Psychiatrists in Sparta, NJ
![Photo of Brianna Scancarella, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07951ffe-db0a-47fe-9d50-15c3af653446/4/320x400.jpeg)
Brianna Scancarella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Quinnipiac University, and Bachelor of Science and a Masters of Science in nursing from Northeastern University. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing since 2016. I have experience working in outpatient practices, residential settings, inpatient hospital units, partial hospital and intensive outpatient programs. I specialize in adolescents and adults as well as new or expecting moms. I offer tele-health services for medication management of depression, anxiety, mood lability and perinatal and postpartum mood changes.
I earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Quinnipiac University, and Bachelor of Science and a Masters of Science in nursing from Northeastern University. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing since 2016. I have experience working in outpatient practices, residential settings, inpatient hospital units, partial hospital and intensive outpatient programs. I specialize in adolescents and adults as well as new or expecting moms. I offer tele-health services for medication management of depression, anxiety, mood lability and perinatal and postpartum mood changes.
![Photo of Jennive Cardoso, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b4e41fb-fcbd-4001-a427-befadbd189e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennive Cardoso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871 (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking in my website. As a dedicated mental health professional, my ideal client is someone who is seeking a safe and supportive environment. They may be dealing with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or life transitions. My ideal client is someone who is ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. They are open to exploring new perspectives and willing to engage in therapeutic processes that promote mental and emotional well-being. Together, we will work towards creating a life that is not only manageable but also rich and fulfilling.
Book with me now by clicking in my website. As a dedicated mental health professional, my ideal client is someone who is seeking a safe and supportive environment. They may be dealing with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or life transitions. My ideal client is someone who is ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. They are open to exploring new perspectives and willing to engage in therapeutic processes that promote mental and emotional well-being. Together, we will work towards creating a life that is not only manageable but also rich and fulfilling.
![Photo of Dr. Melissa Scollan-Koliopoulos - Nu Imagery Healthcare, LLC., EdD, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CDCES, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/031a2340-a288-42bc-b306-cdde584e8a5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nu Imagery Healthcare, LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CDCES
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
We believe that medical and psychological problems are intertwined and can be addressed in one session. We provide integrated and balanced healthcare to address primary care issues, especially weight loss & obesity, sleep, and diabetes while addressing psychiatric mental health issues. We help you cope with school/ work stress. We provide psychiatric and prescription treatment of obesity & binge eating with weight loss plans to keep you on track. We deliver psychotherapeutic techniques to help you reduce stress and cope with challenges. Our treatment modality may improve your quality of life and reduce stress from work and school.
We believe that medical and psychological problems are intertwined and can be addressed in one session. We provide integrated and balanced healthcare to address primary care issues, especially weight loss & obesity, sleep, and diabetes while addressing psychiatric mental health issues. We help you cope with school/ work stress. We provide psychiatric and prescription treatment of obesity & binge eating with weight loss plans to keep you on track. We deliver psychotherapeutic techniques to help you reduce stress and cope with challenges. Our treatment modality may improve your quality of life and reduce stress from work and school.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Folake Bello Akintunde, APN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/805d2f83-cca6-4dd8-b90f-fab3cbe3a918/2/320x400.png)
Folake Bello Akintunde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hamburg, NJ 07419
My ideal client willingly engages in therapy, desiring a nurturing space to express themselves. They crave practical strategies for emotional management, obstacle navigation, and overall well-being improvement. Their objective is to gain mental health empowerment, adeptly tackle challenges, and foster healthier habits. Ultimately, they aim for personal growth and a fulfilling life congruent with their values.
My ideal client willingly engages in therapy, desiring a nurturing space to express themselves. They crave practical strategies for emotional management, obstacle navigation, and overall well-being improvement. Their objective is to gain mental health empowerment, adeptly tackle challenges, and foster healthier habits. Ultimately, they aim for personal growth and a fulfilling life congruent with their values.
![Photo of D. Leigh Geffken - Heart-Mind-Body , APN, MSN, PMHNPBC, NE-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24fbb1d4-d76b-47bf-8378-690d1e522c7b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heart-Mind-Body
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC, NE-BC
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860
In my practice, I use a holistic approach to wellbeing. I help patients who are interested in exploring traditional psychiatric medication in tandem with alternative, and energy medicine. I ask the question: what disrupts your connection with yourself and the world around you? Whether the cause for the disconnect be traumatic events, bouts of depression. persistent anxiety or the inability to cope. Together, we will find the issue/block that is troubling you as a whole person. We view wellbeing as a combination of the heart, mind and body.
In my practice, I use a holistic approach to wellbeing. I help patients who are interested in exploring traditional psychiatric medication in tandem with alternative, and energy medicine. I ask the question: what disrupts your connection with yourself and the world around you? Whether the cause for the disconnect be traumatic events, bouts of depression. persistent anxiety or the inability to cope. Together, we will find the issue/block that is troubling you as a whole person. We view wellbeing as a combination of the heart, mind and body.
![Photo of Jacqueline Hunterton-Anderson, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ec7ea8e-53b3-4a63-a534-f26e65c98dad/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Hunterton-Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860
During the many changes and challenges we face in life it is essential at times to seek help. This can be a tedious venture and finding the right provider can be complicated. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am able to not only provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications but also become a part of your support system. Using psychotherapy and medication management I can help you gain the tools needed to move past the hard times. As a team we will be able to assess what your needs are and what the best possible treatment plan and outcomes can be obtained.
During the many changes and challenges we face in life it is essential at times to seek help. This can be a tedious venture and finding the right provider can be complicated. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am able to not only provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications but also become a part of your support system. Using psychotherapy and medication management I can help you gain the tools needed to move past the hard times. As a team we will be able to assess what your needs are and what the best possible treatment plan and outcomes can be obtained.
![Photo of Kylee Gonzalez, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4ca1dd0-1775-462c-ae9f-6f6c2de9e4a9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kylee Gonzalez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ledgewood, NJ 07852
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and am certified in Perinatal Mental Health. I can provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications and be a part of your support system. The majority of my experience has been with very vulnerable populations, those with chronic and persistent mental illness, people experiencing homelessness or substance use disorders, and those who lack access to healthcare. I was trained in New York City, received my Bachelors from NYU and my Masters from Hunter College.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and am certified in Perinatal Mental Health. I can provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications and be a part of your support system. The majority of my experience has been with very vulnerable populations, those with chronic and persistent mental illness, people experiencing homelessness or substance use disorders, and those who lack access to healthcare. I was trained in New York City, received my Bachelors from NYU and my Masters from Hunter College.
![Photo of Emmanuel Adjin, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79c52306-2e5f-4da3-abfa-85fabeed0adb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emmanuel Adjin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Wharton, NJ 07885 (Online Only)
A key component of growth and development is to gain control and mastery in areas we find challenging. And sometimes, disruption in one’s mental health can get in the way of acquiring such mastery. Seeking help to improve your mental wellbeing is what can make the difference.
A key component of growth and development is to gain control and mastery in areas we find challenging. And sometimes, disruption in one’s mental health can get in the way of acquiring such mastery. Seeking help to improve your mental wellbeing is what can make the difference.
![Photo of Alex Mutia, MS, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4403164c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I, along with everyone at Center for Assessment and Treatment, hope to help those who are among the most in need, regardless of income, background, or past history.
I, along with everyone at Center for Assessment and Treatment, hope to help those who are among the most in need, regardless of income, background, or past history.
![Photo of Samuel Okechukwu - My Psych Provider., MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/567cef61-4746-4ddd-b5cc-d2e8430753d8/2/320x400.png)
My Psych Provider.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockaway, NJ 07866
Samuel Okechukwu, APN, PMHNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of My Psych Provider LLC. He has over a decade of experience in Acute care and Psychiatry, both as a medical surgical nurse, psychiatric registered nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner. He possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by his natural ability to build rapport with patients and their families. He uses an individualized approach to care and listens because every patient has a unique story. His goal is to improve the quality of life by following evidence-based guidelines while providing quality and comprehensive mental care.
Samuel Okechukwu, APN, PMHNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of My Psych Provider LLC. He has over a decade of experience in Acute care and Psychiatry, both as a medical surgical nurse, psychiatric registered nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner. He possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by his natural ability to build rapport with patients and their families. He uses an individualized approach to care and listens because every patient has a unique story. His goal is to improve the quality of life by following evidence-based guidelines while providing quality and comprehensive mental care.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Kyu Oh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b16bfb1-4f46-492a-b4fb-c94720dbfbd2/5/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kyu Oh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist practicing in NY, NJ, and via telehealth. I completed psychiatry residency training at Columbia University and I am now an Instructor in Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia. I work with clients struggling with a wide range of mental health problems, including stress, life transitions, relationship difficulties, work and school issues. I specialize in both medication management and psychotherapy for the treatment of the following psychiatric conditions: anxiety, panic, depression, OCD, and adult ADHD.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist practicing in NY, NJ, and via telehealth. I completed psychiatry residency training at Columbia University and I am now an Instructor in Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia. I work with clients struggling with a wide range of mental health problems, including stress, life transitions, relationship difficulties, work and school issues. I specialize in both medication management and psychotherapy for the treatment of the following psychiatric conditions: anxiety, panic, depression, OCD, and adult ADHD.
![Photo of Vanessa Doobay - Jersey Forensic Consulting (Psychiatry), MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/588acb56-13df-45e4-9d7e-e20baa34b1da/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jersey Forensic Consulting (Psychiatry)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
Vanessa Doobay, RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 10+ years of nursing experience in mental health. She spent the majority of her nursing career caring for patients with mental health needs ranging from the long-term care, adults, and gerontology community to patients with addiction and acute withdrawal. Her goals are to help individuals and families who are struggling with mental illnesses particularly those in minority, transgender, and gender-expansive communities. I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Service Provider(ADHD-CCSP)
Vanessa Doobay, RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 10+ years of nursing experience in mental health. She spent the majority of her nursing career caring for patients with mental health needs ranging from the long-term care, adults, and gerontology community to patients with addiction and acute withdrawal. Her goals are to help individuals and families who are struggling with mental illnesses particularly those in minority, transgender, and gender-expansive communities. I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Service Provider(ADHD-CCSP)
![Photo of Catherine Stayer, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d7d69b2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
INTEGRATIVE PSYCHIATRY for CHILDREN, TEENS, ADULTS, and COUPLES.
I see my role as one who accompanies you on a journey towards optimal health, vitality, and personal growth. Depending on your unique needs, my approach combines conventional modalities (i.e., medications and therapy) with complementary (i.e., botanicals, nutriceuticals, nutrition, acupuncture, guided imagery, etc.). The goal is not merely to treat symptoms, but to address the matrix of underlying causes and the obstacles that keep you from living your best life.
INTEGRATIVE PSYCHIATRY for CHILDREN, TEENS, ADULTS, and COUPLES.
I see my role as one who accompanies you on a journey towards optimal health, vitality, and personal growth. Depending on your unique needs, my approach combines conventional modalities (i.e., medications and therapy) with complementary (i.e., botanicals, nutriceuticals, nutrition, acupuncture, guided imagery, etc.). The goal is not merely to treat symptoms, but to address the matrix of underlying causes and the obstacles that keep you from living your best life.
![Photo of Francine Dygulski - Lotus Mental Health & Wellness, APN-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76dbd494-5232-43f6-aaff-40c45fd6f376/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lotus Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brick, NJ 08723 (Online Only)
I am a Dual Certified Practitioner, board certified in both Psychiatry and Adult Medicine. I have worked in many settings, psychiatric hospital, hospital ICU, Inpatient detox, outpatient psychiatric and addiction treatment. I also specialize in Medical & Psychiatric patient education.
I am a Dual Certified Practitioner, board certified in both Psychiatry and Adult Medicine. I have worked in many settings, psychiatric hospital, hospital ICU, Inpatient detox, outpatient psychiatric and addiction treatment. I also specialize in Medical & Psychiatric patient education.
![Photo of Lashon Simpson, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/462e9028-7ac4-42b6-820c-0a1f523a580f/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. Michelle Crawford, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1728fc9-38f9-4d4b-bc1b-0932998cb449/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, adult ADHD, and women's mental health. My approach is to understand your values and struggles in order to design a personalized treatment plan together with you. This may include medications, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. I am a former practicing OB/GYN who then changed career paths to Psychiatry to focus on treatment of the patient as a whole. My dual background has fostered a deep appreciation of the mind-body connection, an essential part of comprehensive psychiatric treatment.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, adult ADHD, and women's mental health. My approach is to understand your values and struggles in order to design a personalized treatment plan together with you. This may include medications, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. I am a former practicing OB/GYN who then changed career paths to Psychiatry to focus on treatment of the patient as a whole. My dual background has fostered a deep appreciation of the mind-body connection, an essential part of comprehensive psychiatric treatment.
![Photo of Ann Nolan, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e3e7e58-0afa-4e7d-a3e0-be287f6d1767/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting NJ & PA insurance. Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Treating a broad spectrum of mental health diagnoses. All screening, ADHD and Autism spectrum testing and screening "included in the initial evaluation." Office & Online psychiatric services. Treating children, adolescents, and adults. Ann is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings many years of professional mental health experience to the care of her patients. Her training has prepared her to treat patients across the lifespan -offering consultation, evaluation, and medication management for ages six through seniors.
Accepting NJ & PA insurance. Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Treating a broad spectrum of mental health diagnoses. All screening, ADHD and Autism spectrum testing and screening "included in the initial evaluation." Office & Online psychiatric services. Treating children, adolescents, and adults. Ann is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings many years of professional mental health experience to the care of her patients. Her training has prepared her to treat patients across the lifespan -offering consultation, evaluation, and medication management for ages six through seniors.
![Photo of Gabriell Budoff, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6130ac9d-6425-413e-894c-5d663ab3a089/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriell Budoff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
Raritan, NJ 08869
I am a board-certified behavioral health nurse practitioner, specializing in the mental health needs of adults and older adults. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Brandeis University and a Master’s Degree in Nursing from Boston College William F. Connell School. I provide a nurturing and safe space, in which you can express yourself freely without fear of judgment. I practice with patience and compassion and promise to take the time to get to know who you are as an individual and your unique needs and strengths. I will work with you to come up with a treatment plan you are comfortable with.
I am a board-certified behavioral health nurse practitioner, specializing in the mental health needs of adults and older adults. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Brandeis University and a Master’s Degree in Nursing from Boston College William F. Connell School. I provide a nurturing and safe space, in which you can express yourself freely without fear of judgment. I practice with patience and compassion and promise to take the time to get to know who you are as an individual and your unique needs and strengths. I will work with you to come up with a treatment plan you are comfortable with.
![Photo of Al (Alican) Dalkilic, MD, MPH, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb1c06b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treatment resistant DEPRESSION. As a Yale University trained psychiatrist, I utilize evidence based and FDA approved treatments supported with solid research to help our clients with difficult-to-treat depression. At Depression Doctors & TMS Program, we have been observing significant improvements in individuals with severe and chronic depression even if their symptoms failed to respond to trials of multiple antidepressants, complex medication regimens, and therapies. Two safe, effective, & FDA approved treatments for though-to-treat major depression are: TMS Therapy and Spravato (Esketamine) treatment.
I specialize in treatment resistant DEPRESSION. As a Yale University trained psychiatrist, I utilize evidence based and FDA approved treatments supported with solid research to help our clients with difficult-to-treat depression. At Depression Doctors & TMS Program, we have been observing significant improvements in individuals with severe and chronic depression even if their symptoms failed to respond to trials of multiple antidepressants, complex medication regimens, and therapies. Two safe, effective, & FDA approved treatments for though-to-treat major depression are: TMS Therapy and Spravato (Esketamine) treatment.
![Photo of Sabina Mushtaq - Healthyminds psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a939b6a8-de37-4403-826a-ad704a4d6189/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Child & adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I completed my Child Psychiatry specialty training at Rutgers NJMS in Newark, NJ. After graduation I held a full time faculty position at the same department. My work involved assessing patients presenting to the emergency room, perinatally acquired HIV clinic as well as working in the autism clinic. I was closely involved in training residents, medical students and child psychiatry fellows. I also have experience working in a collaborative care model where I guide pediatricians about treating various mental health issues.
I am a board certified Child & adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I completed my Child Psychiatry specialty training at Rutgers NJMS in Newark, NJ. After graduation I held a full time faculty position at the same department. My work involved assessing patients presenting to the emergency room, perinatally acquired HIV clinic as well as working in the autism clinic. I was closely involved in training residents, medical students and child psychiatry fellows. I also have experience working in a collaborative care model where I guide pediatricians about treating various mental health issues.
See more therapy options for Sparta
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Sparta, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Sparta, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Medication Management |
67% | Stress |
33% | Child |
33% | Life Coaching |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield |
67% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Sparta, NJ see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Sparta?
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.