Psychiatrists in Mercer County, NJ
![Photo of Amanda Decker, MA, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8232f9f1-2ee4-42ad-8c11-eee4731bbd21/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Decker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Mandy and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in integrative psychiatry. I work with all ages and my goal is to promote optimal wellness, rather than just stick a bandage on a wound via a pill. Integrative psychiatry means western medicine and eastern medicine. I do prescribe medication, however I may also recommend nutraceuticals, mind body approaches, and/or other therapeutic, holistic, energetic, or complementary means. I also deprescribe. My goal is to help you heal and help YOU get to know YOU better!
Hi, my name is Mandy and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in integrative psychiatry. I work with all ages and my goal is to promote optimal wellness, rather than just stick a bandage on a wound via a pill. Integrative psychiatry means western medicine and eastern medicine. I do prescribe medication, however I may also recommend nutraceuticals, mind body approaches, and/or other therapeutic, holistic, energetic, or complementary means. I also deprescribe. My goal is to help you heal and help YOU get to know YOU better!
![Photo of Norbert Csordas, MSN, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16249853-68b7-42aa-b173-87bf524262f5/1/320x400.png)
Norbert Csordas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN
Verified Verified
Lawrence Township, NJ 08648
Every individual is entitled to experience an optimal life, a journey that occasionally necessitates assistance. My aim is to establish relationships based on trust and empathy with both patients and their loved ones, enhancing the treatment of various mental health issues through a comprehensive approach that includes therapy, medication, and innovative therapies. Offering professional, evidence-based solutions for a wide array of psychiatric disorders like anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and schizophrenia, opting to collaborate with our team for treatment-resistant depression could unlock access to pioneering options like TMS and Spravato.
Every individual is entitled to experience an optimal life, a journey that occasionally necessitates assistance. My aim is to establish relationships based on trust and empathy with both patients and their loved ones, enhancing the treatment of various mental health issues through a comprehensive approach that includes therapy, medication, and innovative therapies. Offering professional, evidence-based solutions for a wide array of psychiatric disorders like anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and schizophrenia, opting to collaborate with our team for treatment-resistant depression could unlock access to pioneering options like TMS and Spravato.
![Photo of Eronmwon Balogun, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed6f523d-9300-437f-9e68-5504d3407bc2/2/320x400.png)
Eronmwon Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
![Photo of Ursula Nonyerem Odimara, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7ddaafb-37c0-402f-96a0-40cc9f03beb3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ursula Nonyerem Odimara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08691 (Online Only)
If you are struggling with mental health symptoms, Healthy Mind is a safe place to start your mental health journey. Dr. Ursula Odimara is doctorate prepared ANCC board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and is a graduate of LaSalle University, Philadelphia, Pa. She is dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, this gives her the knowledge and experience to treat each patient with individualized holistic approach. She has a broad experience in dealing with diagnosis such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, mood disorders and much more.
If you are struggling with mental health symptoms, Healthy Mind is a safe place to start your mental health journey. Dr. Ursula Odimara is doctorate prepared ANCC board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and is a graduate of LaSalle University, Philadelphia, Pa. She is dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, this gives her the knowledge and experience to treat each patient with individualized holistic approach. She has a broad experience in dealing with diagnosis such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, mood disorders and much more.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, LMFT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3d088a3-edf0-4d60-bb3c-20a546719358/2/320x400.png)
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety and/or depression and is seeking services to find balance.
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety and/or depression and is seeking services to find balance.
![Photo of Dr. Tony Issac, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c808373-3c28-4a34-97af-ae5dd3b8e9c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
![Photo of A F M Haque - The Princeton Developmental & Psychiatric Center, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c018213-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Princeton Developmental & Psychiatric Center
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I believe in evidence-based psychiatry but appreciates the role of emerging treatments.My comprehensive approach from the developmental,genetic,neurobiological, environmental and cultural/spiritual facets have consistently resulted in significant gains by the clients. My treatment focuses on symptom complex and how it is connected with the neurotransmitters and brain circuits rather than mere diagnostic criteria. I strongly believe that every individual is unique and requires individualized interventions for maximum benefit & personal growth.Understand and appreciate the complex needs of human being. Deep understanding of the pain of others as I live with a family member with mental health needs.
I believe in evidence-based psychiatry but appreciates the role of emerging treatments.My comprehensive approach from the developmental,genetic,neurobiological, environmental and cultural/spiritual facets have consistently resulted in significant gains by the clients. My treatment focuses on symptom complex and how it is connected with the neurotransmitters and brain circuits rather than mere diagnostic criteria. I strongly believe that every individual is unique and requires individualized interventions for maximum benefit & personal growth.Understand and appreciate the complex needs of human being. Deep understanding of the pain of others as I live with a family member with mental health needs.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ff395e7-a8e8-45d1-9f23-1329ed7916bd/2/320x400.png)
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Javier Taboada, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/144add35-ee8d-4910-89be-469bd2d27507/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Javier G. Taboada, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and has his practice in Yardley, PA. He specializes in Adult and Child Psychiatry. He provides outpatient psychiatric evaluations, consultations and follow-up to adults and children. Fellow, American College of Physicians. Member of the American Medical Assoc. Member of the New Jersey Medical Society. Listed in ABMS, Compendium.
Dr. Javier G. Taboada, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and has his practice in Yardley, PA. He specializes in Adult and Child Psychiatry. He provides outpatient psychiatric evaluations, consultations and follow-up to adults and children. Fellow, American College of Physicians. Member of the American Medical Assoc. Member of the New Jersey Medical Society. Listed in ABMS, Compendium.
![Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9cbcd77-d36e-455f-8273-48cd07581ddc/2/320x400.png)
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lawrence Township, NJ 08648
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
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![Photo of Muhammad Zeshan - Inside Out CURE Psychiatry LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ebfa70c-abe5-4a27-ab33-9f9d7fdb12ae/3/320x400.jpeg)
Through Inside Out CURE, my focus is to help individuals become more Compassionate, Understanding, and aware of their strengths and vulnerabilities, while developing Resilience & Empathy. I am a Harvard trained infant, child, & adult psychiatrist. Because of my unique background in infancy, parenting, perinatal health, ADHD, child and adult psychiatry, I offer services to all age groups by applying principals of psychotherapy, pharmacology, and neuroscience. I also do school consultation and provide comprehensive evaluations for excessive social media use, PTSD, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and stress or burnout.
Through Inside Out CURE, my focus is to help individuals become more Compassionate, Understanding, and aware of their strengths and vulnerabilities, while developing Resilience & Empathy. I am a Harvard trained infant, child, & adult psychiatrist. Because of my unique background in infancy, parenting, perinatal health, ADHD, child and adult psychiatry, I offer services to all age groups by applying principals of psychotherapy, pharmacology, and neuroscience. I also do school consultation and provide comprehensive evaluations for excessive social media use, PTSD, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and stress or burnout.
![Photo of Kevin Kavookjian, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79a577cb-3852-451d-9a60-3af757939396/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kevin Kavookjian, MD is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, and licensed in New Jersey, New York and Maine. Dr. Kavookjian practiced in Maine from 2008 until 2022. During that time he was the Medical Director of Health Affiliates of Maine, a statewide mental health agency. He served as the Medical Director at Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center in Lewiston. Preceding that, Dr. Kavookjian was the Chief of Psychiatry at Southern Maine Medical Center. In 2022 Dr. Kavookjian's family returned to NJ both for easier access to superior schools and greater proximity to extended family.
Kevin Kavookjian, MD is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, and licensed in New Jersey, New York and Maine. Dr. Kavookjian practiced in Maine from 2008 until 2022. During that time he was the Medical Director of Health Affiliates of Maine, a statewide mental health agency. He served as the Medical Director at Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center in Lewiston. Preceding that, Dr. Kavookjian was the Chief of Psychiatry at Southern Maine Medical Center. In 2022 Dr. Kavookjian's family returned to NJ both for easier access to superior schools and greater proximity to extended family.
![Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca47ddb0-b808-403c-953f-cc0346244d09/2/320x400.png)
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08610
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
![Photo of Ngozi Nkemka, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20233bee-8168-483e-924d-1746227585fa/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ngozi Nkemka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08691
I can't say that I have an ideal client, as every client presents with their own unique set of strengths and challenges. Therefore, my goal is not just to help my clients deal with their mental health issues. I provide an environment where they can restore and maintain a healthy state of mind. Graduating from Monmouth University, I have more than 18 years of healthcare and nursing experience. I bring empathy, an easygoing communication style, and sense of humor, making it easy for me to talk to patients and family members.
I can't say that I have an ideal client, as every client presents with their own unique set of strengths and challenges. Therefore, my goal is not just to help my clients deal with their mental health issues. I provide an environment where they can restore and maintain a healthy state of mind. Graduating from Monmouth University, I have more than 18 years of healthcare and nursing experience. I bring empathy, an easygoing communication style, and sense of humor, making it easy for me to talk to patients and family members.
![Photo of Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/650c2d67-2e6e-4079-a465-4f62666acc98/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Quamrul Hasan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f9338b0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a board certified psychiatrist. Psychiatric symptoms/disorders are often complex and are usually influenced by genetic factors, environmental/social stimuli and personal experience. I do a comprehensive initial assessment to determine the need for medications and if medications are indicated, I carefully consider the risk-benefit-alternatives of medications. In addition to prescribing psychotropic medications, I try to bring out one's inner strength/potential for drive and motivation for better adaptation to daily stresses.
I'm a board certified psychiatrist. Psychiatric symptoms/disorders are often complex and are usually influenced by genetic factors, environmental/social stimuli and personal experience. I do a comprehensive initial assessment to determine the need for medications and if medications are indicated, I carefully consider the risk-benefit-alternatives of medications. In addition to prescribing psychotropic medications, I try to bring out one's inner strength/potential for drive and motivation for better adaptation to daily stresses.
![Photo of Maryanna Vrettos Domenic - Jersey Forensic Consulting (Psychiatry), MSN, APN, PMHNP, CSN-NJ, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73222f4e-879f-4d46-a3ef-451943c8f4b9/1/320x400.png)
Jersey Forensic Consulting (Psychiatry)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, CSN-NJ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540 (Online Only)
MaryAnna Domenic is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner committed to empowering individuals of all ages to achieve mental wellness. When crafting personalized treatment plans, she emphasize open communication and collaborative decision-making to foster patients' overall well-being and resilience in addressing mental health concerns. She values collaboration & teamwork in her practice, actively involving patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams. She strives to provide holistic care by incorporating non-pharmacological interventions with traditional treatments, thereby promoting comprehensive mental wellness.
MaryAnna Domenic is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner committed to empowering individuals of all ages to achieve mental wellness. When crafting personalized treatment plans, she emphasize open communication and collaborative decision-making to foster patients' overall well-being and resilience in addressing mental health concerns. She values collaboration & teamwork in her practice, actively involving patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams. She strives to provide holistic care by incorporating non-pharmacological interventions with traditional treatments, thereby promoting comprehensive mental wellness.
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/407e9861-2edd-49e5-9256-8bd28fafcc84/1/320x400.png)
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Patty Saveriano, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4ce2b29-3636-424f-afdc-9438049b6c0f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patty Saveriano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Windsor, NJ 08550
My name is Patty Saveriano, I am a dual certified nurse practitioner in Acute/ Critical Care and Psychiatry. I strongly believe in the mind/ body connection and guide my practice on these principles. I feel too often this relationship is overlooked by general practitioners and as a result has led to increased mental and physical illness. I am committed to helping people move through their struggles, so they can go back to living the life they were intended!
My name is Patty Saveriano, I am a dual certified nurse practitioner in Acute/ Critical Care and Psychiatry. I strongly believe in the mind/ body connection and guide my practice on these principles. I feel too often this relationship is overlooked by general practitioners and as a result has led to increased mental and physical illness. I am committed to helping people move through their struggles, so they can go back to living the life they were intended!
See more therapy options for Mercer County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Mercer County, NJ
100+
Average cost per session
$281
Psychiatrists in Mercer County, NJ who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Medication Management |
72% | ADHD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Aetna |
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Mercer County, NJ see their clients
73% | In Person and Online | |
27% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
26% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Mercer County?
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.