Psychiatrists in New Jersey
![Photo of Amanda Guarnere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78b43890-90b1-4cbb-b18d-e9783ff4e1de/2/320x400.png)
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
![Photo of Sam Zion, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e8109e8-4426-44ee-8c5a-30369b10963a/1/320x400.png)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Sam and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management / Impulse Disorder, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar, Burnout, Chronic illness, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Family issues, Infertility, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+, Gender, & Sexuality Topics, Life Coaching, Life Transitions, among others. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Sam and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management / Impulse Disorder, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar, Burnout, Chronic illness, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Family issues, Infertility, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+, Gender, & Sexuality Topics, Life Coaching, Life Transitions, among others. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
![Photo of Abir Marcus, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8027367-ebdb-4a04-9469-594f57ad19a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marcus offers individualized approach in her treatments. She uses state of art treatments recommendations for the presenting problem while tailoring it to your personality and life style. Dr. Marcus is specialized in working with mood disorders such as Depression and Bipolar Disorders spectrum, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders. She is also certified in addiction treatments including Detoxification, working on abstinence or harm reduction through the use of medications and therapy. Dr. Marcus is certified to prescribe Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol.
Dr. Marcus offers individualized approach in her treatments. She uses state of art treatments recommendations for the presenting problem while tailoring it to your personality and life style. Dr. Marcus is specialized in working with mood disorders such as Depression and Bipolar Disorders spectrum, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders. She is also certified in addiction treatments including Detoxification, working on abstinence or harm reduction through the use of medications and therapy. Dr. Marcus is certified to prescribe Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol.
Ruth MacKenzie (adolescent/teen specialist)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Clementon, NJ 08021
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
![Photo of Nichole Perez - Mental Flex , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8439d48-4e03-491b-af89-b169d229909a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mental Flex
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fords, NJ 08863 (Online Only)
Your past & current circumstances do not define you, so who you choose to be moving forward will be the focal point. Many people struggle with their mental health and/or chemical dependency, but are afraid to seek help. You should know seeking help is one of the bravest steps you can take. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe that addressing mental health conditions are just as important as addressing physical concerns. I seek to create an inviting safe space for individuals wanting to start the discussion surrounding medication and their mental health. How can I help?
Your past & current circumstances do not define you, so who you choose to be moving forward will be the focal point. Many people struggle with their mental health and/or chemical dependency, but are afraid to seek help. You should know seeking help is one of the bravest steps you can take. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe that addressing mental health conditions are just as important as addressing physical concerns. I seek to create an inviting safe space for individuals wanting to start the discussion surrounding medication and their mental health. How can I help?
![Photo of Dr. Vivian Shnaidman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7415a45a-76ab-446d-bb2b-2161845c70bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal treatment client is someone who values themself, and who is ready to make a commitment to their mental health. Together we will explore various treatment options and strive to find the best possibly modality for the best possible long term outcome.
My ideal treatment client is someone who values themself, and who is ready to make a commitment to their mental health. Together we will explore various treatment options and strive to find the best possibly modality for the best possible long term outcome.
![Photo of Mona Maaty, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/baa93404-434e-490d-9d50-d389c89edcfd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Depression, fear, and anxiety are common emotions that we experience at some point in our lives and sometimes these emotions can feel overpowering. Many individuals also experience lingering anxiety, fear, and hopelessness, associated with painful and traumatic events. My goal is to help you rediscover your innate strength and empower you to navigate life’s challenges and ultimately reclaim joy. My approach is collaborative and often includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication. I am an IFS (Internal Family System) level 1 trained therapist, certified schema therapist, and integrate a somatic approach.
Depression, fear, and anxiety are common emotions that we experience at some point in our lives and sometimes these emotions can feel overpowering. Many individuals also experience lingering anxiety, fear, and hopelessness, associated with painful and traumatic events. My goal is to help you rediscover your innate strength and empower you to navigate life’s challenges and ultimately reclaim joy. My approach is collaborative and often includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication. I am an IFS (Internal Family System) level 1 trained therapist, certified schema therapist, and integrate a somatic approach.
![Photo of Dr. Bradford Bobrin, MD, FASAM, FACLP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e17c578e-500d-40e1-946e-a18a6721f122/1/320x400.png)
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
![Photo of Al (Alican) Dalkilic, MD, MPH, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb1c06b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treatment resistant DEPRESSION. As a Yale University trained psychiatrist, I utilize evidence based and FDA approved treatments supported with solid research to help our clients with difficult-to-treat depression. At Depression Doctors & TMS Program, we have been observing significant improvements in individuals with severe and chronic depression even if their symptoms failed to respond to trials of multiple antidepressants, complex medication regimens, and therapies. Two safe, effective, & FDA approved treatments for though-to-treat major depression are: TMS Therapy and Spravato (Esketamine) treatment.
I specialize in treatment resistant DEPRESSION. As a Yale University trained psychiatrist, I utilize evidence based and FDA approved treatments supported with solid research to help our clients with difficult-to-treat depression. At Depression Doctors & TMS Program, we have been observing significant improvements in individuals with severe and chronic depression even if their symptoms failed to respond to trials of multiple antidepressants, complex medication regimens, and therapies. Two safe, effective, & FDA approved treatments for though-to-treat major depression are: TMS Therapy and Spravato (Esketamine) treatment.
![Photo of Hasnain Afzal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03bfd4ef-0ce9-4dd2-930c-0ac61ec1ce47/1/320x400.jpeg)
Appointments available this week....I am a double board certified adult and addiction Psychiatrist licensed in New York and New Jersey. I am here to listen and support you towards better mental health. I spend time discussing your relationships, work, nutrition and physical health. I primarily provide medication management and incorporate psychotherapy into the appointments. My goal is to evoke positive change from within you. Call me for a free consult.
Appointments available this week....I am a double board certified adult and addiction Psychiatrist licensed in New York and New Jersey. I am here to listen and support you towards better mental health. I spend time discussing your relationships, work, nutrition and physical health. I primarily provide medication management and incorporate psychotherapy into the appointments. My goal is to evoke positive change from within you. Call me for a free consult.
![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.
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![Photo of Dr. Michael Olla, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5a8e0d7-a421-4608-9245-914d79f09500/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michael Ollas is a psychiatrist at Valley Spring Recovery in Norwood, NJ, specializing in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis. He offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management. Dr. Ollas combines behavioral therapies with the latest in psychopharmacology to treat addiction and substance use disorders. He provides crisis intervention, long-term mental health care, and Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) with Vivitrol, Suboxone, and Sublocade, supporting patients on their journey to lasting sobriety.
Dr. Michael Ollas is a psychiatrist at Valley Spring Recovery in Norwood, NJ, specializing in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis. He offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management. Dr. Ollas combines behavioral therapies with the latest in psychopharmacology to treat addiction and substance use disorders. He provides crisis intervention, long-term mental health care, and Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) with Vivitrol, Suboxone, and Sublocade, supporting patients on their journey to lasting sobriety.
![Photo of Annette Allegra, DNP, APN-C, MSN, PMHNP, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44d0c3f3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Annette Allegra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-C, MSN, PMHNP, LLC
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
I enjoy helping clients work toward feeling their best by medically treating and coaching them toward their greatest potential to live a more rewarding life. Due to my background of working with critically ill clients, as well as acute psychiatric and co-morbid illnesses, I am prepared to assist my clients in their journey towards better health. I work collaboratively with health providers as needed, and welcome collateral support for my clients if available. My experience includes treating a wide spectrum of conditions, which include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
I enjoy helping clients work toward feeling their best by medically treating and coaching them toward their greatest potential to live a more rewarding life. Due to my background of working with critically ill clients, as well as acute psychiatric and co-morbid illnesses, I am prepared to assist my clients in their journey towards better health. I work collaboratively with health providers as needed, and welcome collateral support for my clients if available. My experience includes treating a wide spectrum of conditions, which include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
![Photo of Daniel Okoro, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dede05a3-3361-406b-a455-0a1a4ed9aa8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Daniel Okoro, DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC, FNP-BC, provides compassionate and personalized care for those experiencing Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, other mental health issues, as well as those dealing with drug, alcohol and other substance abuse. Dr. Okoro always had a passion for, and is very proficient at psychological and physiological management of patients, able to quickly gain the trust and confidence of clients, very much cherishes teaching clients and able to take charge of management of their psychiatric and medical conditions.
Dr. Daniel Okoro, DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC, FNP-BC, provides compassionate and personalized care for those experiencing Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, other mental health issues, as well as those dealing with drug, alcohol and other substance abuse. Dr. Okoro always had a passion for, and is very proficient at psychological and physiological management of patients, able to quickly gain the trust and confidence of clients, very much cherishes teaching clients and able to take charge of management of their psychiatric and medical conditions.
Once a gamer and competitive athlete, now turned doctor, psychiatrist and father. My Goal is to help you and your family get your through the toughest years of your family's life.
Once a gamer and competitive athlete, now turned doctor, psychiatrist and father. My Goal is to help you and your family get your through the toughest years of your family's life.
![Photo of Ryan Wooden, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/131e9901-7750-4fbf-a5d2-7c6495bb07b5/1/320x400.png)
Ryan Wooden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 (Online Only)
Ryan Wooden is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in an integrative approach that may consist of therapy, medication, and non-medication healing techniques. He values the importance of each individual's uniqueness and incorporates this into each treatment plan for the most successful outcome. Above all, he loves to hear your story and wishes to guide you in your life journey the best he can. Ryan has a diverse background of knowledge with degrees.
Ryan Wooden is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in an integrative approach that may consist of therapy, medication, and non-medication healing techniques. He values the importance of each individual's uniqueness and incorporates this into each treatment plan for the most successful outcome. Above all, he loves to hear your story and wishes to guide you in your life journey the best he can. Ryan has a diverse background of knowledge with degrees.
![Photo of Treasure Santos, PMHNP, Mount L, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52ebe1c3-4806-423f-ab68-05731a93c646/2/320x400.jpeg)
Treasure Santos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, Mount L
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
I received my Master of Science in Nursing, with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, from LaSalle University in Philadelphia, PA. I am certified through the American Nurses Credentialing center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and am licensed through the state of New Jersey as an Advanced Practice Nurse. I am also a member of the American Nurses Association and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. The focus of the majority of my experience has been with adult populations within the inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use treatment settings.
I received my Master of Science in Nursing, with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, from LaSalle University in Philadelphia, PA. I am certified through the American Nurses Credentialing center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and am licensed through the state of New Jersey as an Advanced Practice Nurse. I am also a member of the American Nurses Association and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. The focus of the majority of my experience has been with adult populations within the inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use treatment settings.
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/407e9861-2edd-49e5-9256-8bd28fafcc84/1/320x400.png)
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Olga Gonzalez Byrne, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, ARNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb9bf002-e5cf-4644-9a05-e45095162dd7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olga Gonzalez Byrne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, ARNP
Verified Verified
Morris Plains, NJ 07950 (Online Only)
Olga’s style of practice is focus on holistic approach in which she includes traditional Western Medicine, stress management, lifestyle modification, balanced nutrition, exercises, vitamins, and all is Evidence based practice. Olga believes in the connection of soul, body, spirit and mind; therefore, she focuses on the healing of the individuals a whole in an effort to bring homeostasis to the person’s life.
Olga’s style of practice is focus on holistic approach in which she includes traditional Western Medicine, stress management, lifestyle modification, balanced nutrition, exercises, vitamins, and all is Evidence based practice. Olga believes in the connection of soul, body, spirit and mind; therefore, she focuses on the healing of the individuals a whole in an effort to bring homeostasis to the person’s life.
![Photo of Dr. Rathna Sree Mallela, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d539d5b-6e55-4046-aa84-bcc0ad0953e3/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Rathna S. Mallela, MD, MPH, brings over 14 years of expertise as a Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, specializing in behavioral and emotional challenges. Her practice offers personalized, comprehensive mental health care, focusing on evidence-based medication management and holistic approaches. While Dr. Mallela does not provide therapy, she strongly encourages it as part of overall wellness. Her ideal clients are those seeking to achieve mental balance, improved relationships, and a better quality of life.
Dr. Rathna S. Mallela, MD, MPH, brings over 14 years of expertise as a Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, specializing in behavioral and emotional challenges. Her practice offers personalized, comprehensive mental health care, focusing on evidence-based medication management and holistic approaches. While Dr. Mallela does not provide therapy, she strongly encourages it as part of overall wellness. Her ideal clients are those seeking to achieve mental balance, improved relationships, and a better quality of life.
See more therapy options for New Jersey
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in New Jersey who prioritize treating:
92% | Depression |
92% | Anxiety |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
73% | Medication Management |
72% | ADHD |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
87% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
76% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in New Jersey see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
30% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in New Jersey?
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.