Psychiatrists in Fort Lee, NJ
![Photo of Yuli Fradkin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eabfee5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I started my career as a child psychiatrist and a researcher 20 years ago. I was interested not only in biological basis of mental disorders, but in psychotherapy and the concept of change. Upon immigration to the US, I studied among influential psychiatrists and therapists in New York and Boston. Currently I work in inpatient and outpatient settings, supervise medical students, and conduct psychiatric research. As I have been for the past 20 years, I am still fascinated with the amazing, complex process of individual development.
I started my career as a child psychiatrist and a researcher 20 years ago. I was interested not only in biological basis of mental disorders, but in psychotherapy and the concept of change. Upon immigration to the US, I studied among influential psychiatrists and therapists in New York and Boston. Currently I work in inpatient and outpatient settings, supervise medical students, and conduct psychiatric research. As I have been for the past 20 years, I am still fascinated with the amazing, complex process of individual development.
![Photo of Dania Niwash, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed46fecc-9384-4920-911f-0639fbb1017d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dania Niwash is proudly part of Tri America Health & Wellness and is offering tele-visits for adults and children.
Dania Niwash is proudly part of Tri America Health & Wellness and is offering tele-visits for adults and children.
![Photo of Leena Rajagopal, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/013b6361-0dda-4e1d-acec-47ca6fb61e31/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I am a board certified general adult and forensic psychiatrist. I have experience in treating patients with mental illness in a variety of settings. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York and offer telepsychiatry at this time. During these stressful times, some of you may have developed new onset depression and anxiety, whereas some may experience worsening of older conditions. Whether you are experiencing new onset or worsening depression, anxiety, mood fluctuations, interpersonal problems, or other serious symptoms; ultimately these prevent you from living your life to your fullest potential. I want to help you feel better.
Hi, I am a board certified general adult and forensic psychiatrist. I have experience in treating patients with mental illness in a variety of settings. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York and offer telepsychiatry at this time. During these stressful times, some of you may have developed new onset depression and anxiety, whereas some may experience worsening of older conditions. Whether you are experiencing new onset or worsening depression, anxiety, mood fluctuations, interpersonal problems, or other serious symptoms; ultimately these prevent you from living your life to your fullest potential. I want to help you feel better.
![Photo of Bridget Pepe, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5636bbc5-21cf-4dde-a306-c1b54e5db56c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tri America welcomes Bridget Pepe PA-C, CAQ-psychiatry who is a graduate of PA King’s College in Wilkes Barre, PA in 2019. From there Bridget has completed residency at the Michael E. Debakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas. Once graduated Bridget has returned to NJ and has been practicing both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry and treats clients with diagnoses from anxiety, to depression, to psychosis, and all in between.
Tri America welcomes Bridget Pepe PA-C, CAQ-psychiatry who is a graduate of PA King’s College in Wilkes Barre, PA in 2019. From there Bridget has completed residency at the Michael E. Debakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas. Once graduated Bridget has returned to NJ and has been practicing both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry and treats clients with diagnoses from anxiety, to depression, to psychosis, and all in between.
Triple board certified in Psychiatry, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. Integrative/holistic approach, psychotherapy, and use of medication when appropriate. Available for online video visits in 15+ states. New clients are kindly asked to schedule 1 day in advance. 24/7 scheduling and answering service in place. Look forward to collaborating with you!
Triple board certified in Psychiatry, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. Integrative/holistic approach, psychotherapy, and use of medication when appropriate. Available for online video visits in 15+ states. New clients are kindly asked to schedule 1 day in advance. 24/7 scheduling and answering service in place. Look forward to collaborating with you!
Rediscover your happiness in a safe space! Tri America offers in-person visits in New Jersey and telehealth visits in 15 states. Services include individual & family counseling for children, adolescents, and adults, medication management, school testing for ADHD & TMS treatment for depression. Evening and weekend hours available. Call today to learn more.
Rediscover your happiness in a safe space! Tri America offers in-person visits in New Jersey and telehealth visits in 15 states. Services include individual & family counseling for children, adolescents, and adults, medication management, school testing for ADHD & TMS treatment for depression. Evening and weekend hours available. Call today to learn more.
TMS therapy & treatment has been researched for more than 30 years. In the United States, TMS therapy was first approved by the FDA in 2008 for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adult patients who have tried medications with no satisfactory results. Since TMS therapy has proven to be effective for the majority of patients treated, researchers are now studying its effectiveness for many other psychiatric and neurological conditions.
TMS therapy & treatment has been researched for more than 30 years. In the United States, TMS therapy was first approved by the FDA in 2008 for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adult patients who have tried medications with no satisfactory results. Since TMS therapy has proven to be effective for the majority of patients treated, researchers are now studying its effectiveness for many other psychiatric and neurological conditions.
![Photo of Takashi Matsuki, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31fa9197-03de-49bb-8ed5-ff7b8831ebc5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist trained in both medication management and psychotherapy to treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders. Prior to pursuing a career in psychiatry and psychotherapy in the U.S., I also had formal training and extensive clinical experience in primary care medicine in Japan.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist trained in both medication management and psychotherapy to treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders. Prior to pursuing a career in psychiatry and psychotherapy in the U.S., I also had formal training and extensive clinical experience in primary care medicine in Japan.
![Photo of Hong Kim, PMHNP, NP-P, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54f260e1-4a2c-4c4d-bea2-37a7f634c932/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hong Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
![Photo of Dr. Kyu Oh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b16bfb1-4f46-492a-b4fb-c94720dbfbd2/5/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kyu Oh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist practicing in NY, NJ, and via telehealth. I completed psychiatry residency training at Columbia University and I am now an Instructor in Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia. I work with clients struggling with a wide range of mental health problems, including stress, life transitions, relationship difficulties, work and school issues. I specialize in both medication management and psychotherapy for the treatment of the following psychiatric conditions: anxiety, panic, depression, OCD, and adult ADHD.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist practicing in NY, NJ, and via telehealth. I completed psychiatry residency training at Columbia University and I am now an Instructor in Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia. I work with clients struggling with a wide range of mental health problems, including stress, life transitions, relationship difficulties, work and school issues. I specialize in both medication management and psychotherapy for the treatment of the following psychiatric conditions: anxiety, panic, depression, OCD, and adult ADHD.
![Photo of Caroline Bjorkman, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb686f5c-d18f-4bbe-b444-64d3c069b302/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Caroline Bjorkman, at Mind Space Wellness, LLC, provides expert psychiatry services at locations in Fort Lee, New Jersey, and the Upper West Side area of Manhattan in New York City. Dr. Bjorkman completed her bachelor’s degree at St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, New York, before receiving her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the New York Institute of Technology. She completed her residency and is attending physician at the Mount Sinai Health System across New York City. Dr. Bjorkman accepts most insurance providers. If you have specific questions regarding your coverage, please contact for additional information.
Dr. Caroline Bjorkman, at Mind Space Wellness, LLC, provides expert psychiatry services at locations in Fort Lee, New Jersey, and the Upper West Side area of Manhattan in New York City. Dr. Bjorkman completed her bachelor’s degree at St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, New York, before receiving her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the New York Institute of Technology. She completed her residency and is attending physician at the Mount Sinai Health System across New York City. Dr. Bjorkman accepts most insurance providers. If you have specific questions regarding your coverage, please contact for additional information.
![Photo of Lizzet I Garcia - Lizzet I. Garcia MD 718-499-2925, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/403221fb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I am a medical doctor with a specialty in Adult Psychiatry with a sub-specialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am also a psychoanalyst and pursuing a post-doctoral fellowship in Psychodynamic Psychoanalysis at the Psychoanalytic Institute at Columbia University. I am also a Public Psychiatry Fellow at Columbia University. My training has enabled me to have expertise in psychopharmacology and also patient centered care with focus on primary psychiatric diagnosis and personality disorders. Now treating office based opioid use disorder with buprenorphine.
Hi, I am a medical doctor with a specialty in Adult Psychiatry with a sub-specialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am also a psychoanalyst and pursuing a post-doctoral fellowship in Psychodynamic Psychoanalysis at the Psychoanalytic Institute at Columbia University. I am also a Public Psychiatry Fellow at Columbia University. My training has enabled me to have expertise in psychopharmacology and also patient centered care with focus on primary psychiatric diagnosis and personality disorders. Now treating office based opioid use disorder with buprenorphine.
![Photo of Dongjin Kim - Dongjin Kim NP in psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48a5c2fd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dongjin Kim NP in psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
My goal is your healthy well being. My passion is to assist you achieve your wellness leading to the goal of happiness. I am a board certified, licensed Psychiatric mental health NP in NY and NJ who can provide you with medication prescriptions and psychotherapy. I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 both in acute care hospitals and out-patient clinics, in NY and NJ. I see all age groups from children to adults including seniors over age 65.
My goal is your healthy well being. My passion is to assist you achieve your wellness leading to the goal of happiness. I am a board certified, licensed Psychiatric mental health NP in NY and NJ who can provide you with medication prescriptions and psychotherapy. I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 both in acute care hospitals and out-patient clinics, in NY and NJ. I see all age groups from children to adults including seniors over age 65.
![Photo of Aykut Ozden, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fdad921-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a triple-board-certified child-adolescent, adult, and addiction psychiatrist. I worked at Mt. Sinai St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center in NYC as a director. I am an assistant professor of clinical psychiatry at Rowan University now. I do psychiatric diagnostic assessments, and medication management including ketamine, vivitrol, suboxone, sublocade, as well as outpatient detox. I do accept all ages and most conditions. Please note that I see patients in Edgewater NJ or virtually. I am out of network for all insurances but will provide an invoice for you to submit.
I am a triple-board-certified child-adolescent, adult, and addiction psychiatrist. I worked at Mt. Sinai St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center in NYC as a director. I am an assistant professor of clinical psychiatry at Rowan University now. I do psychiatric diagnostic assessments, and medication management including ketamine, vivitrol, suboxone, sublocade, as well as outpatient detox. I do accept all ages and most conditions. Please note that I see patients in Edgewater NJ or virtually. I am out of network for all insurances but will provide an invoice for you to submit.
![Photo of Seokkoon Cho, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e634823-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a truly caring, board certified psychiatrist, with extensive knowledge and experience in psychopharmacology. In order to bring peacefulness of mind and soul you desire and to ease your symptoms back to manageable levels, I believe it is essential to get the correct diagnosis and also the best treatments. I work with my clients to help them develop real comprehensive understanding using different approaches. I am experienced in several areas, including fatigue, pain syndrome, and insomnia, as well as anxiety, depression, ADHD, addictive behaviors of gambling, eating, alcohol, opiates, and other substances;
I am a truly caring, board certified psychiatrist, with extensive knowledge and experience in psychopharmacology. In order to bring peacefulness of mind and soul you desire and to ease your symptoms back to manageable levels, I believe it is essential to get the correct diagnosis and also the best treatments. I work with my clients to help them develop real comprehensive understanding using different approaches. I am experienced in several areas, including fatigue, pain syndrome, and insomnia, as well as anxiety, depression, ADHD, addictive behaviors of gambling, eating, alcohol, opiates, and other substances;
At New Jersey Wellness Center we specialize in the treatment of Substance Use disorder and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorder. We are committed to treating the individual client and their families with caring, qualified professionals in the field of psychiatry, clinical alcohol and drug counseling, mental health, social work, education and recovery support. Our team of experts will address underlying causes of substance abuse and behavioral patterns to guide clients toward a successful and lasting recovery.
At New Jersey Wellness Center we specialize in the treatment of Substance Use disorder and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorder. We are committed to treating the individual client and their families with caring, qualified professionals in the field of psychiatry, clinical alcohol and drug counseling, mental health, social work, education and recovery support. Our team of experts will address underlying causes of substance abuse and behavioral patterns to guide clients toward a successful and lasting recovery.
![Photo of Alan Brown, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cad2892-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience treating patients with anxiety, depression, and other stress-related disorders. I am a psychopharmacologist with expertise in the use of medications that restore your healthy mood and functioning. In addition, I have treated patients with a variety of psychotherapeutic (talk therapy) techniques include helping patients develop insight into the causes of how they feel and cognitive behavioral therapy which helps patients deal with emotional distress by evaluating negative patterns of thinking. I offer therapy in a supportive and non-judgmental setting. I offer daytime and evening hours.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience treating patients with anxiety, depression, and other stress-related disorders. I am a psychopharmacologist with expertise in the use of medications that restore your healthy mood and functioning. In addition, I have treated patients with a variety of psychotherapeutic (talk therapy) techniques include helping patients develop insight into the causes of how they feel and cognitive behavioral therapy which helps patients deal with emotional distress by evaluating negative patterns of thinking. I offer therapy in a supportive and non-judgmental setting. I offer daytime and evening hours.
![Photo of Ling Chen, MSN, PMHNP, AGPCNP, (NY/NJ), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdd9a0a8-8dcb-4d08-b16f-10931b6b1b86/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ling Chen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGPCNP, (NY/NJ)
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fort Lee, NJ 07024 (Online Only)
If you are experiencing anxiety, panic moments, melancholic moods, brain fog, difficulty sleeping in addition to unintended weight gain, then you have found the right place! My medical background as a primary care provider allows me to rule out medical causes to find the root of the psychiatric symptoms. In addition, I like to use natural, over-the-counter supplements along with FDA-approved medications to holistically manage my patient's symptoms. Many psychotropic drugs also cause weight gain increasing your risk for other medical conditions, I have experience in managing psychiatric conditions and their metabolic side effects.
If you are experiencing anxiety, panic moments, melancholic moods, brain fog, difficulty sleeping in addition to unintended weight gain, then you have found the right place! My medical background as a primary care provider allows me to rule out medical causes to find the root of the psychiatric symptoms. In addition, I like to use natural, over-the-counter supplements along with FDA-approved medications to holistically manage my patient's symptoms. Many psychotropic drugs also cause weight gain increasing your risk for other medical conditions, I have experience in managing psychiatric conditions and their metabolic side effects.
![Photo of Jingna Zhao, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cab96767-cab1-42a9-8568-c5059b53320f/3/320x400.png)
Jingna Zhao
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It is hard to survive, let alone thrive, in today’s modern society, especially without a reliable support system. It's understandable that life feels overwhelming, like you're constantly hanging on by a thread. Maybe you feel like your own worst enemy, constantly self-criticizing. Maybe you know you could achieve so much more if you just had the motivation and focus to tackle that to-do list. Maybe all your mental energy is spent worrying about the same things over and over, leaving you too exhausted for anything else. Or maybe you need help discovering yourself when all you’ve known is what others expect of you.
It is hard to survive, let alone thrive, in today’s modern society, especially without a reliable support system. It's understandable that life feels overwhelming, like you're constantly hanging on by a thread. Maybe you feel like your own worst enemy, constantly self-criticizing. Maybe you know you could achieve so much more if you just had the motivation and focus to tackle that to-do list. Maybe all your mental energy is spent worrying about the same things over and over, leaving you too exhausted for anything else. Or maybe you need help discovering yourself when all you’ve known is what others expect of you.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Theresa Flanagan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f6c9239-1d97-4347-9465-3cd6eed93ebc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Flanagan is a child and adolescent psychiatrist who understands the challenges that children and their families face. With her compassionate and empathetic approach, she provides a holistic and comprehensive treatment plan that goes beyond just prescribing medication. Dr. Flanagan believes in the power of combining psychotherapy and parent guidance with medication management. She recognizes that mental health issues can have an impact on a child's daily life, and by addressing both the emotional and biological aspects, she aims to create lasting positive changes. What sets her apart understanding of lifestyle factors as well.
Dr. Flanagan is a child and adolescent psychiatrist who understands the challenges that children and their families face. With her compassionate and empathetic approach, she provides a holistic and comprehensive treatment plan that goes beyond just prescribing medication. Dr. Flanagan believes in the power of combining psychotherapy and parent guidance with medication management. She recognizes that mental health issues can have an impact on a child's daily life, and by addressing both the emotional and biological aspects, she aims to create lasting positive changes. What sets her apart understanding of lifestyle factors as well.
See more therapy options for Fort Lee
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Fort Lee, NJ
10+
Average cost per session
$325
Psychiatrists in Fort Lee, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
74% | ADHD |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Bipolar Disorder |
68% | Medication Management |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
17 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
85% | Aetna |
85% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
77% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Fort Lee, NJ see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
53% | Male | |
47% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Fort Lee?
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.