Psychiatrists in 07961

Catherine D'Aprix Heffner
Psychiatrist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
ONE STOP SHOPPING. That is right! You can see me for all of your mental health and wellness needs vs seeing a separate doctor for medications, another therapist for psychotherapy and possibly even a third person as a coach or for basic nutrition/fitness. One appointment/one hour per week vs 3-4?! What a time saver and ultimately, what a money saver, especially in the long run!!! If you are ready to start on a path of healing or self-discovery, with a practitioner who is warm and caring yet firm when needed, please call. You deserve it!!
ONE STOP SHOPPING. That is right! You can see me for all of your mental health and wellness needs vs seeing a separate doctor for medications, another therapist for psychotherapy and possibly even a third person as a coach or for basic nutrition/fitness. One appointment/one hour per week vs 3-4?! What a time saver and ultimately, what a money saver, especially in the long run!!! If you are ready to start on a path of healing or self-discovery, with a practitioner who is warm and caring yet firm when needed, please call. You deserve it!!
(646) 760-6838 View (646) 760-6838
Photo of Murla Ecclesiaste, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Murla Ecclesiaste
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Greetings! I am Murla, Do you experience lack of motivation, hopelessness and sadness? Do you feel overwhelmed with tasks? Are you dealing with anxiety that leaves you incapacitated? Are mood swings keeping you from reaching your best potential? I am a board-certified psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. I am also dual-certified in Adult Gerontology. I have a passion for helping others and strive to empower individuals in their journey towards mental well-being.
Greetings! I am Murla, Do you experience lack of motivation, hopelessness and sadness? Do you feel overwhelmed with tasks? Are you dealing with anxiety that leaves you incapacitated? Are mood swings keeping you from reaching your best potential? I am a board-certified psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. I am also dual-certified in Adult Gerontology. I have a passion for helping others and strive to empower individuals in their journey towards mental well-being.
(973) 566-5839 View (973) 566-5839
Photo of Lisa Merritt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMNHP, RN
Lisa Merritt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMNHP, RN
Online Only
Hello, I’m Lisa Merritt, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience providing mental health care to children, adolescents, and adults. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use concerns. My goal is to create a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you feel supported, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life.
Hello, I’m Lisa Merritt, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience providing mental health care to children, adolescents, and adults. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use concerns. My goal is to create a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you feel supported, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life.
(609) 507-0347 View (609) 507-0347
Photo of Patrick McNamara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Patrick McNamara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you. My name is Patrick and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of New Jersey. I specialize in the management of Anxiety, Depression, Burnout, Anger Management, Insomnia/Sleep issues, Loss, Men's Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress response, as well as medication management. I use psychotherapy in addition to pharmacotherapy to address clients in an individualized approach. I am also able to order pharmacogenetic testing through GeneSight. I am licensed and credentialed in New Jersey and Colorado. I am accepting new clients.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you. My name is Patrick and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of New Jersey. I specialize in the management of Anxiety, Depression, Burnout, Anger Management, Insomnia/Sleep issues, Loss, Men's Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress response, as well as medication management. I use psychotherapy in addition to pharmacotherapy to address clients in an individualized approach. I am also able to order pharmacogenetic testing through GeneSight. I am licensed and credentialed in New Jersey and Colorado. I am accepting new clients.
(862) 244-1434 View (862) 244-1434
Photo of Susan Jackson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Susan Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Susan and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) / Trauma and Stress Management. 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 Susan and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) / Trauma and Stress Management. 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) 386-2333 View (862) 386-2333
Photo of Darian Kopp, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Darian Kopp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Darian and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving clients in New Jersey and Rhode Island. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Chronic illness and Depression. 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 Darian and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving clients in New Jersey and Rhode Island. I specialize in Anxiety, Burnout, Bipolar, Chronic illness and Depression. 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) 356-0796 View (862) 356-0796
Photo of Sajid Baig, Psychiatrist, MD
Sajid Baig
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Hello, I’m Dr. Sajid Baig, a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to helping adults navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma-related concerns, and co-occurring substance use issues. I’ve had the privilege of working in diverse clinical settings—including outpatient psychiatry, inpatient hospital units, correctional mental health, crisis stabilization, and addiction treatment programs. These experiences have given me a deep appreciation for how differently psychiatric conditions can present and how important it is to tailor care to each individual’s circumstances.
Hello, I’m Dr. Sajid Baig, a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to helping adults navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma-related concerns, and co-occurring substance use issues. I’ve had the privilege of working in diverse clinical settings—including outpatient psychiatry, inpatient hospital units, correctional mental health, crisis stabilization, and addiction treatment programs. These experiences have given me a deep appreciation for how differently psychiatric conditions can present and how important it is to tailor care to each individual’s circumstances.
(609) 831-4897 View (609) 831-4897

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Malcolm Ekpeni, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Malcolm Ekpeni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing compassionate, evidence-based care for adults. I bring a diverse registered nursing background and earned my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from an accredited Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner program at Wilkes University. My approach is collaborative and patient-centered, with a focus on thorough psychiatric evaluations and individualized medication management. I value balance, routine, and overall well-being, and I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and supported.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing compassionate, evidence-based care for adults. I bring a diverse registered nursing background and earned my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from an accredited Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner program at Wilkes University. My approach is collaborative and patient-centered, with a focus on thorough psychiatric evaluations and individualized medication management. I value balance, routine, and overall well-being, and I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and supported.
(908) 913-8467 View (908) 913-8467
Photo of Dr. Lukresia B Kawira, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Lukresia B Kawira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Iselin, NJ 08830
I am dedicated to customizing treatment plans and conversations to meet each patient’s unique needs. I believe in open dialogue to establish rapport, build trust, and create a safe and supportive environment for my patients. I am qualified to evaluate, diagnose, and manage psychiatric conditions across the lifespan, including major depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders. Currently, my practice welcomes clients aged teens, adults, and Elders (65+)
I am dedicated to customizing treatment plans and conversations to meet each patient’s unique needs. I believe in open dialogue to establish rapport, build trust, and create a safe and supportive environment for my patients. I am qualified to evaluate, diagnose, and manage psychiatric conditions across the lifespan, including major depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders. Currently, my practice welcomes clients aged teens, adults, and Elders (65+)
(732) 889-7984 View (732) 889-7984
Photo of Kim R Adams - Tranquil Thoughts & Therapy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP, BC
Tranquil Thoughts & Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP, BC
Hoboken, NJ 07030
My expertise lies in delivering comprehensive mental health care to individuals across various age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. I am dedicated to addressing a range of conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Mood disorders, and Insomnia.
My expertise lies in delivering comprehensive mental health care to individuals across various age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. I am dedicated to addressing a range of conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Mood disorders, and Insomnia.
(856) 861-8790 View (856) 861-8790
Photo of Oluchi Chilaka - Luchiee Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Luchiee Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, substance use disorder, or another mental health condition? Are you tired of navigating the waters of your mental health condition by yourself? You are not alone. I am Dr. Oluchi Chilaka, founder of Luchiee Psychiatric Services, and I am here to help. Together we will find the right treatment for your mental health condition. We provide psychiatric treatment across life-span, we also offer a range of treatments and evidence-based practices, such as Medication Assistive Treatment (MAT) if you’re in need of substance abuse treatment with Suboxone.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, substance use disorder, or another mental health condition? Are you tired of navigating the waters of your mental health condition by yourself? You are not alone. I am Dr. Oluchi Chilaka, founder of Luchiee Psychiatric Services, and I am here to help. Together we will find the right treatment for your mental health condition. We provide psychiatric treatment across life-span, we also offer a range of treatments and evidence-based practices, such as Medication Assistive Treatment (MAT) if you’re in need of substance abuse treatment with Suboxone.
(973) 221-8559 View (973) 221-8559
Photo of Fathia Abusheraiah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Fathia Abusheraiah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083
You may be holding everything together on the outside while inside you feel exhausted, anxious, overwhelmed, or quietly unraveling. You might be carrying trauma, cultural or family pressures, grief, or expectations that feel heavy every day. If you’re here, you’ve already taken a brave first step. I primarily work with adults and also support adolescents who are navigating emotional, behavioral, or family-related challenges, always in a judgment-free space.
You may be holding everything together on the outside while inside you feel exhausted, anxious, overwhelmed, or quietly unraveling. You might be carrying trauma, cultural or family pressures, grief, or expectations that feel heavy every day. If you’re here, you’ve already taken a brave first step. I primarily work with adults and also support adolescents who are navigating emotional, behavioral, or family-related challenges, always in a judgment-free space.
(908) 360-2897 View (908) 360-2897
Photo of Justin Capote, Psychiatrist, MD
Justin Capote
Psychiatrist, MD
7 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am a double board certified psychiatrist specializing in both adult psychiatry and psychosomatic medicine. My areas of interest and expertise include medication simplification and tapering, men's health, medical comorbidities, as well as broader issues related to anxiety, addiction, depression, trauma, anger, and relationships. My approach in session is heavily informed by psychoanalytic, cognitive and dialectical behavioral, internal family systems, and relational life therapy concepts. I am a member of the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and have been recognized as one of New Jersey's Best in Medicine.
I am a double board certified psychiatrist specializing in both adult psychiatry and psychosomatic medicine. My areas of interest and expertise include medication simplification and tapering, men's health, medical comorbidities, as well as broader issues related to anxiety, addiction, depression, trauma, anger, and relationships. My approach in session is heavily informed by psychoanalytic, cognitive and dialectical behavioral, internal family systems, and relational life therapy concepts. I am a member of the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and have been recognized as one of New Jersey's Best in Medicine.
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Photo of Cherie Elfenbein, Psychiatrist, MD
Cherie Elfenbein
Psychiatrist, MD
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am board certified in adult psychiatry and I work with clients to attain mental wellness in all areas of one’s life. My practice and integrates psychopharmacology with my interest/training in nutrition, mindfulness, yoga, exercise, and mind-body therapies. My areas of expertise are in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, trauma, ADD/H and PMS/PMDD. I search for the underlying physiologic causes that can contribute to your symptoms or challenges. Supplements, vitamins, and herbs may be recommended along with or instead of medicine. Blood work and Genetic testing are offered to personalize treatment to your unique physiology.
I am board certified in adult psychiatry and I work with clients to attain mental wellness in all areas of one’s life. My practice and integrates psychopharmacology with my interest/training in nutrition, mindfulness, yoga, exercise, and mind-body therapies. My areas of expertise are in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, trauma, ADD/H and PMS/PMDD. I search for the underlying physiologic causes that can contribute to your symptoms or challenges. Supplements, vitamins, and herbs may be recommended along with or instead of medicine. Blood work and Genetic testing are offered to personalize treatment to your unique physiology.
(973) 333-4087 View (973) 333-4087
Photo of Nerlande Charles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Nerlande Charles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
My ideal client would be a someone dealing with a mental health disorder that is looking for comprehensive and patient centered care. They need a provider who is empathetic, listens, experienced and provides patient centered care.
My ideal client would be a someone dealing with a mental health disorder that is looking for comprehensive and patient centered care. They need a provider who is empathetic, listens, experienced and provides patient centered care.
(848) 375-1629 View (848) 375-1629
Photo of Dr. Madeleine R. Eugene - Relax Your Mind Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGPCNPc
Relax Your Mind Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGPCNPc
11 Endorsed
Serves Area
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - - Virginia patients: Magellan, Cigna, Multiplan, Medicaid New Jersey patients: Cigna, UHS, Medicaid, Medicare, Clover Health, Qual Care, Humana, Mulitplan, Aetna, Horizon BCBS, Horizon NJ Health, Tricare, WellCare, Aetna Better Health, Amerigroup. New York patients: Cigna, Medicare, Multiplan, Compsych, Aetna, Meritain, 1199 SEIU, Optum UBH, Oxford Health Plans, Humana
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - - Virginia patients: Magellan, Cigna, Multiplan, Medicaid New Jersey patients: Cigna, UHS, Medicaid, Medicare, Clover Health, Qual Care, Humana, Mulitplan, Aetna, Horizon BCBS, Horizon NJ Health, Tricare, WellCare, Aetna Better Health, Amerigroup. New York patients: Cigna, Medicare, Multiplan, Compsych, Aetna, Meritain, 1199 SEIU, Optum UBH, Oxford Health Plans, Humana
(732) 800-5920 View (732) 800-5920
Photo of Tony Issac - Treatment for Depression and Anxiety, Psychiatrist, MD
Treatment for Depression and Anxiety
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Dr. Issac is an experienced general and addiction psychiatrist in Ridgewood, NJ, with eight years of clinical expertise. He specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. Dr. Issac takes a holistic, evidence-based approach by evaluating medical, nutritional, and hormonal factors that may impact mental health. Combining medication management with psychotherapy, he creates personalized treatment plans to address each patient’s unique needs and promote lasting recovery and well-being.
Dr. Issac is an experienced general and addiction psychiatrist in Ridgewood, NJ, with eight years of clinical expertise. He specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. Dr. Issac takes a holistic, evidence-based approach by evaluating medical, nutritional, and hormonal factors that may impact mental health. Combining medication management with psychotherapy, he creates personalized treatment plans to address each patient’s unique needs and promote lasting recovery and well-being.
(201) 482-3451 View (201) 482-3451
Tri America Health and Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD, LCSW, LCADC
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
Rediscover your happiness in a safe space! Tri America offers in-person visits in NJ and telehealth visits in more than 15 states. Services include individual & family counseling for children, adolescents, and adults, medication management, school testing for ADHD, and TMS and Spravato treatment for depression. Evening and weekend hours available. Call today to learn more.
Rediscover your happiness in a safe space! Tri America offers in-person visits in NJ and telehealth visits in more than 15 states. Services include individual & family counseling for children, adolescents, and adults, medication management, school testing for ADHD, and TMS and Spravato treatment for depression. Evening and weekend hours available. Call today to learn more.
(877) 959-8180 View (877) 959-8180
Photo of Christine Lisa - TMR Mental Health Care PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, OCN
TMR Mental Health Care PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, OCN
Hackensack, NJ 07601
TMR is a comprehensive private practice. We offer psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to people of all ages. We offer psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. Our staff consists of a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychotherapists (Licensed Clinical Social Workers and Professional Counselors), Nutritionist, and Clinical Psychologists who perform psychological testing and evaluations.
TMR is a comprehensive private practice. We offer psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to people of all ages. We offer psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. Our staff consists of a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychotherapists (Licensed Clinical Social Workers and Professional Counselors), Nutritionist, and Clinical Psychologists who perform psychological testing and evaluations.
(551) 249-9701 View (551) 249-9701
Photo of Marybeth Blood, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC
Marybeth Blood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP‑BC) with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals through depression, anxiety, mood instability, and recovery. My work centers around creating a safe, respectful space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered to heal. I specialize in treating mental health, substance use disorders, and complex mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, using a mix of evidence-based medication management and psychotherapeutic techniques. Whether you’re facing emotional burnout, postpartum depression, or life-long struggles with mood shifts, I’m here to help.
I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP‑BC) with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals through depression, anxiety, mood instability, and recovery. My work centers around creating a safe, respectful space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered to heal. I specialize in treating mental health, substance use disorders, and complex mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, using a mix of evidence-based medication management and psychotherapeutic techniques. Whether you’re facing emotional burnout, postpartum depression, or life-long struggles with mood shifts, I’m here to help.
(973) 545-7665 View (973) 545-7665

See more therapy options for 07961

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07961

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07961 who prioritize treating:

86% Depression
86% Anxiety
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Bipolar Disorder
71% ADHD
71% Anger Management
71% Medication Management

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
71% Cigna and Evernorth
71% Oxford

How Psychiatrists in 07961 see their clients

71% Online Only
29% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07961?

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.