Psychiatrists in 07652

Photo of Yasir Ahmad - Hamilton Behavioral, Psychiatrist, MD
Hamilton Behavioral
Psychiatrist, MD
Paramus, NJ 07652
At Hamilton Behavioral MDPA you will receive in depth psychiatric evaluation and treatment. Hamilton Behavioral is dedicated to provide individualized mental health treatment. We work with all ages from children to late adulthood. Utilizing the biopsychosocial approach we believe in integrating the various tangible issues whether it be a chemical imbalance, or combination of socioeconomic stressors. Everyone has a separate set of issues and there is no one universal treatment that fits all. Our goal it to cover your needs, however complicated they may be. We offer various services and have late hours. Conveniently located, try us!
At Hamilton Behavioral MDPA you will receive in depth psychiatric evaluation and treatment. Hamilton Behavioral is dedicated to provide individualized mental health treatment. We work with all ages from children to late adulthood. Utilizing the biopsychosocial approach we believe in integrating the various tangible issues whether it be a chemical imbalance, or combination of socioeconomic stressors. Everyone has a separate set of issues and there is no one universal treatment that fits all. Our goal it to cover your needs, however complicated they may be. We offer various services and have late hours. Conveniently located, try us!
(551) 234-0303 View (551) 234-0303
Photo of Dr. Rosita Rodriguez - Family Psychiatry and Therapy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNPBC
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNPBC
Paramus, NJ 07652
Dr. Rosita Rodriguez is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She obtained his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the Rutgers School of Nursing. Additionally, Dr. Rodriguez has worked in the nursing field for over 20 years and has earned several national certifications in nursing. Dr. Rodriguez incorporates holistic therapeutic modalities into her clinical practice that focus on an individual’s strengths, wellness, and resilience-building strategies. She utilizes the trauma-informed approach while providing mental health care to persons across the lifespan.
Dr. Rosita Rodriguez is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She obtained his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the Rutgers School of Nursing. Additionally, Dr. Rodriguez has worked in the nursing field for over 20 years and has earned several national certifications in nursing. Dr. Rodriguez incorporates holistic therapeutic modalities into her clinical practice that focus on an individual’s strengths, wellness, and resilience-building strategies. She utilizes the trauma-informed approach while providing mental health care to persons across the lifespan.
(201) 977-2889 View (201) 977-2889
Photo of Julian Fils, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Julian Fils
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
1 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in evidence-based medication management for adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, and emotional distress. My background as an immigrant informs a strong respect for perseverance, cultural sensitivity, and individualized treatment. I emphasize thorough assessment, shared decision-making, and ethical prescribing. Faith-informed care is integrated when appropriate and always guided by patient preference. Faith is respected and never imposed.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in evidence-based medication management for adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, and emotional distress. My background as an immigrant informs a strong respect for perseverance, cultural sensitivity, and individualized treatment. I emphasize thorough assessment, shared decision-making, and ethical prescribing. Faith-informed care is integrated when appropriate and always guided by patient preference. Faith is respected and never imposed.
(908) 739-6299 View (908) 739-6299
Photo of Michelle Cicala - Family Psychiatry and Therapy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Paramus, NJ 07652
Michelle Cicala is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with experience treating children, adolescents, families and adults in a variety of settings, including inpatient, intensive outpatient/partial hospitalization and outpatient settings. Michelle comes with years of experience as a nurse, and adopts a humanistic perspective to support patients’ mental, physical, and emotional well-being. In addition, with the appropriate use of medication and therapeutic strategies, she believes in building a therapeutic relationship with my patients in order to enhance their strengths, balance, and coping skills.
Michelle Cicala is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with experience treating children, adolescents, families and adults in a variety of settings, including inpatient, intensive outpatient/partial hospitalization and outpatient settings. Michelle comes with years of experience as a nurse, and adopts a humanistic perspective to support patients’ mental, physical, and emotional well-being. In addition, with the appropriate use of medication and therapeutic strategies, she believes in building a therapeutic relationship with my patients in order to enhance their strengths, balance, and coping skills.
(201) 977-2889 View (201) 977-2889
Photo of Rosamaria Gomes-Verdadeiro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rosamaria Gomes-Verdadeiro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Paramus, NJ 07652
RosaMaria Gomes-Verdadeiro is an experienced adult and pediatric nurse practitioner. She is bilingual in Spanish and Portuguese. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, and childhood disorders, including ADHD, behavioral dysregulation, and autism. She’s been a school nurse for over a decade, and is she is fully versed in the day-to-day complex issues regarding children and teens.
RosaMaria Gomes-Verdadeiro is an experienced adult and pediatric nurse practitioner. She is bilingual in Spanish and Portuguese. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, and childhood disorders, including ADHD, behavioral dysregulation, and autism. She’s been a school nurse for over a decade, and is she is fully versed in the day-to-day complex issues regarding children and teens.
(201) 977-2889 View (201) 977-2889
Photo of Dr. Helene Anne Miller, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Helene Anne Miller
Psychiatrist, MD
Paramus, NJ 07652
Dr. Miller is highly experienced and knowledgeable of today’s psychiatric care, but she is also trained in anesthesia and pain management, which she uses in her practice to influence treatment plans when appropriate. No matter what you’re experiencing in your life, Dr. Miller is waiting to welcome you into the comfortable and confidential atmosphere of Family Psychiatry and Therapy. It’s time to start living the life you want.vvWe never stop learning. To become an effective and helpful psychiatrist, Dr. Miller studied extensively and dove deep into the field she’s passionate about—helping people through psychiatry.
Dr. Miller is highly experienced and knowledgeable of today’s psychiatric care, but she is also trained in anesthesia and pain management, which she uses in her practice to influence treatment plans when appropriate. No matter what you’re experiencing in your life, Dr. Miller is waiting to welcome you into the comfortable and confidential atmosphere of Family Psychiatry and Therapy. It’s time to start living the life you want.vvWe never stop learning. To become an effective and helpful psychiatrist, Dr. Miller studied extensively and dove deep into the field she’s passionate about—helping people through psychiatry.
(201) 977-2889 View (201) 977-2889
Photo of Alena Antohina, Psychiatrist, MD
Alena Antohina
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
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 Dr. Gaurav Chaudhari, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Dr. Gaurav Chaudhari
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Paramus, NJ 07652
Gaurav Chaudhari, MD, helps adults in New Jersey take meaningful steps toward emotional well-being and lasting change through thoughtful, evidence-based psychiatric care. As a dedicated prescriber at LifeStance Health, he offers medication management to individuals ages 18 to 64, supporting patients through challenges related to mood, focus, sleep, and overall mental wellness. With a calm and compassionate approach, Dr. Chaudhari partners with patients to develop treatment plans tailored to their unique goals, values, and life experiences. Dr.
Gaurav Chaudhari, MD, helps adults in New Jersey take meaningful steps toward emotional well-being and lasting change through thoughtful, evidence-based psychiatric care. As a dedicated prescriber at LifeStance Health, he offers medication management to individuals ages 18 to 64, supporting patients through challenges related to mood, focus, sleep, and overall mental wellness. With a calm and compassionate approach, Dr. Chaudhari partners with patients to develop treatment plans tailored to their unique goals, values, and life experiences. Dr.
(973) 798-9386 View (973) 798-9386
Photo of Christopher Hannon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Christopher Hannon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Paramus, NJ 07652
Dr. Christopher Hannon is a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He obtained his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Louisville. His training covers mental health treatment across the lifespan including psychopharmacological management of psychiatric conditions and a host of therapeutic modalities. Areas of particular interest include trauma/PTSD, depression/anxiety, substance use disorders, as well as stigma around mental illness and in general.
Dr. Christopher Hannon is a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He obtained his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Louisville. His training covers mental health treatment across the lifespan including psychopharmacological management of psychiatric conditions and a host of therapeutic modalities. Areas of particular interest include trauma/PTSD, depression/anxiety, substance use disorders, as well as stigma around mental illness and in general.
(201) 554-2218 View (201) 554-2218
Photo of Derek Berberian, Psychiatrist, MD
Derek Berberian
Psychiatrist, MD
Paramus, NJ 07652
Dr. Berberian is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Neurologist who has extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, PSTD, OCD, ADHD, mood disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, neuropathies, headaches and addiction. In addition, he performs outpatient bariatric screening, biofeedback, neurofeedback and EEG evaluations. Care is goal-oriented, addressing each individual's needs using a variety of patient-centered approaches. His focus includes adolescent, adult and geriatric populations.
Dr. Berberian is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Neurologist who has extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, PSTD, OCD, ADHD, mood disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, neuropathies, headaches and addiction. In addition, he performs outpatient bariatric screening, biofeedback, neurofeedback and EEG evaluations. Care is goal-oriented, addressing each individual's needs using a variety of patient-centered approaches. His focus includes adolescent, adult and geriatric populations.
(551) 292-7298 View (551) 292-7298
Photo of Jane O'Rourke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Jane O'Rourke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Paramus, NJ 07652
The foundation of my practice is compassion and a genuine sense of caring for my client's well being and quality of life. I treat my clients holistically while emphasizing a "partnership in care". My practice and expertise is across the lifespan and I care for children, adolescents, adults and elders.
The foundation of my practice is compassion and a genuine sense of caring for my client's well being and quality of life. I treat my clients holistically while emphasizing a "partnership in care". My practice and expertise is across the lifespan and I care for children, adolescents, adults and elders.
(551) 313-9518 View (551) 313-9518
Photo of Michael Epstein - Family Psychiatry and Therapy, Psychiatrist
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatrist
Paramus, NJ 07652
Family Psychiatry and Therapy (FPT) serves children, adolescents, and their parents, addressing issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, and behavioral challenges. Parents seek compassionate, accessible care to help their children thrive emotionally, academically, and socially, while children want to feel heard, gain confidence, and improve coping skills. FPT provides personalized care plans, quick access to psychiatry, and holistic family support, aiming to reduce family stress, improve communication, and empower clients with practical tools for long-term well-being.
Family Psychiatry and Therapy (FPT) serves children, adolescents, and their parents, addressing issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, and behavioral challenges. Parents seek compassionate, accessible care to help their children thrive emotionally, academically, and socially, while children want to feel heard, gain confidence, and improve coping skills. FPT provides personalized care plans, quick access to psychiatry, and holistic family support, aiming to reduce family stress, improve communication, and empower clients with practical tools for long-term well-being.
(201) 977-2889 View (201) 977-2889
Photo of Rosamaria Verdadeiro - Family Psychiatry and Therapy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Paramus, NJ 07652
RosaMaria Verdadiero is an experienced adult and pediatric nurse practitioner. She is bilingual in Spanish and Portuguese. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, and childhood disorders, including ADHD, behavioral dysregulation, and autism. She’s been a school nurse for over a decade, and is she is fully versed in the day-to-day complex issues regarding children and teens. Rosa also has expertise in the subtleties of anxiety and depression amongst college students and young adults, a population that is often misunderstood.
RosaMaria Verdadiero is an experienced adult and pediatric nurse practitioner. She is bilingual in Spanish and Portuguese. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, and childhood disorders, including ADHD, behavioral dysregulation, and autism. She’s been a school nurse for over a decade, and is she is fully versed in the day-to-day complex issues regarding children and teens. Rosa also has expertise in the subtleties of anxiety and depression amongst college students and young adults, a population that is often misunderstood.
(973) 846-9298 View (973) 846-9298
Photo of Linda Chuang, Psychiatrist, MD
Linda Chuang
Psychiatrist, MD
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am a Cornell and NYU educated board certified psychiatrist with extensive training in both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Because of my belief in the connection between mind and body, I trained in both psychiatry and internal medicine. I approach patients from a humanistic and holistic view, with an awareness of the interactions of stress and it's impact on the body. My practice is eclectic and I see patients with a variety of psychiatric disorders or patients who simply want to achieve greater happiness and satisfaction in their lives.
I am a Cornell and NYU educated board certified psychiatrist with extensive training in both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Because of my belief in the connection between mind and body, I trained in both psychiatry and internal medicine. I approach patients from a humanistic and holistic view, with an awareness of the interactions of stress and it's impact on the body. My practice is eclectic and I see patients with a variety of psychiatric disorders or patients who simply want to achieve greater happiness and satisfaction in their lives.
(201) 820-0658 View (201) 820-0658
Photo of Bhavin Gajera, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Bhavin Gajera
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am a board certified Psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. After completing my medical school education, I achieved a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Arcadia University. I completed my adult psychiatry residency training at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. During my training at AEMC, I was awarded the prestigious national Distinguished Laughlin Fellow Merit Award for professional achievement and scholarship. I completed my Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the Mount Sinai Health system - St Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center in Manhattan where I also served as a Chief Fellow.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. After completing my medical school education, I achieved a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Arcadia University. I completed my adult psychiatry residency training at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. During my training at AEMC, I was awarded the prestigious national Distinguished Laughlin Fellow Merit Award for professional achievement and scholarship. I completed my Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the Mount Sinai Health system - St Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center in Manhattan where I also served as a Chief Fellow.
(201) 820-0888 View (201) 820-0888
Photo of Nirmal Sathaye, Psychiatrist, MD
Nirmal Sathaye
Psychiatrist, MD
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist with additional certification in Geriatrics. I have 20 plus years of experience treating patients in an outpatient setting. I provide diagnostic evaluation and medication monitoring for adults. I treat patients with different symptoms including anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolarity and attentional issues. I believe in a collaborative and team approach to treatment. I like to understand the patient’s goals and needs and formulate a personalized treatment plan. I provide telepsychiatry to all my patients. “
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist with additional certification in Geriatrics. I have 20 plus years of experience treating patients in an outpatient setting. I provide diagnostic evaluation and medication monitoring for adults. I treat patients with different symptoms including anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolarity and attentional issues. I believe in a collaborative and team approach to treatment. I like to understand the patient’s goals and needs and formulate a personalized treatment plan. I provide telepsychiatry to all my patients. “
(908) 883-3879 View (908) 883-3879
Photo of Samuel Okechukwu - My Psych Provider., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
My Psych Provider.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
Dr. Samuel Okechukwu, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of My Psych Provider LLC. With over a decade of experience in acute care and psychiatry, he combines strong clinical skills with a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Dr. Okechukwu uses a personalized, evidence-based approach to deliver compassionate care, recognizing that every patient has a unique story. His goal is to enhance quality of life by providing comprehensive, high-quality mental health services.
Dr. Samuel Okechukwu, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of My Psych Provider LLC. With over a decade of experience in acute care and psychiatry, he combines strong clinical skills with a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Dr. Okechukwu uses a personalized, evidence-based approach to deliver compassionate care, recognizing that every patient has a unique story. His goal is to enhance quality of life by providing comprehensive, high-quality mental health services.
(201) 594-6782 View (201) 594-6782
Photo of Sajid Baig, Psychiatrist, MD
Sajid Baig
Psychiatrist, MD
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy for the general adult population. After finishing medical school, I completed my Psychiatric residency in 2016 at Howard University in Washington, DC where I served as chief resident in my senior year. Since then, I have worked in a variety of different settings including inpatient, outpatient, community center and forensics.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy for the general adult population. After finishing medical school, I completed my Psychiatric residency in 2016 at Howard University in Washington, DC where I served as chief resident in my senior year. Since then, I have worked in a variety of different settings including inpatient, outpatient, community center and forensics.
(201) 817-6230 View (201) 817-6230
Photo of Navjot Khinda, Psychiatrist, MD
Navjot Khinda
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
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
Bergen Psychiatric Care, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
Serves Area
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

See more therapy options for 07652

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07652

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 07652 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
93% Depression
85% ADHD
78% Trauma and PTSD
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Bipolar Disorder
75% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
69% BlueCross and BlueShield
64% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 07652 see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07652?

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.