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Headshot of Christopher Tikum, APN

Dr. Christopher Tikum

Psychiatric Mental Health NP
3 years of experience
  • Virtual & in-person
  • Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, PTSD
  • Medication management, Individual therapy, Family therapy

Great to meet you!

My goal is to provide individualized, compassionate psychiatric care—not just prescribe medication. I take time to understand each patient’s symptoms, goals, medications, and life circumstances and develop a treatment plan that fits the individual. I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and ongoing follow-up for children, adolescents, and adults, including treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and substance-use-related conditions. Telehealth and in-person appointments are available including walk-in without appointment is welcome.

My approach to therapy

My approach in providing care includes patient-centered, evidence-based, collaborative, and holistic approach. It is a key part of my professional brand.

I believe effective psychiatric care begins with listening, understanding, and building trust. Every patient is unique, and treatment should be individualized rather than based solely on a diagnosis.

My approach combines evidence-based psychiatric treatment with compassionate, patient-centered care. I conduct comprehensive evaluations, carefully consider each patient's symptoms and personal circumstances, and work collaboratively with patients and families to develop realistic and meaningful treatment goals.

When medication is indicated, I practice thoughtful medication management, including discussion of benefits, risks, alternatives, potential side effects, and ongoing monitoring. I also recognize the importance of psychotherapy, healthy lifestyle practices, family and social support, and coordination with other healthcare professionals when appropriate.

My goal is not simply to reduce symptoms, but to help patients achieve greater stability, improved functioning, stronger relationships, and a better quality of life.

I strive to create a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment where patients feel heard, understood, and actively involved in their care.

Listen. Understand. Partner. Treat. Follow through.

What you can expect from me

Your first appointment is an opportunity for us to get to know one another and begin understanding what you are experiencing. I provide a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgmental environment where you can openly discuss your concerns, symptoms, history, and treatment goals.

During the initial evaluation, we will discuss your current symptoms, mental health history, medical history, medications, sleep, substance use when relevant, family and social history, and how your symptoms are affecting your daily life and relationships.

We will also discuss your goals and what you hope to achieve through treatment. When appropriate, I may use standardized assessments to better understand and monitor your symptoms.

At the end of the session, we will develop an individualized treatment plan together. This may include medication management, psychotherapy recommendations, lifestyle and behavioral strategies, referrals, laboratory monitoring, or coordination with other healthcare providers when appropriate.

Most importantly, you can expect to be heard, respected, and involved in your care. My goal is for you to leave your first appointment with a clearer understanding of your concerns and a practical plan for moving forward.

You don't have to have everything figured out before your first appointment. We will take the next step together.

About me

  • I identify as
    Black or African descent, Man
  • My style is
    Creative, Solution Oriented, Holistic

Qualification and insurance

  • Years of experience
    3 years of experience
  • Training
    Other at University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey, MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) at Walden University
  • License type
    APN (Advanced Practice Nurse) (New Jersey), NP (Nurse Practitioner) (New York)
  • Licensed in
  • Insurance accepted
    Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Carelon Behavioral Health, Cigna, Curative, Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey

Cost

Care details

  • More specialties
    Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Eating disorders, OCD, Sleep disorder, Stress management, Anger management, Panic disorders, Maternal mental health
  • Therapy methods
    Trauma Focused CBT, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Family-Based Treatment for Eating Disorders, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
  • Care types
    Medication management, Individual therapy, Family therapy
  • Ages served
    Seniors, Adolescents, Children, Adults, Infants / Toddlers
  • Languages
    English
  • Location
    640 Eagle Rock Avenue Suite 6
    West Orange, NJ 07052