to therapy for some time now. You've made progress but there are still days when you feel anxious or depressed. This may be holding you back from meeting your goals and it's where I can help. I offer medication management at the lowest doses possible to help reduce your symptoms allowing you to fully engage in your therapy. With symptoms reduced you will be able to fully utilize all the skills you’ve learned, allowing you to heal and better handle life's stressors.
![Photo of Valerie DeGirolamo, PMHNP, APN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7343d33-e03b-4230-95b5-e91e90fcbc2a/2/320x400.png)
Valerie DeGirolamo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN, RN
Verified Verified
Eatontown, NJ 07724
I have worked in a variety of Mental Health settings throughout my career. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
I have worked in a variety of Mental Health settings throughout my career. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
![Photo of Maxxine Kraemer-Jimenez, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03f3f631-08d6-4831-bee5-27b737e18d22/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maxxine Kraemer-Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bedc703-4b13-4133-b835-fa9278bfac6d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Little Silver, NJ 07739 (Online Only)
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 Dr. Stephen Jaeger, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33cde4de-1b1f-420e-a361-03987ec74498/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yale University trained psychiatrist, Dr. Stephen Jaeger’s philosophy on psychiatric care is grounded in his belief that every client is entitled to the highest quality personalized care. His unique approach focuses on individualized treatment plans. His mission is to optimize every aspect of your life and the individualized treatment plans are designed to do just that. Clients play an active role in tailoring their personalized treatment plan with Dr. Jaeger.
Yale University trained psychiatrist, Dr. Stephen Jaeger’s philosophy on psychiatric care is grounded in his belief that every client is entitled to the highest quality personalized care. His unique approach focuses on individualized treatment plans. His mission is to optimize every aspect of your life and the individualized treatment plans are designed to do just that. Clients play an active role in tailoring their personalized treatment plan with Dr. Jaeger.
![Photo of Steven Dyckman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ded58de-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
![Photo of Shannon Parks - The Parks Center for Women's Wellness & Medicine, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4a783ca-d9e6-41d3-8682-754599c9a9f2/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Parks Center for Women's Wellness & Medicine
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Tinton Falls, NJ 07701
The Parks Center for Women’s Wellness and Medicine treats women of all ages 18 years and older. We treat a broad range of mental heath issues including anxiety, depression, and bipolar illness in all phases of life. This includes, but is not limited too, comprehensive treatment of mood disorders during the reproductive years including mood disorders during the premenstrual period, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. www.theparkscenter.com
The Parks Center for Women’s Wellness and Medicine treats women of all ages 18 years and older. We treat a broad range of mental heath issues including anxiety, depression, and bipolar illness in all phases of life. This includes, but is not limited too, comprehensive treatment of mood disorders during the reproductive years including mood disorders during the premenstrual period, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. www.theparkscenter.com
At Noble Care LLC, we offer many types of therapy to treat Stress, Anxiety, Depression PTSD, and ADHD, OCD Bipolar disorder, Addiction/Substance abuse and many other Mental Health Disorder. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or want to take a new direction in your life, we are here to help.
At Noble Care LLC, we offer many types of therapy to treat Stress, Anxiety, Depression PTSD, and ADHD, OCD Bipolar disorder, Addiction/Substance abuse and many other Mental Health Disorder. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or want to take a new direction in your life, we are here to help.
![Photo of Racquel San Juan, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbe1474b-231b-4342-9219-2ad1469afb61/1/320x400.png)
I'm dedicated to treating patients with compassion. I have a history of positive outcomes, and I am well respected in my field. Patients find that my approach to care is individualized and collaborative. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist passionate about helping patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, and other mental health diagnoses.
I'm dedicated to treating patients with compassion. I have a history of positive outcomes, and I am well respected in my field. Patients find that my approach to care is individualized and collaborative. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist passionate about helping patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, and other mental health diagnoses.
See more therapy options for Eatontown
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Eatontown, NJ
10+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Eatontown, NJ who prioritize treating:
86% | Depression |
86% | Anxiety |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | Medication Management |
64% | Trauma and PTSD |
57% | ADHD |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
77% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
77% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Eatontown, NJ see their clients
93% | In Person and Online | |
7% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
35% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Eatontown?
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.