Psychiatrists in Red Bank, NJ
![Photo of Anthony DiMura, APN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/494ad95e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anthony DiMura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Telepsych offered for most clients. As a mental health consumer myself, I understand the damper mental illness can have on your life. What once made you happy leaves you dull, things you looked forward to make you feel anxious, and the people around you are concerned. You may feel hopeless and helpless and have tried therapy and medication in the past with little success. Spending time to listen to you is what I do best. Medication is not always needed, but when it is you will have the education to make an informed decision of how you want to proceed. I believe in quality of service, not quantity. You time should be Your time.
Telepsych offered for most clients. As a mental health consumer myself, I understand the damper mental illness can have on your life. What once made you happy leaves you dull, things you looked forward to make you feel anxious, and the people around you are concerned. You may feel hopeless and helpless and have tried therapy and medication in the past with little success. Spending time to listen to you is what I do best. Medication is not always needed, but when it is you will have the education to make an informed decision of how you want to proceed. I believe in quality of service, not quantity. You time should be Your time.
![Photo of Abir Marcus, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8027367-ebdb-4a04-9469-594f57ad19a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marcus offers individualized approach in her treatments. She uses state of art treatments recommendations for the presenting problem while tailoring it to your personality and life style. Dr. Marcus is specialized in working with mood disorders such as Depression and Bipolar Disorders spectrum, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders. She is also certified in addiction treatments including Detoxification, working on abstinence or harm reduction through the use of medications and therapy. Dr. Marcus is certified to prescribe Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol.
Dr. Marcus offers individualized approach in her treatments. She uses state of art treatments recommendations for the presenting problem while tailoring it to your personality and life style. Dr. Marcus is specialized in working with mood disorders such as Depression and Bipolar Disorders spectrum, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders. She is also certified in addiction treatments including Detoxification, working on abstinence or harm reduction through the use of medications and therapy. Dr. Marcus is certified to prescribe Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol.
![Photo of Hema Vyas, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43cba7f0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is more holistic, I like to combine meditation, mindfulness techniques along with medication when necessary. I work with children, adolescents, and Adults. I treat Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD
My approach is more holistic, I like to combine meditation, mindfulness techniques along with medication when necessary. I work with children, adolescents, and Adults. I treat Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD
![Photo of Jessica Parekkadan Mohammed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1252363b-b16d-453c-b5db-c0320a468cfd/1/320x400.png)
Jessica Parekkadan Mohammed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701 (Online Only)
Jessica Parekkadan-Mohammed is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PHMNP-BC) who has over 12 years of experience working with individuals across the lifespan. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, postpartum depression, mood disorders, and panic disorders. Jessica earned her Master's degree in Nursing from the Royal College of Nursing and completed her Nurse Practitioner Program at Monmouth University.
Jessica Parekkadan-Mohammed is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PHMNP-BC) who has over 12 years of experience working with individuals across the lifespan. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, postpartum depression, mood disorders, and panic disorders. Jessica earned her Master's degree in Nursing from the Royal College of Nursing and completed her Nurse Practitioner Program at Monmouth University.
![Photo of Dr. Deepti Varma, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7aa9b84d-9aaa-4557-8f12-e7582fc7fca4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been in practice for over 10 years and specialize in medication treatments for ADHD, Oppositional defiant disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, Autism spectrum disorder and tic disorders. I pursue a working alliance with families, schools, therapists, and pediatricians, including the review of prior assessments, as the basis of the treatment plan. My approach is to start with a thorough diagnosis and formulate a plan that includes medications, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, sleep hygiene, lab work and other lifestyle modifications to provide an individual treatment plan for each of my patients.
I have been in practice for over 10 years and specialize in medication treatments for ADHD, Oppositional defiant disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, Autism spectrum disorder and tic disorders. I pursue a working alliance with families, schools, therapists, and pediatricians, including the review of prior assessments, as the basis of the treatment plan. My approach is to start with a thorough diagnosis and formulate a plan that includes medications, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, sleep hygiene, lab work and other lifestyle modifications to provide an individual treatment plan for each of my patients.
![Photo of Deepti Varma - Coastal Psychiatry, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df4ab409-592c-4c44-a208-647b56d354ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Is your child or teen feeling overwhelmed or anxious? I believe in a holistic approach to mental health and committed to understanding the root causes of symptoms and providing personalized treatment plans to promote healing and long-term wellness. My mission is to empower individuals to achieve their optimal mental health and wellness through compassionate care, evidence-based treatments and a comprehensive understanding of the mind-body connection. My evaluations aim to understand each individual's unique needs, including medical history, lifestyle factors, and genetic predispositions.
Is your child or teen feeling overwhelmed or anxious? I believe in a holistic approach to mental health and committed to understanding the root causes of symptoms and providing personalized treatment plans to promote healing and long-term wellness. My mission is to empower individuals to achieve their optimal mental health and wellness through compassionate care, evidence-based treatments and a comprehensive understanding of the mind-body connection. My evaluations aim to understand each individual's unique needs, including medical history, lifestyle factors, and genetic predispositions.
![Photo of Arjun(AJ) Swamy, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86532a98-8f68-46c3-a2da-9d0122157c92/1/320x400.png)
I’m a Psychiatry PA that treats children, adolescents and adults with OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD and Alcohol Use Disorder. I believe less medication is better - however, I work with people to find a regimen that might help improve their lives. I have experience with treating various members of the community including healthcare workers, veterans, police officers, teachers, clergy, LGBTQA+, BIPOC and more. In my free time I like to spend time with my wife and son, hike, play guitar, go on meditation retreats and perform improv comedy.
I’m a Psychiatry PA that treats children, adolescents and adults with OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD and Alcohol Use Disorder. I believe less medication is better - however, I work with people to find a regimen that might help improve their lives. I have experience with treating various members of the community including healthcare workers, veterans, police officers, teachers, clergy, LGBTQA+, BIPOC and more. In my free time I like to spend time with my wife and son, hike, play guitar, go on meditation retreats and perform improv comedy.
![Photo of Abir Marcus, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dd8ed3e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Brain Mind Harmony, Dr. Marcus and colleagues offer a comprehensive treatment addressing the whole person inside and outside. We combine the use of medications, bio identical hormones, nutritional supplements together with individual, family and group therapy. We will work with you in developing a treatment plan that best suit your needs, life style and preferences.Dr. Marcus is board certified in psychiatry, addiction psychiatry and addiction medicine. Our therapists are specialized in Christian counseling, life coaching, EMDR , family, couple and group therapy. Our services are billed as out of network .
At Brain Mind Harmony, Dr. Marcus and colleagues offer a comprehensive treatment addressing the whole person inside and outside. We combine the use of medications, bio identical hormones, nutritional supplements together with individual, family and group therapy. We will work with you in developing a treatment plan that best suit your needs, life style and preferences.Dr. Marcus is board certified in psychiatry, addiction psychiatry and addiction medicine. Our therapists are specialized in Christian counseling, life coaching, EMDR , family, couple and group therapy. Our services are billed as out of network .
![Photo of Jennifer O'Scanlon, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4db6b5d-438b-497a-8719-a83a49cb2786/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer O'Scanlon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
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.
![Photo of Jason Leon Cohen - The Cohen Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf4064f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
![Photo of Anthony Dimura - Abby Road Psychiatric Services LLC, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5521831c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Graydon Gregory Goss, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e9ed179-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Graydon Goss was raised in Tinton Falls, NJ. He attended Christian Brothers Academy, Brown University and Dartmouth Medical School receiving his Doctorate in Medicine in 1977. After training in Psychiatry and Child / Adolescent Psychiatry at Los Angeles County General Hospital and U.S.C. Medical Center, he served as Chief of the LA County Adolescent Psychiatric Crisis Unit. In 1998 he returned to NJ, where he utilizes skills developed over 38 years of practice addressing the complex problems which face today's teens and their families. Unlike many psychiatrists he provides talk and behavioral psychotherapies as well as psychopharmacology.
Dr. Graydon Goss was raised in Tinton Falls, NJ. He attended Christian Brothers Academy, Brown University and Dartmouth Medical School receiving his Doctorate in Medicine in 1977. After training in Psychiatry and Child / Adolescent Psychiatry at Los Angeles County General Hospital and U.S.C. Medical Center, he served as Chief of the LA County Adolescent Psychiatric Crisis Unit. In 1998 he returned to NJ, where he utilizes skills developed over 38 years of practice addressing the complex problems which face today's teens and their families. Unlike many psychiatrists he provides talk and behavioral psychotherapies as well as psychopharmacology.
![Photo of Miriam Tetelbom - Miriam Tetelbom MD LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/154a874c-4050-4cdc-806b-6debbb0c31b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
During consultations, I focus on being supportive and understanding while at the same time being a very thorough professional. I have over thirty years of experience in various levels of care, assisting and guiding clients to adjust to new life situations. Taking the necessary time to listen to you helps me make the best evaluation and together we come up with a treatment plan. Before establishing my practice in the United States, I have also had a wide range of experience in Brazil, where for fifteen years, I worked as a clinical psychiatrist and taught medical students and psychiatry residents.I lecture in conferences as well.
During consultations, I focus on being supportive and understanding while at the same time being a very thorough professional. I have over thirty years of experience in various levels of care, assisting and guiding clients to adjust to new life situations. Taking the necessary time to listen to you helps me make the best evaluation and together we come up with a treatment plan. Before establishing my practice in the United States, I have also had a wide range of experience in Brazil, where for fifteen years, I worked as a clinical psychiatrist and taught medical students and psychiatry residents.I lecture in conferences as well.
![Photo of Abir Marcus - Brain Mind Harmony, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f9c0195-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
All Services are offered in person and via Tele Health. We are specialized in depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, addictions, sexuality, relationships and weight issues. Our psychiatrist combines medication, supplements and bio identical hormones in order to address the symptoms and their origin. We will match you with the best therapeutic approach based on your symptoms, preferences and personality: psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioral, Christian counseling or life coaching. We also offer outpatient detoxification for different drugs of abuse and alcohol, combined with counseling for relapse prevention and coping skills.
All Services are offered in person and via Tele Health. We are specialized in depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, addictions, sexuality, relationships and weight issues. Our psychiatrist combines medication, supplements and bio identical hormones in order to address the symptoms and their origin. We will match you with the best therapeutic approach based on your symptoms, preferences and personality: psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioral, Christian counseling or life coaching. We also offer outpatient detoxification for different drugs of abuse and alcohol, combined with counseling for relapse prevention and coping skills.
![Photo of Samantha Colón, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71e5895f-a2ea-48e3-afa0-e06c871d6d9d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Colón
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Are you going through a tough time and it’s impacting your ability to function as an employee, parent, spouse, or just don’t feel yourself? I’m Samantha, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have been able to work with many adults and young adults through significant symptoms of anxiety, depression, executive difficulties, or stressful times. Together we can find ways to manage symptoms, get to a healthier place in your life and an improved version of yourself. I am happy to meet your goals, big or small, I take pride in advocating for my patients. Please click on “my website” to BOOK, or visit arieswellness.info
Are you going through a tough time and it’s impacting your ability to function as an employee, parent, spouse, or just don’t feel yourself? I’m Samantha, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have been able to work with many adults and young adults through significant symptoms of anxiety, depression, executive difficulties, or stressful times. Together we can find ways to manage symptoms, get to a healthier place in your life and an improved version of yourself. I am happy to meet your goals, big or small, I take pride in advocating for my patients. Please click on “my website” to BOOK, or visit arieswellness.info
![Photo of Jamie Pacilio, MSPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51b3de94-8960-4c7e-9522-2037fb1dc921/1/320x400.png)
My goal is to help patients who are struggling with their mental health optimize the quality of their life through symptom management. I am experienced at treating a wide range of psychiatric diagnoses through medication, Spravato (esketamine), and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy. My “ideal” patient is someone who is suffering with a mood disorder, personality disorder, psychotic disorder, or any variation of the three, and wants help with managing their symptoms. I work well with both men and women. I am very comfortable working with patients who are aligned with LGBQT+.
My goal is to help patients who are struggling with their mental health optimize the quality of their life through symptom management. I am experienced at treating a wide range of psychiatric diagnoses through medication, Spravato (esketamine), and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy. My “ideal” patient is someone who is suffering with a mood disorder, personality disorder, psychotic disorder, or any variation of the three, and wants help with managing their symptoms. I work well with both men and women. I am very comfortable working with patients who are aligned with LGBQT+.
![Photo of Sireesha Kolli - Kolli Psychiatric & Associates, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45489143-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kolli Psychiatric & Associates
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Red Bank, NJ 07701
With empathy, patience, and an approachable style, Kolli Psychiatric & Associates provides comprehensive mental health services to children, adults, and their families. Through the use of therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, we strive to help you reach your full wellness potential. Our practice consists of- Dr. Sireesha Kolli, a board-certified psychiatrist with training in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. While medical expertise forms the foundation of her treatment, her warmth, and sense of compassion are often cited by patients, families, and professionals as key motivating factors for success
With empathy, patience, and an approachable style, Kolli Psychiatric & Associates provides comprehensive mental health services to children, adults, and their families. Through the use of therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, we strive to help you reach your full wellness potential. Our practice consists of- Dr. Sireesha Kolli, a board-certified psychiatrist with training in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. While medical expertise forms the foundation of her treatment, her warmth, and sense of compassion are often cited by patients, families, and professionals as key motivating factors for success
![Photo of Laurie Greisch, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88271b91-1ad6-4ed9-a050-972ee067920a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laurie Greisch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Healing Minds Psychiatry and Mental Wellness LLC is an outpatient psychiatry practice. I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief supportive therapy for a variety of mental health conditions. Telepsychiatry is also available.
Healing Minds Psychiatry and Mental Wellness LLC is an outpatient psychiatry practice. I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief supportive therapy for a variety of mental health conditions. Telepsychiatry is also available.
![Photo of Kenneth Lichtman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77adb444-c9a9-48d8-b6b7-cacd6774fe1f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Looking forward to meeting and treating you! I enjoy treating adolescents and adults of all ages. I am particularly interested and involved in treating Mood Disorders, as they are among the most devastating psychological illnesses. Anxiety disorders are also an incredibly common presenting problem, and I have much experience in this area. A team approach for all psychological illnesses is often most desirable. In all cases, a full recovery is my constant goal.
Looking forward to meeting and treating you! I enjoy treating adolescents and adults of all ages. I am particularly interested and involved in treating Mood Disorders, as they are among the most devastating psychological illnesses. Anxiety disorders are also an incredibly common presenting problem, and I have much experience in this area. A team approach for all psychological illnesses is often most desirable. In all cases, a full recovery is my constant goal.
![Photo of Neha Naqvi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff4b0e77-7028-4922-951c-da8e11f780e5/2/320x400.jpeg)
With empathy, patience, and an approachable style, Dr. Naqvi provides comprehensive mental health services to children, adults, and their families. Through the use of therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, she strives to help you reach your full wellness potential. She is a board-certified psychiatrist with training in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. While medical expertise forms the foundation of her treatment, her warmth, and sense of compassion are often cited by patients, families, and professionals as key motivating factors for success
With empathy, patience, and an approachable style, Dr. Naqvi provides comprehensive mental health services to children, adults, and their families. Through the use of therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, she strives to help you reach your full wellness potential. She is a board-certified psychiatrist with training in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. While medical expertise forms the foundation of her treatment, her warmth, and sense of compassion are often cited by patients, families, and professionals as key motivating factors for success
See more therapy options for Red Bank
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Red Bank, NJ
40+
Average cost per session
$262
Psychiatrists in Red Bank, NJ who prioritize treating:
98% | Depression |
98% | Anxiety |
84% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
80% | Medication Management |
77% | ADHD |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
74% | Cigna and Evernorth |
65% | Aetna |
65% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Red Bank, NJ see their clients
82% | In Person and Online | |
18% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Red Bank?
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.