Psychiatrists in 07081

At an early age, I began to enjoy working with children and adolescents, and that passion led me to becoming a board-certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. I have worked with clients from many different background experiences, cultures, and family systems. My work centers around helping children and adolescents with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, other behavior disorders, psychotic disorders, school and peer issues, and family conflict. At this time, I'm only providing treatment for children and adolescents who are less than 18 years old.
At an early age, I began to enjoy working with children and adolescents, and that passion led me to becoming a board-certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. I have worked with clients from many different background experiences, cultures, and family systems. My work centers around helping children and adolescents with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, other behavior disorders, psychotic disorders, school and peer issues, and family conflict. At this time, I'm only providing treatment for children and adolescents who are less than 18 years old.

P & P Psychiatric and Recovery Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APN-C
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
Dr. Olubunmi Adetule DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC with a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. I provide culturally competent care across-the-lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, couples, seniors) to clients with diverse mental health needs including substance abuse treatment and management, with the aim of improving their overall state of affairs. I am compassionate and devoted to my patients, I am a skilled and an experienced healthcare provider who will evaluate and manage your case with the utmost care and high regard for confidentiality standards.
Dr. Olubunmi Adetule DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC with a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. I provide culturally competent care across-the-lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, couples, seniors) to clients with diverse mental health needs including substance abuse treatment and management, with the aim of improving their overall state of affairs. I am compassionate and devoted to my patients, I am a skilled and an experienced healthcare provider who will evaluate and manage your case with the utmost care and high regard for confidentiality standards.

Emmanuel Anyanwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
Dr. Emmanuel Anyanwu, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP-BC is a Doctoral-Prepared and Board-Certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing a holistic and comprehensive mental health services to clients across all ages. I am registered in NJ and NY. If you are struggling with Depression and Anxiety, Bipolar and Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, ADHD, PTSD and Substance Use, Dr. Emmanuel is here to help. I have over 15 years clinical background in nursing and psychiatric mental health and substance use. At Sunrise Health, we work with our clients and their families to optimize patient outcomes and improve their quality of life.
Dr. Emmanuel Anyanwu, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP-BC is a Doctoral-Prepared and Board-Certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing a holistic and comprehensive mental health services to clients across all ages. I am registered in NJ and NY. If you are struggling with Depression and Anxiety, Bipolar and Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, ADHD, PTSD and Substance Use, Dr. Emmanuel is here to help. I have over 15 years clinical background in nursing and psychiatric mental health and substance use. At Sunrise Health, we work with our clients and their families to optimize patient outcomes and improve their quality of life.

HeadsTogether Psyche Solutions (Linda N. Oppong)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Linda N. Oppong is a dual board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 16 years of work experience in multiple healthcare settings. She developed a passion for mental health during her years as an advanced practice clinician. As a result, she pursued further education and graduated with honors during both phases of graduate studies. She obtained her Master's of Science in Nursing from the University of Medicine & Dentistry of NJ (now Rutger's University) and proceeded later to complete her post-master's certification in the psychiatric mental health NP program.
Linda N. Oppong is a dual board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 16 years of work experience in multiple healthcare settings. She developed a passion for mental health during her years as an advanced practice clinician. As a result, she pursued further education and graduated with honors during both phases of graduate studies. She obtained her Master's of Science in Nursing from the University of Medicine & Dentistry of NJ (now Rutger's University) and proceeded later to complete her post-master's certification in the psychiatric mental health NP program.

Jomaby HealthCare Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN-c
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey and has been in the mental health/psychiatric field for 0ver 10 years. I have extensive inpatient and outpatient experience working with individuals with mental health issues. I have worked with adolescents and adults with psychiatric disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorders and other mental health issues.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey and has been in the mental health/psychiatric field for 0ver 10 years. I have extensive inpatient and outpatient experience working with individuals with mental health issues. I have worked with adolescents and adults with psychiatric disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorders and other mental health issues.

Innerpeace Health LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
Francois Nguetsop is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing holistic and comprehensive mental health services to clients across the lifespan. He believes that people are more than the sum of their experiences; illness is more than the sum of its symptoms and works with you to get to the root cause of your condition. Known for his warmth and personal approach, Francois collaborates with you to help you on your journey to optimal health and well-being.
Francois Nguetsop is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing holistic and comprehensive mental health services to clients across the lifespan. He believes that people are more than the sum of their experiences; illness is more than the sum of its symptoms and works with you to get to the root cause of your condition. Known for his warmth and personal approach, Francois collaborates with you to help you on your journey to optimal health and well-being.

Glorious Dawn Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey and New York. My passion is driven by my desire to see everyone do well. I have always been guided by my belief that I will only be judged by the success/recovery of my patients. My goal is to foster healing and provide quality evidence-based mental health care services for patients and their families. The core focus of our care is patient-driven.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey and New York. My passion is driven by my desire to see everyone do well. I have always been guided by my belief that I will only be judged by the success/recovery of my patients. My goal is to foster healing and provide quality evidence-based mental health care services for patients and their families. The core focus of our care is patient-driven.

Dr. Altagracia Gomez Aracena is a Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Specialist. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Instituto Tecnologico and completed her residency and subsequently her fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, where she was appointed Chief in both programs. She has been working as an attending psychiatrist at Robert Wood Johnson- Barnabas Health covering adult program and the child and adolescent outpatient clinic. Dr. Gomez Aracena provides non-judgmental and compassionate care and strategies to achieve and embrace one's full potential.
Dr. Altagracia Gomez Aracena is a Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Specialist. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Instituto Tecnologico and completed her residency and subsequently her fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, where she was appointed Chief in both programs. She has been working as an attending psychiatrist at Robert Wood Johnson- Barnabas Health covering adult program and the child and adolescent outpatient clinic. Dr. Gomez Aracena provides non-judgmental and compassionate care and strategies to achieve and embrace one's full potential.

Pro Peace NP in Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APN-C
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
Dr. Olubunmi Adetule, DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC, has a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. I provide culturally competent care across the lifespan (children, adolescents, and adults) to clients with diverse mental health needs, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD treatment and management, to improve their overall conditions.
Dr. Olubunmi Adetule, DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC, has a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. I provide culturally competent care across the lifespan (children, adolescents, and adults) to clients with diverse mental health needs, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD treatment and management, to improve their overall conditions.

My philosophy is based on the belief that each individual is unique and requires a personalized approach to their treatment. I work collaboratively with my patients to identify their specific needs and goals, and to develop a treatment plan that best suits them. The cost of an initial psychiatric appointment may seem high, it is reflective of the specialized training and expertise that my training brings to you. Additionally, the initial appointment is a crucial step in establishing a therapeutic relationship and developing a personalized treatment plan, which can ultimately lead to improved mental health and well-being.
My philosophy is based on the belief that each individual is unique and requires a personalized approach to their treatment. I work collaboratively with my patients to identify their specific needs and goals, and to develop a treatment plan that best suits them. The cost of an initial psychiatric appointment may seem high, it is reflective of the specialized training and expertise that my training brings to you. Additionally, the initial appointment is a crucial step in establishing a therapeutic relationship and developing a personalized treatment plan, which can ultimately lead to improved mental health and well-being.

Claudette L Blake-Tonge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or in need of compassionate support on your mental health journey? I am Dr. Claudette L. Blake, DNP, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals find balance, resilience, and hope.
I specialize in providing psychiatric diagnostic assessments, medication management, and therapy tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or struggling with self-esteem, I’m here to guide you with evidence-based treatment and unwavering support.
Your journey to healing starts here. Let’s take the first step together.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or in need of compassionate support on your mental health journey? I am Dr. Claudette L. Blake, DNP, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals find balance, resilience, and hope.
I specialize in providing psychiatric diagnostic assessments, medication management, and therapy tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or struggling with self-esteem, I’m here to guide you with evidence-based treatment and unwavering support.
Your journey to healing starts here. Let’s take the first step together.

Welcome! I'm a board certified Psych NP with over 10 years of experience in meeting the needs of my clients. My specific focus includes diagnosing, treating and preventing mental, emotional and behavioral disorders across the life span. I also specialize in substance abuse and addiction treatment. I provide holistic and patient centered care by partnering with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals.
Welcome! I'm a board certified Psych NP with over 10 years of experience in meeting the needs of my clients. My specific focus includes diagnosing, treating and preventing mental, emotional and behavioral disorders across the life span. I also specialize in substance abuse and addiction treatment. I provide holistic and patient centered care by partnering with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals.

Are you tired of your mental illness defining you? You may be unsure of the way forward, feeling anxious, fearful, angry, and hopelessness. You might not know how your mental illness overcame you. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to stop masking your suffering but instead break through it. You are ready to know stability. Most of all, you are ready to live your best life. Clients come to me looking for a provider who understands there is not one pathway to becoming overwhelmed by mental illness and the journey to wellness is not one size fits all.
Are you tired of your mental illness defining you? You may be unsure of the way forward, feeling anxious, fearful, angry, and hopelessness. You might not know how your mental illness overcame you. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to stop masking your suffering but instead break through it. You are ready to know stability. Most of all, you are ready to live your best life. Clients come to me looking for a provider who understands there is not one pathway to becoming overwhelmed by mental illness and the journey to wellness is not one size fits all.

Adedoyin (Aka Asim) Hezekiah Asimolowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Adedoyin Asimolowo MSN, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC who specializes in psychiatric mental health with a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. The most inspiring part of my career has been the ability to make an impact in my patients' lives, meet them at their point of need and help them make positive changes in their lives. . I offer extensive mental health services for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and problems, such as ADHD, Mood, and Anxiety disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, and PTSD.
Adedoyin Asimolowo MSN, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC who specializes in psychiatric mental health with a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. The most inspiring part of my career has been the ability to make an impact in my patients' lives, meet them at their point of need and help them make positive changes in their lives. . I offer extensive mental health services for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and problems, such as ADHD, Mood, and Anxiety disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, and PTSD.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Gloria Akunna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
We work with patients seeking to uncover the root cause of their symptoms and provide evidence-based solutions. Symptoms of anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders can manifest in several ways and interfere with day-to-day functioning. If you are experiencing sadness, mood swings, irritability, tiredness, low energy, trouble concentrating, poor sleep, or appetite changes, you have come to the right place! At PsychCare Health & Wellness, we begin with a comprehensive assessment and work with you to devise an evidence-based treatment plan that focuses on your unique needs. We also offer pharmacogenomic tests to guide medication management.
We work with patients seeking to uncover the root cause of their symptoms and provide evidence-based solutions. Symptoms of anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders can manifest in several ways and interfere with day-to-day functioning. If you are experiencing sadness, mood swings, irritability, tiredness, low energy, trouble concentrating, poor sleep, or appetite changes, you have come to the right place! At PsychCare Health & Wellness, we begin with a comprehensive assessment and work with you to devise an evidence-based treatment plan that focuses on your unique needs. We also offer pharmacogenomic tests to guide medication management.

HealMed Clinic and Manhattan Wellness Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Providing in-person and Tele-psych services. A perfect sync in mind, body and soul is needed for a balanced and healthy life style and that is what I strive to look for and achieve during evaluation, psychiatric assessment and treatment of my patients. I am a dually board certified physician by ABPN and specialize in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. I will do a comprehensive assessment and see how the biological, psychological, and social issues in someone's past and present are interacting and contributing in presentation of psychiatric symptoms and will provide psychopharmacological treatment and supportive counselling if needed
Providing in-person and Tele-psych services. A perfect sync in mind, body and soul is needed for a balanced and healthy life style and that is what I strive to look for and achieve during evaluation, psychiatric assessment and treatment of my patients. I am a dually board certified physician by ABPN and specialize in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. I will do a comprehensive assessment and see how the biological, psychological, and social issues in someone's past and present are interacting and contributing in presentation of psychiatric symptoms and will provide psychopharmacological treatment and supportive counselling if needed

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.

Expert in treating all psychiatric conditions. Employ a targeted approach utilizing the biopsychosocial model to target appropriate medications, and utilized the appropriate therapy for mental well being. Years of success in treating the most refractory of cases. We work together to form the strongest therapeutic alliance so you can be well.
Expert in treating all psychiatric conditions. Employ a targeted approach utilizing the biopsychosocial model to target appropriate medications, and utilized the appropriate therapy for mental well being. Years of success in treating the most refractory of cases. We work together to form the strongest therapeutic alliance so you can be well.

I launched my telepsychiatry practice in 2014 because I saw a need for high-quality, personalized psychiatric services that were also convenient for my patients. Due in large part to the Coronavirus pandemic, the need for convenient, online care has only increased. Since we have been doing this awhile, we know how to deliver high quality psychiatric care that maximizes convenience. Your appointment will always start on time, and you'll never waste precious time stuck in traffic, sitting in a waiting room, or standing in line at the pharmacy - we'll send your prescriptions directly to them.
I launched my telepsychiatry practice in 2014 because I saw a need for high-quality, personalized psychiatric services that were also convenient for my patients. Due in large part to the Coronavirus pandemic, the need for convenient, online care has only increased. Since we have been doing this awhile, we know how to deliver high quality psychiatric care that maximizes convenience. Your appointment will always start on time, and you'll never waste precious time stuck in traffic, sitting in a waiting room, or standing in line at the pharmacy - we'll send your prescriptions directly to them.

Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
See more therapy options for 07081
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 07081
10+
Average cost per session
$192
Psychiatrists in 07081 who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
79% | ADHD |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Medication Management |
57% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
73% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 07081 see their clients
79% | In Person and Online | |
21% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
58% | Female | |
42% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 07081?
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.