Psychiatrists in Hamburg, NJ
![Photo of Folake Bello Akintunde, APN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/805d2f83-cca6-4dd8-b90f-fab3cbe3a918/2/320x400.png)
Folake Bello Akintunde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hamburg, NJ 07419
My ideal client willingly engages in therapy, desiring a nurturing space to express themselves. They crave practical strategies for emotional management, obstacle navigation, and overall well-being improvement. Their objective is to gain mental health empowerment, adeptly tackle challenges, and foster healthier habits. Ultimately, they aim for personal growth and a fulfilling life congruent with their values.
My ideal client willingly engages in therapy, desiring a nurturing space to express themselves. They crave practical strategies for emotional management, obstacle navigation, and overall well-being improvement. Their objective is to gain mental health empowerment, adeptly tackle challenges, and foster healthier habits. Ultimately, they aim for personal growth and a fulfilling life congruent with their values.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Melissa Scollan-Koliopoulos - Nu Imagery Healthcare, LLC., EdD, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CDCES, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/031a2340-a288-42bc-b306-cdde584e8a5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nu Imagery Healthcare, LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CDCES
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
We believe that medical and psychological problems are intertwined and can be addressed in one session. We provide integrated and balanced healthcare to address primary care issues, especially weight loss & obesity, sleep, and diabetes while addressing psychiatric mental health issues. We help you cope with school/ work stress. We provide psychiatric and prescription treatment of obesity & binge eating with weight loss plans to keep you on track. We deliver psychotherapeutic techniques to help you reduce stress and cope with challenges. Our treatment modality may improve your quality of life and reduce stress from work and school.
We believe that medical and psychological problems are intertwined and can be addressed in one session. We provide integrated and balanced healthcare to address primary care issues, especially weight loss & obesity, sleep, and diabetes while addressing psychiatric mental health issues. We help you cope with school/ work stress. We provide psychiatric and prescription treatment of obesity & binge eating with weight loss plans to keep you on track. We deliver psychotherapeutic techniques to help you reduce stress and cope with challenges. Our treatment modality may improve your quality of life and reduce stress from work and school.
![Photo of Lily Yang, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abdce271-25df-408f-a94c-6c06f2a20c15/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Willow Tree Therapy Services, I provide medication management with supportive talk therapy to address a variety of mental health concerns ranging from depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, OCD, and addiction on an outpatient basis. It is my mission here to assist clients seeking to improve their mental health, relationships, and overall functioning and quality of life.
At Willow Tree Therapy Services, I provide medication management with supportive talk therapy to address a variety of mental health concerns ranging from depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, OCD, and addiction on an outpatient basis. It is my mission here to assist clients seeking to improve their mental health, relationships, and overall functioning and quality of life.
![Photo of Jacqueline Hunterton-Anderson, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ec7ea8e-53b3-4a63-a534-f26e65c98dad/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Hunterton-Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860
During the many changes and challenges we face in life it is essential at times to seek help. This can be a tedious venture and finding the right provider can be complicated. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am able to not only provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications but also become a part of your support system. Using psychotherapy and medication management I can help you gain the tools needed to move past the hard times. As a team we will be able to assess what your needs are and what the best possible treatment plan and outcomes can be obtained.
During the many changes and challenges we face in life it is essential at times to seek help. This can be a tedious venture and finding the right provider can be complicated. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am able to not only provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications but also become a part of your support system. Using psychotherapy and medication management I can help you gain the tools needed to move past the hard times. As a team we will be able to assess what your needs are and what the best possible treatment plan and outcomes can be obtained.
![Photo of Brianna Scancarella, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07951ffe-db0a-47fe-9d50-15c3af653446/4/320x400.jpeg)
Brianna Scancarella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Quinnipiac University, and Bachelor of Science and a Masters of Science in nursing from Northeastern University. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing since 2016. I have experience working in outpatient practices, residential settings, inpatient hospital units, partial hospital and intensive outpatient programs. I specialize in adolescents and adults as well as new or expecting moms. I offer tele-health services for medication management of depression, anxiety, mood lability and perinatal and postpartum mood changes.
I earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Quinnipiac University, and Bachelor of Science and a Masters of Science in nursing from Northeastern University. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing since 2016. I have experience working in outpatient practices, residential settings, inpatient hospital units, partial hospital and intensive outpatient programs. I specialize in adolescents and adults as well as new or expecting moms. I offer tele-health services for medication management of depression, anxiety, mood lability and perinatal and postpartum mood changes.
![Photo of Mary FitzGerald Switala, DNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d0b012e-dfd2-4025-88cb-2617e6e3e95e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary FitzGerald Switala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN
Verified Verified
Vernon, NJ 07462
Waitlist for new clients
I focus on using a holistic and integrative approach to diagnosing and treating mental health conditions and work with clients to identify, understand, and solve issues. I believe treatment must be highly individualized, compassionate and that it is a collaboration between the client and me. Together we can determine what is the right treatment for you.
I focus on using a holistic and integrative approach to diagnosing and treating mental health conditions and work with clients to identify, understand, and solve issues. I believe treatment must be highly individualized, compassionate and that it is a collaboration between the client and me. Together we can determine what is the right treatment for you.
![Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Harris, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f08f1742-3136-4f34-b905-70850c11891c/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Elizabeth Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHN-BC
Verified Verified
Glenwood, NJ 07418 (Online Only)
With a genuine and nurturing nature, combined with a professional and ambitious faith-based approach. I am fluent in Spanish "Hablo Español". I have experience in interacting with diverse populations has given me in-depth understanding and awareness. Beyond my enthusiasm and dedication, I also have a background in treating patients of all ages 5 years and up. I am fluent in Spanish with experience in treating disorders that are fit for outpatient virtual services which include depression, anxiety, ADHD, ADD, ODD, bipolar, OCD, and eating disorders. I am licensed in New York and New Jersey
With a genuine and nurturing nature, combined with a professional and ambitious faith-based approach. I am fluent in Spanish "Hablo Español". I have experience in interacting with diverse populations has given me in-depth understanding and awareness. Beyond my enthusiasm and dedication, I also have a background in treating patients of all ages 5 years and up. I am fluent in Spanish with experience in treating disorders that are fit for outpatient virtual services which include depression, anxiety, ADHD, ADD, ODD, bipolar, OCD, and eating disorders. I am licensed in New York and New Jersey
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Michael Zornitzer, MD, DLFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e25c6ed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist with over 30 years experience in private practice, board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I work with patients with depression, anxiety, panic, substance abuse, ADD, OCD, bipolar disorder, marital and relationship issues as well as most other problems for which people seek professional help.
I am a psychiatrist with over 30 years experience in private practice, board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I work with patients with depression, anxiety, panic, substance abuse, ADD, OCD, bipolar disorder, marital and relationship issues as well as most other problems for which people seek professional help.
![Photo of Stella Okah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f68b01de-e1ec-472b-90ca-d96d64e6290b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, My name is Stella E. Okah, I'm a psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board certified. I specialized ADHD, Addiction program/Detox, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Dissociative Disorders, Eating Disorders, Family Conflict, Grief, LGBTQIA+, Mood Disorders, OCD, Personality Disorders, Trauma & PTSD, Suicidal Ideation, School Issues, Racism, Self Esteem, Self-Harming. Additionally, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and older persons.
Hi, My name is Stella E. Okah, I'm a psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board certified. I specialized ADHD, Addiction program/Detox, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Dissociative Disorders, Eating Disorders, Family Conflict, Grief, LGBTQIA+, Mood Disorders, OCD, Personality Disorders, Trauma & PTSD, Suicidal Ideation, School Issues, Racism, Self Esteem, Self-Harming. Additionally, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and older persons.
![Photo of Oluchi Chilaka - Luchiee Psychiatric Services, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7d5de0e-6fb0-4da5-bc01-57d6a21061c1/4/320x400.png)
Luchiee Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, substance use disorder, or another mental health condition? Are you tired of navigating the waters of your mental health condition by yourself? You are not alone. I am Dr. Oluchi Chilaka, founder of Luchiee Psychiatric Services, and I am here to help. Together we will find the right treatment for your mental health condition. We provide psychiatric treatment across life-span, we also offer a range of treatments and evidence-based practices, such as Medication Assistive Treatment (MAT) if you’re in need of substance abuse treatment with Suboxone.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, substance use disorder, or another mental health condition? Are you tired of navigating the waters of your mental health condition by yourself? You are not alone. I am Dr. Oluchi Chilaka, founder of Luchiee Psychiatric Services, and I am here to help. Together we will find the right treatment for your mental health condition. We provide psychiatric treatment across life-span, we also offer a range of treatments and evidence-based practices, such as Medication Assistive Treatment (MAT) if you’re in need of substance abuse treatment with Suboxone.
![Photo of Sajjad A. Zaidi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/469cd171-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sajjad Zaidi, M.D. is Medical Director and founder of Freehold Child Diagnostic Center, Inc. Dr. Zaidi is Triple Board Certified in Psychiatry/Neurology, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Zaidi's background has encompassed over thirty years of extensive and diverse experience in the field of Child, Adolescent & Family Psychiatry. Office locations in Freehold and Neptune, NJ.
Sajjad Zaidi, M.D. is Medical Director and founder of Freehold Child Diagnostic Center, Inc. Dr. Zaidi is Triple Board Certified in Psychiatry/Neurology, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Zaidi's background has encompassed over thirty years of extensive and diverse experience in the field of Child, Adolescent & Family Psychiatry. Office locations in Freehold and Neptune, NJ.
![Photo of Arnaldo Negron, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f49a0a1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
We specialize in the Evaluation and Management of Adults with Psychiatric conditions. Aroga offer specialized treatment for medication resistant depressed patients such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Intranasal Ketamine and Spravato. We are the only center in the area to offer QB Test, a FDA cleared test to assess treatment optimization in ADHD. We also offer treatment for Eating disorders and Obesity, as well as Office-based treatment of opioid dependence and Addiction. Our therapies provide multiple psychotherapy techniques to help our patients to achieve complete treatment success.
We specialize in the Evaluation and Management of Adults with Psychiatric conditions. Aroga offer specialized treatment for medication resistant depressed patients such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Intranasal Ketamine and Spravato. We are the only center in the area to offer QB Test, a FDA cleared test to assess treatment optimization in ADHD. We also offer treatment for Eating disorders and Obesity, as well as Office-based treatment of opioid dependence and Addiction. Our therapies provide multiple psychotherapy techniques to help our patients to achieve complete treatment success.
![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.
Chioma Ugo-Ogbuewu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I'm deeply passionate about guiding individuals through mental health challenges with compassion and expertise. I prioritize holistic care and therapeutic relationships, aiming to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where patients feel valued and understood. My practice is evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and collaborative, tailored to each person's unique needs and goals. I advocate for patients' rights and strive to reduce mental health stigma, viewing my role not just as a profession, but as a calling to bring hope, healing, and empowerment to those I serve.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I'm deeply passionate about guiding individuals through mental health challenges with compassion and expertise. I prioritize holistic care and therapeutic relationships, aiming to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where patients feel valued and understood. My practice is evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and collaborative, tailored to each person's unique needs and goals. I advocate for patients' rights and strive to reduce mental health stigma, viewing my role not just as a profession, but as a calling to bring hope, healing, and empowerment to those I serve.
![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
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
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 Dr. Fehintola Ogunsakin - PMC Psychiatric Mental Health, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2828be9-dae2-4265-9843-82ffe8b4f502/2/320x400.jpeg)
PMC Psychiatric Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, APN
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07208
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
![Photo of Mohab Hanna - MedPsych Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c1677a3-42d2-4c80-ae5d-fe4198d08784/1/320x400.jpeg)
At MedPsych Associates we provide the best possible comprehensive care by collaborating as a team. Our diverse and dynamic team of professionals has years of expertise working with children, adolescents, and adults in various environments such as schools, clinical practices, corporate environments, and teaching hospitals.
At MedPsych Associates we provide the best possible comprehensive care by collaborating as a team. Our diverse and dynamic team of professionals has years of expertise working with children, adolescents, and adults in various environments such as schools, clinical practices, corporate environments, and teaching hospitals.
![Photo of Dr. Alexandra Rowan, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3600ba0-d4c5-4cfd-af60-764cfee99b3b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Alexandra Rowan
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moorestown, NJ 08057 (Online Only)
Currently offering medication management and evaluations. Dr. Alexandra Rowan, D.O. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist in both Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and General Psychiatry. Select insurances are accepted (listed below), otherwise, payment is out of pocket but you may be able to receive reimbursement from your insurance. All appointments are via telehealth for patients who are physically located at the time of their appointment in either NJ or PA
Currently offering medication management and evaluations. Dr. Alexandra Rowan, D.O. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist in both Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and General Psychiatry. Select insurances are accepted (listed below), otherwise, payment is out of pocket but you may be able to receive reimbursement from your insurance. All appointments are via telehealth for patients who are physically located at the time of their appointment in either NJ or PA
![Photo of Suzanne Doubrava, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a497cf06-295d-42c6-a284-5da95a3ec082/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Suzanne Doubrava is double-board certified in Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, a branch of medicine which explores the connection between the physical body and emotional health. She has been practicing for over 15 years after completing psychiatry residency at Montefiore/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Dr. Doubrava then received additional fellowship training at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medical Center. She has held academic appointments at both Rutgers Medical School and Fox Chase Cancer Center, as well cultivating a private practice for 10 years in Princeton, New Jersey.
Dr. Suzanne Doubrava is double-board certified in Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, a branch of medicine which explores the connection between the physical body and emotional health. She has been practicing for over 15 years after completing psychiatry residency at Montefiore/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Dr. Doubrava then received additional fellowship training at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medical Center. She has held academic appointments at both Rutgers Medical School and Fox Chase Cancer Center, as well cultivating a private practice for 10 years in Princeton, New Jersey.
![Photo of Dyana Thompson - Evolution Medicine, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d54551d-0cfe-4bec-8506-5420d3c49b54/1/320x400.jpeg)
Evolution Medicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Wayne, NJ 07470 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience working in the mental health field. I am certified in perinatal mental health. My approach incorporates the awareness of the important connection between mind and body, and I work holistically with my patients to provide medical solutions for complex emotional health issues. My therapeutic style is interactive, and patient centered, and I enjoy working with patients that are motivated for wellness. There is no “one size fits all” approach to healing and I tailor my approach to meet the needs of each individual patient.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience working in the mental health field. I am certified in perinatal mental health. My approach incorporates the awareness of the important connection between mind and body, and I work holistically with my patients to provide medical solutions for complex emotional health issues. My therapeutic style is interactive, and patient centered, and I enjoy working with patients that are motivated for wellness. There is no “one size fits all” approach to healing and I tailor my approach to meet the needs of each individual patient.
See more therapy options for Hamburg
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hamburg, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hamburg, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Dissociative Disorders (DID) |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Wellpoint | Amerigroup |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Hamburg, NJ see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hamburg?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.