Psychiatrists in Oakhurst, NJ
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? 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 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 approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? 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 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 approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Amanda Decker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Red Bank, NJ 07701 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Mandy and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in integrative psychiatry. I work with all ages and my goal is to promote optimal wellness, rather than just stick a bandage on a wound via a pill. Integrative psychiatry means western medicine and eastern medicine. I do prescribe medication, however I may also recommend nutraceuticals, mind body approaches, and/or other therapeutic, holistic, energetic, or complementary means. I also deprescribe. My goal is to help you heal and help YOU get to know YOU better!
Hi, my name is Mandy and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in integrative psychiatry. I work with all ages and my goal is to promote optimal wellness, rather than just stick a bandage on a wound via a pill. Integrative psychiatry means western medicine and eastern medicine. I do prescribe medication, however I may also recommend nutraceuticals, mind body approaches, and/or other therapeutic, holistic, energetic, or complementary means. I also deprescribe. My goal is to help you heal and help YOU get to know YOU better!
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.
Joseph L Spitalieri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Neptune, NJ 07753
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach to mental health care is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and holistic well-being. I believe that each individual is unique, deserving of personalized care that acknowledges their specific needs, experiences, and goals. My philosophy centers on the idea that mental health is an integral part of overall wellness. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued. By building strong, trusting relationships, I empower individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions, fostering self-discovery and resilience.
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach to mental health care is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and holistic well-being. I believe that each individual is unique, deserving of personalized care that acknowledges their specific needs, experiences, and goals. My philosophy centers on the idea that mental health is an integral part of overall wellness. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued. By building strong, trusting relationships, I empower individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions, fostering self-discovery and resilience.
Denise Owen-Fabricius
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN
Verified Verified
Rumson, NJ 07760 (Online Only)
Pairing therapy & medication to treat depression & anxiety can help you feel better faster with a 50- 60% improved rate of recovery. I treat issues, such as ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, and OCD. One of my special interests is ADHD, both childhood & adult. I perform ADHD evals and treat ADHD, which includes prescribing stimulants, if warranted. Symptoms in adults can be poor listening skills, inability to follow through with tasks, low frustration tolerance, and impulsivity which can lead to a number of difficulties with your job, family relationships, friendships, romantic relationships, and other social connections.
Pairing therapy & medication to treat depression & anxiety can help you feel better faster with a 50- 60% improved rate of recovery. I treat issues, such as ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, and OCD. One of my special interests is ADHD, both childhood & adult. I perform ADHD evals and treat ADHD, which includes prescribing stimulants, if warranted. Symptoms in adults can be poor listening skills, inability to follow through with tasks, low frustration tolerance, and impulsivity which can lead to a number of difficulties with your job, family relationships, friendships, romantic relationships, and other social connections.
It's unrealistic for me to say I can instantly and magically make all your troubles disappear ,so I won't promise you that. But I promise to do my best to help you. I am a board-certified telepsychiatrist with 22 years of clinical experience seeing adults from all walks of life. I completed my psychiatric residency at Brown University in Providence, RI where I learned the art and science of psychiatry. I provide psychotherapy and medication management online . I only prescribe psychotropic medications when medically necessary. I have a 100% multi-state telepsychiatry practice.
It's unrealistic for me to say I can instantly and magically make all your troubles disappear ,so I won't promise you that. But I promise to do my best to help you. I am a board-certified telepsychiatrist with 22 years of clinical experience seeing adults from all walks of life. I completed my psychiatric residency at Brown University in Providence, RI where I learned the art and science of psychiatry. I provide psychotherapy and medication management online . I only prescribe psychotropic medications when medically necessary. I have a 100% multi-state telepsychiatry practice.
Abby Road Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Mental illness and addiction overtakes all aspects of a person's life. Too often the resources that are available to help are out of reach for most. Our practice offers the compassion, empathy, and time that you may not have been offered in the past. You and your family deserve to be treated in a professional environment by staff that care. Our focus is guiding you through the healing process and keeping control of your mental health and recovery in your hands.
Mental illness and addiction overtakes all aspects of a person's life. Too often the resources that are available to help are out of reach for most. Our practice offers the compassion, empathy, and time that you may not have been offered in the past. You and your family deserve to be treated in a professional environment by staff that care. Our focus is guiding you through the healing process and keeping control of your mental health and recovery in your hands.
Denise Huebler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Rumson, NJ 07760 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Denise and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Burnout, Binge Eating Disorder, Chronic Illness, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Family Issues, Insomnia- Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+, Gender & Sexuality Topics, Loss, Grief, and Bereavement, OCD, PTSD, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Stress Management. 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 Denise and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Burnout, Binge Eating Disorder, Chronic Illness, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Family Issues, Insomnia- Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+, Gender & Sexuality Topics, Loss, Grief, and Bereavement, OCD, PTSD, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Stress Management. 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.
Nilda L Chapema
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Eatontown, NJ 07799 (Online Only)
As a dedicated and experienced Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Care, I am here to guide you on your journey towards optimal mental health and overall well-being. With a decade of hands-on clinical expertise, I am committed to elevating the standard of mental healthcare through compassionate engagement, preventive strategies, and tailored treatments. My patient-centric approach ensures that your unique needs are met with the utmost care and attention. Together, we can achieve consistently high-quality outcomes, empowering you to lead a fulfilling and balanced life. Let's work together to break the stigma surrounding mental heal
As a dedicated and experienced Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Care, I am here to guide you on your journey towards optimal mental health and overall well-being. With a decade of hands-on clinical expertise, I am committed to elevating the standard of mental healthcare through compassionate engagement, preventive strategies, and tailored treatments. My patient-centric approach ensures that your unique needs are met with the utmost care and attention. Together, we can achieve consistently high-quality outcomes, empowering you to lead a fulfilling and balanced life. Let's work together to break the stigma surrounding mental heal
Julia Nuzzo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-CN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722 (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting my page. I am a Master’s educated, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Advanced Practice Nurse with a holistic approach to all aspects of patient care. I have an extensive background in the critical care setting, helping to stabilize acutely ill patients with psychiatric and medical conditions. My passion to help patients achieve full wellness is complimented by holistic care.
Thank you for visiting my page. I am a Master’s educated, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Advanced Practice Nurse with a holistic approach to all aspects of patient care. I have an extensive background in the critical care setting, helping to stabilize acutely ill patients with psychiatric and medical conditions. My passion to help patients achieve full wellness is complimented by holistic care.
Jennifer O'Scanlon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Red Bank, NJ 07701
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
I have been a practicing psychiatrist for 30 years in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient public clinics and outpatient private practice settings. I have recently been transitioning my practice to all pediatrics ages 5 to 17. I have a particular interest in pediatric OCD and have been involved with and trained by the international OCD foundation in therapy and medication treatment of pediatric OCD.
I have been a practicing psychiatrist for 30 years in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient public clinics and outpatient private practice settings. I have recently been transitioning my practice to all pediatrics ages 5 to 17. I have a particular interest in pediatric OCD and have been involved with and trained by the international OCD foundation in therapy and medication treatment of pediatric OCD.
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.
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.
Jersey Shore Behavioral Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wall, NJ 07719
I have over 27 years experience in the field of psychiatry in the following environments: inpatient psychiatry, crisis (PESS), and outpatient settings (adolescent and adult). I earned my BSN in 1996 from Trenton State College (College of New Jersey) and MSN from Monmouth university in 2018. I believe in a collaborative approach with my clients, and place a strong emphasis on education regarding medication management. My prescriptive practice is conservative and I encourage my clients to be active participants in their healthcare management.
I have over 27 years experience in the field of psychiatry in the following environments: inpatient psychiatry, crisis (PESS), and outpatient settings (adolescent and adult). I earned my BSN in 1996 from Trenton State College (College of New Jersey) and MSN from Monmouth university in 2018. I believe in a collaborative approach with my clients, and place a strong emphasis on education regarding medication management. My prescriptive practice is conservative and I encourage my clients to be active participants in their healthcare management.
I believe that everyone deserves access to compassionate, comprehensive mental health care. My mission is to empower you to overcome personal obstacles to improve your life, fostering a sense of hope, resilience, and self-efficacy. Together, we can work to manage your symptoms, understand your experiences, and cultivate a more fulfilling life.
I believe that everyone deserves access to compassionate, comprehensive mental health care. My mission is to empower you to overcome personal obstacles to improve your life, fostering a sense of hope, resilience, and self-efficacy. Together, we can work to manage your symptoms, understand your experiences, and cultivate a more fulfilling life.
See more therapy options for Oakhurst
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Oakhurst, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Oakhurst, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Chronic Pain |
100% | Infertility |
100% | Grief |
How Psychiatrists in Oakhurst, NJ see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Oakhurst?
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.