Psychiatrists in Monmouth County, NJ
![Photo of Laurie Greisch, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88271b91-1ad6-4ed9-a050-972ee067920a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laurie Greisch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Healing Minds Psychiatry and Mental Wellness LLC is an outpatient psychiatry practice. I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief supportive therapy for a variety of mental health conditions. Telepsychiatry is also available.
Healing Minds Psychiatry and Mental Wellness LLC is an outpatient psychiatry practice. I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief supportive therapy for a variety of mental health conditions. Telepsychiatry is also available.
![Photo of Nicole Hraniotis, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c78498e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified and experienced adolescent, adult, and child psychiatrist who has helped patients just like you build richer more rewarding lives for over 6 years. Through a combination of therapeutic techniques, I help identify limiting beliefs and outmoded coping mechanisms that may be standing in your way.
I am a Board Certified and experienced adolescent, adult, and child psychiatrist who has helped patients just like you build richer more rewarding lives for over 6 years. Through a combination of therapeutic techniques, I help identify limiting beliefs and outmoded coping mechanisms that may be standing in your way.
![Photo of Jason Leon Cohen - The Cohen Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c74ca93-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
![Photo of David Wolff, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a71728dd-4404-4550-9da3-1a5a75c612b1/3/320x400.jpeg)
"Listen to me." "Try to understand me." "Talk to me and work with me to explore solutions." I am board certified in General Psychiatry and I am a member of the Clinical TMS Society. I have been in practice for 25 years. My practice specialty is depression and anxiety. To implement change, I strongly believe in the importance of understanding your goals in entering treatment. Understanding your current and past life experiences is crucial to working with you to make sound recommendations.
"Listen to me." "Try to understand me." "Talk to me and work with me to explore solutions." I am board certified in General Psychiatry and I am a member of the Clinical TMS Society. I have been in practice for 25 years. My practice specialty is depression and anxiety. To implement change, I strongly believe in the importance of understanding your goals in entering treatment. Understanding your current and past life experiences is crucial to working with you to make sound recommendations.
![Photo of Ashley Bechtle, APN, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56dd26aa-6b1b-46bf-a49d-4bc801c35067/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Bechtle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manasquan, NJ 08736
As a psychiatric nurse, I bring a blend of intelligence, warmth, and non-judgmental understanding to every interaction. My foremost priority is to cultivate a safe and nurturing environment where patients feel heard, respected, and supported in their journey towards mental wellness. With a dedication to excellence, I offer comprehensive medication management services tailored to each individual's unique needs. Through active listening and collaboration, I empower patients to actively participate in their treatment plans, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed with empathy and professionalism.
As a psychiatric nurse, I bring a blend of intelligence, warmth, and non-judgmental understanding to every interaction. My foremost priority is to cultivate a safe and nurturing environment where patients feel heard, respected, and supported in their journey towards mental wellness. With a dedication to excellence, I offer comprehensive medication management services tailored to each individual's unique needs. Through active listening and collaboration, I empower patients to actively participate in their treatment plans, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed with empathy and professionalism.
![Photo of Suzanne Chrebet, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de0893ab-a564-4d92-b083-31342f36cfe7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Suzanne Chrebet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manasquan, NJ 08736
I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who believes in a holistic approach in order to satisfy one’s physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I utilize my knowledge and experience to provide medication management to assist patients in obtaining their specific treatment goals. Through comprehensive psychiatric assessment and utilization of evidence based treatments, my goal is to help individuals be the best version of themselves. I believe an important aspect to one’s treatment includes open communication between the client and provider.
I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who believes in a holistic approach in order to satisfy one’s physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I utilize my knowledge and experience to provide medication management to assist patients in obtaining their specific treatment goals. Through comprehensive psychiatric assessment and utilization of evidence based treatments, my goal is to help individuals be the best version of themselves. I believe an important aspect to one’s treatment includes open communication between the client and provider.
![Photo of Stephen Jaeger, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/340168bf-6e14-4aed-8a4f-4350ab1c7c78/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yale University trained psychiatrist, Dr. Stephen Jaeger’s philosophy on psychiatric care is grounded in his belief that every client is entitled to the highest quality personalized care. His unique approach focuses on individualized treatment plans. His mission is to optimize every aspect of your life and the individualized treatment plans are designed to do just that. Clients play an active role in tailoring their personalized treatment plan with Dr. Jaeger.
Yale University trained psychiatrist, Dr. Stephen Jaeger’s philosophy on psychiatric care is grounded in his belief that every client is entitled to the highest quality personalized care. His unique approach focuses on individualized treatment plans. His mission is to optimize every aspect of your life and the individualized treatment plans are designed to do just that. Clients play an active role in tailoring their personalized treatment plan with Dr. Jaeger.
![Photo of Michael Volodarskiy, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b728a9b-cd7a-486d-915a-e0dac940b4e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Volodarskiy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holmdel, NJ 07733
Hello, my name is Michael Volodarskiy, APRN, PMHNP-BC. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I take a holistic approach to client care, emphasizing collaboration and evidence-based individual treatment plans. With an additional certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner, I have worked in a variety of settings including primary care practice, community mental health centers, and inpatient and outpatient co-occurring MH/substance use facilities. My main focus is clients with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I value open communication and believe it is crucial to actively participate in the client's mental health journey.
Hello, my name is Michael Volodarskiy, APRN, PMHNP-BC. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I take a holistic approach to client care, emphasizing collaboration and evidence-based individual treatment plans. With an additional certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner, I have worked in a variety of settings including primary care practice, community mental health centers, and inpatient and outpatient co-occurring MH/substance use facilities. My main focus is clients with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I value open communication and believe it is crucial to actively participate in the client's mental health journey.
![Photo of Christine Tintorer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/488ec5b2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tintorer went to medical school at New Jersey Medical School, and went on to begin a residency in surgery before deciding that a career in psychiatry was where she wanted to be. She did her general psychiatry training at St. Vincent's Catholic Medical Center in Manhattan, then her Child and Adolescent Fellowship at St. Luke's Roosevelt Medical Center in Manhattan. She has rotated through a therapeutic school in NYC, worked in a substance abuse clinic in Brooklyn, and worked with psychiatric inpatient and outpatient children and adults in both NY and NJ. She has been in practice in Monmouth County since 2010.
Dr. Tintorer went to medical school at New Jersey Medical School, and went on to begin a residency in surgery before deciding that a career in psychiatry was where she wanted to be. She did her general psychiatry training at St. Vincent's Catholic Medical Center in Manhattan, then her Child and Adolescent Fellowship at St. Luke's Roosevelt Medical Center in Manhattan. She has rotated through a therapeutic school in NYC, worked in a substance abuse clinic in Brooklyn, and worked with psychiatric inpatient and outpatient children and adults in both NY and NJ. She has been in practice in Monmouth County since 2010.
![Photo of Dr. Deepti Varma, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7aa9b84d-9aaa-4557-8f12-e7582fc7fca4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been in practice for over 10 years and specialize in medication treatments for ADHD, Oppositional defiant disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, Autism spectrum disorder and tic disorders. I pursue a working alliance with families, schools, therapists, and pediatricians, including the review of prior assessments, as the basis of the treatment plan. My approach is to start with a thorough diagnosis and formulate a plan that includes medications, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, sleep hygiene, lab work and other lifestyle modifications to provide an individual treatment plan for each of my patients.
I have been in practice for over 10 years and specialize in medication treatments for ADHD, Oppositional defiant disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, Autism spectrum disorder and tic disorders. I pursue a working alliance with families, schools, therapists, and pediatricians, including the review of prior assessments, as the basis of the treatment plan. My approach is to start with a thorough diagnosis and formulate a plan that includes medications, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, sleep hygiene, lab work and other lifestyle modifications to provide an individual treatment plan for each of my patients.
![Photo of Dr. Jane Carolyn Boldridge-Clawson, PMHNP-B, FAPN-BC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6f46c8d-dd4f-4e87-b82a-5834b75a002b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jane Carolyn Boldridge-Clawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FAPN-BC, DNP
Verified Verified
Sea Bright, NJ 07760
Children, adolescents, and young adults may not verbalize or understand what is causing their stress, anxiety, and depression, but it may affect their behavior and choices. By working through their issues they can build a strong "toolbox" of coping skills that can help them through the crucial developmental stages so they can function as mentally healthy adults.
Children, adolescents, and young adults may not verbalize or understand what is causing their stress, anxiety, and depression, but it may affect their behavior and choices. By working through their issues they can build a strong "toolbox" of coping skills that can help them through the crucial developmental stages so they can function as mentally healthy adults.
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![Photo of Laura Bastone, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/573fe5e9-b096-4a64-930f-d2214ab55f4f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Bastone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726 (Online Only)
Laura Bastone is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides personalized mental health services to adults with an approachable style. She believes in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches. She strives to help you reach your full wellness potential.
Laura Bastone is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides personalized mental health services to adults with an approachable style. She believes in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches. She strives to help you reach your full wellness potential.
![Photo of Olga Esterov, MS, PA-C, CAQ Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eef91409-9430-439c-b934-ffe44c164e07/3/320x400.jpeg)
Olga Esterov
Physician Assistant, MS, PA-C, CAQ Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
I have been helping adolescents/adults navigate through difficult psychiatric/emotional states for over 10 years. I conduct psychiatric evaluations and initiate/manage medication. I employ an evidenced-based medical and holistic approach to treatment - incorporating lifestyle changes, nutrition, and meditation/breathing/relaxation exercises in addition to treatment with medication.
I have been helping adolescents/adults navigate through difficult psychiatric/emotional states for over 10 years. I conduct psychiatric evaluations and initiate/manage medication. I employ an evidenced-based medical and holistic approach to treatment - incorporating lifestyle changes, nutrition, and meditation/breathing/relaxation exercises in addition to treatment with medication.
![Photo of Akosua Ababio Constance Ababio - Clear Healthy Mind LLC, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0c97f73-3433-4793-b7ab-9df0d4a73ae3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clear Healthy Mind LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747
Akosua C. Ababio is a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. She trained at Northern Kentucky University in both medication management and psychotherapy. Akosua is also a trained Family Nurse Practitioner-BC. She treats patients of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors. Her non-judgemental approach to her practice in mental health is what makes her unique.
Akosua C. Ababio is a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. She trained at Northern Kentucky University in both medication management and psychotherapy. Akosua is also a trained Family Nurse Practitioner-BC. She treats patients of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors. Her non-judgemental approach to her practice in mental health is what makes her unique.
![Photo of Niru Shamsun Nahar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c043968-3717-4a9c-a6f7-91779f29a61b/1/320x400.png)
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist, specializing in both General Psychiatry and Addiction. My training was accomplished at prestigious institutions such as Harlem Hospital/Columbia University and NYSPI/Columbia University. With over 19 years in the field, I've dedicated my practice to helping individuals navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and more.
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist, specializing in both General Psychiatry and Addiction. My training was accomplished at prestigious institutions such as Harlem Hospital/Columbia University and NYSPI/Columbia University. With over 19 years in the field, I've dedicated my practice to helping individuals navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and more.
![Photo of Jessica Parekkadan Mohammed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1252363b-b16d-453c-b5db-c0320a468cfd/1/320x400.png)
Jessica Parekkadan Mohammed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701 (Online Only)
Jessica Parekkadan-Mohammed is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PHMNP-BC) who has over 12 years of experience working with individuals across the lifespan. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, postpartum depression, mood disorders, and panic disorders. Jessica earned her Master's degree in Nursing from the Royal College of Nursing and completed her Nurse Practitioner Program at Monmouth University.
Jessica Parekkadan-Mohammed is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PHMNP-BC) who has over 12 years of experience working with individuals across the lifespan. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, postpartum depression, mood disorders, and panic disorders. Jessica earned her Master's degree in Nursing from the Royal College of Nursing and completed her Nurse Practitioner Program at Monmouth University.
![Photo of Jason Leon Cohen - The Cohen Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c74cfed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
![Photo of Jennifer Levine, APRNC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c17a21d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been in practice since 2004. I have expertise in understanding and treating a wide range of emotional problems. I received my masters degree from Rutgers university and I have years of postgraduate psychoanalytic training. My education and years of experience have enabled me to provide a therapeutic non judgmental environment.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been in practice since 2004. I have expertise in understanding and treating a wide range of emotional problems. I received my masters degree from Rutgers university and I have years of postgraduate psychoanalytic training. My education and years of experience have enabled me to provide a therapeutic non judgmental environment.
![Photo of Sireesha Kolli - Kolli Psychiatric & Associates, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45489143-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kolli Psychiatric & Associates
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Red Bank, NJ 07701
With empathy, patience, and an approachable style, Kolli Psychiatric & Associates provides comprehensive mental health services to children, adults, and their families. Through the use of therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, we strive to help you reach your full wellness potential. Our practice consists of- Dr. Sireesha Kolli, a board-certified psychiatrist with training in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. While medical expertise forms the foundation of her treatment, her warmth, and sense of compassion are often cited by patients, families, and professionals as key motivating factors for success
With empathy, patience, and an approachable style, Kolli Psychiatric & Associates provides comprehensive mental health services to children, adults, and their families. Through the use of therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, we strive to help you reach your full wellness potential. Our practice consists of- Dr. Sireesha Kolli, a board-certified psychiatrist with training in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. While medical expertise forms the foundation of her treatment, her warmth, and sense of compassion are often cited by patients, families, and professionals as key motivating factors for success
![Photo of Staci Barilari, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3ecf9e8-ac27-415f-8b03-7d261eb5dac8/2/320x400.png)
Staci Barilari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belmar, NJ 07719 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Staci. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is dedicated to integrative care, specializing in anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health. I am committed to fostering holistic well-being and empowering individuals on their mental health journey. My appointments typically include medication management with talk therapy. I strive to create a strong relationship with my clients. Please send me an email to schedule an initial consultation. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
Hi! I'm Staci. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is dedicated to integrative care, specializing in anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health. I am committed to fostering holistic well-being and empowering individuals on their mental health journey. My appointments typically include medication management with talk therapy. I strive to create a strong relationship with my clients. Please send me an email to schedule an initial consultation. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
See more therapy options for Monmouth County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Monmouth County, NJ
100+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Monmouth County, NJ who prioritize treating:
91% | Depression |
91% | Anxiety |
80% | Medication Management |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
83% | Aetna |
78% | Cigna and Evernorth |
69% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Monmouth County, NJ see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
29% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Monmouth County?
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.