Psychiatrists in Shrewsbury, NJ

Olga Esterov
Physician Assistant, MS, PA-C, CAQ Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
I have been helping adolescents/adults navigate through difficult psychiatric/emotional states for over 10 years. I conduct psychiatric evaluations and initiate/manage medication. I employ an evidenced-based medical and holistic approach to treatment - incorporating lifestyle changes, nutrition, and meditation/breathing/relaxation exercises in addition to treatment with medication.
I have been helping adolescents/adults navigate through difficult psychiatric/emotional states for over 10 years. I conduct psychiatric evaluations and initiate/manage medication. I employ an evidenced-based medical and holistic approach to treatment - incorporating lifestyle changes, nutrition, and meditation/breathing/relaxation exercises in addition to treatment with medication.

Hi! I'm Staci. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is dedicated to integrative care, specializing in anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health. I am committed to fostering holistic well-being and empowering individuals on their mental health journey. My appointments typically include medication management with talk therapy. I strive to create a strong relationship with my clients. Please send me an email to schedule an initial consultation. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
Hi! I'm Staci. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is dedicated to integrative care, specializing in anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health. I am committed to fostering holistic well-being and empowering individuals on their mental health journey. My appointments typically include medication management with talk therapy. I strive to create a strong relationship with my clients. Please send me an email to schedule an initial consultation. I'm looking forward to meeting you!

Shrewsbury Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
I truly enjoy connecting with my patients and understanding their lives. I am grateful every day for this fulfilling career that allows me to help my patients feel better. Work has become a source of pleasure for me; as it lifts my spirits when others become happier, more content with their lives, and more balanced. I have had the privilege of starting my private practice in the tiny and friendly town of Shrewsbury, NJ, a borough of Monmouth County, in 2017. My practice has grown to over 400 patients, and I diagnose and treat many conditions there including: ADHD, GAD, MDD, OCD, Bipolar Disorders, Mood disorders, Insomnia.
I truly enjoy connecting with my patients and understanding their lives. I am grateful every day for this fulfilling career that allows me to help my patients feel better. Work has become a source of pleasure for me; as it lifts my spirits when others become happier, more content with their lives, and more balanced. I have had the privilege of starting my private practice in the tiny and friendly town of Shrewsbury, NJ, a borough of Monmouth County, in 2017. My practice has grown to over 400 patients, and I diagnose and treat many conditions there including: ADHD, GAD, MDD, OCD, Bipolar Disorders, Mood disorders, Insomnia.
I attended Medical School and Adult Psychiatry Residency training at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. I went on to do a subspecialty fellowship program in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at New York University Medical Center. I am board certified in both Adult as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I look forward to talking with you about whether the possibility of medication may be helpful as part of your entire treatment program . Areas of particular interest include Depressive and Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, OCD, Social anxiety and Selective Mutism, Difficult life transitions (ie divorce, death of a loved one, infertility, postpartum issues etc)
I attended Medical School and Adult Psychiatry Residency training at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. I went on to do a subspecialty fellowship program in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at New York University Medical Center. I am board certified in both Adult as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I look forward to talking with you about whether the possibility of medication may be helpful as part of your entire treatment program . Areas of particular interest include Depressive and Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, OCD, Social anxiety and Selective Mutism, Difficult life transitions (ie divorce, death of a loved one, infertility, postpartum issues etc)

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.

I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have treated adults ranging in age from 18 to 80. I have also done extensive work with couples and families. My clients have had a wide variety of presenting problems from depression, anger management, relationships issues, anxiety, mood disorders, marital problems, phobias and obsessive compulsive behaviors. I see my client as a whole person not as a person with a problem. A person with strengths and weaknesses. Our job together is to find the answers and develop the skills to move forward to an enriching life.
I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have treated adults ranging in age from 18 to 80. I have also done extensive work with couples and families. My clients have had a wide variety of presenting problems from depression, anger management, relationships issues, anxiety, mood disorders, marital problems, phobias and obsessive compulsive behaviors. I see my client as a whole person not as a person with a problem. A person with strengths and weaknesses. Our job together is to find the answers and develop the skills to move forward to an enriching life.

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.

Linden Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step"- Lao Tzu......... Sometimes we feel stuck, overwhelmed, sad or confused. I believe mental health issues have biological, psychological and social roots. My practice provides medication management to address symptoms in addition to person-centered therapy to help identify and resolve negative perceptions and dysfunctional behavior patterns.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step"- Lao Tzu......... Sometimes we feel stuck, overwhelmed, sad or confused. I believe mental health issues have biological, psychological and social roots. My practice provides medication management to address symptoms in addition to person-centered therapy to help identify and resolve negative perceptions and dysfunctional behavior patterns.

Laurie Greisch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Healing Minds is an outpatient psychiatry practice. We offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief supportive therapy for a variety of mental health conditions. Telepsychiatry is also available. If you are interested in an appointment, please visit our website and complete the online form at healingmindsnj.com/contact/
Healing Minds is an outpatient psychiatry practice. We offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief supportive therapy for a variety of mental health conditions. Telepsychiatry is also available. If you are interested in an appointment, please visit our website and complete the online form at healingmindsnj.com/contact/

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

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.

My interest in medicine can be traced back to my early childhood. I come from a family with several generations of physicians. My father, a pediatrician, had the greatest influence on me. What amazed me the most about him was the amount of care and genuine concern that he demonstrated for his patients, which in my mind are essential for an ideal physician. I received my bachelors degree from Columbia University, majoring in psychology. Vincent Van Gogh once said: "After all there is nothing in the world as interesting as people, and one can never study them enough."
My interest in medicine can be traced back to my early childhood. I come from a family with several generations of physicians. My father, a pediatrician, had the greatest influence on me. What amazed me the most about him was the amount of care and genuine concern that he demonstrated for his patients, which in my mind are essential for an ideal physician. I received my bachelors degree from Columbia University, majoring in psychology. Vincent Van Gogh once said: "After all there is nothing in the world as interesting as people, and one can never study them enough."

As a dedicated and experienced Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Care, I am here to guide you on your journey towards optimal mental health and overall well-being. With a decade of hands-on clinical expertise, I am committed to elevating the standard of mental healthcare through compassionate engagement, preventive strategies, and tailored treatments. My patient-centric approach ensures that your unique needs are met with the utmost care and attention. Together, we can achieve consistently high-quality outcomes, empowering you to lead a fulfilling and balanced life. Let's work together to break the stigma surrounding mental heal
As a dedicated and experienced Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Care, I am here to guide you on your journey towards optimal mental health and overall well-being. With a decade of hands-on clinical expertise, I am committed to elevating the standard of mental healthcare through compassionate engagement, preventive strategies, and tailored treatments. My patient-centric approach ensures that your unique needs are met with the utmost care and attention. Together, we can achieve consistently high-quality outcomes, empowering you to lead a fulfilling and balanced life. Let's work together to break the stigma surrounding mental heal

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.

Michael Volodarskiy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holmdel, NJ 07733
Hello, my name is Michael Volodarskiy, APRN, PMHNP-BC. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I take a holistic approach to client care, emphasizing collaboration and evidence-based individual treatment plans. With an additional certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner, I have worked in a variety of settings including primary care practice, community mental health centers, and inpatient and outpatient co-occurring MH/substance use facilities. My main focus is clients with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I value open communication and believe it is crucial to actively participate in the client's mental health journey.
Hello, my name is Michael Volodarskiy, APRN, PMHNP-BC. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I take a holistic approach to client care, emphasizing collaboration and evidence-based individual treatment plans. With an additional certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner, I have worked in a variety of settings including primary care practice, community mental health centers, and inpatient and outpatient co-occurring MH/substance use facilities. My main focus is clients with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I value open communication and believe it is crucial to actively participate in the client's mental health journey.

I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist . I see individuals in need of medication management. I strongly believe that clients should be well informed about their treatment . Clients participate in treatment planning and their needs are always taken into consideration. My clients feel well cared for and walk away knowing that at all times I have their best interests in mind. It is my hope that clients feel we are taking a journey together in terms of their treatment. I specialize in postpartum depression, major depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse, psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist . I see individuals in need of medication management. I strongly believe that clients should be well informed about their treatment . Clients participate in treatment planning and their needs are always taken into consideration. My clients feel well cared for and walk away knowing that at all times I have their best interests in mind. It is my hope that clients feel we are taking a journey together in terms of their treatment. I specialize in postpartum depression, major depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse, psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder.

I am a Cornell and NYU educated board certified psychiatrist with extensive training in both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Because of my belief in the connection between mind and body, I trained in both psychiatry and internal medicine. I approach patients from a humanistic and holistic view, with an awareness of the interactions of stress and it's impact on the body. My practice is eclectic and I see patients with a variety of psychiatric disorders or patients who simply want to achieve greater happiness and satisfaction in their lives.
I am a Cornell and NYU educated board certified psychiatrist with extensive training in both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Because of my belief in the connection between mind and body, I trained in both psychiatry and internal medicine. I approach patients from a humanistic and holistic view, with an awareness of the interactions of stress and it's impact on the body. My practice is eclectic and I see patients with a variety of psychiatric disorders or patients who simply want to achieve greater happiness and satisfaction in their lives.

Catherine N Okali
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainfield, NJ 07060
Easy Behavioral Health Services focuses on the holistic care of patients. I am a doctorate prepared Board- Certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in New Jersey and New York with over 10 years of experience providing quality care to patients of different ages. Following the initial comprehensive and diagnostic evaluation, we develop an evidence-based individualized care plan that will achieve the health goals, provide compassionate, medication management, and holistic care to our clients.
Easy Behavioral Health Services focuses on the holistic care of patients. I am a doctorate prepared Board- Certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in New Jersey and New York with over 10 years of experience providing quality care to patients of different ages. Following the initial comprehensive and diagnostic evaluation, we develop an evidence-based individualized care plan that will achieve the health goals, provide compassionate, medication management, and holistic care to our clients.

Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? 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 first 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 the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment
Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? 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 first 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 the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment

I’m a Psychiatry PA that treats children, adolescents and adults with OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD and Alcohol Use Disorder. I believe less medication is better - however, I work with people to find a regimen that might help improve their lives. I have experience with treating various members of the community including healthcare workers, veterans, police officers, teachers, clergy, LGBTQA+, BIPOC and more. In my free time I like to spend time with my wife and son, hike, play guitar, go on meditation retreats and perform improv comedy.
I’m a Psychiatry PA that treats children, adolescents and adults with OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD and Alcohol Use Disorder. I believe less medication is better - however, I work with people to find a regimen that might help improve their lives. I have experience with treating various members of the community including healthcare workers, veterans, police officers, teachers, clergy, LGBTQA+, BIPOC and more. In my free time I like to spend time with my wife and son, hike, play guitar, go on meditation retreats and perform improv comedy.
See more therapy options for Shrewsbury
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Shrewsbury, NJ
10+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Shrewsbury, NJ who prioritize treating:
90% | Depression |
90% | Anxiety |
80% | Medication Management |
70% | ADHD |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
18 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
67% | Aetna |
67% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Shrewsbury, NJ see their clients
90% | In Person and Online | |
10% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Shrewsbury?
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.