Psychiatrists in Marlton, NJ
![Photo of Jillian Saad, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98ca0fdd-8525-4602-95c8-e355dfae2766/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jillian Saad is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who specializes in patient-centered care. She has been practicing for over 8 years in private practice and academic medicine. Dr. Saad focuses on medication management in 30-minute follow-up visits in conjunction with supportive and emotionally focused therapy. She takes a patientcentered approach that acknowledges all the psychosocial aspects of each individual to ensure they receive the most effective treatment possible.
Dr. Jillian Saad is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who specializes in patient-centered care. She has been practicing for over 8 years in private practice and academic medicine. Dr. Saad focuses on medication management in 30-minute follow-up visits in conjunction with supportive and emotionally focused therapy. She takes a patientcentered approach that acknowledges all the psychosocial aspects of each individual to ensure they receive the most effective treatment possible.
![Photo of Ibrahim Sahid Kargbo - Blissful Minds Wellness Center, LCC, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b73962f-8fca-4e0f-bcf0-b8aa9f6c39cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Blissful Minds Wellness Center, LCC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Marlton, NJ 08053
Visit blissfulmindspsych.com to schedule. I provide medication management for Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Trauma, Sleep or Insomnia, and includes Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and Solution-Based. This is a telehealth-only practice. In essence, we do not initiate a controlled medication (such as benzodiazepines), by DEA regulations. I accept Aetna, Cigna, and take A Private pay rates are $150 for follow-up and $275 for initial evaluation. My goal as a psychiatric practitioner is to provide compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges.
Visit blissfulmindspsych.com to schedule. I provide medication management for Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Trauma, Sleep or Insomnia, and includes Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and Solution-Based. This is a telehealth-only practice. In essence, we do not initiate a controlled medication (such as benzodiazepines), by DEA regulations. I accept Aetna, Cigna, and take A Private pay rates are $150 for follow-up and $275 for initial evaluation. My goal as a psychiatric practitioner is to provide compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges.
![Photo of Nirupama Natarajan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93e215bd-c8d4-404c-8dd4-93084b2b10cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Natarajan is a Psychiatrist at Talkiatry providing psychiatric services to adults ages 18 and older. In her practice, Dr. Natarajan focuses on medication management and psychoeducation, often along with supportive therapy. She is committed to providing quality care for her patients that is evidence-based and patient-centered. She is dedicated to working collaboratively with patients as a team in order to help patients to the best of her ability.
Dr. Natarajan is a Psychiatrist at Talkiatry providing psychiatric services to adults ages 18 and older. In her practice, Dr. Natarajan focuses on medication management and psychoeducation, often along with supportive therapy. She is committed to providing quality care for her patients that is evidence-based and patient-centered. She is dedicated to working collaboratively with patients as a team in order to help patients to the best of her ability.
![Photo of Alex Strauss, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fd17d21-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am board certified in both Adult psychiatry and Child & Adolescent psychiatry. I have expertise in the use of customized and collaborative therapeutic approaches including individual therapy, CBT, sports psychiatry, supportive therapy and family therapy. I complete a very detailed assessment in order to provide the most appropriate care and treatment plan. As a physician, I also recognize that at times medications are indicated in the recovery process. When appropriate, I will work with you on personalized medication management.
I am board certified in both Adult psychiatry and Child & Adolescent psychiatry. I have expertise in the use of customized and collaborative therapeutic approaches including individual therapy, CBT, sports psychiatry, supportive therapy and family therapy. I complete a very detailed assessment in order to provide the most appropriate care and treatment plan. As a physician, I also recognize that at times medications are indicated in the recovery process. When appropriate, I will work with you on personalized medication management.
![Photo of Chris Winfrey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4060e9ad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I regard my role as a physician as one trusted by the community and public to provide a service that honors patient's whole being. It is a privilege to work with matters that people regard as sacred-issues of their heart and mind. Through New Image Wellness, I work to evaluate concerns that involve medical, psychological, and social issues. The interface of these three domains are best served when balanced. At times, one or more become strained and deserve more attention. When simple solutions and advice doesn't work, it is often helpful to seek medical management and talk therapy.
I regard my role as a physician as one trusted by the community and public to provide a service that honors patient's whole being. It is a privilege to work with matters that people regard as sacred-issues of their heart and mind. Through New Image Wellness, I work to evaluate concerns that involve medical, psychological, and social issues. The interface of these three domains are best served when balanced. At times, one or more become strained and deserve more attention. When simple solutions and advice doesn't work, it is often helpful to seek medical management and talk therapy.
![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 Elaine Kwok, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ba1bdf9-e744-407a-b202-c653258526c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Elaine Kwok is a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist who has been practicing for 9 years. She specializes in depression and anxiety and believes in a holistic approach to the wellness of both the mind and body. Dr. Kwok conducts a comprehensive and individualized assessment for each patient utilizing a combination of medication management, lifestyle changes, and coping skills, creating a safe and therapeutic environment to facilitate healing and growth. Dr. Kwok received her undergraduate degree from New York University and her medical degree from St. George’s University.
Dr. Elaine Kwok is a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist who has been practicing for 9 years. She specializes in depression and anxiety and believes in a holistic approach to the wellness of both the mind and body. Dr. Kwok conducts a comprehensive and individualized assessment for each patient utilizing a combination of medication management, lifestyle changes, and coping skills, creating a safe and therapeutic environment to facilitate healing and growth. Dr. Kwok received her undergraduate degree from New York University and her medical degree from St. George’s University.
![Photo of Devon Young, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6355006-987f-491e-828d-c13ea9de0018/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. With a decade of experience as a nurse practitioner and 15 years in nursing, I've worked in a variety of medical settings, including inpatient (hospital) and outpatient.
Hi! I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. With a decade of experience as a nurse practitioner and 15 years in nursing, I've worked in a variety of medical settings, including inpatient (hospital) and outpatient.
![Photo of Dr. Jutta Vogt, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26ef2f04-5792-4467-becd-1d8e838feec1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double board certified psychiatrist in child/adolescent and adult psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and very versed in treating all kinds of mental illnesses in children /adolescents and adults.
I am a double board certified psychiatrist in child/adolescent and adult psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and very versed in treating all kinds of mental illnesses in children /adolescents and adults.
![Photo of Lisa Blackburn, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/857bb53d-d69f-4880-a456-e0ee18b4dc94/1/320x400.jpeg)
My private practice focuses on medication management and supportive insight-oriented psychotherapy for adults greater than 16 years of age. I believe psychopharmacology should reflect patient preferences and support established psychotherapeutic work. My therapeutic approach is eclectic and tailored to patient goals and symptom presentation.
My private practice focuses on medication management and supportive insight-oriented psychotherapy for adults greater than 16 years of age. I believe psychopharmacology should reflect patient preferences and support established psychotherapeutic work. My therapeutic approach is eclectic and tailored to patient goals and symptom presentation.
![Photo of Zindadil Gandhi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48eb4b0b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Irritability, Guilt, Feeling of lack of control, Inability to pay attention, Sleeplessness are few of the many reasons that keep us from feeling happy. When experienced on daily basis, these can significantly interfere with our performance and relationships. We wish to be happy, to perform at our best. When these experiences are due to a psychiatric condition, it warrants appropriate treatment. I am a Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. I practice Evidence Based Psychiatry to treat multiple psychiatric and behavioral conditions in Children, Teenagers and Adults.
Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Irritability, Guilt, Feeling of lack of control, Inability to pay attention, Sleeplessness are few of the many reasons that keep us from feeling happy. When experienced on daily basis, these can significantly interfere with our performance and relationships. We wish to be happy, to perform at our best. When these experiences are due to a psychiatric condition, it warrants appropriate treatment. I am a Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. I practice Evidence Based Psychiatry to treat multiple psychiatric and behavioral conditions in Children, Teenagers and Adults.
15 Second Videos
Blissful Minds Wellness Center, LCC
Zindadil Gandhi
Alaukik Bhasin
Ashley Anderson
Emily Wilkins
Initia Nova - Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, TMS
![Photo of Alaukik Bhasin, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8deb5b4a-50dd-4706-8a48-09c8539bab7f/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults facing a range of challenges, from anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, to OCD, trauma, substance use, and psychotic disorders. They seek more than just symptom relief; they’re looking for a collaborative approach to regain control over their mental health. Together, we work toward goals like emotional stability, improved relationships, and resilience, with a focus on understanding their unique story and empowering them to thrive across all life stages.
My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults facing a range of challenges, from anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, to OCD, trauma, substance use, and psychotic disorders. They seek more than just symptom relief; they’re looking for a collaborative approach to regain control over their mental health. Together, we work toward goals like emotional stability, improved relationships, and resilience, with a focus on understanding their unique story and empowering them to thrive across all life stages.
![Photo of Jenika Miles - Reservoir Health Psychiatry - Jenika L. Miles, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51196cfd-5077-4253-8c5a-517fa13a4bdc/4/320x400.jpeg)
Reservoir Health Psychiatry - Jenika L. Miles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Marlton, NJ 08053 (Online Only)
My ideal client is motivated to improve their mental health, regardless of their specific condition. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, or other symptoms. They want a safe, supportive environment where they can develop coping skills and explore their thoughts and feelings. My goal is to provide personalized treatment and help them achieve their goals, whether that's managing their symptoms or feeling more content in daily life.
My ideal client is motivated to improve their mental health, regardless of their specific condition. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, or other symptoms. They want a safe, supportive environment where they can develop coping skills and explore their thoughts and feelings. My goal is to provide personalized treatment and help them achieve their goals, whether that's managing their symptoms or feeling more content in daily life.
![Photo of Vivian Owusu-Mensah - Inspired Healthcare Services, DNP, PMHNP-C, ANP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/509ab5bb-0903-46db-8ab5-314c3f4cc97a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inspired Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, ANP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marlton, NJ 08053
Inspired Healthcare Services LLC is a behavioral healthcare provider based in New Jersey. We will make sure that every person who taps our professional help will always be one step closer to their goals for behavioral well-being. Our help doesn’t just end after our clients’ sessions with our practitioners. We go beyond that to secure our clients’ behavioral health. OUR VALUES: are the set of core beliefs that guide our actions and behavior. We live by our values. They influence the way we treat our patients and clients. We value the dignity of those we serve and always treat them with respect and compassion.
Inspired Healthcare Services LLC is a behavioral healthcare provider based in New Jersey. We will make sure that every person who taps our professional help will always be one step closer to their goals for behavioral well-being. Our help doesn’t just end after our clients’ sessions with our practitioners. We go beyond that to secure our clients’ behavioral health. OUR VALUES: are the set of core beliefs that guide our actions and behavior. We live by our values. They influence the way we treat our patients and clients. We value the dignity of those we serve and always treat them with respect and compassion.
![Photo of Asia Morrison, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/991de56d-6209-4563-aba7-efc6a23c0b41/1/320x400.jpeg)
Asia Morrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Marlton, NJ 08053 (Online Only)
Your mental health care starts here! With a profound commitment to physical and mental well-being, I am a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. Prior to the master's level degrees awarded by the University of Cincinnati, I obtained a Bachelor's in Psychology from Rutgers University, studying the human mind, its functions, and how it affects behavior. As a specialized Psychiatric Mental Health NP, I treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, as well as other complex mental health disorders. I strongly encourage your autonomy & participation in a mutually-agreed upon treatment plan.
Your mental health care starts here! With a profound commitment to physical and mental well-being, I am a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Medicine and Psychiatry. Prior to the master's level degrees awarded by the University of Cincinnati, I obtained a Bachelor's in Psychology from Rutgers University, studying the human mind, its functions, and how it affects behavior. As a specialized Psychiatric Mental Health NP, I treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, as well as other complex mental health disorders. I strongly encourage your autonomy & participation in a mutually-agreed upon treatment plan.
![Photo of Brenda Camacho, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98b2b528-0f82-4217-89d5-8409b9082d21/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Brenda Y. Camacho holds the position of Staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is board-certified in Adult Psychiatry. She has been practicing for over 25 years. Dr. Brenda Y. Camacho’s practice focuses on medication management. Typically she offers this in conjunction with supportive or insight-oriented therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. On occasion, Dr. Camacho will believe additional therapy is also needed and asks that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
Dr. Brenda Y. Camacho holds the position of Staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is board-certified in Adult Psychiatry. She has been practicing for over 25 years. Dr. Brenda Y. Camacho’s practice focuses on medication management. Typically she offers this in conjunction with supportive or insight-oriented therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. On occasion, Dr. Camacho will believe additional therapy is also needed and asks that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
![Photo of Pooja Shah - Pooja Shah MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d7f324f-2dda-460b-b5d2-ab974f138594/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I am Dr. Pooja Shah, a board-certified child psychiatrist and adult psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Autism. If you have worked with a psychiatrist before or are new to seeking mental health care, Welcome! We will start with an initial 90-minute appointment where we go over your symptoms and formulate an evidence-based treatment plan including talk therapy and if appropriate, use of medications where indicated. We can also discuss non-medication alternatives if you prefer a holistic approach. I look forward to partnering with you to help you be the best version of you!
Hi, I am Dr. Pooja Shah, a board-certified child psychiatrist and adult psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Autism. If you have worked with a psychiatrist before or are new to seeking mental health care, Welcome! We will start with an initial 90-minute appointment where we go over your symptoms and formulate an evidence-based treatment plan including talk therapy and if appropriate, use of medications where indicated. We can also discuss non-medication alternatives if you prefer a holistic approach. I look forward to partnering with you to help you be the best version of you!
![Photo of Niles Drake, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/405cd846-b492-4018-b928-a241438adb57/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Niles Drake is a board certified psychiatrist skilled in prescribing medications and working in psychotherapy. He combines a warm demeanor with excellent clinical skills, and has over 15 years’ experience working with adult patients of all ages and many walks of life. He has special expertise combining medication and psychotherapy to help patients reduce symptoms and grow as individuals. Dr. Drake’s additional training and experience in psychological modes of treatment enhance the quality of care he provides to all his patients, to meet them where they are and prioritize their individual needs and goals.
Dr. Niles Drake is a board certified psychiatrist skilled in prescribing medications and working in psychotherapy. He combines a warm demeanor with excellent clinical skills, and has over 15 years’ experience working with adult patients of all ages and many walks of life. He has special expertise combining medication and psychotherapy to help patients reduce symptoms and grow as individuals. Dr. Drake’s additional training and experience in psychological modes of treatment enhance the quality of care he provides to all his patients, to meet them where they are and prioritize their individual needs and goals.
![Photo of Ayeesha Adolphus - Merciful Minds, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84f71a41-6908-4601-a661-c03ad53554c3/1/320x400.png)
The mission of Merciful Minds is to enhance mental health awareness, promote individual empowerment, and increase access to treatment and services for persons living with mental illness. We recognize, respect, and respond to every individual with human dignity. We meet people where they are. To break the mental health stigma and provide patients of all ages and diversities with exceptional, empathetic, and evidence-based care.
The mission of Merciful Minds is to enhance mental health awareness, promote individual empowerment, and increase access to treatment and services for persons living with mental illness. We recognize, respect, and respond to every individual with human dignity. We meet people where they are. To break the mental health stigma and provide patients of all ages and diversities with exceptional, empathetic, and evidence-based care.
![Photo of Sameerah Akhtar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21edb9d9-dd5b-4c57-9f62-bd86753fa518/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Akhtar is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. She focuses on medication management for a wide range of psychiatric conditions, providing supportive therapy to help individuals navigate life's challenges and enhance their overall well-being, while emphasizing lifestyle changes and the development of coping skills. Dr. Akhtar completed her medical degree at the American University of Antigua, gaining a profound understanding of the biological, psychological, and social aspects of mental health.
Dr. Akhtar is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. She focuses on medication management for a wide range of psychiatric conditions, providing supportive therapy to help individuals navigate life's challenges and enhance their overall well-being, while emphasizing lifestyle changes and the development of coping skills. Dr. Akhtar completed her medical degree at the American University of Antigua, gaining a profound understanding of the biological, psychological, and social aspects of mental health.
See more therapy options for Marlton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Marlton, NJ
50+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Marlton, NJ who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
92% | Anxiety |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
80% | Medication Management |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
81% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Marlton, NJ see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Female | |
34% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Marlton?
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.