Psychiatrists in 07052

Photo of Dr. Rachael Brothers, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Rachael Brothers
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
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.
(973) 836-5127 View (973) 836-5127
Photo of Akinlabi Sanusi, Psychiatrist, MD
Akinlabi Sanusi
Psychiatrist, MD
West Orange, NJ 07052
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.
(732) 627-2660 View (732) 627-2660
Photo of Indra Cidambi, Psychiatrist, MD
Indra Cidambi
Psychiatrist, MD
West Orange, NJ 07052
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.
(973) 358-4128 View (973) 358-4128
Photo of Dr. Sandy Hussain, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Dr. Sandy Hussain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
West Orange, NJ 07052
Hi, I’m Dr. Sandy Hussain, DNP, PMHNP‑BC a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about helping adults manage anxiety, sleep issues, ADHD, depression, and more. I create personalized medication plans designed to make life feel lighter and more manageable. I offer in-person sessions in West Orange, NJ, as well as telehealth services to clients throughout New Jersey, ensuring support is always within reach. I’m also the founder and provider at Hope Health Care Solutions, where compassionate, client-centered care is always our priority.
Hi, I’m Dr. Sandy Hussain, DNP, PMHNP‑BC a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about helping adults manage anxiety, sleep issues, ADHD, depression, and more. I create personalized medication plans designed to make life feel lighter and more manageable. I offer in-person sessions in West Orange, NJ, as well as telehealth services to clients throughout New Jersey, ensuring support is always within reach. I’m also the founder and provider at Hope Health Care Solutions, where compassionate, client-centered care is always our priority.
(862) 263-7275 View (862) 263-7275
Photo of Sylvana Garcia Morales - Psychiatric Arts of New Jersey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-BC
Psychiatric Arts of New Jersey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-BC
2 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.
(973) 221-9142 View (973) 221-9142
Photo of Christopher Tikum, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Christopher Tikum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
Dr. Tikum’s ideal client are those open to self-exploration and growth. He likes providing care for clients with Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia, Trauma, etc. and desire to understand their patterns and behaviors. Dr. Tikum provides a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to express their thoughts and feelings, as well as guidance in developing coping strategies and tools for emotional regulation. My goals are to educate clients and family on their health conditions and medications management to help them achieve a better understanding of themselves, improving their relationships, and enhancing their wellbeing and longevity.
Dr. Tikum’s ideal client are those open to self-exploration and growth. He likes providing care for clients with Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia, Trauma, etc. and desire to understand their patterns and behaviors. Dr. Tikum provides a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to express their thoughts and feelings, as well as guidance in developing coping strategies and tools for emotional regulation. My goals are to educate clients and family on their health conditions and medications management to help them achieve a better understanding of themselves, improving their relationships, and enhancing their wellbeing and longevity.
(973) 520-5939 View (973) 520-5939
Photo of Michael Lozovatsky, Psychiatrist, MD
Michael Lozovatsky
Psychiatrist, MD
West Orange, NJ 07052
Hello, my name is Michael Lozovatsky, MD, and I am a psychiatrist with more than 8 years of experience in the psychiatric field. I’m currently accepting new patients and would be glad to work with you if you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia, or ADHD. You deserve to feel more focused, calm, and in control. Together, we’ll uncover what’s holding you back, develop effective strategies, and create a path toward greater balance, clarity, and peace of mind—helping you move closer to the life you want. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and always tailored to your unique needs.
Hello, my name is Michael Lozovatsky, MD, and I am a psychiatrist with more than 8 years of experience in the psychiatric field. I’m currently accepting new patients and would be glad to work with you if you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia, or ADHD. You deserve to feel more focused, calm, and in control. Together, we’ll uncover what’s holding you back, develop effective strategies, and create a path toward greater balance, clarity, and peace of mind—helping you move closer to the life you want. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and always tailored to your unique needs.
(973) 846-5957 View (973) 846-5957
Photo of Veronica M Jensen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APNC
Veronica M Jensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APNC
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.
(908) 867-0284 View (908) 867-0284
Photo of Akinlabi Sanusi, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Akinlabi Sanusi
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
West Orange, NJ 07052
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.
(848) 206-3679 View (848) 206-3679
Photo of Philip Ofosu-Mensah - Prompt Solutions Health And Wellness Center LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC
Prompt Solutions Health And Wellness Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
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.
(973) 858-5423 View (973) 858-5423
Photo of Paula George, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP, MSN
Paula George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am Paula George, a Family Nurse practitioner (FNP-C) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am currently licensed to practice in the state of New Jersey. I earned a bachelor's degree in nursing from Felician University, NJ, with high honors (magna cum laude). I completed my Master of Science degree from Rutgers University School of Health-Related Professions in Newark, NJ, and post-certification in Psychiatry from Wilkes University, Pennsylvania.
I am Paula George, a Family Nurse practitioner (FNP-C) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am currently licensed to practice in the state of New Jersey. I earned a bachelor's degree in nursing from Felician University, NJ, with high honors (magna cum laude). I completed my Master of Science degree from Rutgers University School of Health-Related Professions in Newark, NJ, and post-certification in Psychiatry from Wilkes University, Pennsylvania.
(973) 620-7271 View (973) 620-7271
Photo of Patrice Gutt - MindState Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
MindState Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Dr. Patrice Gutt, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Northern New Jersey. With experience in both inpatient and outpatient care, she treats individuals ages 6 to 65+ using a trauma-informed, holistic approach. Dr. Gutt holds a DNP from Walden University and has a diverse nursing background in ICU, cardiac, and psychiatric settings. She is a member of APNA, NAMI, and NEI, and is certified by the ANCC.
Dr. Patrice Gutt, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Northern New Jersey. With experience in both inpatient and outpatient care, she treats individuals ages 6 to 65+ using a trauma-informed, holistic approach. Dr. Gutt holds a DNP from Walden University and has a diverse nursing background in ICU, cardiac, and psychiatric settings. She is a member of APNA, NAMI, and NEI, and is certified by the ANCC.
(973) 756-3736 View (973) 756-3736
Photo of Michael Zornitzer, Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA
Michael Zornitzer
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA
Serves Area
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.
(973) 567-3510 View (973) 567-3510
Photo of Selam Koch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Selam Koch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
Anxiety, depression, and ADHD can impact every aspect of daily life. Through compassionate, individualized care, I work with patients to develop treatment plans that integrate medication management, education, and ongoing support—helping them regain balance and move forward with confidence. As a board-certified psychiatric mental health provider with over a decade of experience, I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, adjustment disorders, psychotic disorders, and co-occurring substance use challenges.
Anxiety, depression, and ADHD can impact every aspect of daily life. Through compassionate, individualized care, I work with patients to develop treatment plans that integrate medication management, education, and ongoing support—helping them regain balance and move forward with confidence. As a board-certified psychiatric mental health provider with over a decade of experience, I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, adjustment disorders, psychotic disorders, and co-occurring substance use challenges.
(908) 774-9325 View (908) 774-9325
Photo of Eve Crane, Psychiatrist, MD
Eve Crane
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I strive to improve my patients' lives through genuine connection and the use of psychiatric medication. I use not only biological information but also environmental, emotional, psychological and other aspects of a person to individualize each treatment plan. My goal is to help my patients live happier, healthier and more balanced lives. Mental illness and distress are TOUGH, but my patients are tougher and we can get through this together.
I strive to improve my patients' lives through genuine connection and the use of psychiatric medication. I use not only biological information but also environmental, emotional, psychological and other aspects of a person to individualize each treatment plan. My goal is to help my patients live happier, healthier and more balanced lives. Mental illness and distress are TOUGH, but my patients are tougher and we can get through this together.
(973) 547-1253 View (973) 547-1253
Photo of Syndie Volcy - Mental Clarity Outpatient Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Mental Clarity Outpatient Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Syndie Volcy, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a warm, collaborative psychiatric nurse practitioner at Mental Clarity, where the focus is to “Find Peace Within.” She helps adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and burnout feel more grounded, focused, and emotionally balanced. With 15 years in healthcare, she understands high-functioning professionals who are overwhelmed yet still pushing through and want practical tools, clear medication guidance, and a nonjudgmental space to heal.
Syndie Volcy, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a warm, collaborative psychiatric nurse practitioner at Mental Clarity, where the focus is to “Find Peace Within.” She helps adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and burnout feel more grounded, focused, and emotionally balanced. With 15 years in healthcare, she understands high-functioning professionals who are overwhelmed yet still pushing through and want practical tools, clear medication guidance, and a nonjudgmental space to heal.
(973) 553-4061 View (973) 553-4061
Photo of Alison Weiner - Alison Weiner MD PC, Psychiatrist, MD
Alison Weiner MD PC
Psychiatrist, MD
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(973) 671-1266 View (973) 671-1266
Photo of Linda Oppong Winful - Wellness Direct LLC (Dr. Winful), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PHMNP, APRNBC, DNP
Wellness Direct LLC (Dr. Winful)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PHMNP, APRNBC, DNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(973) 755-1548 View (973) 755-1548
Photo of Dr. Payal K Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Payal K Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a board certified child/adult psychiatrist with 20yrs of experience. My goal is to provide compassionate quality care and I use a comprehensive treatment approach. I use principles of Psychodynamic psychotherapy and CBT and integrate it with medication management. I have the experience of treating different kinds of disorders in children/teens/adults.
I am a board certified child/adult psychiatrist with 20yrs of experience. My goal is to provide compassionate quality care and I use a comprehensive treatment approach. I use principles of Psychodynamic psychotherapy and CBT and integrate it with medication management. I have the experience of treating different kinds of disorders in children/teens/adults.
(973) 791-7490 View (973) 791-7490
Photo of Benedicta Akpahu - Benedicta Akpahu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Benedicta Akpahu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a MSN, APN, and PMHNP-BC, goal-oriented and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 25 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. I obtained my 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).
I am a MSN, APN, and PMHNP-BC, goal-oriented and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 25 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. I obtained my 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).
(908) 860-8822 View (908) 860-8822

See more therapy options for 07052

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07052

20+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 07052 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
92% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
92% Bipolar Disorder
92% Medication Management
88% Trauma and PTSD
80% ADHD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
90% Aetna
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 07052 see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07052?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.