Psychiatrists in Mickleton, NJ
![Photo of Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/149056cf-85f2-4409-a429-20581b66113b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Mickleton, NJ 08056 (Online Only)
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Deborah Marie Toole - Deborah Toole LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fc3a771-b79e-4f1e-b59c-d26a354e5b83/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Toole LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Royal, NJ 08061
My approach to treating my clients consists of compassion, client centered treatments. I offer medication management as well as some therapy. The most important aspect of treatment is good communication and really listening to the client and their experiences. Personal trauma and experiences along with current events have created an increasingly stressful environment. It is more important than ever that clients have access to mental health services. Using compassion and empathy I will create a safe environment for YOU the client.
My approach to treating my clients consists of compassion, client centered treatments. I offer medication management as well as some therapy. The most important aspect of treatment is good communication and really listening to the client and their experiences. Personal trauma and experiences along with current events have created an increasingly stressful environment. It is more important than ever that clients have access to mental health services. Using compassion and empathy I will create a safe environment for YOU the client.
![Photo of Jacquelyn R Zagone, APN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d572440f-c607-4dee-92ae-908e29e64ccb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacquelyn R Zagone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Wenonah, NJ 08090
Hi! My name is Jacky and I specialize in the treatment of PTSD, Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Substance and Alcohol Use Disorder. I have almost twenty years experience in the healthcare field, with a specialty in emergency medicine and patient care management. I earned my Master of Nursing Degree from Walden University, with a specialization in Mental Health and Psychiatry. Additionally, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and am qualified to diagnose and treat mental health disorders in people of all ages.
Hi! My name is Jacky and I specialize in the treatment of PTSD, Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Substance and Alcohol Use Disorder. I have almost twenty years experience in the healthcare field, with a specialty in emergency medicine and patient care management. I earned my Master of Nursing Degree from Walden University, with a specialization in Mental Health and Psychiatry. Additionally, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and am qualified to diagnose and treat mental health disorders in people of all ages.
![Photo of Dr. Tony Issac, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8701daf1-2ee6-4777-a56c-ae16b2745308/1/320x400.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 Amy Carnall - Clarity Psychiatric Care, DNP, APN, PMHNP, RNFA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d4ee58d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clarity Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP, RNFA
Verified Verified
Mullica Hill, NJ 08062
Clarity Psychiatric Care is a boutique-style practice specializing in psychopharmacology (the art of prescribing medication in the field of psychiatry). Our providers, Cristina Sertway and Dr. Amy Carnall, offer office hours in Haddonfield and Elmer and Pennington, NJ. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Cristina and Dr. Amy are University of Pennsylvania, holistically-trained nurse practitioners, emphasizing patient and family-centered care.
Clarity Psychiatric Care is a boutique-style practice specializing in psychopharmacology (the art of prescribing medication in the field of psychiatry). Our providers, Cristina Sertway and Dr. Amy Carnall, offer office hours in Haddonfield and Elmer and Pennington, NJ. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Cristina and Dr. Amy are University of Pennsylvania, holistically-trained nurse practitioners, emphasizing patient and family-centered care.
![Photo of Amanda Guarnere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/713d4da4-a1d0-4c5a-89d1-c0791d56f9cd/2/320x400.png)
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed003038-1b05-4642-b548-280d375d98ab/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Glassboro, NJ 08028
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Maria Leotti, AHNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cb6b193-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Leotti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AHNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mullica Hill, NJ 08062 (Online Only)
Please do not hesitate to use the contact information provided here on Psychology Today. You may copy the following to the pre-screen form from my scheduling site.
Please do not hesitate to use the contact information provided here on Psychology Today. You may copy the following to the pre-screen form from my scheduling site.
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1af5a107-ee98-4453-baa9-2dee3be7ba4a/2/320x400.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 Henrietta Udeh, MSN, CSN-NJ, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2096b4e-1b13-46e3-83d2-89d8ff2f1eff/1/320x400.png)
Henrietta Udeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CSN-NJ, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glassboro, NJ 08028
My ideal client presents with anxiety; she has been experiencing a lot of panic attacks. She has been to the ER over three times in the past two months, where they ruled out cardiac problems. They always give her benzodiazepine and follow up with a psychiatrist. She does not want to be on medications, so she tried psychotherapy. She was then referred by her therapist. Her goal is to stay on medication for a short time. She prefers to use natural remedies. She is very fearful of science and the long-term effects of medications.
My ideal client presents with anxiety; she has been experiencing a lot of panic attacks. She has been to the ER over three times in the past two months, where they ruled out cardiac problems. They always give her benzodiazepine and follow up with a psychiatrist. She does not want to be on medications, so she tried psychotherapy. She was then referred by her therapist. Her goal is to stay on medication for a short time. She prefers to use natural remedies. She is very fearful of science and the long-term effects of medications.
![Photo of Whitney Supernavage - WLS Psychiatric Services, MSN, APN, PMH-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49fa9c91-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
WLS Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
Logan Township, NJ 08085
I have dedicated years to treating children, adolescents, and young adults. I work with clients & their families to achieve positive relationships & personal fulfillment.
I have dedicated years to treating children, adolescents, and young adults. I work with clients & their families to achieve positive relationships & personal fulfillment.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e23e6176-997e-4aed-9fd5-750e38a6eece/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Eronmwon Balogun, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b588c5a-8209-4566-b8a1-b67162f07fb2/2/320x400.png)
Eronmwon Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glassboro, NJ 08028
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 Pattie James, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e12b362-6fb7-49e6-958b-d48a40adae2c/2/320x400.png)
My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.
My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.
![Photo of Ashley Kwafo, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/013a8bd6-f792-4297-b75a-44164963c9ec/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
![Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59c0adef-6c3d-462b-8778-58dd6f3046f8/2/320x400.png)
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glassboro, NJ 08028
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 Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4767ad88-2cd7-4373-972b-255720a877e6/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![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
Woodbury, NJ 08096 (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.
![Photo of Bryana Carrea - New You Radiense , APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c15d11f2-d828-40f8-9a72-a06d721d5686/2/320x400.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.
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.
![Photo of Dr. Bradford Bobrin, MD , FASAM , FACLP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f017859-50e6-4bf4-8855-8bc616c0f8d8/1/320x400.png)
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
See more therapy options for Mickleton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Mickleton, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Mickleton, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Mickleton, NJ see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Mickleton?
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.