Psychiatrists in Laurel Springs, NJ

Photo of Letisha Hogans Evolve N Change, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Letisha Hogans Evolve N Change
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Laurel Springs, NJ 08021
Threat Assessments. Accepting New Clients. We will work with you to help you develop the strategies you need to get back on the path that leads to happiness, joy and success. Together, we will work to address the issues you are facing and come through on the other side with a new way of thinking, and confidently take on a new direction in life. We will work closely together to analyze what struggles you are facing and their underlying causes and try to change the behaviors and thought patterns that are keeping you from being the person you want to be.
Threat Assessments. Accepting New Clients. We will work with you to help you develop the strategies you need to get back on the path that leads to happiness, joy and success. Together, we will work to address the issues you are facing and come through on the other side with a new way of thinking, and confidently take on a new direction in life. We will work closely together to analyze what struggles you are facing and their underlying causes and try to change the behaviors and thought patterns that are keeping you from being the person you want to be.
(856) 249-7071 View (856) 249-7071

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Temi Akande, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Temi Akande
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
**Currently taking new clients**. Your mental health should be a priority and it is often necessary to seek assistance through life's transitions and difficulties. I am a Board Certified Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I have years of experience as a psychiatric nurse in children and adolescent crisis interventions, adult crisis and psychiatric intensive care. My special areas of experience include Depression, Anxiety and Mood disorders. I am a careful listener, caring, knowledgeable and sincere to my patients.
**Currently taking new clients**. Your mental health should be a priority and it is often necessary to seek assistance through life's transitions and difficulties. I am a Board Certified Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I have years of experience as a psychiatric nurse in children and adolescent crisis interventions, adult crisis and psychiatric intensive care. My special areas of experience include Depression, Anxiety and Mood disorders. I am a careful listener, caring, knowledgeable and sincere to my patients.
(973) 566-5216 View (973) 566-5216
Photo of Dr. Obinna Ezealor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Dr. Obinna Ezealor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
I am Dr Obinna Ezealor, DNP, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have an extensive psychiatric experience, having worked for over 12 years in one of the NJ state-established long-term psychiatric hospital and experience in General and Addiction Psychiatry. I also have experience working both in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, and treating clients from various ethnic and cultural groups. I am a highly motivated and organized individual passionate about caring for the mental health and addiction population, and my philosophy is to tailor each client’s care to their need.
I am Dr Obinna Ezealor, DNP, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have an extensive psychiatric experience, having worked for over 12 years in one of the NJ state-established long-term psychiatric hospital and experience in General and Addiction Psychiatry. I also have experience working both in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, and treating clients from various ethnic and cultural groups. I am a highly motivated and organized individual passionate about caring for the mental health and addiction population, and my philosophy is to tailor each client’s care to their need.
(732) 641-4655 View (732) 641-4655
Photo of Kristina Leinheiser, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Kristina Leinheiser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My practice focuses on providing compassionate and effective treatment for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and various other mental health needs. I utilize a holistic approach, considering each individual's unique needs and circumstances to develop tailored treatment strategies. These strategies may include medication management, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and other evidence-based interventions to promote emotional well-being and improved quality of life.
My practice focuses on providing compassionate and effective treatment for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and various other mental health needs. I utilize a holistic approach, considering each individual's unique needs and circumstances to develop tailored treatment strategies. These strategies may include medication management, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and other evidence-based interventions to promote emotional well-being and improved quality of life.
(640) 231-0668 View (640) 231-0668
Photo of Danielle Berju - Healing Tree Holistic Psychiatry (Danielle Berju), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Healing Tree Holistic Psychiatry (Danielle Berju)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Online Only
Hello! I'm Danielle Berju, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and the owner of Healing Tree Holistic Psychiatry. I focus on helping you find the right medications or stopping ones that don't work. However, medications are just a part of my approach. I also offer therapy and holistic wellness to help you feel your best. Whether it's anxiety, depression, mood swings, focus issues, or motivation, I'm here to support you. My goal is to make you feel safe, heard, and informed in every treatment decision. Please note: As a telehealth-only practice, we do not prescribe controlled medications like stimulants or benzodiazepines.
Hello! I'm Danielle Berju, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and the owner of Healing Tree Holistic Psychiatry. I focus on helping you find the right medications or stopping ones that don't work. However, medications are just a part of my approach. I also offer therapy and holistic wellness to help you feel your best. Whether it's anxiety, depression, mood swings, focus issues, or motivation, I'm here to support you. My goal is to make you feel safe, heard, and informed in every treatment decision. Please note: As a telehealth-only practice, we do not prescribe controlled medications like stimulants or benzodiazepines.
(640) 224-4702 View (640) 224-4702
Photo of Elizabeth Wray, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Elizabeth Wray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Provider within Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, a network of over 20 Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Psychotherapists offering in-office psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy in Philadelphia and on The Main Line, and Virtual Telehealth Psychiatric Appointments to patients in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Florida. Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD. Call to see which providers are licensed in your location.
Provider within Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, a network of over 20 Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Psychotherapists offering in-office psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy in Philadelphia and on The Main Line, and Virtual Telehealth Psychiatric Appointments to patients in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Florida. Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD. Call to see which providers are licensed in your location.
(484) 469-9242 View (484) 469-9242
Photo of Patrick Sullivan - Initia Nova - Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, TMS, Psychiatrist
Initia Nova is a comprehensive treatment team using advanced medical solutions to treat common problems, specializing in depression, PTSD, anxiety, OCD, addiction, and chronic headaches/migraines. Dr Patrick Sullivan and his team use ketamine infusions, ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP), TMS, NAD+ Brain Restoration Therapy, as well as novel medications like baclofen, vivitrol, LDN and peptides; and individual psychotherapy to achieve results that were once thought impossible. We treat the whole person mentally and physically. If you are looking for something different, email us for a free phone consultation. Out Of Network
Initia Nova is a comprehensive treatment team using advanced medical solutions to treat common problems, specializing in depression, PTSD, anxiety, OCD, addiction, and chronic headaches/migraines. Dr Patrick Sullivan and his team use ketamine infusions, ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP), TMS, NAD+ Brain Restoration Therapy, as well as novel medications like baclofen, vivitrol, LDN and peptides; and individual psychotherapy to achieve results that were once thought impossible. We treat the whole person mentally and physically. If you are looking for something different, email us for a free phone consultation. Out Of Network
(856) 924-6312 View (856) 924-6312
Photo of Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Sicklerville, NJ 08081
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and in-patient settings.
(856) 644-4428 View (856) 644-4428
Photo of Amy Carnall - Clarity Psychiatric Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP, RNFA
Clarity Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP, RNFA
Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
Clarity Psychiatric Care is a boutique-style practice specializing in psychopharmacology (the art of prescribing medication in the field of psychiatry). Our providers, Cristina Sertway and Dr. Amy Carnall, offer office hours in Haddonfield and Elmer and Pennington, NJ. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Cristina and Dr. Amy are University of Pennsylvania, holistically-trained nurse practitioners, emphasizing patient and family-centered care.
Clarity Psychiatric Care is a boutique-style practice specializing in psychopharmacology (the art of prescribing medication in the field of psychiatry). Our providers, Cristina Sertway and Dr. Amy Carnall, offer office hours in Haddonfield and Elmer and Pennington, NJ. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Cristina and Dr. Amy are University of Pennsylvania, holistically-trained nurse practitioners, emphasizing patient and family-centered care.
(856) 302-0667 View (856) 302-0667
Photo of Melissa Mecka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Melissa Mecka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hi, my name is Melissa and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. I specialize in older adults 65+, middle-age life transitions, perimenopause and menopausal anxiety/depression and maternal mental health with an emphasis on individualized therapy and a holistic approach to care. I have been a board certified registered nurse for 29 years, a board certified Advanced Practice Nurse since 2000, and completed my post master’s degree in Psychiatry in 2021. Together with my colleagues at Lavender Psychiatry, I’m on a mission to create a world where feelings are felt, respected and cared for.
Hi, my name is Melissa and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. I specialize in older adults 65+, middle-age life transitions, perimenopause and menopausal anxiety/depression and maternal mental health with an emphasis on individualized therapy and a holistic approach to care. I have been a board certified registered nurse for 29 years, a board certified Advanced Practice Nurse since 2000, and completed my post master’s degree in Psychiatry in 2021. Together with my colleagues at Lavender Psychiatry, I’m on a mission to create a world where feelings are felt, respected and cared for.
(201) 729-3861 View (201) 729-3861
Photo of Erica Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erica Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in the state of Pennsylvania. I completed my Bachelor of Nursing from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA, and received my Master of Nursing in Psychiatry from Walden University. I have over 11 years of experience in the field of Nursing.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner in the state of Pennsylvania. I completed my Bachelor of Nursing from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA, and received my Master of Nursing in Psychiatry from Walden University. I have over 11 years of experience in the field of Nursing.
(215) 598-6780 View (215) 598-6780
Photo of Rachel Gbuo Horace - Core Wellness Behavioral Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Core Wellness Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Welcome to My Telehealth Practice As a dedicated and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I offer personalized and evidence-based mental health care through convenient telehealth services. I invite you to collaborate with me in addressing your mental health needs. Whether you are seeking relief from distressing symptoms, enhancing your coping strategies, or aiming to improve your overall well-being, I am here to provide support throughout your journey.
Welcome to My Telehealth Practice As a dedicated and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I offer personalized and evidence-based mental health care through convenient telehealth services. I invite you to collaborate with me in addressing your mental health needs. Whether you are seeking relief from distressing symptoms, enhancing your coping strategies, or aiming to improve your overall well-being, I am here to provide support throughout your journey.
(856) 329-5148 View (856) 329-5148
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Clementon, NJ 08021
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(856) 666-7861 View (856) 666-7861
Photo of Alaukik Bhasin, Psychiatrist, DO
Alaukik Bhasin
Psychiatrist, DO
Marlton, NJ 08053
My clients are children, adolescents, and adults facing a range of challenges, from anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, to OCD, trauma, substance use, and psychotic disorders. They seek more than just symptom relief; they’re looking for a collaborative approach to regain control over their mental health. Together, we work toward goals like emotional stability, improved relationships, and resilience, with a focus on understanding their unique story and empowering them to thrive across all life stages.
My clients are children, adolescents, and adults facing a range of challenges, from anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, to OCD, trauma, substance use, and psychotic disorders. They seek more than just symptom relief; they’re looking for a collaborative approach to regain control over their mental health. Together, we work toward goals like emotional stability, improved relationships, and resilience, with a focus on understanding their unique story and empowering them to thrive across all life stages.
(609) 469-3399 View (609) 469-3399
Photo of Akhil Sethi - Advocare Healthy Minds South Jersey, Psychiatrist
Dr. Akhil Sethi is board certified in Adult psychiatry. He started his journey in the mental health field from England, having been trained at prestigious institutions, such as: St. Georges Hospital (South London) and in Queen Elizabeth Hospital (West Norfolk, UK), which is affiliated with University of Cambridge. He furthered his training with his psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic, Ohio and has had a keen interest in mood and anxiety disorders. He also gained expertise in management of treatment resistant mood disorders. He has done visiting fellowship in ECT from Duke University.
Dr. Akhil Sethi is board certified in Adult psychiatry. He started his journey in the mental health field from England, having been trained at prestigious institutions, such as: St. Georges Hospital (South London) and in Queen Elizabeth Hospital (West Norfolk, UK), which is affiliated with University of Cambridge. He furthered his training with his psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic, Ohio and has had a keen interest in mood and anxiety disorders. He also gained expertise in management of treatment resistant mood disorders. He has done visiting fellowship in ECT from Duke University.
(856) 517-2831 View (856) 517-2831
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Glassboro, NJ 08028
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(856) 372-1011 View (856) 372-1011
Photo of Dr. Tony Issac, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Tony Issac
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
(973) 564-0829 View (973) 564-0829
Photo of Edward Baruch, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Edward Baruch
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Marlton, NJ 08053
A very good Psychiatrist at PASSNJ, Psychiatric and Addiction Services of Southern New Jersey.I provide psychiatric care, evaluations, medication monitoring, for psychiatric patients addicted, substance abusing individuals. Our goal is to use the best, safest and most effective treatments to get people back to their lives as quickly as possible. Some of the psychiatric conditions that we treat are anxiety, ADD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, panic disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia, opiate addiction and other substance abuse. We treat adults and children.
A very good Psychiatrist at PASSNJ, Psychiatric and Addiction Services of Southern New Jersey.I provide psychiatric care, evaluations, medication monitoring, for psychiatric patients addicted, substance abusing individuals. Our goal is to use the best, safest and most effective treatments to get people back to their lives as quickly as possible. Some of the psychiatric conditions that we treat are anxiety, ADD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, panic disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia, opiate addiction and other substance abuse. We treat adults and children.
(856) 291-5051 View (856) 291-5051
Photo of Obinna Ezealor - KALM Behavioral Health Inc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
KALM Behavioral Health Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
I am Dr Obinna Ezealor, DNP, PMHNP-BC, owner/founder of KALM Behavioral Health Inc. I have an extensive psychiatric experience, having worked for over 12 years in one of the NJ state-established long-term psychiatric hospital and experience in General and Addiction Psychiatry. I also have experience working both in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, and treating clients from various ethnic and cultural groups. I am a highly motivated and organized individual passionate about caring for the mental health and addiction population, and my philosophy is to tailor each client’s care to their need.
I am Dr Obinna Ezealor, DNP, PMHNP-BC, owner/founder of KALM Behavioral Health Inc. I have an extensive psychiatric experience, having worked for over 12 years in one of the NJ state-established long-term psychiatric hospital and experience in General and Addiction Psychiatry. I also have experience working both in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, and treating clients from various ethnic and cultural groups. I am a highly motivated and organized individual passionate about caring for the mental health and addiction population, and my philosophy is to tailor each client’s care to their need.
(856) 644-1897 View (856) 644-1897
Photo of Olga (Golda) Ryabinsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olga (Golda) Ryabinsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Welcome to my women-only practice, where compassionate care meets specialized expertise. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to women's mental health, I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated, educated, and thoughtful about their treatment goals and outcomes.
Welcome to my women-only practice, where compassionate care meets specialized expertise. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to women's mental health, I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated, educated, and thoughtful about their treatment goals and outcomes.
(848) 356-4606 View (848) 356-4606

See more therapy options for Laurel Springs

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Laurel Springs, NJ

< 10

Psychiatrists in Laurel Springs, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Domestic Abuse

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Laurel Springs, NJ see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Laurel Springs?

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.