Psychiatrists in 08833

Photo of David Vining Holbrook, MD, Psychiatrist
David Vining Holbrook
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lebanon, NJ 08833
I like to think my practice offers something for everyone. I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, so I can prescribe medications, but I am also a therapist. Many patients like the idea of their psychopharmacologist also being their therapist, because it means that I understand my patients as whole persons, and can minimize the amount of medication necessary. In some cases problems can be addressed with therapy alone, by helping patients identify and manage their emotions. For patients who prefer to work with someone else as therapist, I can function solely as the psychopharmacologist.
I like to think my practice offers something for everyone. I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, so I can prescribe medications, but I am also a therapist. Many patients like the idea of their psychopharmacologist also being their therapist, because it means that I understand my patients as whole persons, and can minimize the amount of medication necessary. In some cases problems can be addressed with therapy alone, by helping patients identify and manage their emotions. For patients who prefer to work with someone else as therapist, I can function solely as the psychopharmacologist.
(908) 364-5823 View (908) 364-5823
Photo of Leslie Hay - Hay Mental Health, LLC, APN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hay Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lebanon, NJ 08833
Accepting new patients. As a lifelong resident of beautiful Hunterdon County, I am passionate about providing quality mental health services to our community. My primary focus is on evidence based medication management. I prefer to see patients in person at my office suite. I feel that our most effective work and progress is done in person. I also see patients via Zoom tele health and phone consult if needed.
Accepting new patients. As a lifelong resident of beautiful Hunterdon County, I am passionate about providing quality mental health services to our community. My primary focus is on evidence based medication management. I prefer to see patients in person at my office suite. I feel that our most effective work and progress is done in person. I also see patients via Zoom tele health and phone consult if needed.
(908) 867-9507 View (908) 867-9507
Photo of Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Lebanon, NJ 08833  (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!
(848) 208-7532 View (848) 208-7532

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Olusolape Akinyemi - Abake Health and Wellness LLC, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Abake Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flemington, NJ 08822
Are you currently going through challenging times? are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or substance use ? Have you tried numerous medications without any success? I am a doctoral trained Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), the founder of Abake Health and Wellness LLC (behavioral health), working with clients to manage symptoms through psychopharmacology across the life span.
Are you currently going through challenging times? are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or substance use ? Have you tried numerous medications without any success? I am a doctoral trained Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), the founder of Abake Health and Wellness LLC (behavioral health), working with clients to manage symptoms through psychopharmacology across the life span.
(908) 388-9453 View (908) 388-9453
Photo of Padma Palvai - Mindspace Psychiatry LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Mindspace Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Flemington, NJ 08822
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with autism, depression, or anxiety? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults in both the United States and India, I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with autism, depression, or anxiety? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults in both the United States and India, I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
(908) 224-4074 View (908) 224-4074
Photo of Dolores Suzansky, MSN,  RN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dolores Suzansky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Flemington, NJ 08822  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or going through a challenging period in your life? Have your symptoms persisted despite multiple medication trials without success? I am Dolores Suzansky (MSN, RN, APN, PMHNP-BC, RNC-NIC), a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practicing with Oasis Better Health, working with clients to manage symptoms via psychopharmacology. I also have twenty years of experience as an RN supporting parents of babies in the NICU and mothers during the peripartum period. I work with adolescent, adult, and older adult clients.
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or going through a challenging period in your life? Have your symptoms persisted despite multiple medication trials without success? I am Dolores Suzansky (MSN, RN, APN, PMHNP-BC, RNC-NIC), a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practicing with Oasis Better Health, working with clients to manage symptoms via psychopharmacology. I also have twenty years of experience as an RN supporting parents of babies in the NICU and mothers during the peripartum period. I work with adolescent, adult, and older adult clients.
(732) 538-9295 View (732) 538-9295
Photo of Adedoyin T Kolawole - You Bridge Health, APN, PMHNP, BC, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
You Bridge Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pittstown, NJ 08867
Do You Truly Want a Quality Service & a Better Mental Health? Hi! Welcome! Yes We treat all Mental Health Conditions and provide supportive therapy and medication for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar etc - All diagnoses! If you want Right Mental Health Care! We're here for you! Yes! We are accepting all patients! All ages. Yes! You will be Supported. We provide Quality Mental Health Care - the Right way! Lets help you get to the bottom of your concerns. Feel free to Self schedule at You Bridge Health. Our clients testify to our approach (read our google reviews) and We are certain - so will you! Let Pave the path to a better YOU!
Do You Truly Want a Quality Service & a Better Mental Health? Hi! Welcome! Yes We treat all Mental Health Conditions and provide supportive therapy and medication for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar etc - All diagnoses! If you want Right Mental Health Care! We're here for you! Yes! We are accepting all patients! All ages. Yes! You will be Supported. We provide Quality Mental Health Care - the Right way! Lets help you get to the bottom of your concerns. Feel free to Self schedule at You Bridge Health. Our clients testify to our approach (read our google reviews) and We are certain - so will you! Let Pave the path to a better YOU!
(732) 479-1319 View (732) 479-1319
Photo of Maryanna Vrettos Domenic, APN, PMHNP, CSN-NJ, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maryanna Vrettos Domenic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CSN-NJ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Valley, NJ 07853
I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner committed to empowering individuals of all ages to achieve mental wellness. When crafting personalized treatment plans, I emphasize open communication and collaborative decision-making to foster patients' overall well-being and resilience in addressing mental health concerns. I value collaboration & teamwork in my practice, actively involving patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams. I strive to provide holistic care by incorporating non-pharmacological interventions with traditional treatments, thereby promoting comprehensive mental wellness.
I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner committed to empowering individuals of all ages to achieve mental wellness. When crafting personalized treatment plans, I emphasize open communication and collaborative decision-making to foster patients' overall well-being and resilience in addressing mental health concerns. I value collaboration & teamwork in my practice, actively involving patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams. I strive to provide holistic care by incorporating non-pharmacological interventions with traditional treatments, thereby promoting comprehensive mental wellness.
(908) 257-8291 View (908) 257-8291
Photo of Amy C Johnson, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy C Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Flemington, NJ 08822  (Online Only)
Your mental health journey is unique, and your care should be too. I aim to provide comprehensive, holistic, and personalized mental health care. The priority in caring for my patients is to develop a safe treatment plan while recognizing and honoring where they are in their journey. I provide medication management via telehealth, providing ease and comfort of care.
Your mental health journey is unique, and your care should be too. I aim to provide comprehensive, holistic, and personalized mental health care. The priority in caring for my patients is to develop a safe treatment plan while recognizing and honoring where they are in their journey. I provide medication management via telehealth, providing ease and comfort of care.
(908) 503-5842 View (908) 503-5842
Photo of Marly Jiby - Cornerstone Healing Clinic LLC, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cornerstone Healing Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Flemington, NJ 08822  (Online Only)
Thank you for looking at my profile. I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. I have been working with patients with mental health issues for more than a decade. I believe each person has an internal capability and tendency to be resilient. Are you not that happy self that you used to be? Are you sad, tired, emotional, irritable or angry without a proportional reason? Can you not pay attention or accomplish a task? Are you not enthusiastic anymore? Are you stressed or overwhelmed?
Thank you for looking at my profile. I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. I have been working with patients with mental health issues for more than a decade. I believe each person has an internal capability and tendency to be resilient. Are you not that happy self that you used to be? Are you sad, tired, emotional, irritable or angry without a proportional reason? Can you not pay attention or accomplish a task? Are you not enthusiastic anymore? Are you stressed or overwhelmed?
(914) 219-6675 View (914) 219-6675
Photo of Tina Marie James, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tina Marie James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hampton, NJ 08827  (Online Only)
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive and compassionate care to my psychiatric clients. I believe in empowering individuals to take control of their mental health journey, and I am committed to helping them achieve their unique goals and aspirations. I am dedicated to helping my clients overcome obstacles, build resiliences, and cultivate a sense of purpose and fulfillment. I believe in the importance of cultural sensitivity, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based practices that acknowledge the complex interplay between mental and physical health and social determinants.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive and compassionate care to my psychiatric clients. I believe in empowering individuals to take control of their mental health journey, and I am committed to helping them achieve their unique goals and aspirations. I am dedicated to helping my clients overcome obstacles, build resiliences, and cultivate a sense of purpose and fulfillment. I believe in the importance of cultural sensitivity, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based practices that acknowledge the complex interplay between mental and physical health and social determinants.
(973) 798-9221 View (973) 798-9221
Photo of Nadia Marcelin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nadia Marcelin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Valley, NJ 07853  (Online Only)
My name is Nadia Marcelin, I’m a long time resident of NJ where I live with my husband and my teenage daughter. I’m very passionate about providing care for my patients in an environment that is conducive to healing. I’m a compassionate provider with six years plus experiences in inpatients care with diverse mental issues. I pride myself in treating my patients as individuals and not as a case. I strongly believe that wellness and rehabilitation is a team effort between all parties involved. I value and seek to understand my patients’ needs so we can develop a working relationship based on trust, mutual respects and honesty.
My name is Nadia Marcelin, I’m a long time resident of NJ where I live with my husband and my teenage daughter. I’m very passionate about providing care for my patients in an environment that is conducive to healing. I’m a compassionate provider with six years plus experiences in inpatients care with diverse mental issues. I pride myself in treating my patients as individuals and not as a case. I strongly believe that wellness and rehabilitation is a team effort between all parties involved. I value and seek to understand my patients’ needs so we can develop a working relationship based on trust, mutual respects and honesty.
(856) 888-4935 View (856) 888-4935
Photo of Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Gladstone, NJ 07934  (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!
(908) 808-5635 View (908) 808-5635
Photo of Danijela Ivelja-Hill, MD, Psychiatrist
Danijela Ivelja-Hill
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Long Valley, NJ 07853
I treat depression, mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, stress, addictions, grief, life transitions, work-life balance issues, interpersonal and relationship problems, self esteem issues and more. I will take the time to get to know you and your individual needs and healing goals through compassionate and caring listening and exploration. My mission is to help you find your balance, regain and rediscover your strengths so that you can live your best life.
I treat depression, mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, stress, addictions, grief, life transitions, work-life balance issues, interpersonal and relationship problems, self esteem issues and more. I will take the time to get to know you and your individual needs and healing goals through compassionate and caring listening and exploration. My mission is to help you find your balance, regain and rediscover your strengths so that you can live your best life.
(973) 587-2934 View (973) 587-2934
Photo of Christelle McClure, DNP, APN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christelle McClure
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flemington, NJ 08822  (Online Only)
I'm Dr. Christelle McClure, a doctoral-prepared and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, excited to embark on the journey to optimal mental well-being with you. With over 12 years of nursing experience, I've had the privilege of working with diverse populations across the lifespan at various levels of care. I am passionate about implementing evidence-based practices and taking a holistic, patient-centered approach to treating mental health disorders.
I'm Dr. Christelle McClure, a doctoral-prepared and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, excited to embark on the journey to optimal mental well-being with you. With over 12 years of nursing experience, I've had the privilege of working with diverse populations across the lifespan at various levels of care. I am passionate about implementing evidence-based practices and taking a holistic, patient-centered approach to treating mental health disorders.
(201) 740-5836 View (201) 740-5836
Photo of Nkem Ani - Cognicare Psychological Services, APN , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cognicare Psychological Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08876  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is NP Nkem. I am a caring and passionate Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10+ years of experience in the healthcare/ public health field. I understand how resilient and strong human spirits are as they can overcome so many challenges of the past and create the life they want to live. I take a holistic approach toward making sure that the patient’s mental health needs are met. I am also passionate about the benefit of initiating psychotropic medications if needed. I collaborate with patients on what treatment plan will yield the expected health outcome.
Hello, my name is NP Nkem. I am a caring and passionate Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10+ years of experience in the healthcare/ public health field. I understand how resilient and strong human spirits are as they can overcome so many challenges of the past and create the life they want to live. I take a holistic approach toward making sure that the patient’s mental health needs are met. I am also passionate about the benefit of initiating psychotropic medications if needed. I collaborate with patients on what treatment plan will yield the expected health outcome.
(908) 800-9590 View (908) 800-9590
Photo of Kim A. Dolan, APN, MS, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kim A. Dolan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MS, MBA
Verified Verified
Long Valley, NJ 07853
I am NOT currently taking new patients at this time. Please check back later. I offer an integrative approach to psychiatric services, including traditional psychopharmacology & nutrient therapies. I treat adults. I'm a graduate of Columbia University with 25+ years experience working in various settings in the mental health field. New clients begin with a comprehensive mental health & medical evaluation, which may include gene testing, blood work, or other diagnostic testing. I value your overall wellbeing & partner with you to develop a treatment plan designed to meet your needs & goals.
I am NOT currently taking new patients at this time. Please check back later. I offer an integrative approach to psychiatric services, including traditional psychopharmacology & nutrient therapies. I treat adults. I'm a graduate of Columbia University with 25+ years experience working in various settings in the mental health field. New clients begin with a comprehensive mental health & medical evaluation, which may include gene testing, blood work, or other diagnostic testing. I value your overall wellbeing & partner with you to develop a treatment plan designed to meet your needs & goals.
(551) 231-7420 View (551) 231-7420
Photo of Amanda Lee Williams - Paths Psychiatric Services, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Paths Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809
Not accepting new clients
Currently not accepting new clients, please see our website for more details. Amanda does not prescribe controlled substances.
Currently not accepting new clients, please see our website for more details. Amanda does not prescribe controlled substances.
(908) 676-6729 View (908) 676-6729
Photo of Rebecca Florence Mizrahi, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Florence Mizrahi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asbury, NJ 08802
People say I have a fun-loving and caring attitude and I am naturally optimistic. I have 8 years of experience in the medical field and the majority of it was on the front lines of inpatient detox. Psych, especially addictions, is my calling and I’m so lucky to have found my niche so quickly.
People say I have a fun-loving and caring attitude and I am naturally optimistic. I have 8 years of experience in the medical field and the majority of it was on the front lines of inpatient detox. Psych, especially addictions, is my calling and I’m so lucky to have found my niche so quickly.
(732) 889-5596 View (732) 889-5596
Photo of Wendy Ann Reiss, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wendy Ann Reiss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, NJ 08809  (Online Only)
Wendy specializes in Depression, Anxiety and Addiction. She has been trained across lifespan, which allows her to treat patients of all ages. She will be your ally in your quest for well-being and balance. Wendy believes utilizing a holistic approach to wellness including emotional and physical health. She strives to provide culturally informed, and patient centered care tailored to each individual needs. Currently we are accepting new patients.
Wendy specializes in Depression, Anxiety and Addiction. She has been trained across lifespan, which allows her to treat patients of all ages. She will be your ally in your quest for well-being and balance. Wendy believes utilizing a holistic approach to wellness including emotional and physical health. She strives to provide culturally informed, and patient centered care tailored to each individual needs. Currently we are accepting new patients.
(908) 386-5112 View (908) 386-5112

See more therapy options for 08833

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 08833

< 10

Psychiatrists in 08833 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Dissociative Disorders (DID)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Emotional Disturbance
100% Suicidal Ideation

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 08833 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 08833?

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.