Psychiatrists in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ
![Photo of Salvatore Zullo, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6c44445-80ca-4037-900c-8c80ff94b019/2/320x400.jpeg)
Salvatore Zullo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Salvatore and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Depression, Family Issues, Life Coaching, Life Transitions, Men's Issues, Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) 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 Salvatore and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Depression, Family Issues, Life Coaching, Life Transitions, Men's Issues, Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) 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.
![Photo of Musaddiq Tariq, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9cf66f6e-42d1-4d8b-8f1e-bee9a16449e7/3/320x400.jpeg)
My job as a psychiatrist is centered on your recovery so you can engage fully with this wonderful life and leave your mental health struggles behind. I specialize in medication management for mood problems, anger management and panic disorders. My approach to therapy combines my characteristics as an individual who is compassionate, charismatic, non-judgmental – with years of experience and effective listening skills.
My job as a psychiatrist is centered on your recovery so you can engage fully with this wonderful life and leave your mental health struggles behind. I specialize in medication management for mood problems, anger management and panic disorders. My approach to therapy combines my characteristics as an individual who is compassionate, charismatic, non-judgmental – with years of experience and effective listening skills.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Lisa Scarlatella, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/888e63c2-f65d-4f55-8ad4-8efc000bd12f/2/320x400.png)
Lisa Scarlatella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Passaic, NJ 07055 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing and a Post Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Fairleigh Dickinson University with Sigma Theta Tau honors. I have experience working as a Nurse Practitioner in college health and clinical experience with medication management for adults in inpatient and outpatient settings.
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing and a Post Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Fairleigh Dickinson University with Sigma Theta Tau honors. I have experience working as a Nurse Practitioner in college health and clinical experience with medication management for adults in inpatient and outpatient settings.
![Photo of Malgorzata Komza, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51dcc586-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Addiction and emotional or psychiatric problems can affect everyone. But no one needs to suffer in silence and live with addiction, depression, or anxiety. Everyone deserves respect and their questions answered. I am a medical doctor with additional experience in psychiatry. After obtaining a medical degree in Poland I was trained in psychiatry in the U.S., which included training in general psychiatry at Duke University and in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Rutgers University. I was recently employed at an inpatient detoxification program, where I mostly managed patients suffering from alcohol and heroin addiction.
Addiction and emotional or psychiatric problems can affect everyone. But no one needs to suffer in silence and live with addiction, depression, or anxiety. Everyone deserves respect and their questions answered. I am a medical doctor with additional experience in psychiatry. After obtaining a medical degree in Poland I was trained in psychiatry in the U.S., which included training in general psychiatry at Duke University and in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Rutgers University. I was recently employed at an inpatient detoxification program, where I mostly managed patients suffering from alcohol and heroin addiction.
![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 Marisa Savic, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efc84823-3053-463c-b908-e3cc56755f23/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marisa Savic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Rutherford, NJ 07073 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Marisa, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. Specializing in virtual sessions, I bring expertise in medication management and therapy designed to offer you invaluable support on your unique mental health journey.
Hello! I'm Marisa, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. Specializing in virtual sessions, I bring expertise in medication management and therapy designed to offer you invaluable support on your unique mental health journey.
Where special concerns deserve special care, Specialized Therapy Associates has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. We are staffed with Board certified adult & child psychiatrists & psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, licensed clinical alcohol & drug counselors & licensed professional counselors.
Where special concerns deserve special care, Specialized Therapy Associates has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. We are staffed with Board certified adult & child psychiatrists & psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, licensed clinical alcohol & drug counselors & licensed professional counselors.
![Photo of Tulika Srivastava, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03a25d6b-c1c7-4cd0-b3e6-cdf95c8cd654/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to the practice of Dr. Tulika Srivastava, a compassionate and dedicated child psychiatrist, board-certified in both child and adolescent and adult psychiatry . My practice is a place of understanding and healing where the mental well being of children, adolescents and adults is the top priority. Recognizing the importance of early intervention in shaping a healthier future , I employ evidence based approaches tailored to each young patient’s needs. My comprehensive background in adult psychiatry allows me to extend quality care to adult patients too. I look forward to my patients having a healthier , more balanced future .
Welcome to the practice of Dr. Tulika Srivastava, a compassionate and dedicated child psychiatrist, board-certified in both child and adolescent and adult psychiatry . My practice is a place of understanding and healing where the mental well being of children, adolescents and adults is the top priority. Recognizing the importance of early intervention in shaping a healthier future , I employ evidence based approaches tailored to each young patient’s needs. My comprehensive background in adult psychiatry allows me to extend quality care to adult patients too. I look forward to my patients having a healthier , more balanced future .
![Photo of Bryana Carrea - New You Radiense, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13b5dc71-c9ba-4ac4-973e-8918d1b4b811/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be stressful at times and we believe no one should suffer in silence. Your mental health is vital part of you, and its important to address any addiction, or mental health issues you may have. We can help you if your experiencing anxiety, depression, an addiction issue, or just need someone to talk to. We specialize in helping individuals diagnosed with a substance use disorder. Whether it’s medication you need or a counseling session we are here to help. You can never progress until you take that first step. Call or email us we are here to help you, not judge you.
Life can be stressful at times and we believe no one should suffer in silence. Your mental health is vital part of you, and its important to address any addiction, or mental health issues you may have. We can help you if your experiencing anxiety, depression, an addiction issue, or just need someone to talk to. We specialize in helping individuals diagnosed with a substance use disorder. Whether it’s medication you need or a counseling session we are here to help. You can never progress until you take that first step. Call or email us we are here to help you, not judge you.
![Photo of Murla Ecclesiaste, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9252665c-5aee-47a4-9a3c-51175586a63e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Greetings! I am Murla, Do you experience lack of motivation, hopelessness and sadness? Do you feel overwhelmed with tasks? Are you dealing with anxiety that leaves you incapacitated? Are mood swings keeping you from reaching your best potential?
Greetings! I am Murla, Do you experience lack of motivation, hopelessness and sadness? Do you feel overwhelmed with tasks? Are you dealing with anxiety that leaves you incapacitated? Are mood swings keeping you from reaching your best potential?
![Photo of Isaac Oke, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc68aa37-6abe-4b93-af90-6a68271d0fdd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in mental health and caring for those suffering from psychiatric disorders, mental illnesses, or emotional crises.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in mental health and caring for those suffering from psychiatric disorders, mental illnesses, or emotional crises.
![Photo of Felix Geller, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7a883ba-0f53-4437-a3d0-2fa29c8bd7dc/2/320x400.jpeg)
After completing training in 2012 at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center of Shreveport, I began practicing psychiatry. have experience practicing in multiple settings including emergency room, hospital, medical wards, outpatient programs, outpatient offices, correctional facilities, research substance use programs and teaching programs.
After completing training in 2012 at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center of Shreveport, I began practicing psychiatry. have experience practicing in multiple settings including emergency room, hospital, medical wards, outpatient programs, outpatient offices, correctional facilities, research substance use programs and teaching programs.
![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 Angela Dang, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0e0eaaf-3e9f-48af-a10f-34b09266d7a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela is proudly part of Tri America Health & Wellness and sees both adolescents and adults for in-person and online in NJ and online in NY. She is a board certified Psychiatric Physician Assistant. She performs mental health assessments, establish diagnoses, and offer treatment in terms of medical management and counseling
Angela is proudly part of Tri America Health & Wellness and sees both adolescents and adults for in-person and online in NJ and online in NY. She is a board certified Psychiatric Physician Assistant. She performs mental health assessments, establish diagnoses, and offer treatment in terms of medical management and counseling
![Photo of Himansh Saxena, MD, MHA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11b95d3a-33c4-4793-be51-bd3837c93502/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Saxena is a licensed Psychiatrist in New Jersey and New York, specializing in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Saxena has worked in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, Veterans population, and emergency settings. Additionally, he also has an extensive experience on the academic front training both medical students and Psychiatry resident physicians in NY and NJ. He is trained in multiple therapy approaches such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), psychotherapy, medication management, or combination.
Dr. Saxena is a licensed Psychiatrist in New Jersey and New York, specializing in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Saxena has worked in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, Veterans population, and emergency settings. Additionally, he also has an extensive experience on the academic front training both medical students and Psychiatry resident physicians in NY and NJ. He is trained in multiple therapy approaches such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), psychotherapy, medication management, or combination.
![Photo of Fatmata Raymond, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7446e62d-514a-424f-9aa4-01d151eb3cbe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fatmata Raymond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Rutherford, NJ 07073 (Online Only)
Hello, Do you feel stressed, less motivated, tired and struggling to keep up with life's challenges? It's okay not to be okay, your struggles do not define you. Taking the first step towards improving your mental well-being can feel daunting, but by reaching out, you've already displayed tremendous courage. I understand that finding the right path to recovery can be overwhelming, which is why I am here to help you.
Hello, Do you feel stressed, less motivated, tired and struggling to keep up with life's challenges? It's okay not to be okay, your struggles do not define you. Taking the first step towards improving your mental well-being can feel daunting, but by reaching out, you've already displayed tremendous courage. I understand that finding the right path to recovery can be overwhelming, which is why I am here to help you.
![Photo of Gail Bergin, FNP, PMHNP, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5178db50-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gail Bergin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, CNS
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601 (Online Only)
Clients who are committed to becoming well and functioning at a level that expresses their ideal self are the clients that I most seek because my goal is to help clients achieve their best. The issues are always varied but their goals are aligned with a desire to achieve the best that they can be. I am not just about symptom relief as most medication prescribers are. I practice at Specialized Therapy Associates, LLC where clients can access a full range of services for mind-body health, such as, nutrition counseling to help overcome mood and sleep issues as an example or Yoga Therapy and mindfulness.
Clients who are committed to becoming well and functioning at a level that expresses their ideal self are the clients that I most seek because my goal is to help clients achieve their best. The issues are always varied but their goals are aligned with a desire to achieve the best that they can be. I am not just about symptom relief as most medication prescribers are. I practice at Specialized Therapy Associates, LLC where clients can access a full range of services for mind-body health, such as, nutrition counseling to help overcome mood and sleep issues as an example or Yoga Therapy and mindfulness.
![Photo of Allen Masry - Victory Bay Recovery Center - Detox, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aeae4375-fa5f-4b72-b7d7-94e0b3180ace/1/320x400.png)
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
![Photo of Ernst Renondeau, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e2fbe1d-0823-4632-a531-ec6c949efc26/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ernst Renondeau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Rutherford, NJ 07073 (Online Only)
Ernst is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Trained and experience in treating individuals (ages 5-99) struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, bipolar disorders, thoughts disorders and many other mental illnesses. Ernst is a caring and empathetic practitioner who uses pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic options to deliver optimal care to clients. Ernst has been in the nursing field for two decades and has provided mental health services to clients at various healthcare settings.
Ernst is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Trained and experience in treating individuals (ages 5-99) struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, bipolar disorders, thoughts disorders and many other mental illnesses. Ernst is a caring and empathetic practitioner who uses pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic options to deliver optimal care to clients. Ernst has been in the nursing field for two decades and has provided mental health services to clients at various healthcare settings.
![Photo of Yissell Delvalle, MD, FASAM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45dd5112-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Yissell Delvalle is a Board Certified Psychiatrist, Board Certified Addiction Medicine Doctor, who graduated from UMDNJ-Rutgers Medical School in Newark. She particularly treats patients with addiction, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, psychosis and women with post-partum depression.
Dr. Yissell Delvalle is a Board Certified Psychiatrist, Board Certified Addiction Medicine Doctor, who graduated from UMDNJ-Rutgers Medical School in Newark. She particularly treats patients with addiction, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, psychosis and women with post-partum depression.
See more therapy options for Hasbrouck Heights
Nearby Searches for Hasbrouck Heights
- Bergenfield
- Clifton
- East Rutherford
- Fair Lawn
- Fort Lee
- Hackensack
- Paramus
- Passaic
- Paterson
- River Edge
- Teaneck
- West New York
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Other |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Medicare |
How Psychiatrists in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hasbrouck Heights?
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.