Psychiatrists in Sea Girt, NJ

Photo of Julia Nuzzo, APRN-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julia Nuzzo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sea Girt, NJ 08750
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my page! I am 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 and body. As a yoga instructor and fitness enthusiast, I guide clients in harnessing the mind-body connection to enhance their mental health. My goal is to help you achieve and maintain good mental health by treating and guiding you in integrating your mind and body. I love educating my patients on the benefits of mindfulness and movement to strengthen the powerful mind-body connection.
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my page! I am 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 and body. As a yoga instructor and fitness enthusiast, I guide clients in harnessing the mind-body connection to enhance their mental health. My goal is to help you achieve and maintain good mental health by treating and guiding you in integrating your mind and body. I love educating my patients on the benefits of mindfulness and movement to strengthen the powerful mind-body connection.
(551) 310-2146 View (551) 310-2146
Photo of Treasure Santos, PMHNP, Mount L, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Treasure Santos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, Mount L
Verified Verified
Sea Girt, NJ 08750
I received my Master of Science in Nursing, with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, from LaSalle University in Philadelphia, PA. I am certified through the American Nurses Credentialing center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and am licensed through the state of New Jersey as an Advanced Practice Nurse. I am also a member of the American Nurses Association and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. The focus of the majority of my experience has been with adult populations within the inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use treatment settings.
I received my Master of Science in Nursing, with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, from LaSalle University in Philadelphia, PA. I am certified through the American Nurses Credentialing center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and am licensed through the state of New Jersey as an Advanced Practice Nurse. I am also a member of the American Nurses Association and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. The focus of the majority of my experience has been with adult populations within the inpatient and outpatient mental health and substance use treatment settings.
(609) 905-5460 View (609) 905-5460
Photo of Christala Cherry, MSN, APN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christala Cherry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My focus is a spiritual, integrative, holistic approach to assist you in your journey to optimal mental health and wellness. My clients enjoy a partnership being an active participant in their well being, and are willing to participate in talk therapy if medication is required. My clients prefer take fewer prescription medications, and to taper down dosing of their medications as much as possible. They are open to alternative therapies because they want to feel better and be the best version of themselves.
My focus is a spiritual, integrative, holistic approach to assist you in your journey to optimal mental health and wellness. My clients enjoy a partnership being an active participant in their well being, and are willing to participate in talk therapy if medication is required. My clients prefer take fewer prescription medications, and to taper down dosing of their medications as much as possible. They are open to alternative therapies because they want to feel better and be the best version of themselves.
(848) 204-1251 View (848) 204-1251

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Hema Vyas, MD, Psychiatrist
Hema Vyas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
My approach is more holistic, I like to combine meditation, mindfulness techniques along with medication when necessary. I work with children, adolescents, and Adults. I treat Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD
My approach is more holistic, I like to combine meditation, mindfulness techniques along with medication when necessary. I work with children, adolescents, and Adults. I treat Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD
(732) 307-3889 View (732) 307-3889
Photo of Brenda A Adeogun - Mental Makeup Psychiatry LLC, APN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mental Makeup Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you find yourself struggling to get through the most basic tasks, can’t keep still enough to concentrate on the task at hand, or can barely get through the day? Do you feel like past traumatic events have significantly altered the cause of your life, and you can’t seem to chart a productive path for yourself? Whatever the issue may be, I am willing to help you begin your journey of introspection, healing, and restoration as you discover the confident, fulfilled, and more aware. My personalized approach is rooted in empathy, being attentive, active listening, and transparency in every session.
Do you find yourself struggling to get through the most basic tasks, can’t keep still enough to concentrate on the task at hand, or can barely get through the day? Do you feel like past traumatic events have significantly altered the cause of your life, and you can’t seem to chart a productive path for yourself? Whatever the issue may be, I am willing to help you begin your journey of introspection, healing, and restoration as you discover the confident, fulfilled, and more aware. My personalized approach is rooted in empathy, being attentive, active listening, and transparency in every session.
(848) 305-2385 View (848) 305-2385
Photo of Dr. Victor G Grosu, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Victor G Grosu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Quick appointments are available. I am board certified in Child & Adolescent psychiatry and provide medication management and psychotherapy services to children, adolescents and young adults, ages 6-22, with mental health conditions, including but not limited to ADHD, Depression, OCD, Panic, Mood Disorder, Stress, and Anxiety. I have been practicing psychiatry for over 17 years and was recognized by the NJ Top Doctor magazine as a Top Psychiatrist in 2019. I provide help using a comprehensive approach to treatment. I have frequent sessions with patients which allows me to monitor them closely to minimize side effects.
Quick appointments are available. I am board certified in Child & Adolescent psychiatry and provide medication management and psychotherapy services to children, adolescents and young adults, ages 6-22, with mental health conditions, including but not limited to ADHD, Depression, OCD, Panic, Mood Disorder, Stress, and Anxiety. I have been practicing psychiatry for over 17 years and was recognized by the NJ Top Doctor magazine as a Top Psychiatrist in 2019. I provide help using a comprehensive approach to treatment. I have frequent sessions with patients which allows me to monitor them closely to minimize side effects.
(848) 600-5264 View (848) 600-5264
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Marlboro, NJ 07746
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects, and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often, this approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects, and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often, this approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
(732) 675-0011 View (732) 675-0011
Photo of Leonid Vorobyev - Jersey Medical Care, MD, Psychiatrist
Jersey Medical Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747
You have tried breathing techniques, watched numerous social media videos from celebrity psychiatrists, and still can't shake the feeling that something may be wrong. Perhaps you are always tired, can't seem to shake the daily worry or sadness you feel? You may be concerned about a loved one’s recent behavior, and need help to learn how to support them. We are here to support you on your mental wellness journey.
You have tried breathing techniques, watched numerous social media videos from celebrity psychiatrists, and still can't shake the feeling that something may be wrong. Perhaps you are always tired, can't seem to shake the daily worry or sadness you feel? You may be concerned about a loved one’s recent behavior, and need help to learn how to support them. We are here to support you on your mental wellness journey.
(848) 208-3921 View (848) 208-3921
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Marlboro, NJ 07746
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
(732) 675-0011 View (732) 675-0011
Photo of Dr. Stephen Jaeger, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Stephen Jaeger
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lincroft, NJ 07738
Yale University trained psychiatrist, Dr. Stephen Jaeger’s philosophy on psychiatric care is grounded in his belief that every client is entitled to the highest quality personalized care. His unique approach focuses on individualized treatment plans. His mission is to optimize every aspect of your life and the individualized treatment plans are designed to do just that. Clients play an active role in tailoring their personalized treatment plan with Dr. Jaeger.
Yale University trained psychiatrist, Dr. Stephen Jaeger’s philosophy on psychiatric care is grounded in his belief that every client is entitled to the highest quality personalized care. His unique approach focuses on individualized treatment plans. His mission is to optimize every aspect of your life and the individualized treatment plans are designed to do just that. Clients play an active role in tailoring their personalized treatment plan with Dr. Jaeger.
(732) 517-7971 View (732) 517-7971
Photo of Steven Dyckman, MD, Psychiatrist
Steven Dyckman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
(732) 238-7711 View (732) 238-7711
Photo of Gabriella Parisi, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gabriella Parisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! My name is Gabriella Parisi and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have received my Master's degree from Fairleigh Dickinson, and my Bachelor's degree from Wagner College. My 10+ years of work experience and training in the medical field has taken me from working in hospitals, private practices, and outpatient clinics – giving me a unique perspective on the challenges people face when it comes to their mental health.
Hello! My name is Gabriella Parisi and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have received my Master's degree from Fairleigh Dickinson, and my Bachelor's degree from Wagner College. My 10+ years of work experience and training in the medical field has taken me from working in hospitals, private practices, and outpatient clinics – giving me a unique perspective on the challenges people face when it comes to their mental health.
(848) 279-4814 View (848) 279-4814
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Allentown, NJ 08501
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(640) 230-8170 View (640) 230-8170
Photo of Rashidah Garrett-Hall - Wellness & Behavioral Solutions, RASHIDA, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wellness & Behavioral Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RASHIDA, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Mrs. Rashidah Garrett-Hall is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, and Bipolar. Rashidah's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) or alternative medicine (natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management). She believes in balance.
Mrs. Rashidah Garrett-Hall is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, and Bipolar. Rashidah's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) or alternative medicine (natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management). She believes in balance.
(732) 655-2723 View (732) 655-2723
Photo of Amanda Decker, MA, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Decker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, my name is Mandy and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in integrative psychiatry for New Jersey residents. I work with people whose goal is to heal from the root, promoting optimal wellness, rather than just stick a bandage on a wound via a pill. Integrative psychiatry means western medicine and eastern medicine. I do prescribe medication, however I may also recommend nutraceuticals, mind body approaches, and/or other therapeutic, holistic, energetic, or complementary means. I also deprescribe. My goal is to help you heal and help YOU get to know YOU better!
Hi, my name is Mandy and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in integrative psychiatry for New Jersey residents. I work with people whose goal is to heal from the root, promoting optimal wellness, rather than just stick a bandage on a wound via a pill. Integrative psychiatry means western medicine and eastern medicine. I do prescribe medication, however I may also recommend nutraceuticals, mind body approaches, and/or other therapeutic, holistic, energetic, or complementary means. I also deprescribe. My goal is to help you heal and help YOU get to know YOU better!
(848) 301-1995 View (848) 301-1995
Photo of Nirmal Sathaye, MD, Psychiatrist
Nirmal Sathaye
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Middletown, NJ 07748
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist with additional certification in Geriatrics. I have 20 plus years of experience treating patients in an outpatient setting. I provide diagnostic evaluation and medication monitoring for adults. I treat patients with different symptoms including anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolarity and attentional issues. I believe in a collaborative and team approach to treatment. I like to understand the patient’s goals and needs and formulate a personalized treatment plan. I provide telepsychiatry to all my patients. “
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist with additional certification in Geriatrics. I have 20 plus years of experience treating patients in an outpatient setting. I provide diagnostic evaluation and medication monitoring for adults. I treat patients with different symptoms including anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolarity and attentional issues. I believe in a collaborative and team approach to treatment. I like to understand the patient’s goals and needs and formulate a personalized treatment plan. I provide telepsychiatry to all my patients. “
(908) 883-3879 View (908) 883-3879
Photo of Dr. Ruben Rupendra Singh - Ruben Singh MD LLC, MD, DABPN, Psychiatrist
Ruben Singh MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I offer a very empathic, compassionate, and individualized evaluation and treatment of a diverse population of every persuasion without any biases or prejudices and treat everyone with respect and dignity, no matter of their background or past history, and expect openness to reveal their innermost feelings for growth to happen to reach their highest potential. If you have treatment-resistant or complex problems in need of fine-tuning your medication regimen I will be able to provide the most up-to-date treatment modalities. To begin it's very easy all you have to do is be yourself and the rest therapist will handle.
I offer a very empathic, compassionate, and individualized evaluation and treatment of a diverse population of every persuasion without any biases or prejudices and treat everyone with respect and dignity, no matter of their background or past history, and expect openness to reveal their innermost feelings for growth to happen to reach their highest potential. If you have treatment-resistant or complex problems in need of fine-tuning your medication regimen I will be able to provide the most up-to-date treatment modalities. To begin it's very easy all you have to do is be yourself and the rest therapist will handle.
(732) 517-7599 View (732) 517-7599
Photo of Dr. Rosemary Mensah, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Rosemary Mensah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I am accepting new clients. As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment dedicated to your mental well-being. I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable, heard, and understood. With a solid educational background and clinical experience, my primary focus is on the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and various mental health challenges. I believe in building a solid therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and empathy. I aim to create a collaborative and culturally sensitive environment where we can establish treatment goals.
I am accepting new clients. As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment dedicated to your mental well-being. I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable, heard, and understood. With a solid educational background and clinical experience, my primary focus is on the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and various mental health challenges. I believe in building a solid therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and empathy. I aim to create a collaborative and culturally sensitive environment where we can establish treatment goals.
(848) 280-7941 View (848) 280-7941
Photo of Dianne Ocampo, Psych, MSN APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dianne Ocampo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psych, MSN APN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you suffering from poor sleep, crying episodes, racing thoughts, panic attacks, irritability, mood swings, poor focus, agitation, distractibility, nightmares, negative thoughts, or suicide thoughts? I have more than 10 years' experience as a psych RN and currently works an APN for the last three years. I specialize in Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, and OCD. I keep up with latest research based treatments for Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety, and OCD. My goal is to get my clients back on their feet and live happier.
Are you suffering from poor sleep, crying episodes, racing thoughts, panic attacks, irritability, mood swings, poor focus, agitation, distractibility, nightmares, negative thoughts, or suicide thoughts? I have more than 10 years' experience as a psych RN and currently works an APN for the last three years. I specialize in Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, and OCD. I keep up with latest research based treatments for Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety, and OCD. My goal is to get my clients back on their feet and live happier.
(908) 460-7316 View (908) 460-7316
Photo of Nicholas Mwangi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicholas Mwangi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
Mood and behavior issues affecting optimal functionality including and not limited to loss of interest in pleasant activities and activities of daily living, gross psychotic disturbances like hallucinations, paranoia and delusions, disturbances in behavior patterns like compulsion, obsession, attention deficits, sleep and appetite impairment. Mood lability, ie agitation, manic and hypomanic symptoms, 1 deficits in general coping mechanisms and stress management, impaired grief, and coping with life stressors , hopelessness and suicide ideations among others.
Mood and behavior issues affecting optimal functionality including and not limited to loss of interest in pleasant activities and activities of daily living, gross psychotic disturbances like hallucinations, paranoia and delusions, disturbances in behavior patterns like compulsion, obsession, attention deficits, sleep and appetite impairment. Mood lability, ie agitation, manic and hypomanic symptoms, 1 deficits in general coping mechanisms and stress management, impaired grief, and coping with life stressors , hopelessness and suicide ideations among others.
(732) 647-9324 View (732) 647-9324

See more therapy options for Sea Girt

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Sea Girt, NJ

< 10

Psychiatrists in Sea Girt, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Medication Management
67% Anxiety
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Sea Girt, NJ see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Sea Girt?

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.