Psychiatrists in Fairfield, NJ
Dr. Michael Sanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fairfield, NJ 07004
Feeling stuck or uncertain about your mental health journey? As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience, I, Michael Sanya, am here to help you navigate these challenges. Specializing in conditions like depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorder, among many others. I provide tailored care that respects your unique needs. My approach is not only empathetic and client-centered but also grounded in solid evidence to ensure you receive the best possible care. I believe in listening deeply to understand your struggles and aspirations.
Feeling stuck or uncertain about your mental health journey? As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience, I, Michael Sanya, am here to help you navigate these challenges. Specializing in conditions like depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorder, among many others. I provide tailored care that respects your unique needs. My approach is not only empathetic and client-centered but also grounded in solid evidence to ensure you receive the best possible care. I believe in listening deeply to understand your struggles and aspirations.
Michael Sanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfield, NJ 07004
Michael’s ideal client is someone struggling with conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, or ADHD. They need thoughtful evaluations, accurate diagnoses, and effective medication management. Their goals are to regain stability, improve mental clarity, and achieve emotional balance. They want compassionate, patient-centered care, seeking a provider who listens, values their concerns, and collaborates on a personalized treatment plan. They aim to feel heard, supported, and guided toward long-term mental wellness.
Michael’s ideal client is someone struggling with conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, or ADHD. They need thoughtful evaluations, accurate diagnoses, and effective medication management. Their goals are to regain stability, improve mental clarity, and achieve emotional balance. They want compassionate, patient-centered care, seeking a provider who listens, values their concerns, and collaborates on a personalized treatment plan. They aim to feel heard, supported, and guided toward long-term mental wellness.
Reservoir Health Psychiatry - Jenika L. Miles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Fairfield, NJ 07004 (Online Only)
My ideal client is motivated to improve their mental health, regardless of their specific condition. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, or other symptoms. They want a safe, supportive environment where they can develop coping skills and explore their thoughts and feelings. My goal is to provide personalized treatment and help them achieve their goals, whether that's managing their symptoms or feeling more content in daily life.
My ideal client is motivated to improve their mental health, regardless of their specific condition. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, or other symptoms. They want a safe, supportive environment where they can develop coping skills and explore their thoughts and feelings. My goal is to provide personalized treatment and help them achieve their goals, whether that's managing their symptoms or feeling more content in daily life.
Nadia Marcelin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfield, NJ 07004 (Online Only)
My name is Nadia Marcelin, I’m a long time resident of NJ where I live with my husband and my teenage daughter. I’m very passionate about providing care for my patients in an environment that is conducive to healing. I’m a compassionate provider with six years plus experiences in inpatients care with diverse mental issues. I pride myself in treating my patients as individuals and not as a case. I strongly believe that wellness and rehabilitation is a team effort between all parties involved. I value and seek to understand my patients’ needs so we can develop a working relationship based on trust, mutual respects and honesty.
My name is Nadia Marcelin, I’m a long time resident of NJ where I live with my husband and my teenage daughter. I’m very passionate about providing care for my patients in an environment that is conducive to healing. I’m a compassionate provider with six years plus experiences in inpatients care with diverse mental issues. I pride myself in treating my patients as individuals and not as a case. I strongly believe that wellness and rehabilitation is a team effort between all parties involved. I value and seek to understand my patients’ needs so we can develop a working relationship based on trust, mutual respects and honesty.
Adedoyin Asimolowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfield, NJ 07004 (Online Only)
I treat ages 6 to 65 and specialize in providing assessment, diagnosis, and therapy for general mental health conditions across the lifespan. I treat clients struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive, sleep issues, stress, trauma, PTSD, and mood disorders. I utilize mindfulness, psychoeducation, person-centered therapy, medication management, and referrals for CBT and CBTI. I provide holistic care utilizing psychotherapy and psychopharmacology treatment to achieve optimal recovery and functioning.
I treat ages 6 to 65 and specialize in providing assessment, diagnosis, and therapy for general mental health conditions across the lifespan. I treat clients struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive, sleep issues, stress, trauma, PTSD, and mood disorders. I utilize mindfulness, psychoeducation, person-centered therapy, medication management, and referrals for CBT and CBTI. I provide holistic care utilizing psychotherapy and psychopharmacology treatment to achieve optimal recovery and functioning.
Kesha Cheron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfield, NJ 07004
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is broadly experienced both as nurse and nurse practitioner. She works closely with her patients to help them meet their treatment goals. Kesha believes in a holistic approach and encourages patients to be active in their treatment plan to ensure desired outcomes are met. She helps patients manage their anxiety, depression, and many other conditions with new patient appointments available within 1-2 weeks currently (oct 2023).
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is broadly experienced both as nurse and nurse practitioner. She works closely with her patients to help them meet their treatment goals. Kesha believes in a holistic approach and encourages patients to be active in their treatment plan to ensure desired outcomes are met. She helps patients manage their anxiety, depression, and many other conditions with new patient appointments available within 1-2 weeks currently (oct 2023).
More Psychiatrists Nearby
I am a nurse practitioner board certified in family medicine(FNP) and mental Health(PMHNP).
I am a nurse practitioner board certified in family medicine(FNP) and mental Health(PMHNP).
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Darian and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Chronic illness and Depression. 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 Darian and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Chronic illness and Depression. 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.
Rita Itondo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042 (Online Only)
Hi! I am Dr. Rita Itondo, a doctoral prepared, dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Primary Care NP (ANP-C) based in New Jersey. I have over 13 years of experience as a provider. I completed my Master’s degree in Primary Health from UMDNJ and a Postgraduate certification in Psychiatric Nursing from Wilkes University, PA. I earned my Doctorate (DNP) with honors from Rutgers University.
Hi! I am Dr. Rita Itondo, a doctoral prepared, dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Primary Care NP (ANP-C) based in New Jersey. I have over 13 years of experience as a provider. I completed my Master’s degree in Primary Health from UMDNJ and a Postgraduate certification in Psychiatric Nursing from Wilkes University, PA. I earned my Doctorate (DNP) with honors from Rutgers University.
Institute For Better Living
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078 (Online Only)
At institute for better living we believe, that a strong mind in a weak body can strive against difficulties in a better way than a diseased mind in a strong body. Dr. Usman Ahmed is licensed in NY, NJ & PA and is a suboxone certified prescriber. Dr. Ahmed specializes in the medication management of mental health conditions in adults, and adolescents, as well as psychotherapy, depending on needs and preference of his patients. Dr. Ahmed is affiliated with Hackensack Meridian and work as Medical Director Psychosomatic Medicine and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry.
At institute for better living we believe, that a strong mind in a weak body can strive against difficulties in a better way than a diseased mind in a strong body. Dr. Usman Ahmed is licensed in NY, NJ & PA and is a suboxone certified prescriber. Dr. Ahmed specializes in the medication management of mental health conditions in adults, and adolescents, as well as psychotherapy, depending on needs and preference of his patients. Dr. Ahmed is affiliated with Hackensack Meridian and work as Medical Director Psychosomatic Medicine and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist providing patient-centered care. I take pride in my ability to treat a variety of psychiatric conditions with evidence-based knowledge and novel methods. I have experience in working with healthcare professionals, students (college, graduate, law and medical), LGBT clients, and survivors of trauma. I am licensed in New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist providing patient-centered care. I take pride in my ability to treat a variety of psychiatric conditions with evidence-based knowledge and novel methods. I have experience in working with healthcare professionals, students (college, graduate, law and medical), LGBT clients, and survivors of trauma. I am licensed in New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts.
Deanna Maiorino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Deanna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Binge Eating, Burnout, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Anger Management, Bipolar, Depression, Religion & Spirituality, Stress Management and Women's Issues.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Deanna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Binge Eating, Burnout, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Anger Management, Bipolar, Depression, Religion & Spirituality, Stress Management and Women's Issues.
Jessica Vann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042 (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.
Mercy Health & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nutley, NJ 07110 (Online Only)
Odette is a highly skilled and compassionate psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a deep commitment to mental health and wellness. With extensive clinical experience in a variety of settings, Odette has worked with individuals of all age groups, offering expert assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of a wide range of mental health conditions. Her empathetic and patient-centered approach, combined with a wealth of knowledge, ensures that every patient receives the highest standard of care. Odette is dedicated to improving the lives of those she serves through evidence-based treatment.
Odette is a highly skilled and compassionate psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a deep commitment to mental health and wellness. With extensive clinical experience in a variety of settings, Odette has worked with individuals of all age groups, offering expert assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of a wide range of mental health conditions. Her empathetic and patient-centered approach, combined with a wealth of knowledge, ensures that every patient receives the highest standard of care. Odette is dedicated to improving the lives of those she serves through evidence-based treatment.
Melissa Mecka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Melissa and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. I specialize in older adults 65+, middle-age life transitions, perimenopause and menopausal anxiety/depression and maternal mental health with an emphasis on individualized therapy and a holistic approach to care. I have been a board certified registered nurse for 29 years, a board certified Advanced Practice Nurse since 2000, and completed my post master’s degree in Psychiatry in 2021. Together with my colleagues at Lavender Psychiatry, I’m on a mission to create a world where feelings are felt, respected and cared for.
Hi, my name is Melissa and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. I specialize in older adults 65+, middle-age life transitions, perimenopause and menopausal anxiety/depression and maternal mental health with an emphasis on individualized therapy and a holistic approach to care. I have been a board certified registered nurse for 29 years, a board certified Advanced Practice Nurse since 2000, and completed my post master’s degree in Psychiatry in 2021. Together with my colleagues at Lavender Psychiatry, I’m on a mission to create a world where feelings are felt, respected and cared for.
As a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist with over 45 years of experience, I have extensive experience treating patients with a wide range of psychiatric and psychological disorders. I have been listed as one of the best psychiatrists in the USA and Canada specializing in the treatment of people with Mood Disorders on a leading depression website. I have also been listed as a Top Doctor as well as a most compassionate doctor. In addition I received the Patient's Choice Award as one of New Jersey's favorite physicins. I am a former Clinical Assistant Profesor of Psychiatry at NYU Langone Medical Center.
As a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist with over 45 years of experience, I have extensive experience treating patients with a wide range of psychiatric and psychological disorders. I have been listed as one of the best psychiatrists in the USA and Canada specializing in the treatment of people with Mood Disorders on a leading depression website. I have also been listed as a Top Doctor as well as a most compassionate doctor. In addition I received the Patient's Choice Award as one of New Jersey's favorite physicins. I am a former Clinical Assistant Profesor of Psychiatry at NYU Langone Medical Center.
Happy Hour Therapeutics
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Orange, NJ 07017 (Online Only)
Are you constantly feeling like you can’t catch a break with life’s challenges pulling you in all directions? Are the days increasingly longer and the nights shorter? Are you tossing and turning most nights and wake up exhausted. Are you getting more forgetful, finding it hard to concentrate, or get easily distracted ? Have you noticed a change in appetite with drastic weight fluctuations? Maybe you find yourself crying for no reason and lashing out on people that you love and care for dearly. Have you experienced Trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? Well guess what, You do not have to face these challenges alone!
Are you constantly feeling like you can’t catch a break with life’s challenges pulling you in all directions? Are the days increasingly longer and the nights shorter? Are you tossing and turning most nights and wake up exhausted. Are you getting more forgetful, finding it hard to concentrate, or get easily distracted ? Have you noticed a change in appetite with drastic weight fluctuations? Maybe you find yourself crying for no reason and lashing out on people that you love and care for dearly. Have you experienced Trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? Well guess what, You do not have to face these challenges alone!
Denise Owen-Fabricius
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078 (Online Only)
Pairing therapy & medication to treat depression & anxiety can help you feel better faster with a 50- 60% improved rate of recovery. I treat issues, such as ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, and OCD. One of my special interests is ADHD, both childhood & adult. I perform ADHD evals and treat ADHD, which includes prescribing stimulants, if warranted. Symptoms in adults can be poor listening skills, inability to follow through with tasks, low frustration tolerance, and impulsivity which can lead to a number of difficulties with your job, family relationships, friendships, romantic relationships, and other social connections.
Pairing therapy & medication to treat depression & anxiety can help you feel better faster with a 50- 60% improved rate of recovery. I treat issues, such as ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, and OCD. One of my special interests is ADHD, both childhood & adult. I perform ADHD evals and treat ADHD, which includes prescribing stimulants, if warranted. Symptoms in adults can be poor listening skills, inability to follow through with tasks, low frustration tolerance, and impulsivity which can lead to a number of difficulties with your job, family relationships, friendships, romantic relationships, and other social connections.
Herma Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, NJ 07050 (Online Only)
I’m a Masters prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of mental health experience, and over a year of working as a practitioner. I am passionate about the level of care rendered to my clients, only the best is good enough. I provide care to clients with Schizophrenia, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, PTSD, Addiction, and Insomnia. Come to my nonjudgmental, patient centered facility and discover an experience that leaves you mentally fulfilled.
I’m a Masters prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of mental health experience, and over a year of working as a practitioner. I am passionate about the level of care rendered to my clients, only the best is good enough. I provide care to clients with Schizophrenia, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, PTSD, Addiction, and Insomnia. Come to my nonjudgmental, patient centered facility and discover an experience that leaves you mentally fulfilled.
See more therapy options for Fairfield
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Fairfield, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Fairfield, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Medication Management |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Fairfield, NJ see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Male | |
25% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Fairfield?
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.