Psychiatrists in Oradell, NJ

Hong Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
1 Endorsed
Oradell, NJ 07649
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
(973) 791-4126 View (973) 791-4126
Peter Weiss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APN, RN
Oradell, NJ 07649
Medication management with or without psychotherapy for ADHD, anxiety, depression and OCD; children, adolescents and adults; telehealth throughout New Jersey plus in-person Bergen County appointments; Aetna, Horizon BCBS, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare and Medicare. Collaborative and empathic use between the client and provider of medication management and psychotherapy after initial psychiatric evaluations. As a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have always believed in the power of personalized care in promoting mental well-being. The client and I are a team!
Medication management with or without psychotherapy for ADHD, anxiety, depression and OCD; children, adolescents and adults; telehealth throughout New Jersey plus in-person Bergen County appointments; Aetna, Horizon BCBS, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare and Medicare. Collaborative and empathic use between the client and provider of medication management and psychotherapy after initial psychiatric evaluations. As a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have always believed in the power of personalized care in promoting mental well-being. The client and I are a team!
(201) 677-8538 View (201) 677-8538
Amanda Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
4 Endorsed
Oradell, NJ 07649
I see clients for med evals & management, 2nd opinions and robust patient edu. My clients are wide-ranging: some are brand new to treatment; others have chronic mental illness, whether stable or during an acute episode; I accept pt's looking for a f/u provider after a psych hospitalization; I accept new-onset mental illness, whether due to substance use, an acute stressor or another factors. Some pts who anticipate difficult upcoming life-changes, like a pregnancy, job change, in-laws moving in, etc., may choose to see me prophylactically — often, some of these patients find quick relief just knowing there’s a plan in place.
I see clients for med evals & management, 2nd opinions and robust patient edu. My clients are wide-ranging: some are brand new to treatment; others have chronic mental illness, whether stable or during an acute episode; I accept pt's looking for a f/u provider after a psych hospitalization; I accept new-onset mental illness, whether due to substance use, an acute stressor or another factors. Some pts who anticipate difficult upcoming life-changes, like a pregnancy, job change, in-laws moving in, etc., may choose to see me prophylactically — often, some of these patients find quick relief just knowing there’s a plan in place.
(732) 338-0957 View (732) 338-0957
Julia Nuzzo Next Appt One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-CN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome, & thank you for visiting my page! I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a holistic approach to mental health care. With a background in critical care, I help patients achieve wellness by integrating mind & body. As a yoga instructor & fitness enthusiast, I guide clients in harnessing the mind-body connection to enhance their mental health. My goal is to help you achieve & maintain good mental health by treating and guiding you in integrating your mind & body. I love educating my patients on the benefits of mindfulness and movement to strengthen the powerful mind-body connection.
Welcome, & thank you for visiting my page! I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a holistic approach to mental health care. With a background in critical care, I help patients achieve wellness by integrating mind & body. As a yoga instructor & fitness enthusiast, I guide clients in harnessing the mind-body connection to enhance their mental health. My goal is to help you achieve & maintain good mental health by treating and guiding you in integrating your mind & body. I love educating my patients on the benefits of mindfulness and movement to strengthen the powerful mind-body connection.
(973) 620-7391 View (973) 620-7391
Dr. Martin A Kron
Psychiatrist, MD, PLLC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hello, my name is Dr. Martin Kron. Sometimes looking for a psychiatrist can be challenging because you want someone you can trust and open up to. Ever since I was young I have been told that I am an easy person to talk to. I truly enjoy practicing psychiatry and helping people improve their mental health. I am a good listener. I have a calming, nonjudgmental demeanor and I have always been told by my patients that they feel like they are understood and in good hands. I am a double board certified psychiatrist. I trained at Mt. Sinai Beth Israel in NYC and have worked with people in all walks of life.
Hello, my name is Dr. Martin Kron. Sometimes looking for a psychiatrist can be challenging because you want someone you can trust and open up to. Ever since I was young I have been told that I am an easy person to talk to. I truly enjoy practicing psychiatry and helping people improve their mental health. I am a good listener. I have a calming, nonjudgmental demeanor and I have always been told by my patients that they feel like they are understood and in good hands. I am a double board certified psychiatrist. I trained at Mt. Sinai Beth Israel in NYC and have worked with people in all walks of life.
(845) 660-6997 View (845) 660-6997
Alena Antohina
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Alena Antohina is a Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2011. She received her MD degree from Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Republic of Moldova and later completed a Psychiatry Residency at The Albany Medical Center, NY and a Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Beth Israel Hospital in New York City. Dr. Antohina's professional services include treatment and consultations for mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and sleep problems.
Dr. Alena Antohina is a Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2011. She received her MD degree from Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Republic of Moldova and later completed a Psychiatry Residency at The Albany Medical Center, NY and a Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Beth Israel Hospital in New York City. Dr. Antohina's professional services include treatment and consultations for mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and sleep problems.
(973) 240-9379 View (973) 240-9379
Sarah M. Fitzgerald
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am interested in you and your family as a whole and I am committed to finding solutions that work best for you. When you are not feeling your best emotionally, it effects all parts of your life from relationships, your dreams, sleep, feelings of personal satisfaction, school, work and your physical health.
I am interested in you and your family as a whole and I am committed to finding solutions that work best for you. When you are not feeling your best emotionally, it effects all parts of your life from relationships, your dreams, sleep, feelings of personal satisfaction, school, work and your physical health.
(551) 209-1700 View (551) 209-1700

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Zhanna Berman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, CHES
Serves Area
Zhanna Berman is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in both Advanced Family Health (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC). Zhanna has over 9 years of extensive experience in multiple inpatient and outpatient facilities, with many varieties of mental health issues affecting children, adolescents, and adults.
Zhanna Berman is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in both Advanced Family Health (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC). Zhanna has over 9 years of extensive experience in multiple inpatient and outpatient facilities, with many varieties of mental health issues affecting children, adolescents, and adults.
(845) 415-6649 View (845) 415-6649
Nicole Ibe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Serves Area
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction or any other behavioral health concern, Nicole is here to help. Her mission is committed to helping individuals achieve emotional well-being, navigate life's unique challenges, and develop the skills and resilience needed for a happier and more fulfilling life.
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction or any other behavioral health concern, Nicole is here to help. Her mission is committed to helping individuals achieve emotional well-being, navigate life's unique challenges, and develop the skills and resilience needed for a happier and more fulfilling life.
(609) 542-2295 View (609) 542-2295
Deanna Maiorino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Deanna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Binge Eating, Burnout, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Anger Management, Bipolar, Depression, Religion & Spirituality, Stress Management and Women's Issues.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Deanna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Binge Eating, Burnout, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Anger Management, Bipolar, Depression, Religion & Spirituality, Stress Management and Women's Issues.
(973) 532-5054 View (973) 532-5054
Azuka Ofodike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-BC, PMHNP
Cranford, NJ 07016
My name is Azuka Ofodike; a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years experience providing dedicated and skilled behavioral and mental health services. In this role; I have worked to help clients heal and grow as well as change lives in the inpatient; outpatient and partial hospitalization programs with focus on adolescents and/or adults to end of life. I have expertise in psychiatric evaluation; psychotherapy and medication management with focus on comprehensive and holistic mental health care to help individuals function better. My ultimate goal is helping patients and/or families struggling with mental illness.
My name is Azuka Ofodike; a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years experience providing dedicated and skilled behavioral and mental health services. In this role; I have worked to help clients heal and grow as well as change lives in the inpatient; outpatient and partial hospitalization programs with focus on adolescents and/or adults to end of life. I have expertise in psychiatric evaluation; psychotherapy and medication management with focus on comprehensive and holistic mental health care to help individuals function better. My ultimate goal is helping patients and/or families struggling with mental illness.
(862) 225-6751 View (862) 225-6751
Anna Ngwafu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, sleep difficulties, or mood changes that are affecting your daily life? As a Doctoral Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC), I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and individualized medication management in a supportive, judgment-free environment. I believe effective psychiatric care begins with listening. I take the time to understand your concerns, experiences, treatment history, and goals rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. We work collaboratively to determine the most appropriate treatment options.
Are you struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, sleep difficulties, or mood changes that are affecting your daily life? As a Doctoral Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC), I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and individualized medication management in a supportive, judgment-free environment. I believe effective psychiatric care begins with listening. I take the time to understand your concerns, experiences, treatment history, and goals rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. We work collaboratively to determine the most appropriate treatment options.
(856) 391-0457 View (856) 391-0457
Oluwole Oderinde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBChB, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Vauxhall, NJ 07088
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a background as a general medical practitioner in my home country Nigeria, this has prepared me to be able to look at mental illnes with a comprehensive approach knowing fully well that physical illness can be a trigger for mental illness. I take a holistic approach to mental healthcare, combining evidence-based medication management with an emphasis on lifestyle modifications to support overall well-being. My goal is to provide compassionate and individualized care that helps patients achieve lasting mental health improvements.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a background as a general medical practitioner in my home country Nigeria, this has prepared me to be able to look at mental illnes with a comprehensive approach knowing fully well that physical illness can be a trigger for mental illness. I take a holistic approach to mental healthcare, combining evidence-based medication management with an emphasis on lifestyle modifications to support overall well-being. My goal is to provide compassionate and individualized care that helps patients achieve lasting mental health improvements.
(908) 895-5028 View (908) 895-5028
Katrina Manning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Jersey City, NJ 07310
Katrina is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience in behavioral health and substance abuse treatment. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to deliver comprehensive psychiatric care across the lifespan. Licensed as a PMHNP in Pennsylvania, Katrina brings a wealth of expertise to her practice. ​ With a robust background in inpatient psychiatry, emergency crisis intervention, and drug and alcohol rehabilitation, Katrina has worked with diverse populations facing complex challenges.
Katrina is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience in behavioral health and substance abuse treatment. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to deliver comprehensive psychiatric care across the lifespan. Licensed as a PMHNP in Pennsylvania, Katrina brings a wealth of expertise to her practice. ​ With a robust background in inpatient psychiatry, emergency crisis intervention, and drug and alcohol rehabilitation, Katrina has worked with diverse populations facing complex challenges.
(484) 376-5355 View (484) 376-5355
Anna Shusharina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Anna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in AAnxiety, Bipolar, Burnout, Chronic illness, Depression, Insomnia & sleep issues, Life coaching, Life transitions, Loss, grief, and bereavement, Maternal mental health / pre / postpartum, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Trauma, Race & cultural identity, Relationship issues, Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), Sleep disorders, Stress management.. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Anna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in AAnxiety, Bipolar, Burnout, Chronic illness, Depression, Insomnia & sleep issues, Life coaching, Life transitions, Loss, grief, and bereavement, Maternal mental health / pre / postpartum, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Trauma, Race & cultural identity, Relationship issues, Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), Sleep disorders, Stress management.. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office.
(973) 348-6258 View (973) 348-6258
Precious Medical Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MHA, NEA-BC
Elizabeth, NJ 07208
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind.
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind.
(908) 768-3907 View (908) 768-3907
James Sabatino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
My clients are children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, mood disorders, stress, or other mental health concerns affecting their daily lives, relationships, work, or school. Many come to my practice feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not like themselves. I provide compassionate, individualized psychiatric care through telehealth across New Jersey. Together, we identify your concerns, discuss treatment options, and create a personalized plan focused on helping you feel more stable, confident, and in control of your mental health.
My clients are children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, mood disorders, stress, or other mental health concerns affecting their daily lives, relationships, work, or school. Many come to my practice feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not like themselves. I provide compassionate, individualized psychiatric care through telehealth across New Jersey. Together, we identify your concerns, discuss treatment options, and create a personalized plan focused on helping you feel more stable, confident, and in control of your mental health.
(848) 206-1363 View (848) 206-1363
Heart, Mind, Body LLC: Maria Manzano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP-
Morristown, NJ 07960
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care that respects each individual’s unique background, culture, and experiences. I believe in building strong, trusting relationships with my clients and creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and understood.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care that respects each individual’s unique background, culture, and experiences. I believe in building strong, trusting relationships with my clients and creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and understood.
(862) 415-0830 View (862) 415-0830
Deborah Ocasio, MD — affectionately known by many patients as “Dr. O” — has been practicing psychiatry in New Jersey for more than 25 years. She specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric and neuropsychiatric conditions affecting adults and older adults. With a special focus on adult and geriatric psychiatry, Dr. Ocasio helps patients navigate the emotional and psychological challenges associated with aging, including life transitions, caregiver stress, grief, bereavement, late-life depression, and anxiety.
Deborah Ocasio, MD — affectionately known by many patients as “Dr. O” — has been practicing psychiatry in New Jersey for more than 25 years. She specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric and neuropsychiatric conditions affecting adults and older adults. With a special focus on adult and geriatric psychiatry, Dr. Ocasio helps patients navigate the emotional and psychological challenges associated with aging, including life transitions, caregiver stress, grief, bereavement, late-life depression, and anxiety.
(908) 726-5947 View (908) 726-5947
Joanne Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP), FNP
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Are you fearful of ADHD, ADD, mood, and anxiety disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, and PTSD? With decades of experience, I know connecting with patients personally is key. I understand how you are feeling with the symptoms. As a practitioner, I used as supportive care, empathy and an evidence based strategies. I provide a warm and friendly atmosphere to help clients feel comfortable and achieve their optimal goals. I will monitor your progress closely through follow-up appointments, making necessary adjustments to dosages for optimal results. I believe in the
Are you fearful of ADHD, ADD, mood, and anxiety disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, and PTSD? With decades of experience, I know connecting with patients personally is key. I understand how you are feeling with the symptoms. As a practitioner, I used as supportive care, empathy and an evidence based strategies. I provide a warm and friendly atmosphere to help clients feel comfortable and achieve their optimal goals. I will monitor your progress closely through follow-up appointments, making necessary adjustments to dosages for optimal results. I believe in the
(856) 478-3385 View (856) 478-3385

See more therapy options for Oradell

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Oradell, NJ

< 10

Psychiatrists in Oradell, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Medication Management
86% Depression
71% ADHD
71% Bipolar Disorder
57% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
57% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
83% Cigna and Evernorth
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Oradell, NJ see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

57% Female
43% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Oradell?

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.