Psychiatrists in Stafford Township, NJ

Photo of Rebecca Crispi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Rebecca Crispi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with many patients from age 10 to 100. The most common complaints I see are anxiety and depression but have worked with clients with everything from ADHD to schizophrenia and dementia. I welcome clients of all ages and with all symptoms.
I work with many patients from age 10 to 100. The most common complaints I see are anxiety and depression but have worked with clients with everything from ADHD to schizophrenia and dementia. I welcome clients of all ages and with all symptoms.
(609) 507-4790 View (609) 507-4790
Photo of Mary May Montenegro - Euthymia Mental Health Services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Euthymia Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Let's work together for you to reach a goal which is to achieve a tranquil mental state or mood. We will have a thorough discussion regarding your issues and concerns about your mental health and we will come up with a solution and intervention not only beneficial to your mental health but also to your overall well- being.
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Let's work together for you to reach a goal which is to achieve a tranquil mental state or mood. We will have a thorough discussion regarding your issues and concerns about your mental health and we will come up with a solution and intervention not only beneficial to your mental health but also to your overall well- being.
(609) 476-4736 View (609) 476-4736
Photo of Dr. Madeleine R. Eugene - Relax Your Mind Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C
Relax Your Mind Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C
12 Endorsed
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - -
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - -
(732) 800-5920 View (732) 800-5920

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Alexander Iofin, Psychiatrist, MD
Alexander Iofin
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Feeling unfocused, anxious, or disorganized? I am dedicated to providing quality psychiatric care so that you can achieve the life you have always wanted. I specialize in Adult ADHD, ADD, and Anxiety disorders. I look at the whole individual, not just your symptoms, to better understand underlying components that may be affecting your mental health. Many adults who suffer from ADHD don't know they have the condition. Currently, it’s thought that only 10.9% of adults with ADHD are getting the necessary treatment. Don't let Anxiety or ADHD keep you from living your best life.
Feeling unfocused, anxious, or disorganized? I am dedicated to providing quality psychiatric care so that you can achieve the life you have always wanted. I specialize in Adult ADHD, ADD, and Anxiety disorders. I look at the whole individual, not just your symptoms, to better understand underlying components that may be affecting your mental health. Many adults who suffer from ADHD don't know they have the condition. Currently, it’s thought that only 10.9% of adults with ADHD are getting the necessary treatment. Don't let Anxiety or ADHD keep you from living your best life.
(848) 281-3842 View (848) 281-3842
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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. Andrew Manoski, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Andrew Manoski
Psychiatrist, DO
3 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently looking for clients interested in working on their mental well-being through a deeper understanding of themselves. Through this work of introspection, we hope to better manage relationship conflicts, recurring issues with anxiety or moods, and self-sabotaging behaviors. By better understanding our past ways of interacting and experiencing the world, we can more more consciously work toward goals for the future.
I am currently looking for clients interested in working on their mental well-being through a deeper understanding of themselves. Through this work of introspection, we hope to better manage relationship conflicts, recurring issues with anxiety or moods, and self-sabotaging behaviors. By better understanding our past ways of interacting and experiencing the world, we can more more consciously work toward goals for the future.
(609) 928-7115 View (609) 928-7115
Photo of Kristine Hart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CARN
Kristine Hart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CARN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Together, we'll unravel your potential, heal your mind, and embrace a life of more positivity and fulfillment. I am dedicated to delivering meaningful and competent care for the issues you are facing. I recognize that every individual's mental health journey is distinct, and thus, I tailor my approaches to suit each person's specific needs. Your journey is your story, and I offer unwavering compassion and support to guide you to your wellness goals. I approach mental wellness holistically, considering all facets of your well-being. From therapy to medication management, I customize treatment plans that prioritize your unique goals.
Together, we'll unravel your potential, heal your mind, and embrace a life of more positivity and fulfillment. I am dedicated to delivering meaningful and competent care for the issues you are facing. I recognize that every individual's mental health journey is distinct, and thus, I tailor my approaches to suit each person's specific needs. Your journey is your story, and I offer unwavering compassion and support to guide you to your wellness goals. I approach mental wellness holistically, considering all facets of your well-being. From therapy to medication management, I customize treatment plans that prioritize your unique goals.
(609) 473-6273 x101 View (609) 473-6273 x101
Photo of Sean Han, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sean Han
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Sean Han, and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in medication management, supportive psychotherapy, and holistic treatments, with a focus on empowering patients through a warm, culturally sensitive approach. I am dedicated to providing individualized care to support mental wellness, including addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and insomnia. My approach to care is centered on building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust, respect, and open communication.
Hello, my name is Sean Han, and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in medication management, supportive psychotherapy, and holistic treatments, with a focus on empowering patients through a warm, culturally sensitive approach. I am dedicated to providing individualized care to support mental wellness, including addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and insomnia. My approach to care is centered on building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust, respect, and open communication.
(732) 334-7328 View (732) 334-7328
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Lakewood, NJ 08701
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 Dr. Andres Vinuela, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andres Vinuela
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Vinuela is %100 bilingual in English and Spanish. Are you a New Jersey resident in need of a licensed telepsychiatrist? Do you want the comfort of having your psychiatrist available for appointments 24/7? If you struggle with mental health issues, Dr. Andres Vinuela is here to help. By focusing on advancing mental health care in New Jersey through innovative solutions, he is committed to significantly impacting the lives of individuals seeking psychiatric care. Dr. Vinuela adopts a collaborative approach and develops personalized treatment plans tailored to you.
Dr. Vinuela is %100 bilingual in English and Spanish. Are you a New Jersey resident in need of a licensed telepsychiatrist? Do you want the comfort of having your psychiatrist available for appointments 24/7? If you struggle with mental health issues, Dr. Andres Vinuela is here to help. By focusing on advancing mental health care in New Jersey through innovative solutions, he is committed to significantly impacting the lives of individuals seeking psychiatric care. Dr. Vinuela adopts a collaborative approach and develops personalized treatment plans tailored to you.
(201) 733-2488 View (201) 733-2488
Photo of Murla Ecclesiaste, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Murla Ecclesiaste
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Greetings! I am Murla, Do you experience lack of motivation, hopelessness and sadness? Do you feel overwhelmed with tasks? Are you dealing with anxiety that leaves you incapacitated? Are mood swings keeping you from reaching your best potential? I am a board-certified psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. I am also dual-certified in Adult Gerontology. I typically work with a variety of diagnoses to include Depression Anxiety Mood disorders (bipolar 1 and 2) Post traumatic stress disorder Obsessive compulsive disorder ADHD Grief.
Greetings! I am Murla, Do you experience lack of motivation, hopelessness and sadness? Do you feel overwhelmed with tasks? Are you dealing with anxiety that leaves you incapacitated? Are mood swings keeping you from reaching your best potential? I am a board-certified psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. I am also dual-certified in Adult Gerontology. I typically work with a variety of diagnoses to include Depression Anxiety Mood disorders (bipolar 1 and 2) Post traumatic stress disorder Obsessive compulsive disorder ADHD Grief.
(732) 517-3776 View (732) 517-3776
Photo of Samantha Peckham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Samantha Peckham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Navigating mental health challenges can be complex, and finding a path to sustainable well-being often requires compassionate, holistic support. My approach embraces the belief that true healing involves the mind, body, and spirit. I work collaboratively with clients facing issues like anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma, tailoring each treatment to align with their unique needs and values. Through an integrative plan that may include medication management, nutritional supplements, lifestyle changes, and lab work, I am committed to empowering clients toward lasting growth and positive change.
Navigating mental health challenges can be complex, and finding a path to sustainable well-being often requires compassionate, holistic support. My approach embraces the belief that true healing involves the mind, body, and spirit. I work collaboratively with clients facing issues like anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma, tailoring each treatment to align with their unique needs and values. Through an integrative plan that may include medication management, nutritional supplements, lifestyle changes, and lab work, I am committed to empowering clients toward lasting growth and positive change.
(484) 946-9199 View (484) 946-9199
Photo of Alexis Holmes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-NP
Alexis Holmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-NP
Online Only
My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.
My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.
(640) 231-0441 View (640) 231-0441
Photo of Samuel Okechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Samuel Okechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Samuel Okechukwu, and I am a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare to individuals across the lifespan. My approach is collaborative and patient-centered, focusing on empowering patients to achieve their mental health goals through both psychotherapy and medication management when needed.
My name is Samuel Okechukwu, and I am a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare to individuals across the lifespan. My approach is collaborative and patient-centered, focusing on empowering patients to achieve their mental health goals through both psychotherapy and medication management when needed.
(908) 570-5792 View (908) 570-5792
Photo of Laurie Greisch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Laurie Greisch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
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/
(732) 605-4597 View (732) 605-4597
Photo of Dr. Bradford Bobrin, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Bradford Bobrin
Psychiatrist, MD
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I don't have an ideal client, except they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
I don't have an ideal client, except they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
(908) 840-8960 View (908) 840-8960
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist
Jackson, NJ 08527
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(908) 386-4164 View (908) 386-4164
Photo of Shannon Stoll - Jersey Shore Behavioral Group, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Jersey Shore Behavioral Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Brielle, NJ 08730
I have over 27 years experience in the field of psychiatry in the following environments: inpatient psychiatry, crisis (PESS), and outpatient settings (adolescent and adult). I earned my BSN in 1996 from Trenton State College (College of New Jersey) and MSN from Monmouth university in 2018. I believe in a collaborative approach with my clients, and place a strong emphasis on education regarding medication management. My prescriptive practice is conservative and I encourage my clients to be active participants in their healthcare management.
I have over 27 years experience in the field of psychiatry in the following environments: inpatient psychiatry, crisis (PESS), and outpatient settings (adolescent and adult). I earned my BSN in 1996 from Trenton State College (College of New Jersey) and MSN from Monmouth university in 2018. I believe in a collaborative approach with my clients, and place a strong emphasis on education regarding medication management. My prescriptive practice is conservative and I encourage my clients to be active participants in their healthcare management.
(732) 335-7973 View (732) 335-7973
Photo of Ernest Akwaboah - Mega Professional Healthcare Services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Mega Professional Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Online Only
Mega Professional Healthcare Services, manage by Ernest Akwaboah, APN, PMHNP-BC, provides comprehensive evidence based mental health treatments for children, adults and elderly individuals with various mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, major depression, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, personality disorders and other mental health disorders. Feeling down, sad or persistent anxiety, or need mental health support, then we do it all! We perform mental health evaluation, all-inclusive behavioral treatment, medication management and symptoms monitoring. Call or Email ernestakwaboah@gmail.com, call 973-342-6323
Mega Professional Healthcare Services, manage by Ernest Akwaboah, APN, PMHNP-BC, provides comprehensive evidence based mental health treatments for children, adults and elderly individuals with various mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, major depression, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, personality disorders and other mental health disorders. Feeling down, sad or persistent anxiety, or need mental health support, then we do it all! We perform mental health evaluation, all-inclusive behavioral treatment, medication management and symptoms monitoring. Call or Email ernestakwaboah@gmail.com, call 973-342-6323
(908) 676-7057 View (908) 676-7057
Photo of Suzanne Chrebet, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Suzanne Chrebet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Manasquan, NJ 08736
I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who believes in a holistic approach in order to satisfy one’s physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I utilize my knowledge and experience to provide medication management to assist patients in obtaining their specific treatment goals. Through comprehensive psychiatric assessment and utilization of evidence based treatments, my goal is to help individuals be the best version of themselves. I believe an important aspect to one’s treatment includes open communication between the client and provider.
I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who believes in a holistic approach in order to satisfy one’s physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I utilize my knowledge and experience to provide medication management to assist patients in obtaining their specific treatment goals. Through comprehensive psychiatric assessment and utilization of evidence based treatments, my goal is to help individuals be the best version of themselves. I believe an important aspect to one’s treatment includes open communication between the client and provider.
(732) 838-6193 View (732) 838-6193

See more therapy options for Stafford Township

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Stafford Township, NJ

< 10

Psychiatrists in Stafford Township, NJ who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
67% Geriatric and Seniors
67% Grief
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Oxford

How Psychiatrists in Stafford Township, NJ see their clients

66% Online Only
34% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Stafford Township?

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.