Psychiatrists in 07410

Photo of Allen Masry - Victory Bay Recovery Center - Detox, MD, Psychiatrist
Victory Bay Recovery Center - Detox
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
(201) 571-6997 View (201) 571-6997
Faiz Cheema
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist. I did my residency at Bergen Regional Medical Center and I was appointed as an Executive Chief Resident during my residency. I have been working as an attending at Bergen Regional Medical Center since July 2010. I teach medical students and the residents at Bergen Regional Medical Center. I also teach medical students from Rutckers University School of Medicine. I was awarded "The Best Teacher Award" in 2013 at Bergen Regional Medical Center Psychiatry Residency Training Program. I specializes in treating Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder. It will be my honor to work with you.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist. I did my residency at Bergen Regional Medical Center and I was appointed as an Executive Chief Resident during my residency. I have been working as an attending at Bergen Regional Medical Center since July 2010. I teach medical students and the residents at Bergen Regional Medical Center. I also teach medical students from Rutckers University School of Medicine. I was awarded "The Best Teacher Award" in 2013 at Bergen Regional Medical Center Psychiatry Residency Training Program. I specializes in treating Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder. It will be my honor to work with you.
(404) 846-4652 View (404) 846-4652
Photo of Allen Masry - Victory Bay Recovery Center - Detox, MD, Psychiatrist
Victory Bay Recovery Center - Detox
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
(201) 890-7232 View (201) 890-7232
Photo of Zhanna Berman, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, CHES, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zhanna Berman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, CHES
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Why is this happening to ME?  To my child?  Is this Just How it is? After all, I’ve done everything right. I’ve tried different doctors; numerous medications and not only am I not getting better but I’m having to deal with these side effects! If this sounds familiar, you are not alone.  Hope can be one of the hardest things to hold on to when you are struggling. I know that mental illness is more than a set of symptoms. They are conditions that affect everyone differently. This is why I develop a concierge treatment plan utilizing the latest science to provide precision and care for my patients. Hope is here!
Why is this happening to ME?  To my child?  Is this Just How it is? After all, I’ve done everything right. I’ve tried different doctors; numerous medications and not only am I not getting better but I’m having to deal with these side effects! If this sounds familiar, you are not alone.  Hope can be one of the hardest things to hold on to when you are struggling. I know that mental illness is more than a set of symptoms. They are conditions that affect everyone differently. This is why I develop a concierge treatment plan utilizing the latest science to provide precision and care for my patients. Hope is here!
(862) 229-9319 View (862) 229-9319
Photo of Matisyahu Shulman, MD, Psychiatrist
Matisyahu Shulman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
I offer a unique mix of scientific knowledge and humanistic, patient centered medicine. I provide holistic care within a caring environment for my patients. This means developing a unique combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and possibly medication. People are complex and anyone struggling with mental illness, addiction, or other issues needs a treatment plan that considers each person in his or her entirety.
I offer a unique mix of scientific knowledge and humanistic, patient centered medicine. I provide holistic care within a caring environment for my patients. This means developing a unique combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and possibly medication. People are complex and anyone struggling with mental illness, addiction, or other issues needs a treatment plan that considers each person in his or her entirety.
(201) 720-6721 View (201) 720-6721
Photo of Judith H Gurfein - Arista Psychological & Psychiatric Services, PhD, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse
Arista Psychological & Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APRN
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
ARISTA is a private mental health and chemical dependency practice which has been serving Manhattan and Bergen County, New Jersey, for over 25 years. Our health care professionals include licensed psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, and counselors with expertise in marriage, family, adults, teens, children, hypnotherapy and addictions. Arista's warm, highly qualified psychotherapists will ensure that you receive individualized care in a comfortable, confidential setting. Our goal is to match you with a therapist who has achieved success with patients who have problems similar to yours.
ARISTA is a private mental health and chemical dependency practice which has been serving Manhattan and Bergen County, New Jersey, for over 25 years. Our health care professionals include licensed psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, and counselors with expertise in marriage, family, adults, teens, children, hypnotherapy and addictions. Arista's warm, highly qualified psychotherapists will ensure that you receive individualized care in a comfortable, confidential setting. Our goal is to match you with a therapist who has achieved success with patients who have problems similar to yours.
(201) 383-1582 View (201) 383-1582
Photo of Irene Mazur, MD, Psychiatrist
Irene Mazur
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Dr. Irene Mazur graduated with honors from the Ternopol Medical School in Ternopol, Ukraine, in 1992. After her move to the US, she completed a Psychiatry Residency program and a Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in in UMDNJ, Piscataway, NJ. Her area of expertise include: autism, aggression, developmental delay, ADHD, depression, and PTSD. In 2023, Dr. Mazur had received well-deserved recognition and was acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Psychiatry.
Dr. Irene Mazur graduated with honors from the Ternopol Medical School in Ternopol, Ukraine, in 1992. After her move to the US, she completed a Psychiatry Residency program and a Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in in UMDNJ, Piscataway, NJ. Her area of expertise include: autism, aggression, developmental delay, ADHD, depression, and PTSD. In 2023, Dr. Mazur had received well-deserved recognition and was acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Psychiatry.
(551) 239-8069 View (551) 239-8069

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Shilpika Varma - NJ Behavioral Health - A LifeStance Health Affilia, MD, Psychiatrist
NJ Behavioral Health - A LifeStance Health Affilia
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(855) 262-3895 View (855) 262-3895
Photo of David A. Mitnick, MD, Psychiatrist
David A. Mitnick
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Glen Rock, NJ 07452
David Mitnick M.D. combines evidence-based psychiatric approaches with over two decades of patient-centered humanism treating children, teens and adults. Dr. Mitnick is Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Medical College of Cornell University. He treats a broad range of mental health issues, with particular interest in ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum Disorders, as well as Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Mitnick believes in a comprehensive, collaborative and holistic approach to assessment and treatment. He provides evaluation, psychotherapy and medications customized to the individual.
David Mitnick M.D. combines evidence-based psychiatric approaches with over two decades of patient-centered humanism treating children, teens and adults. Dr. Mitnick is Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Medical College of Cornell University. He treats a broad range of mental health issues, with particular interest in ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum Disorders, as well as Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Mitnick believes in a comprehensive, collaborative and holistic approach to assessment and treatment. He provides evaluation, psychotherapy and medications customized to the individual.
(201) 877-5505 View (201) 877-5505
Photo of Janet Randall, RN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Janet Randall
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Paterson, NJ 07501
Sometimes the circumstances in life are too much to handle without some help. The life events might be overwhelming or mental health might be compromised due to physiology. Working in psychiatry for over thirty years has given me a respect for many different modalities. There is not a one size fits all approach to healing. Together, we will look at the issues and find your path.
Sometimes the circumstances in life are too much to handle without some help. The life events might be overwhelming or mental health might be compromised due to physiology. Working in psychiatry for over thirty years has given me a respect for many different modalities. There is not a one size fits all approach to healing. Together, we will look at the issues and find your path.
(973) 809-0432 View (973) 809-0432
Photo of Ilija Karafiloski, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ilija Karafiloski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Paterson, NJ 07501  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Ilija and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Burnout, Depression, Anger Management, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Family Issues, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Loss, Grief and Bereavement, Men's Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Stress Management.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Ilija and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Burnout, Depression, Anger Management, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Family Issues, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Loss, Grief and Bereavement, Men's Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Stress Management.
(973) 834-7730 View (973) 834-7730
Photo of Sylvia E Flescher, MD, Psychiatrist
Sylvia E Flescher
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Glen Rock, NJ 07452
At the present time, my practice is closed to referrals........ After practicing for over forty years, I still love my work. It is a privilege to become closely involved with my patients and their challenges. I believe I bring a special blend of intellectual rigor and emotional warmth into every treatment. No two patients are the same, therefore each treatment has to be tailor-made to your individual needs. I much prefer to do "talk therapy", combined, if needed, with medication, rather than psychopharmacology alone.
At the present time, my practice is closed to referrals........ After practicing for over forty years, I still love my work. It is a privilege to become closely involved with my patients and their challenges. I believe I bring a special blend of intellectual rigor and emotional warmth into every treatment. No two patients are the same, therefore each treatment has to be tailor-made to your individual needs. I much prefer to do "talk therapy", combined, if needed, with medication, rather than psychopharmacology alone.
(201) 445-0322 View (201) 445-0322
Photo of Antonio Pedulla - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Paterson, NJ 07501  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out-of-pocket rates and accept some insurances
Accepting new patients via telehealth for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out-of-pocket rates and accept some insurances
(551) 282-9272 View (551) 282-9272
Photo of Alena Antohina, MD, Psychiatrist
Alena Antohina
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Dr. Alena Antohina is a Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2011. She received her MD degree from Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Republic of Moldova and later completed a Psychiatry Residency at The Albany Medical Center, NY and a Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Beth Israel Hospital in New York City. Dr. Antohina's professional services include treatment and consultations for mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and sleep problems.
Dr. Alena Antohina is a Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2011. She received her MD degree from Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Republic of Moldova and later completed a Psychiatry Residency at The Albany Medical Center, NY and a Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Beth Israel Hospital in New York City. Dr. Antohina's professional services include treatment and consultations for mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and sleep problems.
(973) 240-9379 View (973) 240-9379
Photo of Catherine Itzkowitz, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine Itzkowitz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Paterson, NJ 07501
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Catherine and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression Family issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) / Trauma, Seasonal. 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 Catherine and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression Family issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) / Trauma, Seasonal. 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.
(862) 278-9511 View (862) 278-9511
Bergen Psychiatric Care, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and an American Board of Addiction Medicine certified Chief Psychiatrist who works in a distinguished Psychiatric Facility in NJ. I have extensive experience in managing a myriad of Psychiatric Disorders which include : Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Addiction Disorders and Bipolar Disorder etc. My treatment ideology is patient driven , empathetic and compassionate Psychiatric care. I am knowledgeable and thoroughly familiar with all the novel Psychopharmacological interventions that are FDA approved . I offer my patients personalized comprehensive Psychiatric Treatment in a comfortable and confidential setting. My staff is approachable and willing to accommodate patients and their special needs.
I am an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and an American Board of Addiction Medicine certified Chief Psychiatrist who works in a distinguished Psychiatric Facility in NJ. I have extensive experience in managing a myriad of Psychiatric Disorders which include : Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Addiction Disorders and Bipolar Disorder etc. My treatment ideology is patient driven , empathetic and compassionate Psychiatric care. I am knowledgeable and thoroughly familiar with all the novel Psychopharmacological interventions that are FDA approved . I offer my patients personalized comprehensive Psychiatric Treatment in a comfortable and confidential setting. My staff is approachable and willing to accommodate patients and their special needs.
(201) 949-7625 View (201) 949-7625
Photo of Temi Akande, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Temi Akande
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
**Currently taking new clients**. Your mental health should be a priority and it is often necessary to seek assistance through life's transitions and difficulties. I am a Board Certified Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I have years of experience as a psychiatric nurse in children and adolescent crisis interventions, adult crisis and psychiatric intensive care. My special areas of experience include Depression, Anxiety and Mood disorders. I am a careful listener, caring, knowledgeable and sincere to my patients.
**Currently taking new clients**. Your mental health should be a priority and it is often necessary to seek assistance through life's transitions and difficulties. I am a Board Certified Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I have years of experience as a psychiatric nurse in children and adolescent crisis interventions, adult crisis and psychiatric intensive care. My special areas of experience include Depression, Anxiety and Mood disorders. I am a careful listener, caring, knowledgeable and sincere to my patients.
(973) 566-5216 View (973) 566-5216
Photo of Navjot Khinda, MD, Psychiatrist
Navjot Khinda
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
The decision to engage in therapy, initiate or discontinue medications may be difficult and anxiety provoking. Dr. Khinda’s warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental treatment approach assists in providing patient centered care in a safe and supportive environment. Dr. Khinda will work to specifically tailor treatment to the unique strengths and values of each individual, whether that means medication management, therapy, or a novel approach. Dr. Khinda is a double board-certified psychiatrist in Child & Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. She has trained at large, reputable healthcare systems.
The decision to engage in therapy, initiate or discontinue medications may be difficult and anxiety provoking. Dr. Khinda’s warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental treatment approach assists in providing patient centered care in a safe and supportive environment. Dr. Khinda will work to specifically tailor treatment to the unique strengths and values of each individual, whether that means medication management, therapy, or a novel approach. Dr. Khinda is a double board-certified psychiatrist in Child & Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. She has trained at large, reputable healthcare systems.
(646) 760-3159 View (646) 760-3159
Photo of Dr. Rathna Sree Mallela, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Dr. Rathna Sree Mallela
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Saddle Brook, NJ 07663
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.
(551) 400-6468 View (551) 400-6468
Photo of Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
(973) 566-5742 View (973) 566-5742

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07410

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07410 who prioritize treating:

86% Trauma and PTSD
71% Depression
71% Anxiety
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Medication Management
57% Relationship Issues
57% Addiction

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 07410 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

66% Male
34% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07410?

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.