Psychiatrists in Skillman, NJ
![Photo of Jennifer Bright Dismukes - Bright Futures Psychiatry, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4aa5418b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jennifer Dismukes, DO combines exceptional knowledge and skills with compassionate therapeutic services. She works hard to understand you and how your experiences, biology, family history and personality traits contribute to your current suffering and symptoms Dr. Dismukes is double Board-Certified Adult and Pediatric medical physician of Psychiatry, a Doctor-of-Medicine, specifically Osteopathic Medicine, which is the study of the entire body as a system. As such, She is an expert in the treatment of medical, psychiatric, psychological, and developmental problems.
Dr. Jennifer Dismukes, DO combines exceptional knowledge and skills with compassionate therapeutic services. She works hard to understand you and how your experiences, biology, family history and personality traits contribute to your current suffering and symptoms Dr. Dismukes is double Board-Certified Adult and Pediatric medical physician of Psychiatry, a Doctor-of-Medicine, specifically Osteopathic Medicine, which is the study of the entire body as a system. As such, She is an expert in the treatment of medical, psychiatric, psychological, and developmental problems.
![Photo of Arnaldo Negron, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f49a0a1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
We specialize in the Evaluation and Management of Adults with Psychiatric conditions. Aroga offer specialized treatment for medication resistant depressed patients such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Intranasal Ketamine and Spravato. We are the only center in the area to offer QB Test, a FDA cleared test to assess treatment optimization in ADHD. We also offer treatment for Eating disorders and Obesity, as well as Office-based treatment of opioid dependence and Addiction. Our therapies provide multiple psychotherapy techniques to help our patients to achieve complete treatment success.
We specialize in the Evaluation and Management of Adults with Psychiatric conditions. Aroga offer specialized treatment for medication resistant depressed patients such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Intranasal Ketamine and Spravato. We are the only center in the area to offer QB Test, a FDA cleared test to assess treatment optimization in ADHD. We also offer treatment for Eating disorders and Obesity, as well as Office-based treatment of opioid dependence and Addiction. Our therapies provide multiple psychotherapy techniques to help our patients to achieve complete treatment success.
![Photo of Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/149056cf-85f2-4409-a429-20581b66113b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Skillman, NJ 08558 (Online Only)
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Immaculata Ada Emesue - Trinity Psychiatry (Immaculata Emesue), PMHNP, AGNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8ec40c0-9dd3-42fd-846e-41d6bb48196a/1/320x400.png)
Trinity Psychiatry (Immaculata Emesue)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP, BC
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08875 (Online Only)
My name is Immaculata Emesue, I am a board-certified Mental Health and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience in psychiatry. I am well experienced in the management of various psychiatry/mental illness. We all aware that life could be extremely stressful and especially with the ongoing chaos in our world today. We are here to help you to navigate through your life struggles and optimize your quality of life. Our goal is to help our patient to achieve optimal serenity and to bring life back to normal once again. We offer medication management and counselling for coping with your daily mental stress.
My name is Immaculata Emesue, I am a board-certified Mental Health and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience in psychiatry. I am well experienced in the management of various psychiatry/mental illness. We all aware that life could be extremely stressful and especially with the ongoing chaos in our world today. We are here to help you to navigate through your life struggles and optimize your quality of life. Our goal is to help our patient to achieve optimal serenity and to bring life back to normal once again. We offer medication management and counselling for coping with your daily mental stress.
![Photo of Eric Finkiel, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63d5d7f9-a439-489c-8de1-a41b0657d19b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eric Finkiel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
South Brunswick, NJ 08810
Dr. Eric Finkiel, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). Eric completed his undergraduate education in nursing at New Jersey City University. He received a master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Rutgers University, and a post graduate certificate as a PMHNP from the University of Cincinnati. Eric went on to receive his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from University of Massachusetts, Boston. Eric has been working as a nurse practitioner for over seven years and has extensive experience treating a variety of medical diagnosis.
Dr. Eric Finkiel, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). Eric completed his undergraduate education in nursing at New Jersey City University. He received a master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Rutgers University, and a post graduate certificate as a PMHNP from the University of Cincinnati. Eric went on to receive his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from University of Massachusetts, Boston. Eric has been working as a nurse practitioner for over seven years and has extensive experience treating a variety of medical diagnosis.
![Photo of Hasan Memon - Garden Psych, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ef661c8-5149-407f-b2b6-1a9e4f6fe708/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you have a busy life? Do you wish for you and your family to be as successful as possible? Garden Psych is a mental health practice with focus on telepsychiatry. The advantage of Garden Psych is using telemedicine to take less time off school or work. We are open on WEEKDAY EVENINGS and WEEKENDS! We have helped thousands of adults and children become more successful in their lives. Our award winning team of experts can help you do the same!
Do you have a busy life? Do you wish for you and your family to be as successful as possible? Garden Psych is a mental health practice with focus on telepsychiatry. The advantage of Garden Psych is using telemedicine to take less time off school or work. We are open on WEEKDAY EVENINGS and WEEKENDS! We have helped thousands of adults and children become more successful in their lives. Our award winning team of experts can help you do the same!
![Photo of Gordon Kusi - Godbridge Integrated Health, DNP, PMHNP, ANP-BC, APN-c, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7bb9102-22f8-4f71-ae21-ccb519ef7d06/1/320x400.jpeg)
Godbridge Integrated Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ANP-BC, APN-c
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
As a board certified provider in both Psychiatry and Internal Medicine, Dr. Gordon Kusi not only provides comprehensive care, but also care that is compassionate, patient-centered, knowledgeable and evidence based. He received his bachelor’s master’s and doctoral education from Rutgers University and a post-masters from Wilkes University. Dr. Kusi is highly esteemed among his clients who speak well of his respect, love for his profession, and compassion he expressed while providing care. He believes the client is the most important person in the treatment arena and not only should be listened to, but also the focus should be on.
As a board certified provider in both Psychiatry and Internal Medicine, Dr. Gordon Kusi not only provides comprehensive care, but also care that is compassionate, patient-centered, knowledgeable and evidence based. He received his bachelor’s master’s and doctoral education from Rutgers University and a post-masters from Wilkes University. Dr. Kusi is highly esteemed among his clients who speak well of his respect, love for his profession, and compassion he expressed while providing care. He believes the client is the most important person in the treatment arena and not only should be listened to, but also the focus should be on.
![Photo of Joseph A Donnellan - Joseph A. Donnellan, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45b2392f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I have 27 years experience as a board-certified psychiatrist in central New Jersey. My specialties are eating disorders, depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I have been the medical director of the Eating Disorders Program at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset (formerly Somerset Medical Center) for 22 years and I am the Chief of Psychiatry there, a position I have held since 1999. I have a private-practice in Hillsborough, which I started in 1993. I believe that one size does NOT fit all and every patient needs a unique treatment plan that should be developed together between professional and patient.
Hi! I have 27 years experience as a board-certified psychiatrist in central New Jersey. My specialties are eating disorders, depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I have been the medical director of the Eating Disorders Program at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset (formerly Somerset Medical Center) for 22 years and I am the Chief of Psychiatry there, a position I have held since 1999. I have a private-practice in Hillsborough, which I started in 1993. I believe that one size does NOT fit all and every patient needs a unique treatment plan that should be developed together between professional and patient.
![Photo of Merritt Hubsher - ADHD, Mood & Behavior Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4402f6d1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
ADHD, Mood & Behavior Center is a comprehensive Child, Adolescent & Adult psychotherapy center, available ONLINE throughout NJ & NY, from the comfort of your home, and in person in northern NJ. Our three board certified child, adolescent & adult psychiatrists are devoted to the evaluation and treatment of emotional, behavioral, social, academic & employment difficulties, including ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Autism Spectrum Disorder, OCD, learning issues, bullying & video game addiction, and collaborate with our highly trained therapists to find solutions and bring stability to the child, adult or family.
ADHD, Mood & Behavior Center is a comprehensive Child, Adolescent & Adult psychotherapy center, available ONLINE throughout NJ & NY, from the comfort of your home, and in person in northern NJ. Our three board certified child, adolescent & adult psychiatrists are devoted to the evaluation and treatment of emotional, behavioral, social, academic & employment difficulties, including ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Autism Spectrum Disorder, OCD, learning issues, bullying & video game addiction, and collaborate with our highly trained therapists to find solutions and bring stability to the child, adult or family.
![Photo of Farheen Fahim - livingston heathcare llc, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4074b2a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My philosophy of working with my patients is to first and foremost clarify the diagnosis. It can take few visits to do so and I like to spend time with you going over few things from past history. I believe in the importance of a Bio-psycho-social profile and getting to know different facets of your life - It is very important for me to get to know you as a person not just someone with symptoms of a disorder . I like to stay in touch with other treatment providers such as medical doctors and Psychotherapists as I believe coordination of care is very important.
My philosophy of working with my patients is to first and foremost clarify the diagnosis. It can take few visits to do so and I like to spend time with you going over few things from past history. I believe in the importance of a Bio-psycho-social profile and getting to know different facets of your life - It is very important for me to get to know you as a person not just someone with symptoms of a disorder . I like to stay in touch with other treatment providers such as medical doctors and Psychotherapists as I believe coordination of care is very important.
![Photo of Letisha Hogans Evolve N Change, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07aba0b0-5d5c-425a-881a-f2e7faba6495/1/320x400.jpeg)
Letisha Hogans Evolve N Change
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Threat Assessments. Accepting New Clients. We will work with you to help you develop the strategies you need to get back on the path that leads to happiness, joy and success. Together, we will work to address the issues you are facing and come through on the other side with a new way of thinking, and confidently take on a new direction in life. We will work closely together to analyze what struggles you are facing and their underlying causes and try to change the behaviors and thought patterns that are keeping you from being the person you want to be.
Threat Assessments. Accepting New Clients. We will work with you to help you develop the strategies you need to get back on the path that leads to happiness, joy and success. Together, we will work to address the issues you are facing and come through on the other side with a new way of thinking, and confidently take on a new direction in life. We will work closely together to analyze what struggles you are facing and their underlying causes and try to change the behaviors and thought patterns that are keeping you from being the person you want to be.
![Photo of Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/919c5aaa-58a5-4b32-9e11-b587ce3e7bc2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
![Photo of Dr. Tony Issac, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81e36bd6-9126-40e2-8a8f-bed5c323fa23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
![Photo of Ceretha Hall-Dyke, DNP, APN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7a8a78f-4990-423e-b955-c85a72090115/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ceretha Hall-Dyke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
My approach revolves around personalized care, prioritizing each individual's unique needs to address their mental health concerns effectively. I offer a range of treatments, including therapy, medication management, or a combination thereof. My aim is to cultivate a secure environment where clients can comfortably meet their mental health needs. Seeking help for mental health is not a sign of weakness but a display of strength.
My approach revolves around personalized care, prioritizing each individual's unique needs to address their mental health concerns effectively. I offer a range of treatments, including therapy, medication management, or a combination thereof. My aim is to cultivate a secure environment where clients can comfortably meet their mental health needs. Seeking help for mental health is not a sign of weakness but a display of strength.
![Photo of David Heekin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0969fa47-3b54-4cfa-b015-c37b6bcbeecd/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help adult clients ages 18+ with a diverse range of issues (anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, trauma, psychosis, etc.) through a practical and results-oriented approach that is focused mainly on medication management while incorporating a holistic focus through coordination with other professionals (talk therapy, nutrition, wellness, exercise, and other areas). I serve clients in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania through a convenient and secure online telehealth platform, although I also meet with clients in person at my Flemington, New Jersey office.
I help adult clients ages 18+ with a diverse range of issues (anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, trauma, psychosis, etc.) through a practical and results-oriented approach that is focused mainly on medication management while incorporating a holistic focus through coordination with other professionals (talk therapy, nutrition, wellness, exercise, and other areas). I serve clients in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania through a convenient and secure online telehealth platform, although I also meet with clients in person at my Flemington, New Jersey office.
![Photo of Lashon Simpson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eaf9ffdc-c177-487b-b4ad-29f75ba83044/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lashon Simpson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08875 (Online Only)
I’m a Psychiatric Provider that listens, shows compassion, and empathizes. I look forward to helping you rebuild your mental health by providing both pharmacological and holistic treatment plans. Rather you have ADHD, Depression, anxiety and/or insomnia, help is just a call away. We treat each client from a personal perspective and provide individualized psychiatric treatment plans that helps to rebuild your mental health.
I’m a Psychiatric Provider that listens, shows compassion, and empathizes. I look forward to helping you rebuild your mental health by providing both pharmacological and holistic treatment plans. Rather you have ADHD, Depression, anxiety and/or insomnia, help is just a call away. We treat each client from a personal perspective and provide individualized psychiatric treatment plans that helps to rebuild your mental health.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e13c99a-fb0a-497a-998f-b281e2f3c9b9/3/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
![Photo of Donna Gunther, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7eda933e-f565-4473-a688-67e630e95558/1/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Donna and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. One of the very important things I have learned through my years in practice is that the relationship and connection formed between a patient and their provider is paramount. It is the solid foundation from which someone can truly move forward with their mental health goals. I will provide the time you need to listen to your story, evaluate your situation, and then devise options for your treatment including medication if needed. I will collaborate with you in making treatment decisions every step of the way.
Hello, my name is Donna and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. One of the very important things I have learned through my years in practice is that the relationship and connection formed between a patient and their provider is paramount. It is the solid foundation from which someone can truly move forward with their mental health goals. I will provide the time you need to listen to your story, evaluate your situation, and then devise options for your treatment including medication if needed. I will collaborate with you in making treatment decisions every step of the way.
![Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95b295e5-938b-49ac-b5af-b9ba569400d8/1/320x400.png)
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
![Photo of Andrea Papa, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34e55caf-1f88-4569-98f5-d54f29fce4df/1/320x400.png)
I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
See more therapy options for Skillman
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Skillman, NJ
< 10
Psychiatrists in Skillman, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
67% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
67% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Skillman, NJ see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Skillman?
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.