Psychiatrists in West Orange, NJ
![Photo of Michael Lozovatsky, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd444503-aa2a-4da3-b834-1736fbd72c41/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Psychiatric Arts of New Jersey, where quality care meets accessibility. We understand that seeking mental health support is a crucial step towards a happier and healthier life, which is why we prioritize your well-being by offering appointments available within two weeks.
Welcome to Psychiatric Arts of New Jersey, where quality care meets accessibility. We understand that seeking mental health support is a crucial step towards a happier and healthier life, which is why we prioritize your well-being by offering appointments available within two weeks.
![Photo of Dr. Rachael Brothers, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9cf2721-99db-4ff1-8d85-5642ae7eb953/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Rachael Brothers, DO earned her Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience at the University of Miami prior to completion of medical school in New York City at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine where she graduated in the top five percent of her class. She completed her psychiatric residency training at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus, NJ, one of the country’s largest psychiatric hospitals. Dr. Brothers is passionate about a holistic approach to wellbeing while treating a spectrum of diagnoses.
Dr. Rachael Brothers, DO earned her Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience at the University of Miami prior to completion of medical school in New York City at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine where she graduated in the top five percent of her class. She completed her psychiatric residency training at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus, NJ, one of the country’s largest psychiatric hospitals. Dr. Brothers is passionate about a holistic approach to wellbeing while treating a spectrum of diagnoses.
![Photo of Indra Cidambi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48007a5c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cidambi is board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine (ABAM). She completed her residency in Psychiatry from Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn and a Fellowship in Addiction Medicine from NYU/Bellevue. Dr. Cidambi was the Director of Chemical Dependency at New Jersey's oldest inpatient mental health/substance abuse hospital. In 2010, Dr. Cidambi started her own substance abuse treatment facility, Center for Network Therapy (RecoveryCNT.com), providing outpatient detoxification from alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates and suboxone, and partial care and IOP programs. All payments in cash only - no insurance accpeted.
Dr. Cidambi is board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine (ABAM). She completed her residency in Psychiatry from Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn and a Fellowship in Addiction Medicine from NYU/Bellevue. Dr. Cidambi was the Director of Chemical Dependency at New Jersey's oldest inpatient mental health/substance abuse hospital. In 2010, Dr. Cidambi started her own substance abuse treatment facility, Center for Network Therapy (RecoveryCNT.com), providing outpatient detoxification from alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates and suboxone, and partial care and IOP programs. All payments in cash only - no insurance accpeted.
![Photo of Akinlabi Sanusi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51e67b74-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I completed a residency training in General and Adult Psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York, an affiliate program of the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York. My treatment approach is based on the understanding that every individual is unique in their needs. After a careful assessment of your symptoms, I will work with you in creating the treatment plan that suits you best. I believe in the combination of medication management and psychotherapy for a quick return to functioning.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I completed a residency training in General and Adult Psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York, an affiliate program of the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York. My treatment approach is based on the understanding that every individual is unique in their needs. After a careful assessment of your symptoms, I will work with you in creating the treatment plan that suits you best. I believe in the combination of medication management and psychotherapy for a quick return to functioning.
![Photo of Veronica M Jensen, DNP, MSN, APNC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/405427b6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica M Jensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APNC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
Hello, my name is Veronica Jensen, DNP, MSN, APNC, PMHNP-BC. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. I am the founder of Pathway to Wellness LLC. I have over 8 years of experience in prescribing psychotropic medications and over 15 years in the psychiatric field. I am very comfortable with complex, acute, and chronic cases. I have worked in various settings of mental health such as inpatient psychiatric units, emergency rooms, outpatient, acute outpatient services, and nursing home Dementia/Alzheimer units. I also provide consultation services for area nursing homes.
Hello, my name is Veronica Jensen, DNP, MSN, APNC, PMHNP-BC. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice. I am the founder of Pathway to Wellness LLC. I have over 8 years of experience in prescribing psychotropic medications and over 15 years in the psychiatric field. I am very comfortable with complex, acute, and chronic cases. I have worked in various settings of mental health such as inpatient psychiatric units, emergency rooms, outpatient, acute outpatient services, and nursing home Dementia/Alzheimer units. I also provide consultation services for area nursing homes.
![Photo of Christianah Adelakun, PMHNP, ANP BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97c06038-8359-496f-8128-8a01887fa7cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christianah Adelakun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric healthcare worker, my ideal client is someone who is motivated to work on their mental health and willing to participate in the therapy process. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, or other mental health conditions that impact their daily functioning. Their needs may include emotional support, tools to manage their symptoms, drugs, and non-judgmental space to process their thoughts and feelings. They may also benefit from understanding the root cause of their issues and learning how to cope with life's stressors. Goals include reducing symptoms, improving relationships, and achieving personal growth.
As a psychiatric healthcare worker, my ideal client is someone who is motivated to work on their mental health and willing to participate in the therapy process. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, or other mental health conditions that impact their daily functioning. Their needs may include emotional support, tools to manage their symptoms, drugs, and non-judgmental space to process their thoughts and feelings. They may also benefit from understanding the root cause of their issues and learning how to cope with life's stressors. Goals include reducing symptoms, improving relationships, and achieving personal growth.
![Photo of Sylvana Garcia Morales - Psychiatric Arts of New Jersey, MSN, APN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34fed288-fb49-466f-a84e-9ed5ea3f25f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatric Arts of New Jersey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
Sylvana Garcia, MSN, APN, PMHNP-BC, is a compassionate bilingual psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Psychiatric Arts of New Jersey. She has over 10 years of experience in psychiatry as both a psychiatric registered nurse and nurse practitioner. She believes each individual has their own story, challenges and perspectives that influence their mental health. Her goal is to improve her patients quality of life by providing active listening and compassionate care through a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. For more information, please visit us at www.PsychiatricArtsofNJ.com and learn more about the practice.
Sylvana Garcia, MSN, APN, PMHNP-BC, is a compassionate bilingual psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Psychiatric Arts of New Jersey. She has over 10 years of experience in psychiatry as both a psychiatric registered nurse and nurse practitioner. She believes each individual has their own story, challenges and perspectives that influence their mental health. Her goal is to improve her patients quality of life by providing active listening and compassionate care through a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. For more information, please visit us at www.PsychiatricArtsofNJ.com and learn more about the practice.
![Photo of Christianah O Adelakun - Constance Health and Behavioral Consult , PMHNP, APN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b925f2c3-5567-4315-a054-42a462ed8a84/1/320x400.jpeg)
Constance Health and Behavioral Consult
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052 (Online Only)
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult Health Nurse Practitioner, my heart is fully committed to nurturing and providing gentle, comprehensive mental health care. I deeply empathize with the intricate challenges of psychiatric conditions and passionately embrace a patient-centered approach in my treatment plans. My focus is always on recognizing and honoring the unique journey and needs of each individual. I warmly invite you to learn more about my compassionate practice and how we can walk together towards healing at www.constancehbc.org.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult Health Nurse Practitioner, my heart is fully committed to nurturing and providing gentle, comprehensive mental health care. I deeply empathize with the intricate challenges of psychiatric conditions and passionately embrace a patient-centered approach in my treatment plans. My focus is always on recognizing and honoring the unique journey and needs of each individual. I warmly invite you to learn more about my compassionate practice and how we can walk together towards healing at www.constancehbc.org.
![Photo of Akinlabi Sanusi, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f9b9a53-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I completed a residency training in General and Adult Psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York, an affiliate program of the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York. My treatment approach is based on the understanding that every individual is unique in their experience and needs. After a careful assessment of your symptoms, I will work with you in creating the treatment plan that suits you best.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I completed a residency training in General and Adult Psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York, an affiliate program of the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York. My treatment approach is based on the understanding that every individual is unique in their experience and needs. After a careful assessment of your symptoms, I will work with you in creating the treatment plan that suits you best.
![Photo of Michael Zornitzer, MD, DLFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e25c6ed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist with over 30 years experience in private practice, board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I work with patients with depression, anxiety, panic, substance abuse, ADD, OCD, bipolar disorder, marital and relationship issues as well as most other problems for which people seek professional help.
I am a psychiatrist with over 30 years experience in private practice, board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I work with patients with depression, anxiety, panic, substance abuse, ADD, OCD, bipolar disorder, marital and relationship issues as well as most other problems for which people seek professional help.
![Photo of Linda Oppong Winful - Wellness Direct LLC (Dr. Winful), BSN, MSN, PHMNP, APRNBC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4521f60c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Wellness Direct LLC (Dr. Winful)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PHMNP, APRNBC, DNP
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
Linda Winful serves as a goal oriented Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for Wellness Direct private practice office. Linda functions with over seven years of experience in mental health services using many modality of treatments and also specializes in substance abuse. Linda works to accommodate individual patient's schedules, such as weekends and late nights. She provides evaluation, treatment planning, pharmacologic management, and referrals as needed for patients. Linda, teaches Patient's and others about intended effects and potential adverse effects of treatment options.
Linda Winful serves as a goal oriented Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for Wellness Direct private practice office. Linda functions with over seven years of experience in mental health services using many modality of treatments and also specializes in substance abuse. Linda works to accommodate individual patient's schedules, such as weekends and late nights. She provides evaluation, treatment planning, pharmacologic management, and referrals as needed for patients. Linda, teaches Patient's and others about intended effects and potential adverse effects of treatment options.
![Photo of Alison Weiner - Alison Weiner MD PC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/400a2fc9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Weiner is a board-certified psychiatrist based in Montclair, New Jersey. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Weiner specializes in diagnosing and treating adults with mental, psychiatric, and behavioral health disorders. Dr. Weiner’s expertise in psychopharmacology allows her to manage depression, anxiety, ADD, psychosis, and OCD. Dr. Weiner is an in-network provider with Cigna (Evernorth), and her office can assist in billing out-of-network insurance benefits.
Dr. Weiner is a board-certified psychiatrist based in Montclair, New Jersey. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Weiner specializes in diagnosing and treating adults with mental, psychiatric, and behavioral health disorders. Dr. Weiner’s expertise in psychopharmacology allows her to manage depression, anxiety, ADD, psychosis, and OCD. Dr. Weiner is an in-network provider with Cigna (Evernorth), and her office can assist in billing out-of-network insurance benefits.
![Photo of Philip Ofosu-Mensah - Prompt Solutions Health And Wellness Center LLC, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d709223-aaaf-4cf5-a455-e82f6a2e33f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Prompt Solutions Health And Wellness Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
Philip Ofosu-Mensah, DNP, MSN, APN, PMHNP-BC, is a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Prompt Solutions Health and Wellness Center, LLC. Philip has over 12 years of experience in psychiatry as both a psychiatric registered nurse and nurse practitioner. He believes each individual has their own story, challenges and perspectives that influence their mental health and works to accommodate individual patient's schedules. His goal is to improve his patient’s quality of life by providing active listening and compassionate care through a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.
Philip Ofosu-Mensah, DNP, MSN, APN, PMHNP-BC, is a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Prompt Solutions Health and Wellness Center, LLC. Philip has over 12 years of experience in psychiatry as both a psychiatric registered nurse and nurse practitioner. He believes each individual has their own story, challenges and perspectives that influence their mental health and works to accommodate individual patient's schedules. His goal is to improve his patient’s quality of life by providing active listening and compassionate care through a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.
![Photo of Ijeoma Jennifer Hassan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f0ae61a-62f6-4be7-b691-946cce763d4e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ijeoma Jennifer Hassan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052 (Online Only)
Hi, I am Dr. Ijeoma Hassan is a board certified adult and forensic psychiatrist. I am licensed in NJ, NY, and PA. I combine psychopharmacology along with various modalities of psychotherapy in order to tackle mental health issues.
Hi, I am Dr. Ijeoma Hassan is a board certified adult and forensic psychiatrist. I am licensed in NJ, NY, and PA. I combine psychopharmacology along with various modalities of psychotherapy in order to tackle mental health issues.
![Photo of Benedicta Akpahu - Amity Healthcare Services, LLC, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e00932fb-8676-4b74-a58b-48ce0b6e6b53/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amity Healthcare Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
Benedicta Akpahu, MSN, APN, and PMHNP-BC, goal-oriented and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Benedicta has over 23 years of experience in Psychiatric and mental health as a nurse and she has many years of Nursing home experience working with elderly patients with Alzheimer's disease and other health issues. Benedicta obtained her bachelor's from the University of Phoenix and Master of Science with a focus on Psychiatric Mental Health throughout life span from Walden University. Benedicta is board-certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC).
Benedicta Akpahu, MSN, APN, and PMHNP-BC, goal-oriented and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Benedicta has over 23 years of experience in Psychiatric and mental health as a nurse and she has many years of Nursing home experience working with elderly patients with Alzheimer's disease and other health issues. Benedicta obtained her bachelor's from the University of Phoenix and Master of Science with a focus on Psychiatric Mental Health throughout life span from Walden University. Benedicta is board-certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC).
![Photo of Syndie Volcy - Mental Clarity Outpatient Services, LLC, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce6c1b7-d366-41f6-baf9-4438cc476a4d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mental Clarity Outpatient Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
Syndie Volcy, MSN, APN, PMHNP-BC, is a dedicated and empathetic nurse practitioner with extensive experience focused on supporting individuals in attaining sustained emotional wellness and cognitive vitality. Possessing a background of 15 years within the healthcare sector, she has had the honor of providing guidance to numerous individuals as they navigate paths towards improved and enriched lifestyles.
Syndie Volcy, MSN, APN, PMHNP-BC, is a dedicated and empathetic nurse practitioner with extensive experience focused on supporting individuals in attaining sustained emotional wellness and cognitive vitality. Possessing a background of 15 years within the healthcare sector, she has had the honor of providing guidance to numerous individuals as they navigate paths towards improved and enriched lifestyles.
![Photo of Patrick McNamara, MSN, APN , PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04b3fe81-26f7-4b1d-b48d-bb6eb23235c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patrick McNamara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN , PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you. My name is Patrick and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of New Jersey. I specialize in the management of Anxiety, Depression, Burnout, Anger Management, Insomnia/Sleep issues, Loss, Men's Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress response, as well as medication management.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you. My name is Patrick and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of New Jersey. I specialize in the management of Anxiety, Depression, Burnout, Anger Management, Insomnia/Sleep issues, Loss, Men's Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress response, as well as medication management.
Christopher Tikum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jake Rosenberg, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcf355db-f9be-4d68-b5af-309877d681d1/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Jake works with patients of all backgrounds to collaboratively target mental health concerns. Areas of focus include ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, addiction, and psychosis.
Dr. Jake works with patients of all backgrounds to collaboratively target mental health concerns. Areas of focus include ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, addiction, and psychosis.
![Photo of Callister Ibe - Future Hope Mental Care of NJ, PMHNP, ANCC-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb5d8811-f30e-4f3e-b6e6-6915f0a5cf92/3/320x400.jpeg)
Future Hope Mental Care of NJ
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
East Orange, NJ 07017
I want clients to be able to have an open non-judgmental area to tackle their emotions, gain insights, and develop an understanding that creates changes.
I want clients to be able to have an open non-judgmental area to tackle their emotions, gain insights, and develop an understanding that creates changes.
See more therapy options for West Orange
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in West Orange, NJ
10+
Average cost per session
$272
Psychiatrists in West Orange, NJ who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
94% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
89% | Bipolar Disorder |
89% | Medication Management |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
64% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in West Orange, NJ see their clients
78% | In Person and Online | |
22% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in West Orange?
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.