Psychiatrists in Northfield, NJ
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d43188a-cd94-48f9-83ef-8b927ef6e619/1/320x400.png)
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Amanda Guarnere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b229493-fec0-43b8-a30d-55fb033c6ee9/2/320x400.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 Karen Yeboah-Norment, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09c57c93-0509-4d39-897b-d10cd8cf308f/2/320x400.png)
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Northfield, NJ 08225
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/0b383fc5-fa13-486d-9579-c2e568a11cdd/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 Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6e3250e-9b78-47c0-b0ba-3872ce18e0d4/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Northfield, NJ 08225
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 Gabriel Essilfie, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa15cb88-4e9a-45b8-87cc-226e0a2d7c62/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Denise Vanacore Chase, FNP, PMHNP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86f4b296-1f56-4246-a7fe-9362207c32e7/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Denise Vanacore Chase
Psychiatric Nurse, FNP, PMHNP, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Galloway, NJ 08205 (Online Only)
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it.
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it.
![Photo of Melanie Fillian - Counseling & Consulting Services of North Jersey, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3634ae12-82a5-46e3-85bd-7e98eb744a9f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling & Consulting Services of North Jersey
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Atlantic City, NJ 08400
We provide the highest quality of care in prescribing mental health medications. CCSNJ is a beautiful and established facility that individualizes ALL our patients. You will have direct access to your prescriber and can contact them at any time. New medication, Side effects, text us! We are flexible to accommodate you offering Tele-health and flexible hours for treatment. The turn around time for appointments can be anywhere from 4-48 hours. We also have a staff of specialists offering comprehensive treatment if you are in need of psychotherapy ,kids, couples,or family counseling, in addition to your medication.
We provide the highest quality of care in prescribing mental health medications. CCSNJ is a beautiful and established facility that individualizes ALL our patients. You will have direct access to your prescriber and can contact them at any time. New medication, Side effects, text us! We are flexible to accommodate you offering Tele-health and flexible hours for treatment. The turn around time for appointments can be anywhere from 4-48 hours. We also have a staff of specialists offering comprehensive treatment if you are in need of psychotherapy ,kids, couples,or family counseling, in addition to your medication.
![Photo of Coleen Serzanin, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2b70bf1-46c4-4679-8bca-2dec2c00e157/1/320x400.jpeg)
Coleen Serzanin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somers Point, NJ 08244
Hello! You've already done the hard part by reaching out for assistance; now let's work together to reach your goals. I have a Master of Science in Nursing and a Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. I've been a part of the healthcare field for almost two decades now.
Hello! You've already done the hard part by reaching out for assistance; now let's work together to reach your goals. I have a Master of Science in Nursing and a Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. I've been a part of the healthcare field for almost two decades now.
![Photo of Letisha Hogans Evolve N Change, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07aba0b0-5d5c-425a-881a-f2e7faba6495/1/320x400.jpeg)
Letisha Hogans Evolve N Change
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mays Landing, NJ 08330
Threat Assessments. Accepting New Clients. We will work with you to help you develop the strategies you need to get back on the path that leads to happiness, joy and success. Together, we will work to address the issues you are facing and come through on the other side with a new way of thinking, and confidently take on a new direction in life. We will work closely together to analyze what struggles you are facing and their underlying causes and try to change the behaviors and thought patterns that are keeping you from being the person you want to be.
Threat Assessments. Accepting New Clients. We will work with you to help you develop the strategies you need to get back on the path that leads to happiness, joy and success. Together, we will work to address the issues you are facing and come through on the other side with a new way of thinking, and confidently take on a new direction in life. We will work closely together to analyze what struggles you are facing and their underlying causes and try to change the behaviors and thought patterns that are keeping you from being the person you want to be.
![Photo of Svetlana Aynbinder, PMHNP, BC, MSN, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc985543-e5b3-4f4b-a922-b3a99f234c60/1/320x400.jpeg)
Svetlana Aynbinder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
I love working and encouraging people to be an active participants in their treatment, by offering a holistic approach to their mental health. In today's world, when so many people feel alone, depressed and anxious, I am here to provide a safe and nurturing environment so that you feel seen and heard. I offer support to patients and caregivers, assisting people going through the process of grief. By working together, we establish individual goals and steps to meet them in customized manner.
I love working and encouraging people to be an active participants in their treatment, by offering a holistic approach to their mental health. In today's world, when so many people feel alone, depressed and anxious, I am here to provide a safe and nurturing environment so that you feel seen and heard. I offer support to patients and caregivers, assisting people going through the process of grief. By working together, we establish individual goals and steps to meet them in customized manner.
![Photo of Anna Attardi, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d72cd11-5f1f-400c-8297-5ea03f423f30/1/320x400.png)
From my humble beginnings in EMS, mental health has always been a passion of mine. I was able to help those with psychiatric emergencies outside of a hospital setting. I realized how mental health is greatly impacted by jobs like being an EMT, police officer, firefighter, paramedic, and nurse. My ideal client is someone willing to be active in their care. Collaboration is a priority to necessitate a strong patient-provider relationship. I provide consistent patient education to empower clients to make educated choices regarding their care plan. I have a clinical background of working with veterans of all ages and adolescents.
From my humble beginnings in EMS, mental health has always been a passion of mine. I was able to help those with psychiatric emergencies outside of a hospital setting. I realized how mental health is greatly impacted by jobs like being an EMT, police officer, firefighter, paramedic, and nurse. My ideal client is someone willing to be active in their care. Collaboration is a priority to necessitate a strong patient-provider relationship. I provide consistent patient education to empower clients to make educated choices regarding their care plan. I have a clinical background of working with veterans of all ages and adolescents.
![Photo of Darian Kopp, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3539f6eb-696e-4b26-bea3-aaa621419a4a/2/320x400.png)
Darian Kopp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Atlantic City, NJ 08401
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Darian and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Chronic illness and Depression. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Darian and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Chronic illness and Depression. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
![Photo of Loretta Sernekos, CRNP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55284b60-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Loretta Sernekos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somers Point, NJ 08244 (Online Only)
Dr. Loretta Sernekos, PhD, CRNP of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, provides holistic, empathic, and evidence-based care to her patients. Her prior experience as a nurse practitioner in outpatient primary care informs her thinking regarding psychiatric conditions and their relationship to the whole person’s physical and emotional health. Her appointment as a Senior Lecturer, teaching pharmacology and pathophysiology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing allows her to stay current with evidence-based diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric conditions, as well as other medical conditions.
Dr. Loretta Sernekos, PhD, CRNP of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, provides holistic, empathic, and evidence-based care to her patients. Her prior experience as a nurse practitioner in outpatient primary care informs her thinking regarding psychiatric conditions and their relationship to the whole person’s physical and emotional health. Her appointment as a Senior Lecturer, teaching pharmacology and pathophysiology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing allows her to stay current with evidence-based diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric conditions, as well as other medical conditions.
![Photo of Lisa Carol Diamond, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c136864f-8da9-426e-8d1a-261b844c2207/1/320x400.jpeg)
I treat children, adolescents, and adult patients who are looking for a psychiatrist that provides comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
I treat children, adolescents, and adult patients who are looking for a psychiatrist that provides comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
![Photo of Dr. Luiza Asahme-Triolo, PsyD, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d35a99d3-4804-4bb5-8a8e-b0deb02622fb/5/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Luiza Asahme-Triolo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Galloway, NJ 08205
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or going through a challenging time? Have you trialed numerous medications without any success, and continue to have symptoms? I am Dr. Asahme-Triolo (PsyD, PMHNP-BC) the founder and CEO of Oasis Better Health, and Southern Oasis Better Health, working with clients, both children/adolescents and adults, to manage symptoms through psychopharmacology. In addition, we have therapists available in the practice, able to see child, adolescent and adult clients, for individual therapy, utilizing various therapeutic modalities, for the best fit.
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or going through a challenging time? Have you trialed numerous medications without any success, and continue to have symptoms? I am Dr. Asahme-Triolo (PsyD, PMHNP-BC) the founder and CEO of Oasis Better Health, and Southern Oasis Better Health, working with clients, both children/adolescents and adults, to manage symptoms through psychopharmacology. In addition, we have therapists available in the practice, able to see child, adolescent and adult clients, for individual therapy, utilizing various therapeutic modalities, for the best fit.
![Photo of Amanda Nahas-Wilson, MSN, APN, AGPCNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b70cf38-7d42-46fb-be29-40914cca6cf3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Nahas-Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, AGPCNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Somers Point, NJ 08244
In today's world we are constantly inundated with stressors and things that seem to make life unmanageable. We can often times feel alone, feel like no one else feels what we feel, and even worse, feel like no one would understand if they heard us express ourselves. Sometimes all we need is know that someone is there to listen, to hear us, to say, you are not alone.
In today's world we are constantly inundated with stressors and things that seem to make life unmanageable. We can often times feel alone, feel like no one else feels what we feel, and even worse, feel like no one would understand if they heard us express ourselves. Sometimes all we need is know that someone is there to listen, to hear us, to say, you are not alone.
![Photo of Srisai Gowda, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4547773-28fb-4d74-ac08-c4e58e851671/2/320x400.jpeg)
We specialize in Treatment Resistant Depression- offering State of the art TMS ( Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) therapy, IV Ketamine and Spravato treatment. We look forward to helping you or a loved one. Dr. Srisai Gowda is a leading double Board–Certified Psychiatrist practicing over 25 years at the Jersey Shore. Dr. Gowda is committed to improving patients’ overall wellness, avoiding “Pill for every ill mantra”. We provide Suboxone therapy, TMS & IV Ketamine/ Esketamine therapy in office.
We specialize in Treatment Resistant Depression- offering State of the art TMS ( Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) therapy, IV Ketamine and Spravato treatment. We look forward to helping you or a loved one. Dr. Srisai Gowda is a leading double Board–Certified Psychiatrist practicing over 25 years at the Jersey Shore. Dr. Gowda is committed to improving patients’ overall wellness, avoiding “Pill for every ill mantra”. We provide Suboxone therapy, TMS & IV Ketamine/ Esketamine therapy in office.
![Photo of Dr. Tony Issac, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57026ab1-002e-48b6-b2de-a67fd509e5e6/1/320x400.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 Helen Blackman, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14e2f7b3-4d46-46c1-90d9-e4c1d91b6d10/4/320x400.jpeg)
Helen Blackman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Atlantic City, NJ 08400 (Online Only)
Dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for delivering comprehensive care to individuals experiencing a range of mental health disorders and addictions. With a Master of Science in Nursing from Fairleigh Dickinson University, I bring over 3 years of clinical expertise in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning for diverse populations. Specialized in mental health disorder and addiction.
Dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for delivering comprehensive care to individuals experiencing a range of mental health disorders and addictions. With a Master of Science in Nursing from Fairleigh Dickinson University, I bring over 3 years of clinical expertise in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning for diverse populations. Specialized in mental health disorder and addiction.
See more therapy options for Northfield
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Northfield, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Northfield, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
83% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Addiction |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Medication Management |
67% | Stress |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | AmeriHealth |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Northfield, NJ see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Northfield?
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.