Psychiatrists in Summit, NJ
![Photo of Haizhi Wang, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19f40ec6-e2ae-4248-8b30-95c9354615b9/2/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist working in New Jersey and New York. I take the time to understand each of my client's unique background, need and goals, and offer personalized treatment which may include psychotherapy, medication management or both.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist working in New Jersey and New York. I take the time to understand each of my client's unique background, need and goals, and offer personalized treatment which may include psychotherapy, medication management or both.
![Photo of Meghan Carr Albanese, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2fbdb75-856f-4ae6-a109-de251bb6b90f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meghan Carr Albanese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901
I customize care to meet the unique needs of each individual. Appointments include assessment, motivational interviewing, personalized talk therapy, and medication management. Care is offered to patients in the comfort of a private office and also through a secure tele-medicine platform. I treat patients with varying diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, post traumatic stress, focus/concentration disorders and more.
I customize care to meet the unique needs of each individual. Appointments include assessment, motivational interviewing, personalized talk therapy, and medication management. Care is offered to patients in the comfort of a private office and also through a secure tele-medicine platform. I treat patients with varying diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, post traumatic stress, focus/concentration disorders and more.
![Photo of Lonny J Behar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a4ecce8-ae6c-4b7d-bf70-fbf1a078f637/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a Board Certified Psychiatrist in both Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry, and have more than forty years of experience in the field. A graduate of Princeton University and the University of Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine, I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at St. Vincent's Hospital and my Child/Adolescent Fellowship at NYU/Bellevue in New York City. I am a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and a former Laughlin Fellow of the American College of Psychiatrists.
I'm a Board Certified Psychiatrist in both Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry, and have more than forty years of experience in the field. A graduate of Princeton University and the University of Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine, I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at St. Vincent's Hospital and my Child/Adolescent Fellowship at NYU/Bellevue in New York City. I am a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and a former Laughlin Fellow of the American College of Psychiatrists.
![Photo of Violina Frenkel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/403576fe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My treatment philosophy involves operating from a biopsychosocial framework to implement the most comprehensive treatment plan for each patient. I believe psychopharmacological interventions are an important part of a treatment plan, but are most efficacious in conjunction with other non-pharmacological interventions such as psychodynamic or cognitive behavioral psychotherapy as well as integrative medicine. My services include consultation, medication management and TMS. I work very closely with a number of therapists who I refer to if therapy is essential to your treatment.
My treatment philosophy involves operating from a biopsychosocial framework to implement the most comprehensive treatment plan for each patient. I believe psychopharmacological interventions are an important part of a treatment plan, but are most efficacious in conjunction with other non-pharmacological interventions such as psychodynamic or cognitive behavioral psychotherapy as well as integrative medicine. My services include consultation, medication management and TMS. I work very closely with a number of therapists who I refer to if therapy is essential to your treatment.
![Photo of Kate Rossettie, PMHNP, MSN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f45fdf0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Rossettie
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, MSN, BC
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901
Not accepting new clients
I am a Columbia University educated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management. I have 15 cherished years in mental healthcare working with very diverse populations in a wide variety of clinical settings. I treat all clients from a holistic and humanistic viewpoint and partner with them in achieving shared goals focused on optimizing their mental health and wellbeing. I have a particular interest in treating anxiety spectrum disorders and depression.
I am a Columbia University educated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management. I have 15 cherished years in mental healthcare working with very diverse populations in a wide variety of clinical settings. I treat all clients from a holistic and humanistic viewpoint and partner with them in achieving shared goals focused on optimizing their mental health and wellbeing. I have a particular interest in treating anxiety spectrum disorders and depression.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli - Shannon Bucciarelli (adolescent/teen specialist), MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10076d22-9016-43ad-bfe4-0e1bd08b5bbd/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli (adolescent/teen specialist)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
![Photo of Ruth MacKenzie - Ruth MacKenzie (adolescent/teen specialist), APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b182a862-4b5f-4758-8b04-71a366105aad/2/320x400.png)
Ruth MacKenzie (adolescent/teen specialist)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87a1b831-cabc-41df-9dde-12fb7a09fab1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Dr. Bradford Bobrin, MD , FASAM , FACLP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17d7dfe8-70ba-4353-9171-984647da712b/1/320x400.png)
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
![Photo of Pattie James, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8d80f38-81c1-4a4c-9364-ae2d91274be9/2/320x400.png)
My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.
My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39464a73-713d-4ecb-bacb-82694926d623/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
15 Second Videos
Michelle McCarthy
Andrea Papa-Molter
Allen Masry
Maria Piantanida
![Photo of Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4b71b09-663d-4c5c-9a92-25ce6df95725/1/320x400.png)
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
![Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6b6fcf6-f596-49a3-a20e-626170cb890e/2/320x400.png)
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3843ea2f-54b8-4dc5-ae72-81b4daaba761/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Cecilia Belardinelli, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a9285f1-222a-4b4d-96e1-8e8fb7c786ed/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Cecilia Belardinelli is Board Certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Her expertise is working with children, adolescents, and adults in their parents’ role to promote a nurturing environment and the development of a child's full potential. Dr. Belardinelli has been practicing for twenty years, addressing developmental and behavioral problems, mood and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Cecilia Belardinelli is Board Certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Her expertise is working with children, adolescents, and adults in their parents’ role to promote a nurturing environment and the development of a child's full potential. Dr. Belardinelli has been practicing for twenty years, addressing developmental and behavioral problems, mood and anxiety disorders.
I am a board certified psychiatrist in child & adolescent/Adult medicine with 20+ years of experience. Associated with the field of psychiatry, my work experience and professionalism have led me to establish myself as a strong candidate for dealing with patients with chronic mental ailments. I offer psychiatric consultations, evaluations & medication management through telemedicine.
I am a board certified psychiatrist in child & adolescent/Adult medicine with 20+ years of experience. Associated with the field of psychiatry, my work experience and professionalism have led me to establish myself as a strong candidate for dealing with patients with chronic mental ailments. I offer psychiatric consultations, evaluations & medication management through telemedicine.
![Photo of Ashley Ahazie, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abf43dc0-1552-48e2-9aa6-c08c5cb07b7e/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
![Photo of Seth Michael Dorsky, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44ceb017-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Seth Dorsky is a Harvard trained child and adolescent psychiatrist. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Boston Children's Hospital where he held 2 academic appointments: one as a clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School and one as fellow in child and adolescent psychiatry at Boston Children's Hospital. Dr. Dorsky received his undergraduate degree from Brown University, attended medical school at the University of Vermont, and completed his adult psychiatry residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Dr. Dorsky is dual board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry.
Dr. Seth Dorsky is a Harvard trained child and adolescent psychiatrist. He completed his child and adolescent fellowship at Boston Children's Hospital where he held 2 academic appointments: one as a clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School and one as fellow in child and adolescent psychiatry at Boston Children's Hospital. Dr. Dorsky received his undergraduate degree from Brown University, attended medical school at the University of Vermont, and completed his adult psychiatry residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Dr. Dorsky is dual board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry.
![Photo of Eronmwon Balogun, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/998cafd6-d2e7-41ba-abac-fef0dc161e96/2/320x400.png)
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
![Photo of Jessica Halpern, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4610633d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Halpern
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summit, NJ 07902 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
*PLEASE NOTE: I am only conducting sessions virtually.** It is my duty and pleasure to ensure that everyone who enters my office feels welcomed, listened to, and validated in their feelings. While working with you, I will assess whether or not medication is necessary to aid in your progress and if it is, I will work with you to find the one right for you and your symptoms. My goal is to become an ally for each of my clients by taking an empathic approach to gain a deeper understanding of their current struggles. You will find me to be interactive and engaged in every session.
*PLEASE NOTE: I am only conducting sessions virtually.** It is my duty and pleasure to ensure that everyone who enters my office feels welcomed, listened to, and validated in their feelings. While working with you, I will assess whether or not medication is necessary to aid in your progress and if it is, I will work with you to find the one right for you and your symptoms. My goal is to become an ally for each of my clients by taking an empathic approach to gain a deeper understanding of their current struggles. You will find me to be interactive and engaged in every session.
See more therapy options for Summit
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Summit, NJ
30+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Summit, NJ who prioritize treating:
90% | Depression |
90% | Anxiety |
77% | Medication Management |
73% | ADHD |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
60% | Trauma and PTSD |
60% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
89% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Summit, NJ see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Summit?
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.