Psychiatrists in Neptune, NJ
![Photo of Christala Cherry, MSN, APN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c78472d-1f9c-4b24-b302-9af94156f31f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christala Cherry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Neptune, NJ 07753 (Online Only)
My focus is a spiritual, integrative, holistic approach to assist you in your journey to optimal mental health and wellness. My clients enjoy a partnership being an active participant in their well being, and are willing to participate in talk therapy if medication is required. My clients prefer take fewer prescription medications, and to taper down dosing of their medications as much as possible. They are open to alternative therapies because they want to feel better and be the best version of themselves.
My focus is a spiritual, integrative, holistic approach to assist you in your journey to optimal mental health and wellness. My clients enjoy a partnership being an active participant in their well being, and are willing to participate in talk therapy if medication is required. My clients prefer take fewer prescription medications, and to taper down dosing of their medications as much as possible. They are open to alternative therapies because they want to feel better and be the best version of themselves.
![Photo of L. E. Loray, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0188854-bc8a-48b3-a322-e764a606dc9f/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have worked with clients across the lifespan, specializing in depression and anxiety disorders, mood dysregulation, trauma, addictions, attachment disruptions, and those struggling with adjustment and difficult transitions through life. My main approach to treatment is developing a collaborative relationship with my clients to enhance and foster an environment where patients feel validated while working to improve their psychosocial functioning. For those looking for a more holistic approach to treating mental health issues, I also offer Integrative Psychiatry services.
As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have worked with clients across the lifespan, specializing in depression and anxiety disorders, mood dysregulation, trauma, addictions, attachment disruptions, and those struggling with adjustment and difficult transitions through life. My main approach to treatment is developing a collaborative relationship with my clients to enhance and foster an environment where patients feel validated while working to improve their psychosocial functioning. For those looking for a more holistic approach to treating mental health issues, I also offer Integrative Psychiatry services.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jennifer O'Scanlon, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4db6b5d-438b-497a-8719-a83a49cb2786/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer O'Scanlon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ocean, NJ 07712
You have probably been going to therapy for some time now. You've made progress but there are still days when you feel anxious or depressed. This may be holding you back from meeting your goals and it's where I can help. I offer medication management at the lowest doses possible to help reduce your symptoms allowing you to fully engage in your therapy. With symptoms reduced you will be able to fully utilize all the skills you’ve learned, allowing you to heal and better handle life's stressors.
You have probably been going to therapy for some time now. You've made progress but there are still days when you feel anxious or depressed. This may be holding you back from meeting your goals and it's where I can help. I offer medication management at the lowest doses possible to help reduce your symptoms allowing you to fully engage in your therapy. With symptoms reduced you will be able to fully utilize all the skills you’ve learned, allowing you to heal and better handle life's stressors.
![Photo of Samantha Colón, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71e5895f-a2ea-48e3-afa0-e06c871d6d9d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Colón
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wall, NJ 07719
Are you going through a tough time and it’s impacting your ability to function as an employee, parent, spouse, or just don’t feel yourself? I’m Samantha, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have been able to work with many adults and young adults through significant symptoms of anxiety, depression, executive difficulties, or stressful times. Together we can find ways to manage symptoms, get to a healthier place in your life and an improved version of yourself. I am happy to meet your goals, big or small, I take pride in advocating for my patients. Please click on “my website” to BOOK, or visit arieswellness.info
Are you going through a tough time and it’s impacting your ability to function as an employee, parent, spouse, or just don’t feel yourself? I’m Samantha, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have been able to work with many adults and young adults through significant symptoms of anxiety, depression, executive difficulties, or stressful times. Together we can find ways to manage symptoms, get to a healthier place in your life and an improved version of yourself. I am happy to meet your goals, big or small, I take pride in advocating for my patients. Please click on “my website” to BOOK, or visit arieswellness.info
![Photo of Jacqueline M Iannacone, MSN, PMHNP , CARN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d89bfa0e-cc23-455a-95d6-de7668b814bb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline M Iannacone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP , CARN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wall, NJ 07719
Behavioral Health services provided by a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that is dedicated to providing quality care and treating the whole person, including the body, mind and spirit. With experience in evaluation and medication management across the lifespan, I treat a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and substance use disorders, including opiate and alcohol use, anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders.
Behavioral Health services provided by a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that is dedicated to providing quality care and treating the whole person, including the body, mind and spirit. With experience in evaluation and medication management across the lifespan, I treat a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and substance use disorders, including opiate and alcohol use, anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Liju Mathew - Lumina Psychiatry LLC, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f6cd9d4-5540-4243-8f93-ea03362ed311/2/320x400.png)
Lumina Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Bradley Beach, NJ 07720 (Online Only)
As a dual-certified nurse practitioner specializing in both psychiatric mental health and family health, I bring over 14 years of experience to each consultation. I am particularly skilled in addressing a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD/ADD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and panic disorders. My expertise extends to initiating and managing complex medication regimes, such as stimulant therapies for ADHD and long-term benzodiazepine treatment, ensuring safety and effectiveness.
As a dual-certified nurse practitioner specializing in both psychiatric mental health and family health, I bring over 14 years of experience to each consultation. I am particularly skilled in addressing a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD/ADD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and panic disorders. My expertise extends to initiating and managing complex medication regimes, such as stimulant therapies for ADHD and long-term benzodiazepine treatment, ensuring safety and effectiveness.
![Photo of Dr. Tony Issac, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81e36bd6-9126-40e2-8a8f-bed5c323fa23/1/320x400.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 John R De Oca, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c55f539-e2bc-4d88-b143-1980808e19fd/1/320x400.png)
John R De Oca
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asbury Park, NJ 07712 (Online Only)
I aspire to help those that are struggling navigating the complexity of their relationships or for those that feel relationships are challenging and difficult. Whether it is navigating the modern dating world, dealing with a long-term partner, recovering from a friendship breakup, feeling lonely with your current friends, or not getting a long with a boss or colleague, relationships are at the essence of our every day lives. So it is my aim to help you connect better all around.
I aspire to help those that are struggling navigating the complexity of their relationships or for those that feel relationships are challenging and difficult. Whether it is navigating the modern dating world, dealing with a long-term partner, recovering from a friendship breakup, feeling lonely with your current friends, or not getting a long with a boss or colleague, relationships are at the essence of our every day lives. So it is my aim to help you connect better all around.
![Photo of Alexander Iofin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5472d077-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am dedicated to providing personalized and quality psychiatric care to help achieve the life you have always wanted. I specialize in Adult ADHD, ADD, and Anxiety disorders. I look at the whole individual, not just your symptoms, to better understand underlying components that may be affecting your mental health. Many adults who suffer from ADHD don't know they have the condition. Currently, its thought that only 10.9% of adults with ADHD are getting the necessary treatment. A self-report screener is available on my website for Adult ADHD. Don't let Anxiety or ADHD keep you from living your best life.
I am dedicated to providing personalized and quality psychiatric care to help achieve the life you have always wanted. I specialize in Adult ADHD, ADD, and Anxiety disorders. I look at the whole individual, not just your symptoms, to better understand underlying components that may be affecting your mental health. Many adults who suffer from ADHD don't know they have the condition. Currently, its thought that only 10.9% of adults with ADHD are getting the necessary treatment. A self-report screener is available on my website for Adult ADHD. Don't let Anxiety or ADHD keep you from living your best life.
![Photo of Guerline Dume-Lotin, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/306eae25-9662-42a1-ab16-365db5753b0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Guerline Dume-Lotin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wall Township, NJ 07719
I treat every individual uniquely. I take my time to learn about every client, to diagnose and to treat properly. I feel that sharing the plan of care with my clients and make them an essential key player in the success of the treatment. My goal is to assist my clients to reach their goals and live their life to their optimal capacity as they desire.
I treat every individual uniquely. I take my time to learn about every client, to diagnose and to treat properly. I feel that sharing the plan of care with my clients and make them an essential key player in the success of the treatment. My goal is to assist my clients to reach their goals and live their life to their optimal capacity as they desire.
![Photo of Jason Leon Cohen - The Cohen Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e698217-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the first 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 the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment
Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the first 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 the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment
![Photo of Dr. Andrew Manoski, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eedc9af4-57a7-4351-b616-3bad2ae9f594/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Andrew Manoski
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wall, NJ 07719
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently looking for clients interested in working on their mental well-being through a deeper understanding of themselves. Through this work of introspection, we hope to better manage relationship conflicts, recurring issues with anxiety or moods, and self-sabotaging behaviors. By better understanding our past ways of interacting and experiencing the world, we can more more consciously work toward goals for the future.
I am currently looking for clients interested in working on their mental well-being through a deeper understanding of themselves. Through this work of introspection, we hope to better manage relationship conflicts, recurring issues with anxiety or moods, and self-sabotaging behaviors. By better understanding our past ways of interacting and experiencing the world, we can more more consciously work toward goals for the future.
![Photo of Abir Marcus, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8027367-ebdb-4a04-9469-594f57ad19a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marcus offers individualized approach in her treatments. She uses state of art treatments recommendations for the presenting problem while tailoring it to your personality and life style. Dr. Marcus is specialized in working with mood disorders such as Depression and Bipolar Disorders spectrum, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders. She is also certified in addiction treatments including Detoxification, working on abstinence or harm reduction through the use of medications and therapy. Dr. Marcus is certified to prescribe Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol.
Dr. Marcus offers individualized approach in her treatments. She uses state of art treatments recommendations for the presenting problem while tailoring it to your personality and life style. Dr. Marcus is specialized in working with mood disorders such as Depression and Bipolar Disorders spectrum, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders. She is also certified in addiction treatments including Detoxification, working on abstinence or harm reduction through the use of medications and therapy. Dr. Marcus is certified to prescribe Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol.
![Photo of Peter Litwin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9267f477-9ca8-4781-92c6-de98a53bcc4e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Peter Litwin is an Adult Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 1995. He completed medical school at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, after which he did his adult psychiatric residency at Albert Einstein. Dr. Litwin offers all his clients support, hope, and education about their clinical issues. He also connects with them on a personal level, and truly appreciates their commitment to treatment. Dr. Litwin is accountable and reliable. His medication management skills have been honed over 30 years of clinical practice.
Dr. Peter Litwin is an Adult Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 1995. He completed medical school at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, after which he did his adult psychiatric residency at Albert Einstein. Dr. Litwin offers all his clients support, hope, and education about their clinical issues. He also connects with them on a personal level, and truly appreciates their commitment to treatment. Dr. Litwin is accountable and reliable. His medication management skills have been honed over 30 years of clinical practice.
![Photo of Arjun(AJ) Swamy, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86532a98-8f68-46c3-a2da-9d0122157c92/1/320x400.png)
I’m a Psychiatry PA that treats children, adolescents and adults with OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD and Alcohol Use Disorder. I believe less medication is better - however, I work with people to find a regimen that might help improve their lives. I have experience with treating various members of the community including healthcare workers, veterans, police officers, teachers, clergy, LGBTQA+, BIPOC and more. In my free time I like to spend time with my wife and son, hike, play guitar, go on meditation retreats and perform improv comedy.
I’m a Psychiatry PA that treats children, adolescents and adults with OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD and Alcohol Use Disorder. I believe less medication is better - however, I work with people to find a regimen that might help improve their lives. I have experience with treating various members of the community including healthcare workers, veterans, police officers, teachers, clergy, LGBTQA+, BIPOC and more. In my free time I like to spend time with my wife and son, hike, play guitar, go on meditation retreats and perform improv comedy.
![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 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!
![Photo of Dr. Ruben Rupendra Singh - Ruben Singh MD LLC, MD, DABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b38ca521-f91a-4466-ae96-dec0bd45fd47/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer a very empathic, compassionate, and individualized evaluation and treatment of a diverse population of every persuasion without any biases or prejudices and treat everyone with respect and dignity, no matter of their background or past history, and expect openness to reveal their innermost feelings for growth to happen to reach their highest potential. If you have treatment-resistant or complex problems in need of fine-tuning your medication regimen I will be able to provide the most up-to-date treatment modalities. To begin it's very easy all you have to do is be yourself and the rest therapist will handle.
I offer a very empathic, compassionate, and individualized evaluation and treatment of a diverse population of every persuasion without any biases or prejudices and treat everyone with respect and dignity, no matter of their background or past history, and expect openness to reveal their innermost feelings for growth to happen to reach their highest potential. If you have treatment-resistant or complex problems in need of fine-tuning your medication regimen I will be able to provide the most up-to-date treatment modalities. To begin it's very easy all you have to do is be yourself and the rest therapist will handle.
![Photo of Treasure Santos, PMHNP, Mount L, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52ebe1c3-4806-423f-ab68-05731a93c646/2/320x400.jpeg)
Treasure Santos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, Mount L
Verified Verified
Wall Township, NJ 07719
I received my Master of Science in Nursing, with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, from LaSalle University in Philadelphia, PA. I am certified through the American Nurses Credentialing center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and am licensed through the state of New Jersey as an Advanced Practice Nurse. I am also a member of the American Nurses Association and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. The focus of the majority of my experience has been with adult populations within the inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use treatment settings.
I received my Master of Science in Nursing, with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, from LaSalle University in Philadelphia, PA. I am certified through the American Nurses Credentialing center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and am licensed through the state of New Jersey as an Advanced Practice Nurse. I am also a member of the American Nurses Association and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. The focus of the majority of my experience has been with adult populations within the inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use treatment settings.
![Photo of Miriam Tetelbom - Miriam Tetelbom MD LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/154a874c-4050-4cdc-806b-6debbb0c31b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
During consultations, I focus on being supportive and understanding while at the same time being a very thorough professional. I have over thirty years of experience in various levels of care, assisting and guiding clients to adjust to new life situations. Taking the necessary time to listen to you helps me make the best evaluation and together we come up with a treatment plan. Before establishing my practice in the United States, I have also had a wide range of experience in Brazil, where for fifteen years, I worked as a clinical psychiatrist and taught medical students and psychiatry residents.I lecture in conferences as well.
During consultations, I focus on being supportive and understanding while at the same time being a very thorough professional. I have over thirty years of experience in various levels of care, assisting and guiding clients to adjust to new life situations. Taking the necessary time to listen to you helps me make the best evaluation and together we come up with a treatment plan. Before establishing my practice in the United States, I have also had a wide range of experience in Brazil, where for fifteen years, I worked as a clinical psychiatrist and taught medical students and psychiatry residents.I lecture in conferences as well.
See more therapy options for Neptune
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Neptune, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Neptune, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Other |
100% | Autism |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
100% | Behavioral Issues |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | AmeriHealth |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Horizon Healthcare |
How Psychiatrists in Neptune, NJ see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Neptune?
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.