Psychiatrists in Newton, NJ

Heart-Mind-Body
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC, NE-BC
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860
In my practice, I use a holistic approach to wellbeing. I help patients who are interested in exploring traditional psychiatric medication in tandem with alternative, and energy medicine. I ask the question: what disrupts your connection with yourself and the world around you? Whether the cause for the disconnect be traumatic events, bouts of depression. persistent anxiety or the inability to cope. Together, we will find the issue/block that is troubling you as a whole person. We view wellbeing as a combination of the heart, mind and body.
In my practice, I use a holistic approach to wellbeing. I help patients who are interested in exploring traditional psychiatric medication in tandem with alternative, and energy medicine. I ask the question: what disrupts your connection with yourself and the world around you? Whether the cause for the disconnect be traumatic events, bouts of depression. persistent anxiety or the inability to cope. Together, we will find the issue/block that is troubling you as a whole person. We view wellbeing as a combination of the heart, mind and body.

Jacqueline Hunterton-Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860
During the many changes and challenges we face in life it is essential at times to seek help. This can be a tedious venture and finding the right provider can be complicated. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am able to not only provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications but also become a part of your support system. Using psychotherapy and medication management I can help you gain the tools needed to move past the hard times. As a team we will be able to assess what your needs are and what the best possible treatment plan and outcomes can be obtained.
During the many changes and challenges we face in life it is essential at times to seek help. This can be a tedious venture and finding the right provider can be complicated. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am able to not only provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications but also become a part of your support system. Using psychotherapy and medication management I can help you gain the tools needed to move past the hard times. As a team we will be able to assess what your needs are and what the best possible treatment plan and outcomes can be obtained.
Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.
Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.

Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.
Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.

Brienna Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Newton, NJ 07860
Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.
Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.

Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.
Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.
Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.
Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.
Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.
Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.

Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.
Ideal clients come from diverse backgrounds but share a common desire for mental and emotional well-being. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, or relationship issues. These individuals seek clarity, balance, and tools to manage their daily lives effectively. Their goals include gaining greater self-awareness, building resilience, and improving relationships—whether personal, family, or professional. They’re motivated by a strong desire to better understand themselves and achieve a meaningful change that brings peace and satisfaction to their lives.

Welcome to my practice!
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with decades of experience in the psychiatric field, I specialize in psychopharmacology & provide supportive psychotherapy for a variety of mental health conditions at request. I work with the patient to develop an individualized, evidence-based care plan that prioritizes their goals.
I strive to provide a safe, empathetic, & non-judgmental space to help those struggling. If you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out. My goal is to assist in facilitating overall wellness & quality of life by utilizing psychotropic medication with a holistic approach.
Welcome to my practice!
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with decades of experience in the psychiatric field, I specialize in psychopharmacology & provide supportive psychotherapy for a variety of mental health conditions at request. I work with the patient to develop an individualized, evidence-based care plan that prioritizes their goals.
I strive to provide a safe, empathetic, & non-judgmental space to help those struggling. If you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out. My goal is to assist in facilitating overall wellness & quality of life by utilizing psychotropic medication with a holistic approach.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Brianna Scancarella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Quinnipiac University, and Bachelor of Science and a Masters of Science in nursing from Northeastern University. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing since 2016. I have experience working in outpatient practices, residential settings, inpatient hospital units, partial hospital and intensive outpatient programs. I specialize in adolescents and adults as well as new or expecting moms. I offer tele-health services for medication management of depression, anxiety, mood lability and perinatal and postpartum mood changes.
I earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Quinnipiac University, and Bachelor of Science and a Masters of Science in nursing from Northeastern University. I am board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing since 2016. I have experience working in outpatient practices, residential settings, inpatient hospital units, partial hospital and intensive outpatient programs. I specialize in adolescents and adults as well as new or expecting moms. I offer tele-health services for medication management of depression, anxiety, mood lability and perinatal and postpartum mood changes.

Folake Bello Akintunde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hamburg, NJ 07419
My ideal client willingly engages in therapy, desiring a nurturing space to express themselves. They crave practical strategies for emotional management, obstacle navigation, and overall well-being improvement. Their objective is to gain mental health empowerment, adeptly tackle challenges, and foster healthier habits. Ultimately, they aim for personal growth and a fulfilling life congruent with their values.
My ideal client willingly engages in therapy, desiring a nurturing space to express themselves. They crave practical strategies for emotional management, obstacle navigation, and overall well-being improvement. Their objective is to gain mental health empowerment, adeptly tackle challenges, and foster healthier habits. Ultimately, they aim for personal growth and a fulfilling life congruent with their values.

I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from Walden University in 2020 with my MSN and focus in psychiatry as a nurse practitioner. I have been a nurse for about seven years with experience in inpatient psychiatry, medical surgical, ER crisis management, forensic and detox nursing. Psychiatry is dear to my heart and I enjoy advocating for mental healthcare. The mind, body and soul make up wellness and health, so without the proper mental health treatment, holistic care is incomplete.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from Walden University in 2020 with my MSN and focus in psychiatry as a nurse practitioner. I have been a nurse for about seven years with experience in inpatient psychiatry, medical surgical, ER crisis management, forensic and detox nursing. Psychiatry is dear to my heart and I enjoy advocating for mental healthcare. The mind, body and soul make up wellness and health, so without the proper mental health treatment, holistic care is incomplete.

My Psych Provider.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockaway, NJ 07866
Dr. Samuel Okechukwu, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of My Psych Provider LLC. With over a decade of experience in acute care and psychiatry, he combines strong clinical skills with a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Dr. Okechukwu uses a personalized, evidence-based approach to deliver compassionate care, recognizing that every patient has a unique story. His goal is to enhance quality of life by providing comprehensive, high-quality mental health services.
Dr. Samuel Okechukwu, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of My Psych Provider LLC. With over a decade of experience in acute care and psychiatry, he combines strong clinical skills with a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Dr. Okechukwu uses a personalized, evidence-based approach to deliver compassionate care, recognizing that every patient has a unique story. His goal is to enhance quality of life by providing comprehensive, high-quality mental health services.

My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.
My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.

Mary FitzGerald Switala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I focus on using a holistic and integrative approach to diagnosing and treating mental health conditions and work with clients to identify, understand, and solve issues. I believe treatment must be highly individualized, compassionate and that it is a collaboration between the client and me. Together we can determine what is the right treatment for you.
I focus on using a holistic and integrative approach to diagnosing and treating mental health conditions and work with clients to identify, understand, and solve issues. I believe treatment must be highly individualized, compassionate and that it is a collaboration between the client and me. Together we can determine what is the right treatment for you.

Book with me now by clicking in my website. As a dedicated mental health professional, my ideal client is someone who is seeking a safe and supportive environment. They may be dealing with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or life transitions. My ideal client is someone who is ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. They are open to exploring new perspectives and willing to engage in therapeutic processes that promote mental and emotional well-being. Together, we will work towards creating a life that is not only manageable but also rich and fulfilling.
Book with me now by clicking in my website. As a dedicated mental health professional, my ideal client is someone who is seeking a safe and supportive environment. They may be dealing with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or life transitions. My ideal client is someone who is ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. They are open to exploring new perspectives and willing to engage in therapeutic processes that promote mental and emotional well-being. Together, we will work towards creating a life that is not only manageable but also rich and fulfilling.

With a genuine and nurturing nature, combined with a professional and ambitious faith-based approach. I am fluent in Spanish "Hablo Español". I have experience in interacting with diverse populations has given me in-depth understanding and awareness. Beyond my enthusiasm and dedication, I also have a background in treating patients of all ages 5 years and up. I am fluent in Spanish with experience in treating disorders that are fit for outpatient virtual services which include depression, anxiety, ADHD, ADD, ODD, bipolar, OCD, and eating disorders. I am licensed in New York and New Jersey
With a genuine and nurturing nature, combined with a professional and ambitious faith-based approach. I am fluent in Spanish "Hablo Español". I have experience in interacting with diverse populations has given me in-depth understanding and awareness. Beyond my enthusiasm and dedication, I also have a background in treating patients of all ages 5 years and up. I am fluent in Spanish with experience in treating disorders that are fit for outpatient virtual services which include depression, anxiety, ADHD, ADD, ODD, bipolar, OCD, and eating disorders. I am licensed in New York and New Jersey

Nu Imagery Healthcare, LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CDCES
Verified Verified
Haskell, NJ 07420
We believe that medical and psychological problems are intertwined and can be addressed in one session. We provide integrated and balanced healthcare to address primary care issues, especially weight loss & obesity, sleep, and diabetes while addressing psychiatric mental health issues. We help you cope with school/ work stress. We provide psychiatric and prescription treatment of obesity & binge eating with weight loss plans to keep you on track. We deliver psychotherapeutic techniques to help you reduce stress and cope with challenges. Our treatment modality may improve your quality of life and reduce stress from work and school.
We believe that medical and psychological problems are intertwined and can be addressed in one session. We provide integrated and balanced healthcare to address primary care issues, especially weight loss & obesity, sleep, and diabetes while addressing psychiatric mental health issues. We help you cope with school/ work stress. We provide psychiatric and prescription treatment of obesity & binge eating with weight loss plans to keep you on track. We deliver psychotherapeutic techniques to help you reduce stress and cope with challenges. Our treatment modality may improve your quality of life and reduce stress from work and school.

Pelorus Elder & Behavioral Health and Pelorus TMS
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927
My practice specializes in Geriatric and Adult Psychiatry. We offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of cognitive disorders (i.e. Alzheimer's, Lewy Body, Vascular, and Frontotemporal Dementias), mood and anxiety disorders (i.e. Depression, Bipolar Disorder, GAD, Panic DO, etc), Insomnia, and "Behavioral Disturbances" associated with Dementia (including agitation, delusions, and hallucinations).
My practice specializes in Geriatric and Adult Psychiatry. We offer expert evaluation, work up, and management of cognitive disorders (i.e. Alzheimer's, Lewy Body, Vascular, and Frontotemporal Dementias), mood and anxiety disorders (i.e. Depression, Bipolar Disorder, GAD, Panic DO, etc), Insomnia, and "Behavioral Disturbances" associated with Dementia (including agitation, delusions, and hallucinations).
See more therapy options for Newton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Newton, NJ
10+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Newton, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Stress |
90% | Anxiety |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Newton, NJ see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Newton?
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.