Psychiatrists in Little Silver, NJ

I have been a practicing psychiatrist for 30 years in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient public clinics and outpatient private practice settings. I have recently been transitioning my practice to all pediatrics ages 5 to 17. I have a particular interest in pediatric OCD and have been involved with and trained by the international OCD foundation in therapy and medication treatment of pediatric OCD.
I have been a practicing psychiatrist for 30 years in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient public clinics and outpatient private practice settings. I have recently been transitioning my practice to all pediatrics ages 5 to 17. I have a particular interest in pediatric OCD and have been involved with and trained by the international OCD foundation in therapy and medication treatment of pediatric OCD.

Jessica Kirby-Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Silver, NJ 07739
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am experienced in working with patients who experience anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, psychosis, and other concerns. We will work together integrating medication management and therapeutic techniques to help you address your concerns, allowing you to heal, grow, and reach your goals. Book with me now using my website link.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am experienced in working with patients who experience anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, psychosis, and other concerns. We will work together integrating medication management and therapeutic techniques to help you address your concerns, allowing you to heal, grow, and reach your goals. Book with me now using my website link.

Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
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!

Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
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!

Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Althea Andrade is a PMHNP-BC with years of experience in treating children, adolescence adults and geriatric population with various mental illnesses not limited to ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, mood disorders, Gender identity disorders, eating disorder etc. Currently licensed in NJ, NY, and FL. Graduated with Presidential honor at Chamberlain University and honors at Walden University . Strongly believe mental health is wealth, and with a dynamic treatment of medication combined with psychotherapy client will benefit a great deal and be able to function effectively in society. Strongly believe in the well-being of my patient
Althea Andrade is a PMHNP-BC with years of experience in treating children, adolescence adults and geriatric population with various mental illnesses not limited to ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, mood disorders, Gender identity disorders, eating disorder etc. Currently licensed in NJ, NY, and FL. Graduated with Presidential honor at Chamberlain University and honors at Walden University . Strongly believe mental health is wealth, and with a dynamic treatment of medication combined with psychotherapy client will benefit a great deal and be able to function effectively in society. Strongly believe in the well-being of my patient

I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 10 years of experience in neuropsychiatric care. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions across the lifespan, working with children, adolescents, and adults.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 10 years of experience in neuropsychiatric care. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions across the lifespan, working with children, adolescents, and adults.

Catherine “Kasia” Bodnar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08755
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your well-being! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring to my practice not only clinical expertise but also compassion, empathy, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. My journey in mental health care has been driven by a deep-rooted passion to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals facing various mental health challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia or other mental illness I am here to offer my help.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your well-being! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring to my practice not only clinical expertise but also compassion, empathy, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. My journey in mental health care has been driven by a deep-rooted passion to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals facing various mental health challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia or other mental illness I am here to offer my help.

New Jersey Psychiatric Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MBA, CNL
Verified Verified
Wall Township, NJ 07719
Does your mental health need immediate attention or further stabilization? Constance Nana Kusi is a seasoned and dedicated healthcare professional who stands as a beacon of excellence in the field of psychiatric/mental health. She is dedicated to the care of individuals with mental health disorders to help them recover and improve their quality of life. With a rich tapestry of experiences, she has woven a career marked by compassion, innovation, and a relentless commitment to enhancing mental health care. She also plays a key role as a Psychiatric Consult Liaison with a prestigious healthcare system in New Jersey.
Does your mental health need immediate attention or further stabilization? Constance Nana Kusi is a seasoned and dedicated healthcare professional who stands as a beacon of excellence in the field of psychiatric/mental health. She is dedicated to the care of individuals with mental health disorders to help them recover and improve their quality of life. With a rich tapestry of experiences, she has woven a career marked by compassion, innovation, and a relentless commitment to enhancing mental health care. She also plays a key role as a Psychiatric Consult Liaison with a prestigious healthcare system in New Jersey.

Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects, and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often, this approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects, and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often, this approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.

Clear Healthy Mind LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747
Akosua C. Ababio is a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. She trained at Northern Kentucky University in both medication management and psychotherapy. Akosua is also a trained Family Nurse Practitioner-BC. She treats patients of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors. Her non-judgemental approach to her practice in mental health is what makes her unique.
Akosua C. Ababio is a licensed board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. She trained at Northern Kentucky University in both medication management and psychotherapy. Akosua is also a trained Family Nurse Practitioner-BC. She treats patients of all ages, from children and adolescents to adults and seniors. Her non-judgemental approach to her practice in mental health is what makes her unique.

Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you ready to see if medications, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely so that you don't needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you ready to see if medications, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely so that you don't needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.

Amanda Decker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, my name is Mandy and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in integrative psychiatry for New Jersey residents. I work with people whose goal is to heal from the root, promoting optimal wellness, rather than just stick a bandage on a wound via a pill. Integrative psychiatry means western medicine and eastern medicine. I do prescribe medication, however I may also recommend nutraceuticals, mind body approaches, and/or other therapeutic, holistic, energetic, or complementary means. I also deprescribe. My goal is to help you heal and help YOU get to know YOU better!
Hi, my name is Mandy and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in integrative psychiatry for New Jersey residents. I work with people whose goal is to heal from the root, promoting optimal wellness, rather than just stick a bandage on a wound via a pill. Integrative psychiatry means western medicine and eastern medicine. I do prescribe medication, however I may also recommend nutraceuticals, mind body approaches, and/or other therapeutic, holistic, energetic, or complementary means. I also deprescribe. My goal is to help you heal and help YOU get to know YOU better!

As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have worked with patients across the lifespan, treating a variety of Psychiatric Disorders: Addiction, Mood disorders, Trauma, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Dementia, OCD, and Generalized Anxiety.
I practice a holistic approach while collaborating with other disciplines to rule out medical issues and provide my patients with the best outcomes possible. I believe family plays a big role in the patient's care, and I try to include them in the treatment plan as much as possible. My goal is to treat each individual with compassion and professionalism across all levels of care.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have worked with patients across the lifespan, treating a variety of Psychiatric Disorders: Addiction, Mood disorders, Trauma, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Dementia, OCD, and Generalized Anxiety.
I practice a holistic approach while collaborating with other disciplines to rule out medical issues and provide my patients with the best outcomes possible. I believe family plays a big role in the patient's care, and I try to include them in the treatment plan as much as possible. My goal is to treat each individual with compassion and professionalism across all levels of care.

Center for Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Holmdel, NJ 07733
My practice specializes in treating adults and geriatrics with a full range of diagnoses including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, dementia, psychosis, and Alzheimer's. The geriatric population presents unique health needs such as chronic diseases, sensory problems, cognitive loss, memory impairment, and balance issues. Molly's goal is to help treat symptoms that disrupt daily living and provide support and safety to patients and their families. Our office participates in Medicare, and although our focus is on geriatrics, Molly is happy to provide care for all adults. Sliding scale fees are available for those out of network.
My practice specializes in treating adults and geriatrics with a full range of diagnoses including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, dementia, psychosis, and Alzheimer's. The geriatric population presents unique health needs such as chronic diseases, sensory problems, cognitive loss, memory impairment, and balance issues. Molly's goal is to help treat symptoms that disrupt daily living and provide support and safety to patients and their families. Our office participates in Medicare, and although our focus is on geriatrics, Molly is happy to provide care for all adults. Sliding scale fees are available for those out of network.
Have a strong commitment to helping people with mental health issues by using a thorough, patient-centered, and holistic approach as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). In addition to handling addictions, coping mechanisms, and a spectrum of emotional and behavioral problems, my experience includes a wide range of mental diseases, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD
Have a strong commitment to helping people with mental health issues by using a thorough, patient-centered, and holistic approach as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). In addition to handling addictions, coping mechanisms, and a spectrum of emotional and behavioral problems, my experience includes a wide range of mental diseases, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD

Nicholas Mwangi - Psychiatric Nurse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
I am a Board certified Nurse Practitioner licensed in New Jersey to provide psychiatric mental health across life-span. Dedicated to the well-being of my patients, and the destigmatization of mental Illness. PMHNP-BC.
I am a Board certified Nurse Practitioner licensed in New Jersey to provide psychiatric mental health across life-span. Dedicated to the well-being of my patients, and the destigmatization of mental Illness. PMHNP-BC.

I am board certified as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, as well as certified as a Pediatric Primary Care Mental Health Specialist (PMHS). I work with the pediatric/adolescent/young adult population and their families who have an openness to therapy, self- improvement, emotional support, and who are seeking medication management. My clients depend on me to provide top notch care and I make sure to consistently deliver. My goal is a mutually agreed-upon treatment plan that allows my patients the best treatment in a nurturing, understanding, and compassionate environment.
I am board certified as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, as well as certified as a Pediatric Primary Care Mental Health Specialist (PMHS). I work with the pediatric/adolescent/young adult population and their families who have an openness to therapy, self- improvement, emotional support, and who are seeking medication management. My clients depend on me to provide top notch care and I make sure to consistently deliver. My goal is a mutually agreed-upon treatment plan that allows my patients the best treatment in a nurturing, understanding, and compassionate environment.

I am Jessica Parekkadan-Mohammed, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 12 years of experience working with individuals across the lifespan. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, postpartum depression, mood disorders, and panic disorders. I earned my Master's degree in Nursing from the Royal College of Nursing and completed my Nurse Practitioner Program at Monmouth University.
I am Jessica Parekkadan-Mohammed, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 12 years of experience working with individuals across the lifespan. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, postpartum depression, mood disorders, and panic disorders. I earned my Master's degree in Nursing from the Royal College of Nursing and completed my Nurse Practitioner Program at Monmouth University.

My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
See more therapy options for Little Silver
Nearby Searches for Little Silver
- Asbury Park
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- Holmdel
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- Long Branch
- Middletown
- Ocean
- Oceanport
- Red Bank
- Rumson
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- Tinton Falls
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Little Silver, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Little Silver, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Medication Management |
80% | Sleep or Insomnia |
80% | Behavioral Issues |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Little Silver, NJ see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Little Silver?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.