Psychiatrists in Swedesboro, NJ
![Photo of Debra Shearer - Shearer Mental Health and Wellness, EdD, MSN, FNP-BC, PMH-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9403533a-cdef-4e0e-9e43-8c02c97cef0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shearer Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, MSN, FNP-BC, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swedesboro, NJ 08085
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing medication management for adolescent, adult, and gerontology patients. I manage several psychiatric issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, post-traumatic disorder, bipolar disorders, and depression and behavioral problems related to neurocognitive disorders and Parkinson’s disease. I manage several college students with ADD, anxiety, and depression. I listen to patients and respect their insight in deciding on a course of treatment. My goal for patients is to have them feel comfortable and safe with me while working together for mental wellness.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing medication management for adolescent, adult, and gerontology patients. I manage several psychiatric issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, post-traumatic disorder, bipolar disorders, and depression and behavioral problems related to neurocognitive disorders and Parkinson’s disease. I manage several college students with ADD, anxiety, and depression. I listen to patients and respect their insight in deciding on a course of treatment. My goal for patients is to have them feel comfortable and safe with me while working together for mental wellness.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Laura G Leahy, DrNP, APRN, PMH-FNP, CARN-AP, FAANP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44af3756-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura G Leahy
Psychiatric Nurse, DrNP, APRN, PMH-FNP, CARN-AP, FAANP
Verified Verified
Mullica Hill, NJ 08062
Not accepting new clients
As a Psychiatric & Addictions Advanced Practice Nurse, Therapist and Master Psychopharmacologist, I evaluate the physical, behavioral and emotional issues which are impacting one's quality of life. I partner with my patients to develop a treatment plan which may include various forms of therapy and/or Psychotropic medications to address the issues at hand. To request an appointment, please complete the inquiry https://app.luminello.com/lauraleahypmhnp/form or visit www.APNSolutions.com
As a Psychiatric & Addictions Advanced Practice Nurse, Therapist and Master Psychopharmacologist, I evaluate the physical, behavioral and emotional issues which are impacting one's quality of life. I partner with my patients to develop a treatment plan which may include various forms of therapy and/or Psychotropic medications to address the issues at hand. To request an appointment, please complete the inquiry https://app.luminello.com/lauraleahypmhnp/form or visit www.APNSolutions.com
![Photo of Whitney Supernavage - WLS Psychiatric Services, MSN, APN, PMH-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49fa9c91-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
WLS Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
Logan Township, NJ 08085
I have dedicated years to treating children, adolescents, and young adults. I work with clients & their families to achieve positive relationships & personal fulfillment.
I have dedicated years to treating children, adolescents, and young adults. I work with clients & their families to achieve positive relationships & personal fulfillment.
![Photo of Deborah Marie Toole - Deborah Toole LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fc3a771-b79e-4f1e-b59c-d26a354e5b83/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Toole LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Royal, NJ 08061
My approach to treating my clients consists of compassion, client centered treatments. I offer medication management as well as some therapy. The most important aspect of treatment is good communication and really listening to the client and their experiences. Personal trauma and experiences along with current events have created an increasingly stressful environment. It is more important than ever that clients have access to mental health services. Using compassion and empathy I will create a safe environment for YOU the client.
My approach to treating my clients consists of compassion, client centered treatments. I offer medication management as well as some therapy. The most important aspect of treatment is good communication and really listening to the client and their experiences. Personal trauma and experiences along with current events have created an increasingly stressful environment. It is more important than ever that clients have access to mental health services. Using compassion and empathy I will create a safe environment for YOU the client.
![Photo of Maria Leotti, AHNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cb6b193-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Leotti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AHNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mullica Hill, NJ 08062 (Online Only)
Please do not hesitate to use the contact information provided here on Psychology Today. You may copy the following to the pre-screen form from my scheduling site.
Please do not hesitate to use the contact information provided here on Psychology Today. You may copy the following to the pre-screen form from my scheduling site.
![Photo of Amy Carnall - Clarity Psychiatric Care, DNP, APN, PMHNP, RNFA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d4ee58d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clarity Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP, RNFA
Verified Verified
Mullica Hill, NJ 08062
Clarity Psychiatric Care is a boutique-style practice specializing in psychopharmacology (the art of prescribing medication in the field of psychiatry). Our providers, Cristina Sertway and Dr. Amy Carnall, offer office hours in Haddonfield and Elmer and Pennington, NJ. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Cristina and Dr. Amy are University of Pennsylvania, holistically-trained nurse practitioners, emphasizing patient and family-centered care.
Clarity Psychiatric Care is a boutique-style practice specializing in psychopharmacology (the art of prescribing medication in the field of psychiatry). Our providers, Cristina Sertway and Dr. Amy Carnall, offer office hours in Haddonfield and Elmer and Pennington, NJ. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Cristina and Dr. Amy are University of Pennsylvania, holistically-trained nurse practitioners, emphasizing patient and family-centered care.
![Photo of Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/149056cf-85f2-4409-a429-20581b66113b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Mickleton, NJ 08056 (Online Only)
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc98cda3-8871-4cb1-950c-84fdfff9235a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Many people suffer with mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. As a psychiatric advanced practice nurse, my goal is to meet patients where they are and provide holistic, evidence based care. We will work together to reduce symptoms and reach your goals. Together we will develop a treatment plan which may include therapy and/or psychotropic medications.
Many people suffer with mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. As a psychiatric advanced practice nurse, my goal is to meet patients where they are and provide holistic, evidence based care. We will work together to reduce symptoms and reach your goals. Together we will develop a treatment plan which may include therapy and/or psychotropic medications.
![Photo of Danielle Berju - Psychiatry For You (Danielle Berju, APN, PMHNP-Bc), APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be5974e8-fbb3-418f-9e70-16bc76ed72f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatry For You (Danielle Berju, APN, PMHNP-Bc)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Mullica Hill, NJ 08062 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there! I'm Danielle. My job is to help you get on the right medications (if needed) and help get you off medications that are not working. However, medication is only one part of helping you feel your best. Therefore, I also include therapy and holistic wellness (support with nutrition, exercise, sleep, and mindfulness) as part of my integrative treatment. My goal is for you to feel safe, heard, included and well informed in your treatment decisions. Please note: As a telehealth only practice, due to DEA regulations/ prescribing philosophy, this practice does not prescribe controlled medications (ex: stimulants, benzodiazepines)
Hi there! I'm Danielle. My job is to help you get on the right medications (if needed) and help get you off medications that are not working. However, medication is only one part of helping you feel your best. Therefore, I also include therapy and holistic wellness (support with nutrition, exercise, sleep, and mindfulness) as part of my integrative treatment. My goal is for you to feel safe, heard, included and well informed in your treatment decisions. Please note: As a telehealth only practice, due to DEA regulations/ prescribing philosophy, this practice does not prescribe controlled medications (ex: stimulants, benzodiazepines)
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Mona Williams-Gregory, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea1156cf-b83a-4324-aada-b2d764bd6a37/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Mona Williams-Gregory
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edison, NJ 08817 (Online Only)
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with two doctoral degrees. I am qualified to practice in Psychiatry and Internal Medicine to counsel, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for patients of all age groups. I have 25 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner and have worked extensively in inpatient and outpatient settings.
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with two doctoral degrees. I am qualified to practice in Psychiatry and Internal Medicine to counsel, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for patients of all age groups. I have 25 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner and have worked extensively in inpatient and outpatient settings.
![Photo of Dr. Robert B. Marsh, DNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14f2b3c3-64ec-4891-af78-9f40bb43521c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marsh has been serving those suffering with mental health disorders, including substance abuse for more than 25 years. His course of treatment is holistic in nature, treating both the physical symptoms as well as the emotional struggles via psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic intervention. He is a nationally board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings. He is an addiction specialist and member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), Suboxone and Vivitrol certified; 973-699-1006.
Dr. Marsh has been serving those suffering with mental health disorders, including substance abuse for more than 25 years. His course of treatment is holistic in nature, treating both the physical symptoms as well as the emotional struggles via psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic intervention. He is a nationally board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings. He is an addiction specialist and member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), Suboxone and Vivitrol certified; 973-699-1006.
![Photo of Rafia Grooms, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7eea538-5b61-48cc-a8ff-cac9d5c6a7dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rafia Grooms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Sicklerville, NJ 08081
My ideal client may be dealing with complex mental health issues or facing challenges related to their overall well-being. They might need support with medication management, thorough evaluations, or guidance in navigating their mental health journey. Their goals are to achieve a healthier, more balanced life and to improve their mental health. They want clear communication, patient education, and effective care to overcome their struggles and enhance their quality of life.
My ideal client may be dealing with complex mental health issues or facing challenges related to their overall well-being. They might need support with medication management, thorough evaluations, or guidance in navigating their mental health journey. Their goals are to achieve a healthier, more balanced life and to improve their mental health. They want clear communication, patient education, and effective care to overcome their struggles and enhance their quality of life.
![Photo of Guylante Jules Jeune, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb7a52f5-7881-43e9-950d-cebabc22b80a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Guylante Jules Jeune
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clayton, NJ 08312 (Online Only)
Get the care you need from the comfort of your own location at your convenience. Depression & Anxiety Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through treatment, Jules is able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.
Get the care you need from the comfort of your own location at your convenience. Depression & Anxiety Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through treatment, Jules is able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.
![Photo of Ade Adeyemo - Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Care LLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56b85bbe-bc65-479c-811e-d5827df23f5d/1/320x400.png)
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Mount Holly, NJ 08060
ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in the States of New Jersey and Pennsylvania and providing treatment for patients with substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar and related disorders, attention-deficit /hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder, and PTSD. Philosophy of care is based on the foundations of respect and promotion of self-determination for all patients. These two attributes promotes trust, patient satisfaction, and improved quality of life for my patients.
ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in the States of New Jersey and Pennsylvania and providing treatment for patients with substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar and related disorders, attention-deficit /hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder, and PTSD. Philosophy of care is based on the foundations of respect and promotion of self-determination for all patients. These two attributes promotes trust, patient satisfaction, and improved quality of life for my patients.
![Photo of Ilisse Perlmutter, MD, DLFAPA, DFAACAP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e1cc040-0bf6-42d8-b130-d31a1f470ed1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ilisse Perlmutter
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, DFAACAP
Verified Verified
Marlton, NJ 08053 (Online Only)
Dr. Perlmutter is the Director of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Talkiatry. She is double board certified in adult and child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Perlmutter was the Chair of Behavioral Health and Addiction Services at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. Prior to Bergen New Bridge, she was the Director of Inpatient Psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center-Wakefield, in New York. Over 35 years, Dr. Perlmutter has held numerous leadership roles with some of the largest hospital systems in the New York Metro Area.
Dr. Perlmutter is the Director of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Talkiatry. She is double board certified in adult and child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Perlmutter was the Chair of Behavioral Health and Addiction Services at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. Prior to Bergen New Bridge, she was the Director of Inpatient Psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center-Wakefield, in New York. Over 35 years, Dr. Perlmutter has held numerous leadership roles with some of the largest hospital systems in the New York Metro Area.
![Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59c0adef-6c3d-462b-8778-58dd6f3046f8/2/320x400.png)
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glassboro, NJ 08028
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 Abdallah Ragab, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12d914fe-7c9d-44c5-adeb-4f2301904dba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Abdallah Ragab
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marlboro, NJ 07746
I believe clients want to have full remission of their symptoms , so they are able to function well and enjoy their life. A lot of clients are afraid to reach out for help either because of the stigma, fear to taking medication, or concerns of the medication side effects. The mental illness stigma have prevented a lot of people to reach out for help, believe me no human being is immune from mental illness. So please reach out for help ,and don't keep struggling or self medicating with illicit substances . Self medicating by illicit substance, used to be called addiction, will lead to dual diagnosis disorder. I
I believe clients want to have full remission of their symptoms , so they are able to function well and enjoy their life. A lot of clients are afraid to reach out for help either because of the stigma, fear to taking medication, or concerns of the medication side effects. The mental illness stigma have prevented a lot of people to reach out for help, believe me no human being is immune from mental illness. So please reach out for help ,and don't keep struggling or self medicating with illicit substances . Self medicating by illicit substance, used to be called addiction, will lead to dual diagnosis disorder. I
![Photo of Paula George, FNP-C, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb554279-a923-49e2-ac6c-4f64e786f07a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Paula George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083
I am Paula George, a Family Nurse practitioner (FNP-C) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am currently licensed to practice in the state of New Jersey. I earned a bachelor's degree in nursing from Felician University, NJ, with high honors (magna cum laude). I completed my Master of Science degree from Rutgers University School of Health-Related Professions in Newark, NJ, and post-certification in Psychiatry from Wilkes University, Pennsylvania.
I am Paula George, a Family Nurse practitioner (FNP-C) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am currently licensed to practice in the state of New Jersey. I earned a bachelor's degree in nursing from Felician University, NJ, with high honors (magna cum laude). I completed my Master of Science degree from Rutgers University School of Health-Related Professions in Newark, NJ, and post-certification in Psychiatry from Wilkes University, Pennsylvania.
![Photo of Ryan Samuel Wooden, MSN, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4ba367b-be36-4821-8926-3da181574d4e/1/320x400.png)
Ryan Samuel Wooden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in an integrative and hollistic approach that incorporates whole person health. This may consist of therapy, medication, and non-medication healing techniques. I value the importance of each client's uniqueness and incorporate this into a personalized treatment plan.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in an integrative and hollistic approach that incorporates whole person health. This may consist of therapy, medication, and non-medication healing techniques. I value the importance of each client's uniqueness and incorporate this into a personalized treatment plan.
![Photo of Obinna Ezealor - KAL Behavioral Health Inc, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/842ffab9-20f7-4c3e-8f6c-5a1949495b37/2/320x400.jpeg)
KAL Behavioral Health Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
I am Dr Obinna Ezealor, DNP, PMHNP-BC, owner/founder of KAL Behavioral Health Inc. I have an extensive psychiatric experience, having worked for over 12 years in one of the NJ state-established long-term psychiatric hospital and experience in General and Addiction Psychiatry. I also have experience working both in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, and treating clients from various ethnic and cultural groups. I am a highly motivated and organized individual passionate about caring for the mental health and addiction population, and my philosophy is to tailor each client’s care to their need.
I am Dr Obinna Ezealor, DNP, PMHNP-BC, owner/founder of KAL Behavioral Health Inc. I have an extensive psychiatric experience, having worked for over 12 years in one of the NJ state-established long-term psychiatric hospital and experience in General and Addiction Psychiatry. I also have experience working both in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, and treating clients from various ethnic and cultural groups. I am a highly motivated and organized individual passionate about caring for the mental health and addiction population, and my philosophy is to tailor each client’s care to their need.
See more therapy options for Swedesboro
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Swedesboro, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Swedesboro, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Swedesboro, NJ see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Swedesboro?
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.