Psychiatrists in West New York, NJ
![Photo of Yissell Delvalle, MD, FASAM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45dd5112-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Yissell Delvalle is a Board Certified Psychiatrist, Board Certified Addiction Medicine Doctor, who graduated from UMDNJ-Rutgers Medical School in Newark. She particularly treats patients with addiction, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, psychosis and women with post-partum depression.
Dr. Yissell Delvalle is a Board Certified Psychiatrist, Board Certified Addiction Medicine Doctor, who graduated from UMDNJ-Rutgers Medical School in Newark. She particularly treats patients with addiction, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, psychosis and women with post-partum depression.
![Photo of Dr. Cassandra Nunez, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d698ec6-3705-4794-8b3c-eacbab1eb281/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Cassandra Nunez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West New York, NJ 07093 (Online Only)
Looking to conquer your mood while maintaining peak performance as a young professional? Ready to elevate your well-being with a comprehensive and holistic approach tailored to your busy lifestyle? In challenging moments, finding solace, and feeling heard is crucial. Lighten your load with compassionate care designed just for you. Irrespective of the obstacles you face, your care should be designed to meet your specific needs.
Looking to conquer your mood while maintaining peak performance as a young professional? Ready to elevate your well-being with a comprehensive and holistic approach tailored to your busy lifestyle? In challenging moments, finding solace, and feeling heard is crucial. Lighten your load with compassionate care designed just for you. Irrespective of the obstacles you face, your care should be designed to meet your specific needs.
![Photo of Dr. Tola Ogunsakin - Precious Medical Care, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MHA, NEA-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3a2ec2c-a1e4-419b-a29b-cd2a29a94937/2/320x400.jpeg)
Precious Medical Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MHA, NEA-BC
Verified Verified
West New York, NJ 07093
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind.
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind.
![Photo of Antonio Pedulla - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3a51388-7029-4205-b3a6-fc376ed63afb/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
West New York, NJ 07093 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out-of-pocket rates and accept some insurances
Accepting new patients via telehealth for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out-of-pocket rates and accept some insurances
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Lisa Scarlatella, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/888e63c2-f65d-4f55-8ad4-8efc000bd12f/2/320x400.png)
Lisa Scarlatella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Guttenberg, NJ 07093 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing and a Post Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Fairleigh Dickinson University with Sigma Theta Tau honors. I have experience working as a Nurse Practitioner in college health and clinical experience with medication management for adults in inpatient and outpatient settings.
I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing and a Post Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Fairleigh Dickinson University with Sigma Theta Tau honors. I have experience working as a Nurse Practitioner in college health and clinical experience with medication management for adults in inpatient and outpatient settings.
Paula Weisman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Union City, NJ 07087
Are you having difficulty with Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Insomnia? Or have you had a history of Mental Health Issues that you want to discuss? Do you have Addiction to Opiates, Narcotics, Alcohol? Just Relapsed and Need Help Now? We are here to help. Our Mental Health and Addiction Center is Open 5 days a week with multiple providers to help you. We Proudly Accept Medicaid of New Jersey and also Commercial Insurance with out of network benefits.
Are you having difficulty with Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Insomnia? Or have you had a history of Mental Health Issues that you want to discuss? Do you have Addiction to Opiates, Narcotics, Alcohol? Just Relapsed and Need Help Now? We are here to help. Our Mental Health and Addiction Center is Open 5 days a week with multiple providers to help you. We Proudly Accept Medicaid of New Jersey and also Commercial Insurance with out of network benefits.
![Photo of Habiba Mzougui - iMatter Wellness , CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5026e94-49ab-4026-b6b1-57bde630c001/3/320x400.jpeg)
iMatter Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Secaucus, NJ 07094 (Online Only)
iMatter Wellness is a micro-practice specializing in the mental health care of children, adolescents, and young adults. We see children as young as 5 years old. How did the school year go? Did your child struggle academically, socially, or emotionally? Did you dread incoming phone calls between the hours of 8AM and 3PM?Have you wondered or has a teacher suspected your child might have ADHD? Be proactive this summer and establish services for your child today! September 2024 will be here before you know it. Contact us today! schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns and child's needs. Together we will plan for success!
iMatter Wellness is a micro-practice specializing in the mental health care of children, adolescents, and young adults. We see children as young as 5 years old. How did the school year go? Did your child struggle academically, socially, or emotionally? Did you dread incoming phone calls between the hours of 8AM and 3PM?Have you wondered or has a teacher suspected your child might have ADHD? Be proactive this summer and establish services for your child today! September 2024 will be here before you know it. Contact us today! schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns and child's needs. Together we will plan for success!
![Photo of Aphie Amams, DNP, PMHNPBC, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dba3ecb5-ee0a-498d-8a56-99da494a4a31/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aphie Amams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, APN
Verified Verified
Union City, NJ 07087
At St Charles Medical Consult, we are dedicated to helping our clients with their diverse mental health needs. Through the comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, customized individualized treatment plans, and medication management, our services empower the clients to function better in the quickest possible time. We team up with our clients in setting the treatment goals and in working through their issues collaboratively by bring them to the here and now. We accept clients for Suboxone treatment. Call for immediate appointment. Call or Email St, Charles Medical Consult, for a free consultation now - (973) 564-0815.
At St Charles Medical Consult, we are dedicated to helping our clients with their diverse mental health needs. Through the comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, customized individualized treatment plans, and medication management, our services empower the clients to function better in the quickest possible time. We team up with our clients in setting the treatment goals and in working through their issues collaboratively by bring them to the here and now. We accept clients for Suboxone treatment. Call for immediate appointment. Call or Email St, Charles Medical Consult, for a free consultation now - (973) 564-0815.
![Photo of Dr. Fehintola Ogunsakin - PMC- Mental Health Clinic, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f23e2282-a536-499e-8a03-8e84c6cbea72/3/320x400.jpeg)
PMC- Mental Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, APN
Verified Verified
Guttenberg, NJ 07093
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
![Photo of Kelly Scott, MSN, PMHNPBC, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1574a4d8-c085-45f8-a88e-664c86b0adbb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, BSN
Verified Verified
Union City, NJ 07087 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am an ANCC board-certified and licensed Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I am experienced, caring, and empathetic. I earned my Master of Science in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from New York University, where I focused on psychopharmacology and multiple psychotherapy treatment modalities. I also earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Seton Hall University and my Bachelor of Science in Biology from Saint Elizabeth University.
I am an ANCC board-certified and licensed Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I am experienced, caring, and empathetic. I earned my Master of Science in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from New York University, where I focused on psychopharmacology and multiple psychotherapy treatment modalities. I also earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Seton Hall University and my Bachelor of Science in Biology from Saint Elizabeth University.
![Photo of Melissa Cardinal, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4d335d3-aaf7-4615-9ec5-126e4aaa0b24/2/320x400.png)
Melissa Cardinal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
North Bergen, NJ 07047
Melissa Cardinal is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Melissa Cardinal specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and adult ADHD. Through the use of psychopharmacology, she treats these disorders successfully. Ms. Cardinal incorporates a holistic treatment approach, including Complementary Alternative Medicine, which has resulted in clients reporting increases in wellness, personal satisfaction, and fulfillment. Melissa also tailors her treatment plan according to genetic testing, another step in her efforts to improve the quality of life for her patients.
Melissa Cardinal is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Melissa Cardinal specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and adult ADHD. Through the use of psychopharmacology, she treats these disorders successfully. Ms. Cardinal incorporates a holistic treatment approach, including Complementary Alternative Medicine, which has resulted in clients reporting increases in wellness, personal satisfaction, and fulfillment. Melissa also tailors her treatment plan according to genetic testing, another step in her efforts to improve the quality of life for her patients.
![Photo of Carmen d Berrios - Berrios Psychotherapy Associates, MSN, APN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f405489-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have over 40 years of experiencein conducting psychiatric evaluation and medication management as well as helping clients cope with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and adjustment to life cycle changes. I work collaboratively with clients to establish a trusting, mutually respectful and supportive relationship, set goals, build upon strengths to increase confidence self-esteem, and work toward solving issues which often cause people to feel stuck. Medication is a major tool to address the psychiatric diagnoses and addiction.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have over 40 years of experiencein conducting psychiatric evaluation and medication management as well as helping clients cope with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and adjustment to life cycle changes. I work collaboratively with clients to establish a trusting, mutually respectful and supportive relationship, set goals, build upon strengths to increase confidence self-esteem, and work toward solving issues which often cause people to feel stuck. Medication is a major tool to address the psychiatric diagnoses and addiction.
![Photo of Kevin Obi, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9faa298-b19d-4f04-81a7-1d59e863c082/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kevin Obi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Union City, NJ 07087
Are you having difficulty with Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Insomnia? Or have you had a history of Mental Health Issues that you want to discuss? Do you have Addiction to Opiates, Narcotics, Alcohol? Just Relapsed and Need Help Now?
Are you having difficulty with Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Insomnia? Or have you had a history of Mental Health Issues that you want to discuss? Do you have Addiction to Opiates, Narcotics, Alcohol? Just Relapsed and Need Help Now?
Are you having difficulty with Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Insomnia? Or have you had a history of Mental Health Issues that you want to discuss? Do you have Addiction to Opiates, Narcotics, Alcohol? Just Relapsed and Need Help Now? We are here to help. Our Mental Health and Addiction Center is Open 5 days a week with multiple providers to help you. We Proudly Accept Medicaid of New Jersey and also Commercial Insurance with out of network benefits. We know how difficult it is to try and reach out to someone. But it just takes a phone call to start the process! Call us anytime!
Are you having difficulty with Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Insomnia? Or have you had a history of Mental Health Issues that you want to discuss? Do you have Addiction to Opiates, Narcotics, Alcohol? Just Relapsed and Need Help Now? We are here to help. Our Mental Health and Addiction Center is Open 5 days a week with multiple providers to help you. We Proudly Accept Medicaid of New Jersey and also Commercial Insurance with out of network benefits. We know how difficult it is to try and reach out to someone. But it just takes a phone call to start the process! Call us anytime!
![Photo of Allen Masry - Victory Bay Recovery Center - Detox, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7202df60-386e-4111-b603-ae138865ca61/1/320x400.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 Mishela Gevorkyan, PMHNPBC, FNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2257680-8404-47fc-b13c-b2cd5032858b/1/320x400.png)
Mishela Gevorkyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Guttenberg, NJ 07093 (Online Only)
I am an ANCC board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and an AANP-certified family nurse practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Bachelor of Science in Public Health and Nursing from the University of Miami, my Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from St. Thomas University in Miami, FL, and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Masters Certificate from Florida State University.
I am an ANCC board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and an AANP-certified family nurse practitioner. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Bachelor of Science in Public Health and Nursing from the University of Miami, my Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from St. Thomas University in Miami, FL, and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Masters Certificate from Florida State University.
![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
North Bergen, NJ 07047 (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.
We are navigating a different world. Sometimes we need a professional to help guide us along the way. Here to help Navigate your journey
We are navigating a different world. Sometimes we need a professional to help guide us along the way. Here to help Navigate your journey
![Photo of Leonor Francisco, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf8ea49e-f1d7-41be-97ae-d69eef0d0921/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leonor Francisco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
North Bergen, NJ 07047 (Online Only)
I started my nursing career in 2006 and have over 16 years of diverse nursing experience. I earn my patients’ trust by delivering quality and passionate care. The importance of helping a person heal, not only physically but emotionally, presented itself, and I moved on to pursue my graduate degree at Walden University to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
I started my nursing career in 2006 and have over 16 years of diverse nursing experience. I earn my patients’ trust by delivering quality and passionate care. The importance of helping a person heal, not only physically but emotionally, presented itself, and I moved on to pursue my graduate degree at Walden University to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
See more therapy options for West New York
Nearby Searches for West New York
- Belleville
- Clifton
- East Rutherford
- Edgewater
- Englewood
- Fort Lee
- Hackensack
- Hoboken
- Kearny
- Passaic
- Teaneck
- Union City
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in West New York, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in West New York, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Aetna |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | Medicare |
How Psychiatrists in West New York, NJ see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in West New York?
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.