Psychiatrists in Montville, NJ

Photo of Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Montville, NJ 07045
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!
(973) 221-9692 View (973) 221-9692
Photo of Nancy Cursi-Vogle, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nancy Cursi-Vogle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Montville, NJ 07045
Mental illness is not a choice but Recovery is. You can believe in yourself and make changes with the right support. I have been working with people who have mental health issues for a long time. I enjoy helping people improve their mental health and their overall wellbeing. I believe I have been blessed with the character and skills needed to help others. I provide an integrative approach to improving mental health. I focus on you as a whole person - Mind, Body, & Spirit. I provide psychotherapy, medication management, herbal supplements, nutritional changes, movement/exercise and meditation/relaxation techniques.
Mental illness is not a choice but Recovery is. You can believe in yourself and make changes with the right support. I have been working with people who have mental health issues for a long time. I enjoy helping people improve their mental health and their overall wellbeing. I believe I have been blessed with the character and skills needed to help others. I provide an integrative approach to improving mental health. I focus on you as a whole person - Mind, Body, & Spirit. I provide psychotherapy, medication management, herbal supplements, nutritional changes, movement/exercise and meditation/relaxation techniques.
(973) 840-7257 View (973) 840-7257
Photo of Melanie Fillian - Counseling & Consulting Services of North Jersey, PA, Physician Assistant
Counseling & Consulting Services of North Jersey
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Montville, NJ 07045
We provide the highest quality of care in prescribing mental health medications. CCSNJ is a beautiful and established facility that individualizes ALL our patients. You will have direct access to your prescriber and can contact them at any time. New medication, Side effects, text us! We are flexible to accommodate you offering Tele-health and flexible hours for treatment. The turn around time for appointments can be anywhere from 4-48 hours. We also have a staff of specialists offering comprehensive treatment if you are in need of psychotherapy ,kids, couples,or family counseling, in addition to your medication.
We provide the highest quality of care in prescribing mental health medications. CCSNJ is a beautiful and established facility that individualizes ALL our patients. You will have direct access to your prescriber and can contact them at any time. New medication, Side effects, text us! We are flexible to accommodate you offering Tele-health and flexible hours for treatment. The turn around time for appointments can be anywhere from 4-48 hours. We also have a staff of specialists offering comprehensive treatment if you are in need of psychotherapy ,kids, couples,or family counseling, in addition to your medication.
(862) 212-1197 View (862) 212-1197
Photo of Margaret Gorny, APN, Psychiatric Nurse
Margaret Gorny
Psychiatric Nurse, APN
Verified Verified
Montville, NJ 07045
I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have treated adults ranging in age from 18 to 80. I have also done extensive work with couples and families. My clients have had a wide variety of presenting problems from depression, anger management, relationships issues, anxiety, mood disorders, marital problems, phobias and obsessive compulsive behaviors. I see my client as a whole person not as a person with a problem. A person with strengths and weaknesses. Our job together is to find the answers and develop the skills to move forward to an enriching life.
I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have treated adults ranging in age from 18 to 80. I have also done extensive work with couples and families. My clients have had a wide variety of presenting problems from depression, anger management, relationships issues, anxiety, mood disorders, marital problems, phobias and obsessive compulsive behaviors. I see my client as a whole person not as a person with a problem. A person with strengths and weaknesses. Our job together is to find the answers and develop the skills to move forward to an enriching life.
(973) 845-4092 View (973) 845-4092

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Chelsea Robbins, PMHNP, ANCC-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chelsea Robbins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC-BC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
My goal is to teach realistic coping skills and means to improve wellness. Treatment may include coping skills building, gaining insight, supportive therapy, and medications (when necessary). I have added experience in OCD, anxiety, and panic disorders as well as working with young adults and parents with children experiencing medical/health issues. I hope to assist individuals to wellness efficiently and believe both long-term and short-term active treatment can be successful.
My goal is to teach realistic coping skills and means to improve wellness. Treatment may include coping skills building, gaining insight, supportive therapy, and medications (when necessary). I have added experience in OCD, anxiety, and panic disorders as well as working with young adults and parents with children experiencing medical/health issues. I hope to assist individuals to wellness efficiently and believe both long-term and short-term active treatment can be successful.
(908) 768-3773 View (908) 768-3773
Photo of Michael John Krysko, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael John Krysko
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054
I focus on mental illness that affects people's day to day lives. I work with people by actively listening to people, and by guiding them and educating them about their problems, as well as by prescribing medications that will help them meet their goals.
I focus on mental illness that affects people's day to day lives. I work with people by actively listening to people, and by guiding them and educating them about their problems, as well as by prescribing medications that will help them meet their goals.
(973) 359-5798 View (973) 359-5798
Photo of William D Becker, MD, Psychiatrist
William D Becker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054
I am Board-Certified in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have 25 years experience doing evaluations, psychopharmacology, and/or psychotherapy. I have expertise working with most psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Depression, Suicide Risk Assessment, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Psychosis.
I am Board-Certified in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have 25 years experience doing evaluations, psychopharmacology, and/or psychotherapy. I have expertise working with most psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Depression, Suicide Risk Assessment, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Psychosis.
(973) 292-0758 View (973) 292-0758
Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
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.
(973) 240-5604 View (973) 240-5604
Photo of Cynthia Spellman, MD, Psychiatrist
Cynthia Spellman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046
I have an exclusive private practice, with a limited number of clients. I provide a very high level of care, with appointments available this week and 50-minute sessions that cover both psychotherapy and medication. Not your typical psychiatrist, I safeguard your privacy from Big Data's (b)reach by handwriting all records. I am available via text for quick questions between appointments. This is possible only on a private-pay basis, remaining Out-Of-Network with all insurances. Nevertheless, it's possible that your insurance might offer partial reimbursement, which requires only a simple claim form. Call to see if I can help you.
I have an exclusive private practice, with a limited number of clients. I provide a very high level of care, with appointments available this week and 50-minute sessions that cover both psychotherapy and medication. Not your typical psychiatrist, I safeguard your privacy from Big Data's (b)reach by handwriting all records. I am available via text for quick questions between appointments. This is possible only on a private-pay basis, remaining Out-Of-Network with all insurances. Nevertheless, it's possible that your insurance might offer partial reimbursement, which requires only a simple claim form. Call to see if I can help you.
(862) 407-5541 View (862) 407-5541
Photo of Andrew Kuiken, PA, Physician Assistant
Andrew Kuiken
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Florham Park, NJ 07932
Tri America is thrilled to introduce Andrew Kuiken, a certified physician assistant with over 12 years of clinical experience and is accepting new clients for in-person or online in NJ and online in NY and FL. PA Kuiken recently earned his Doctorate of Medical Science degree from Rocky Mountain University, showcasing his unwavering commitment to staying at the forefront of medical knowledge. In addition to Psychiatry, PA Kuiken has in neurosurgical and intensive care services, giving him a well rounded background in complex medical problems and how they may interact with psychiatric conditions.
Tri America is thrilled to introduce Andrew Kuiken, a certified physician assistant with over 12 years of clinical experience and is accepting new clients for in-person or online in NJ and online in NY and FL. PA Kuiken recently earned his Doctorate of Medical Science degree from Rocky Mountain University, showcasing his unwavering commitment to staying at the forefront of medical knowledge. In addition to Psychiatry, PA Kuiken has in neurosurgical and intensive care services, giving him a well rounded background in complex medical problems and how they may interact with psychiatric conditions.
(201) 474-3916 View (201) 474-3916
Photo of Dr. Bradford Bobrin, MD , FASAM , FACLP, Psychiatrist
Dr. Bradford Bobrin
Psychiatrist, MD , FASAM , FACLP
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
(973) 737-9657 View (973) 737-9657
Photo of Sinead Sobers - BirchWood Health - Sinead Sobers, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BirchWood Health - Sinead Sobers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054  (Online Only)
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health www.birchwood.health
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health www.birchwood.health
(862) 829-3368 View (862) 829-3368
Photo of Brenda Lingham - Tranquility Behavioral Health, LLC, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tranquility Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960  (Online Only)
Welcome, I'm currently accepting new clients. Are you struggling emotionally? Having difficulty regulating your mood, getting adequate sleep, feeling anxious or irritable, lacking motivation, having problems with interpersonal relationships, or performing adequately at work or school. If this sounds like you, please know that you’re not alone. My guess is that getting started in treatment can be pretty scary, talking to someone you do not know about things that make you feel uncomfortable, sad, angry, anxious, overjoyed, or embarrassed. However, I would like to reassure you that this process is in place to help you to heal.
Welcome, I'm currently accepting new clients. Are you struggling emotionally? Having difficulty regulating your mood, getting adequate sleep, feeling anxious or irritable, lacking motivation, having problems with interpersonal relationships, or performing adequately at work or school. If this sounds like you, please know that you’re not alone. My guess is that getting started in treatment can be pretty scary, talking to someone you do not know about things that make you feel uncomfortable, sad, angry, anxious, overjoyed, or embarrassed. However, I would like to reassure you that this process is in place to help you to heal.
(856) 408-1938 View (856) 408-1938
Photo of Dr. Robert B. Marsh, DNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Robert B. Marsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
Dr. Marsh has been serving those suffering with mental health disorders, including substance abuse for more than 25 years. His course of treatment is holistic in nature, treating both the physical symptoms as well as the emotional struggles via psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic intervention. He is a nationally board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings. He is an addiction specialist and member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), Suboxone and Vivitrol certified; 973-699-1006.
Dr. Marsh has been serving those suffering with mental health disorders, including substance abuse for more than 25 years. His course of treatment is holistic in nature, treating both the physical symptoms as well as the emotional struggles via psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic intervention. He is a nationally board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings. He is an addiction specialist and member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), Suboxone and Vivitrol certified; 973-699-1006.
(908) 224-5374 View (908) 224-5374
Photo of Omar Canosa, MD, Psychiatrist
Omar Canosa
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
I am board-certified in both adult and child/adolescent psychiatry, and do my best work with adolescent clients, and their families. I am intensively trained in DBT, and its principles inform my practice, even when the full model is not applied. I am also trained in medical acupuncture, and have practiced martial arts and meditative systems for over two decades. By virtue of this unique training, I am dedicated to an integrative approach which both addresses symptoms and problems, while also seeking to maximize the capacity for attaining and sustaining wellbeing. I am equally fluent in English and Spanish.
I am board-certified in both adult and child/adolescent psychiatry, and do my best work with adolescent clients, and their families. I am intensively trained in DBT, and its principles inform my practice, even when the full model is not applied. I am also trained in medical acupuncture, and have practiced martial arts and meditative systems for over two decades. By virtue of this unique training, I am dedicated to an integrative approach which both addresses symptoms and problems, while also seeking to maximize the capacity for attaining and sustaining wellbeing. I am equally fluent in English and Spanish.
(973) 552-2631 View (973) 552-2631
Catherine D'Aprix Heffner
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morristown, NJ 07960
ONE STOP SHOPPING. That is right! You can see me for all of your mental health and wellness needs vs seeing a separate doctor for medications, another therapist for psychotherapy and possibly even a third person as a coach or for basic nutrition/fitness. One appointment/one hour per week vs 3-4?! What a time saver and ultimately, what a money saver, especially in the long run!!! If you are ready to start on a path of healing or self-discovery, with a practitioner who is warm and caring yet firm when needed, please call. You deserve it!!
ONE STOP SHOPPING. That is right! You can see me for all of your mental health and wellness needs vs seeing a separate doctor for medications, another therapist for psychotherapy and possibly even a third person as a coach or for basic nutrition/fitness. One appointment/one hour per week vs 3-4?! What a time saver and ultimately, what a money saver, especially in the long run!!! If you are ready to start on a path of healing or self-discovery, with a practitioner who is warm and caring yet firm when needed, please call. You deserve it!!
(646) 760-6838 View (646) 760-6838
Photo of Kanmi Arogundade - Angelic Helpers Behavioral Health Services, MSN, APN-C, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angelic Helpers Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
Life is full of challenges, obstacles, and disequilibrium. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or given up hope about a better future? Utilizing a holistic approach that combines treating the physical and emotional, I am able to help you maximize your potential, and live a life that is fulfilling and rewarding. Have you been diagnosed or are you a survivor of a life-changing illness? I am able to help you emotionally while you recover physically.
Life is full of challenges, obstacles, and disequilibrium. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or given up hope about a better future? Utilizing a holistic approach that combines treating the physical and emotional, I am able to help you maximize your potential, and live a life that is fulfilling and rewarding. Have you been diagnosed or are you a survivor of a life-changing illness? I am able to help you emotionally while you recover physically.
(973) 493-6857 View (973) 493-6857
Photo of Dr. Jada Marie Khosla - Partners In Integrative Healing, State Street TMS, MD, Psychiatrist
Partners In Integrative Healing, State Street TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Waitlist for new clients
My current expertise and interests are; Community Psychiatry and building relationships within the natural environment. I perform second opinion consultations for complex cases or people who feel misdiagnosed. I have a focus on Women’s health and Reproductive Psychiatry, treating persons throughout the perinatal journey, I am an advocate and ally of LGBTQ and BIPOC community and am committed to an anti-racist and inclusive therapeutic stance. Integrative General Psychiatry, which includes traditional approaches in addition to holistic approaches. Interventional Psychiatry; transcranial magnetic stimulation and esketamine.
My current expertise and interests are; Community Psychiatry and building relationships within the natural environment. I perform second opinion consultations for complex cases or people who feel misdiagnosed. I have a focus on Women’s health and Reproductive Psychiatry, treating persons throughout the perinatal journey, I am an advocate and ally of LGBTQ and BIPOC community and am committed to an anti-racist and inclusive therapeutic stance. Integrative General Psychiatry, which includes traditional approaches in addition to holistic approaches. Interventional Psychiatry; transcranial magnetic stimulation and esketamine.
(802) 300-3569 View (802) 300-3569
Photo of Chioma E Agbo, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chioma E Agbo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rockaway, NJ 07866
CEAN Mental Wellness Services LLC aims to address mental issues, promote self-care and awareness of all ages. Sometimes, the chains that prevent our freedom are more mental than physical. If you are diagnosed or experiencing any mental breakdown such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, dementia or mood disorder with psychotic features, we are here to help.
CEAN Mental Wellness Services LLC aims to address mental issues, promote self-care and awareness of all ages. Sometimes, the chains that prevent our freedom are more mental than physical. If you are diagnosed or experiencing any mental breakdown such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, dementia or mood disorder with psychotic features, we are here to help.
(973) 554-3814 View (973) 554-3814
Photo of Ozan Toy - Telapsychiatry LLC, Psychiatrist
Telapsychiatry LLC
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054  (Online Only)
We are a psychiatric practice treating patients in New Jersey at this time through telehealth visits. We are comprised of psychiatrists, psychiatric physician assistants, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. We are committed to providing accessible, low cost, and high quality mental health care with an emphasis on maximizing lifestyle changes and prescribing medications at the lowest effective dose. We participate with insurance plans and offer self-pay options as well. We currently accept Aetna, Cigna, Bluecross Blueshield, Optum, among other plans.
We are a psychiatric practice treating patients in New Jersey at this time through telehealth visits. We are comprised of psychiatrists, psychiatric physician assistants, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. We are committed to providing accessible, low cost, and high quality mental health care with an emphasis on maximizing lifestyle changes and prescribing medications at the lowest effective dose. We participate with insurance plans and offer self-pay options as well. We currently accept Aetna, Cigna, Bluecross Blueshield, Optum, among other plans.
(862) 247-4356 View (862) 247-4356

See more therapy options for Montville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Montville, NJ

< 10

Psychiatrists in Montville, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Anger Management
75% Emotional Disturbance
75% Suicidal Ideation

Average years in practice

39 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Montville, 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 Montville?

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.