Psychiatrists in Trenton, NJ
OCA Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Trenton, NJ 08601
OCA Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively. Evaluation & Follow-up is now available via Telehealth due to The COVID-19 Health Crisis.
OCA Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively. Evaluation & Follow-up is now available via Telehealth due to The COVID-19 Health Crisis.
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.
Ophelia O Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Dr
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Trenton, NJ 08638 (Online Only)
My name is Ophelia Matthews, and I am a PMHNP-BC Licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. My specialty is medication management; I manage patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADD/ADHD, and adjustment issues, PTSD. Ophelia solution behavioral health LLC is a solo community-based mental health agency on a mission to provide quality behavioral health services to stabilize, strengthen, and support youth and families and also includes medication management and provide Client treatment plans that are individualized and tailored to each client's specific needs and goals through Tele health.
My name is Ophelia Matthews, and I am a PMHNP-BC Licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. My specialty is medication management; I manage patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADD/ADHD, and adjustment issues, PTSD. Ophelia solution behavioral health LLC is a solo community-based mental health agency on a mission to provide quality behavioral health services to stabilize, strengthen, and support youth and families and also includes medication management and provide Client treatment plans that are individualized and tailored to each client's specific needs and goals through Tele health.
Suci Behavioral Health LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08638
My name is Beatrice Iloka, and as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in adults who have Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders Cognitive Disorders, Personality Disorders, Schizophrenia and Personality Disorders. Clients needs are numerous which includes the following: Health assessment, Health History, Screening, Diagnosing, Prescribing medications and other treatment modalities such as Therapy and evaluating care out come. The goal of client evaluation is to identify general health status of the client, to screen for psychiatric, nonpsychiatric disorders and to get treatment to help them to return to normal function.
My name is Beatrice Iloka, and as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in adults who have Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders Cognitive Disorders, Personality Disorders, Schizophrenia and Personality Disorders. Clients needs are numerous which includes the following: Health assessment, Health History, Screening, Diagnosing, Prescribing medications and other treatment modalities such as Therapy and evaluating care out come. The goal of client evaluation is to identify general health status of the client, to screen for psychiatric, nonpsychiatric disorders and to get treatment to help them to return to normal function.
Ugochi C Ekemezie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Trenton, NJ 08691
Ugochi Ekemezie is an ANCC certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She completed her BSN at Fairleigh Dickinson University-Teaneck and completed her MSN at Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. As a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my goal is to provide individualized and client-focused care utilizing an approach best suited for client stability and to improve client conditions. Ugochi is empathetic, personable, patient, and will work with each patient thoroughly to help them through their problems.
Ugochi Ekemezie is an ANCC certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She completed her BSN at Fairleigh Dickinson University-Teaneck and completed her MSN at Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. As a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my goal is to provide individualized and client-focused care utilizing an approach best suited for client stability and to improve client conditions. Ugochi is empathetic, personable, patient, and will work with each patient thoroughly to help them through their problems.
Benita James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08648
Welcome to Peace of Mind Wellness Services, LLC. I have a strong background in mental health and substance use. I am also a certified sexual assault nurse. I specialize in providing mental health services to patients of all ages. My client would share the belief in creating and maintaining a therapeutic relationship through developing a strong foundation of trust. My goal is to always provide a safe, non-judgmental space to educate, engage and empower each patient. My client would be seeking the ability to gain control in an area they constantly feel out of control and trust their needs and preferences are at the forefront.
Welcome to Peace of Mind Wellness Services, LLC. I have a strong background in mental health and substance use. I am also a certified sexual assault nurse. I specialize in providing mental health services to patients of all ages. My client would share the belief in creating and maintaining a therapeutic relationship through developing a strong foundation of trust. My goal is to always provide a safe, non-judgmental space to educate, engage and empower each patient. My client would be seeking the ability to gain control in an area they constantly feel out of control and trust their needs and preferences are at the forefront.
Accepting New Clients - Age range 12yrs to Adult. I have been in filed of treating mental health disorders for 20 + years as a psychiatrist. I am passionate about helping my clients achieve more of what they want in their life by providing the best care for their mental health. I provide in person and Telehealth Psychiatric appointments.
Accepting New Clients - Age range 12yrs to Adult. I have been in filed of treating mental health disorders for 20 + years as a psychiatrist. I am passionate about helping my clients achieve more of what they want in their life by providing the best care for their mental health. I provide in person and Telehealth Psychiatric appointments.
Anna Ladner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Trenton, NJ 08628 (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Anna and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Anna specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and trauma. Her training with individuals that have had little to no access to mental health care is what drives her passion to provide quality care to everyone that needs it. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Anna and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Anna specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and trauma. Her training with individuals that have had little to no access to mental health care is what drives her passion to provide quality care to everyone that needs it. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08620
ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in the States of New Jersey and Pennsylvania and providing treatment for patients with substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar and related disorders, attention-deficit /hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder, and PTSD. Philosophy of care is based on the foundations of respect and promotion of self-determination for all patients. These two attributes promotes trust, patient satisfaction, and improved quality of life for my patients.
ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in the States of New Jersey and Pennsylvania and providing treatment for patients with substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar and related disorders, attention-deficit /hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder, and PTSD. Philosophy of care is based on the foundations of respect and promotion of self-determination for all patients. These two attributes promotes trust, patient satisfaction, and improved quality of life for my patients.
Elizabeth Corvino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08608 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Elizabeth and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Women's Issues, as well as medication management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Elizabeth and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Women's Issues, as well as medication management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Paul Oniwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08608 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Paul and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD and PTSD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Paul and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD and PTSD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
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I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from Walden University in 2020 with my MSN and focus in psychiatry as a nurse practitioner. I have been a nurse for about seven years with experience in inpatient psychiatry, medical surgical, ER crisis management, forensic and detox nursing. Psychiatry is dear to my heart and I enjoy advocating for mental healthcare. The mind, body and soul make up wellness and health, so without the proper mental health treatment, holistic care is incomplete.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from Walden University in 2020 with my MSN and focus in psychiatry as a nurse practitioner. I have been a nurse for about seven years with experience in inpatient psychiatry, medical surgical, ER crisis management, forensic and detox nursing. Psychiatry is dear to my heart and I enjoy advocating for mental healthcare. The mind, body and soul make up wellness and health, so without the proper mental health treatment, holistic care is incomplete.
Dr. Chizoba O Mbachu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, BSN
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08601 (Online Only)
My ideal client is anyone who is taking the leap into handling their own mental health and trying to better themselves. I primarily work with people who have hard-hitting diagnosis' or issues that they feel they need an elevated level of care for. Essentially, as long as you looking for help; I am here to help.
My ideal client is anyone who is taking the leap into handling their own mental health and trying to better themselves. I primarily work with people who have hard-hitting diagnosis' or issues that they feel they need an elevated level of care for. Essentially, as long as you looking for help; I am here to help.
The Psychiatric Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08601
Medications are only one tool we have in assisting us with mental health disorders. I believe if you are on meds, then you should also be in therapy. Medications should be prescribed in the lowest amount in number and dosage that is effective, and then challenged as one progresses towards wellness. We are not accepting nor managing patients that are currently being prescribed stimulants and or benzodiazepines. New patients must have discharge summaries forwarded by their previous provider before their first appointment.
Medications are only one tool we have in assisting us with mental health disorders. I believe if you are on meds, then you should also be in therapy. Medications should be prescribed in the lowest amount in number and dosage that is effective, and then challenged as one progresses towards wellness. We are not accepting nor managing patients that are currently being prescribed stimulants and or benzodiazepines. New patients must have discharge summaries forwarded by their previous provider before their first appointment.
Grace Behavioral Health Services, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APN
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08610
Grace Behavioral Health Services, provides EVALUATION AND FOLLOW-UP VIA TELEHEALTH AND IN-PERSON. Our principle in practice include helping our clients as partners in their recovery process. All factors that impact their health, wellness and disorder are considered in a way to address the whole person, including the body, mind and spirit. In addition to treatment, all-inclusive concepts of health promotion and prevention is supreme. We work cooperatively and collaboratively with our clients to tailor their care to the individual’s unique conditions, needs and circumstances.
Grace Behavioral Health Services, provides EVALUATION AND FOLLOW-UP VIA TELEHEALTH AND IN-PERSON. Our principle in practice include helping our clients as partners in their recovery process. All factors that impact their health, wellness and disorder are considered in a way to address the whole person, including the body, mind and spirit. In addition to treatment, all-inclusive concepts of health promotion and prevention is supreme. We work cooperatively and collaboratively with our clients to tailor their care to the individual’s unique conditions, needs and circumstances.
Diana Maria Gomez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Trenton, NJ 08601 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who is contending with conditions such as bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as anxiety and depression. They may be experiencing feelings of being overwhelmed by daily responsibilities, facing challenges with concentration, or coping with persistent feelings of sadness, worry, or fear. Sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, or a diminished interest in activities that were once pleasurable may also be among their struggles.
My ideal client is someone who is contending with conditions such as bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as anxiety and depression. They may be experiencing feelings of being overwhelmed by daily responsibilities, facing challenges with concentration, or coping with persistent feelings of sadness, worry, or fear. Sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, or a diminished interest in activities that were once pleasurable may also be among their struggles.
Rebecca Goldman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08608 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Rebecca and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Binge Eating Disorders and OCD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Rebecca and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Binge Eating Disorders and OCD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08629
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
See more therapy options for Trenton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Trenton, NJ
30+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Trenton, NJ who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
89% | ADHD |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
81% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Medication Management |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | Aetna |
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Trenton, NJ see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Trenton?
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.