Psychiatrists in Park Ridge, NJ
Dr. Sam Sostre is a Board Certified Psychiatrist that has been practicing psychiatry since 1993. She received her undergraduate degree at New York University with a bachelors in Biology and Literature with honors. She obtained her medical degree from the SUNY School of Medicine at Buffalo, and she received her internship and residency training at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine-Montefiore in New York City, and also completed her fellowship in administration and psychotherapy at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York.
Dr. Sam Sostre is a Board Certified Psychiatrist that has been practicing psychiatry since 1993. She received her undergraduate degree at New York University with a bachelors in Biology and Literature with honors. She obtained her medical degree from the SUNY School of Medicine at Buffalo, and she received her internship and residency training at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine-Montefiore in New York City, and also completed her fellowship in administration and psychotherapy at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kemisola “Kemi” Ebietomiye, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3f0161b-bbc0-4292-ad10-6a0e6d683ea4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kemisola “Kemi” Ebietomiye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601 (Online Only)
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring a unique blend of experiences to practice. With a solid foundation forged during my eight-year tenure in the United States Army, I developed resilience, discipline and a commitment to service. I attended Chamberlain University for my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and earned my Master of Science in Nursing in Leadership and Administration from Capella University. Subsequently, I obtained a post-master’s certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from Walden University.
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring a unique blend of experiences to practice. With a solid foundation forged during my eight-year tenure in the United States Army, I developed resilience, discipline and a commitment to service. I attended Chamberlain University for my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and earned my Master of Science in Nursing in Leadership and Administration from Capella University. Subsequently, I obtained a post-master’s certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from Walden University.
![Photo of Elizabeth Baylor, MSN, PMHNPBC, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b3aeac5-f124-410c-ab5b-ad0fef139a73/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Baylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am an ANCC board-certified PMHNP. I received my MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health from Virginia Commonwealth University. I worked as an RN on a trauma step-down unit, helping patients who had endured bodily trauma and patients withdrawing from substances. The clinical experience I received during my training was largely with inpatient mood disorder and forensic psychiatric populations with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder. When I began to work as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, that experience influenced my decision to focus on mental health.
I am an ANCC board-certified PMHNP. I received my MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health from Virginia Commonwealth University. I worked as an RN on a trauma step-down unit, helping patients who had endured bodily trauma and patients withdrawing from substances. The clinical experience I received during my training was largely with inpatient mood disorder and forensic psychiatric populations with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder. When I began to work as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, that experience influenced my decision to focus on mental health.
![Photo of Leonor Francisco, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf8ea49e-f1d7-41be-97ae-d69eef0d0921/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leonor Francisco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601 (Online Only)
I started my nursing career in 2006 and have over 16 years of diverse nursing experience. I earn my patients’ trust by delivering quality and passionate care. The importance of helping a person heal, not only physically but emotionally, presented itself, and I moved on to pursue my graduate degree at Walden University to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
I started my nursing career in 2006 and have over 16 years of diverse nursing experience. I earn my patients’ trust by delivering quality and passionate care. The importance of helping a person heal, not only physically but emotionally, presented itself, and I moved on to pursue my graduate degree at Walden University to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f38e9655-101e-41d3-993b-4f8abd2e5daa/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Bergenfield, NJ 07621
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 Steven Jay Wruble, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53520d4c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Here at the Venn Center, we offer patients a unique therapeutic experience. I conduct psychiatric evaluations and assessments, as well as provide both individual and group psychotherapy to clients of all ages. I also offer pharmacotherapy and medication management when appropriate. That being said, 25% of my patients are not on any medication since I employ non-medicinal interventions that help remediate psychiatric symptoms whenever possible. Offering these complementary services allows the clients I work with to feel empowered in their desire for change toward a healthier way of being.
Here at the Venn Center, we offer patients a unique therapeutic experience. I conduct psychiatric evaluations and assessments, as well as provide both individual and group psychotherapy to clients of all ages. I also offer pharmacotherapy and medication management when appropriate. That being said, 25% of my patients are not on any medication since I employ non-medicinal interventions that help remediate psychiatric symptoms whenever possible. Offering these complementary services allows the clients I work with to feel empowered in their desire for change toward a healthier way of being.
![Photo of Sandra Gomez, APN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6ec8e1c-fd10-4532-93ed-4b9db4954516/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a New Jersey, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I practice utilizing up-to-date evidence-based guidelines, clinical expertise, and professional experience. I diagnose, manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADD/ADHD, mild substance use disorders, and others.
I'm a New Jersey, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I practice utilizing up-to-date evidence-based guidelines, clinical expertise, and professional experience. I diagnose, manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADD/ADHD, mild substance use disorders, and others.
![Photo of Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b2facd2-01c1-48e7-83ea-13c99c573421/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Demarest, NJ 07627 (Online Only)
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
Tri America Health and Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Wyckoff, NJ 07481 (Online Only)
Rediscover your happiness in a safe space! Tri America offers in-person visits in NJ and telehealth visits in 15 states. Services include individual & family counseling for children, adolescents, and adults, medication management, school testing for ADHD & TMS treatment for depression. Evening and weekend hours available. Call today to learn more.
Rediscover your happiness in a safe space! Tri America offers in-person visits in NJ and telehealth visits in 15 states. Services include individual & family counseling for children, adolescents, and adults, medication management, school testing for ADHD & TMS treatment for depression. Evening and weekend hours available. Call today to learn more.
![Photo of Melissa Scollan-Koliopoulos - Nu Imagery Healthcare LLC, EdD, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CDCES, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b3018d7-5c94-4682-bc36-c780621f65c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nu Imagery Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CDCES
Verified Verified
Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417
We have specialists in pediatric and adolescent mental health, diabetes care, medical metabolic and weight management. We ensure that you understand how your own neuroendocrine system is influencing your symptoms through psycho-education, psychotherapy, and pharmacologic treatment options. Melissa Scollan-Koliopoulos, EDD, DNP, PMHNP and Michelle Reeves, DNP, PMHNP are certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners providing psychotherapy, diagnosis, and medication management. Ann Pinon, MSN, FNP & Donna Naturale, DNP, ANP, CDCES are nurse practitioners focusing on primary mental health care and obesity & diabetes.
We have specialists in pediatric and adolescent mental health, diabetes care, medical metabolic and weight management. We ensure that you understand how your own neuroendocrine system is influencing your symptoms through psycho-education, psychotherapy, and pharmacologic treatment options. Melissa Scollan-Koliopoulos, EDD, DNP, PMHNP and Michelle Reeves, DNP, PMHNP are certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners providing psychotherapy, diagnosis, and medication management. Ann Pinon, MSN, FNP & Donna Naturale, DNP, ANP, CDCES are nurse practitioners focusing on primary mental health care and obesity & diabetes.
![Photo of Lashon Simpson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5ca2cfe-9cd6-4ac4-8f05-dbfa9281775f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a Psychiatric Provider that listens, shows compassion, and empathizes. I look forward to helping you rebuild your mental health by providing both pharmacological and holistic treatment plans. Rather you have ADHD, Depression, anxiety and/or insomnia, help is just a call away. We treat each client from a personal perspective and provide individualized psychiatric treatment plans that helps to rebuild your mental health.
I’m a Psychiatric Provider that listens, shows compassion, and empathizes. I look forward to helping you rebuild your mental health by providing both pharmacological and holistic treatment plans. Rather you have ADHD, Depression, anxiety and/or insomnia, help is just a call away. We treat each client from a personal perspective and provide individualized psychiatric treatment plans that helps to rebuild your mental health.
![Photo of Dr. Tony Issac, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8701daf1-2ee6-4777-a56c-ae16b2745308/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
![Photo of David A. Mitnick, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e0007e9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
David Mitnick M.D. combines evidence-based psychiatric approaches with over two decades of patient-centered humanism treating children, teens and adults. Dr. Mitnick is Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Medical College of Cornell University. He treats a broad range of mental health issues, with particular interest in ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum Disorders, as well as Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Mitnick believes in a comprehensive, collaborative and holistic approach to assessment and treatment. He provides evaluation, psychotherapy and medications customized to the individual.
David Mitnick M.D. combines evidence-based psychiatric approaches with over two decades of patient-centered humanism treating children, teens and adults. Dr. Mitnick is Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Medical College of Cornell University. He treats a broad range of mental health issues, with particular interest in ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum Disorders, as well as Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Mitnick believes in a comprehensive, collaborative and holistic approach to assessment and treatment. He provides evaluation, psychotherapy and medications customized to the individual.
![Photo of Allison M. R. Lee, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2b7b29c-c42e-4517-8117-04832c865d02/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am committed to helping people address symptoms and difficulties compassionately and in ways that are tailored to the individual. I will listen carefully to you and make every effort to understand your unique preferences and needs. I have expertise in both psychotherapy and medication treatments and I will work with you to find the treatment plan that suits you best. My aim in psychotherapy is to help individuals relieve painful symptoms, achieve emotional freedom, and improve interpersonal relationships.
I am committed to helping people address symptoms and difficulties compassionately and in ways that are tailored to the individual. I will listen carefully to you and make every effort to understand your unique preferences and needs. I have expertise in both psychotherapy and medication treatments and I will work with you to find the treatment plan that suits you best. My aim in psychotherapy is to help individuals relieve painful symptoms, achieve emotional freedom, and improve interpersonal relationships.
![Photo of Margaret King - Margaret King, APN, C, LLC, APN, C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3037670d-f268-423f-bf51-018dd78a161c/1/320x400.png)
Margaret King, APN, C, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, C
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652 (Online Only)
I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and young adults for the past 30 years. I have specialized expertise in diagnosing and treating Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Autism, and Trauma. I perform comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medication, collaborate with therapists and do consultations with schools. Talking with family is key in my evaluations and treatment. There is a shortage and need for mental health services in our youth. I'm here to let you know, there is HOPE!
I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and young adults for the past 30 years. I have specialized expertise in diagnosing and treating Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Autism, and Trauma. I perform comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medication, collaborate with therapists and do consultations with schools. Talking with family is key in my evaluations and treatment. There is a shortage and need for mental health services in our youth. I'm here to let you know, there is HOPE!
![Photo of Michael V Stefanovich - Michael V. Stefanovich,MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d2d15e6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michael Stefanovich is a Board Certified Clinical Psychiatrist in Cresskill, New Jersey. He has served the Bergen County Community for over sixteen years. Dr. Stefanovich completed his residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, has a background in research, having done a doctoral thesis in applied molecular biology, as well as postdoctoral research as a Keck fellow at the Psychiatric Institute of New York and then as a postdoctoral fellow at Mount Sinai Hospital in genetics. Dr. Stefanovich treats young adults through seniors.
Dr. Michael Stefanovich is a Board Certified Clinical Psychiatrist in Cresskill, New Jersey. He has served the Bergen County Community for over sixteen years. Dr. Stefanovich completed his residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, has a background in research, having done a doctoral thesis in applied molecular biology, as well as postdoctoral research as a Keck fellow at the Psychiatric Institute of New York and then as a postdoctoral fellow at Mount Sinai Hospital in genetics. Dr. Stefanovich treats young adults through seniors.
![Photo of Dr. Michael Sanya, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b856409f-e141-4e1c-9b9c-cfab9a5e418c/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Michael Sanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
Feeling stuck or uncertain about your mental health journey? As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience, I, Michael Sanya, am here to help you navigate these challenges. Specializing in conditions like depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorder, among many others. I provide tailored care that respects your unique needs. My approach is not only empathetic and client-centered but also grounded in solid evidence to ensure you receive the best possible care. I believe in listening deeply to understand your struggles and aspirations.
Feeling stuck or uncertain about your mental health journey? As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience, I, Michael Sanya, am here to help you navigate these challenges. Specializing in conditions like depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorder, among many others. I provide tailored care that respects your unique needs. My approach is not only empathetic and client-centered but also grounded in solid evidence to ensure you receive the best possible care. I believe in listening deeply to understand your struggles and aspirations.
![Photo of Sarah Oreck - Mavida Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9f08e2c-b854-4e49-8179-fcb5cdf93767/1/320x400.png)
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
![Photo of Ali Ahsan Ali, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68c05483-9ad5-4c59-b458-fc32a6e5a550/4/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist with advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy I bring a wealth of experience working with people from various cultures, backgrounds and sensitivities. Through collaborative efforts, I can help you identify the roots of your struggles and develop alternative ways of relating. If needed, I can also prescribe medications carefully.
As a psychiatrist with advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy I bring a wealth of experience working with people from various cultures, backgrounds and sensitivities. Through collaborative efforts, I can help you identify the roots of your struggles and develop alternative ways of relating. If needed, I can also prescribe medications carefully.
![Photo of Dr. Periel Shapiro, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc56ebed-2c5a-47de-a6bc-261b69b04e65/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, mood swings, or other personal challenges? Are you looking for both immediate relief and long-term wellness? Our Integrative Virtual Clinic, which you can access from home via telehealth, offers psychiatric care that fuses cutting-edge modern medicine with ancient wellness practices. We'll create an individualized treatment plan for you that fits your needs and goals.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, mood swings, or other personal challenges? Are you looking for both immediate relief and long-term wellness? Our Integrative Virtual Clinic, which you can access from home via telehealth, offers psychiatric care that fuses cutting-edge modern medicine with ancient wellness practices. We'll create an individualized treatment plan for you that fits your needs and goals.
See more therapy options for Park Ridge
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Park Ridge, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Park Ridge, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Park Ridge, NJ see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Park Ridge?
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.