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“My primary care doctor prescribes, but I want someone focused on psychiatric medication”
A short answer
That makes sense, and it's a common next step. Many people start with their primary care provider, and that's often a good place to begin. Seeing a psychiatric provider means care focused on psychiatric medication, with longer appointments and time to talk through your options. If you'd like us to, and with your permission, we can share information with your primary care provider so your care fits together.
What changes with a psychiatric provider
Primary care providers handle a wide range of health problems, and they're often where mental health care starts. They can also refer you on when you need more focused care.
With us, your care centers on psychiatric diagnosis and medication. We look at your symptoms, history, health, life circumstances and goals, and you leave understanding the reasons behind each choice. Your first evaluation is up to 90 minutes in length. Some people need more time, some less, and we take the time you need. Follow-up visits are typically 20 to 30 minutes, and extended follow-ups are available.
Our clinicians are board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioners. In New Jersey, psychiatric nurse practitioners diagnose, treat and prescribe medication. Depending on their experience, some practice independently and others practice in collaboration with a physician, as state law requires. Your primary care provider stays in the picture for your medical care.
Something to think about
Which sounds like you?
Tap the one that's closest. Nothing is saved or sent.
That's a good sign they're paying attention. Bring any notes or results they've shared, and we'll take it from there.
What the evaluation coversThose questions matter. Longer visits mean time to understand what you take, why, and what else is possible.
How medication management worksThat's a good time for care focused on psychiatric medication, with a careful look at everything you've tried.
If you've tried several medicationsA careful evaluation can take a fresh look at what's driving your symptoms.
About diagnostic clarificationThis isn't a diagnosis. Only an evaluation with a qualified provider can tell you what's going on.
Bring this to your visit
What to bring from primary care
Tick what applies, then copy your list. Nothing is saved or sent.
Myth or fact? Primary care and psychiatric care
Choose an answer for each to see the explanation. Nothing is saved.
1In New Jersey, only a physician can prescribe psychiatric medication.
Myth. In New Jersey, psychiatric nurse practitioners diagnose, treat and prescribe medication. Depending on their experience, some practice independently and others practice in collaboration with a physician, as state law requires.
2Seeing a psychiatric provider means leaving your primary care provider.
Myth. You keep your primary care provider for your medical care. We can coordinate with them so everyone is working from the same picture.
3It matters to tell every provider about all the medications and supplements you take.
Fact. Including over-the-counter medications, vitamins and herbal products. Some can interact with psychiatric medications.
What to expect
What happens next with us
1Send your intake packet
Fill out our secure intake packet. Once it's submitted, we'll verify your insurance and call you to schedule your appointment.
2A careful evaluation
We go through your symptoms, history, health and goals, and the medications you've taken.
3Your plan, explained
You'll understand what we think is going on and the reasons behind each option. With your permission, we can share the plan with your primary care provider.
4Regular follow-ups
We check in regularly to see what's working, what isn't, and what to adjust. Regular follow-ups are how patients stay on track.
The science: how we checked this
Sources
- NIMH: Tips for Talking With a Health Care Provider About Your Mental Health
- NIMH: Mental Health Medications
- MedlinePlus: Drug Reactions
How we checked this
- Written in our own words from NIMH and MedlinePlus, checked October 25, 2026.
- What happens at ANK describes our own approach; it isn't drawn from these sources.
- General information, not medical advice; talk with your provider.
Other starting points