Psychiatrists in 01545
We are helping people with mental health disorders to improve their lives by providing integrated, individualized mental health care
We are helping people with mental health disorders to improve their lives by providing integrated, individualized mental health care
If you’re looking for a trusted confidant to your mental health who listens to you and offers treatment that gets to the root of the problem and considers medication an option, not the only option, who believes in bare minimum Psychiatry medications at a time supports double-benefits medications then you’re at the right place. Integrated tailor-made mental health treatment simultaneously works for both our Brain and Mind. I work with you in providing effective & optimizing treatment for you so you can be yourself again and stop living in a dazed world’ via gradually learning to feel happy when precise chemicals in your brain are
If you’re looking for a trusted confidant to your mental health who listens to you and offers treatment that gets to the root of the problem and considers medication an option, not the only option, who believes in bare minimum Psychiatry medications at a time supports double-benefits medications then you’re at the right place. Integrated tailor-made mental health treatment simultaneously works for both our Brain and Mind. I work with you in providing effective & optimizing treatment for you so you can be yourself again and stop living in a dazed world’ via gradually learning to feel happy when precise chemicals in your brain are
Chelsea Griswold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (Online Only)
Chelsea is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has worked with all age groups in both community outpatient and hospital-based outpatient settings. Recently, she worked with children and adolescents, helping them and their parents navigate the school system while working on mental health concerns. Chelsea feels that choosing medication therapy is a decision that should be made by patient and provider, not just the provider. She specializes in anxiety, depression, aggression or anger, trauma, bipolar illness, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and ADHD, among others.
Chelsea is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has worked with all age groups in both community outpatient and hospital-based outpatient settings. Recently, she worked with children and adolescents, helping them and their parents navigate the school system while working on mental health concerns. Chelsea feels that choosing medication therapy is a decision that should be made by patient and provider, not just the provider. She specializes in anxiety, depression, aggression or anger, trauma, bipolar illness, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and ADHD, among others.
A&M Community Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
I have a strong passion for mental health care and have worked in this field for over a decade. Unfortunately, I have noticed a concerning shortage of mental healthcare services. That's why A&M Community Healthcare is committed to providing our community with mental health services. We work with clients to provide accurate diagnoses and collaborate with clients on their recovery journeys. Our services are evidence-based and include behavioral health and substance use support.
I have a strong passion for mental health care and have worked in this field for over a decade. Unfortunately, I have noticed a concerning shortage of mental healthcare services. That's why A&M Community Healthcare is committed to providing our community with mental health services. We work with clients to provide accurate diagnoses and collaborate with clients on their recovery journeys. Our services are evidence-based and include behavioral health and substance use support.
EleMental Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
We are accepting new Clients for In-Person OR Telehealth appointments for adolescents 12 years and older and Adults 18 years and older: Here at EleMental Wellness Center, we provide diagnostic assessment and treatment for broad range of psychiatric illnesses including but not limited to: Mood Disorders [Depression/Bipolar disorder], Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, Alcohol use disorders and Panic disorders.
We are accepting new Clients for In-Person OR Telehealth appointments for adolescents 12 years and older and Adults 18 years and older: Here at EleMental Wellness Center, we provide diagnostic assessment and treatment for broad range of psychiatric illnesses including but not limited to: Mood Disorders [Depression/Bipolar disorder], Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, Alcohol use disorders and Panic disorders.
Mind Healing & Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
We are an Outpatient Mental Health clinic offering a patient focused, holistic approach in management of Psychiatric and Substance use treatment. We provide medication management and in-house therapy! You’re wondering if there’s even a chance to reclaim your time, energy, and hope. The answer is a resounding YES! When you find holistic, effective care that takes your whole self into account. I believe that with empathy, evidence based care treatment plan and strategies, you can achieve your most dearly-held goals.
We are an Outpatient Mental Health clinic offering a patient focused, holistic approach in management of Psychiatric and Substance use treatment. We provide medication management and in-house therapy! You’re wondering if there’s even a chance to reclaim your time, energy, and hope. The answer is a resounding YES! When you find holistic, effective care that takes your whole self into account. I believe that with empathy, evidence based care treatment plan and strategies, you can achieve your most dearly-held goals.
I am currently welcoming new patients for Medication Management with supportive therapy. With experience in treating children and adults, mental health is essential to an individual's overall well-being. The clinics I work for focus on an integrative treatment approach that emphasizes making life changes in addition to medication treatment. To create a comprehensive treatment plan, we work closely with our clients to understand their unique stressors and the pressures of everyday life. I want to offer IDgenetix (genetic testing) for the ability to customize medication management to those interested.
I am currently welcoming new patients for Medication Management with supportive therapy. With experience in treating children and adults, mental health is essential to an individual's overall well-being. The clinics I work for focus on an integrative treatment approach that emphasizes making life changes in addition to medication treatment. To create a comprehensive treatment plan, we work closely with our clients to understand their unique stressors and the pressures of everyday life. I want to offer IDgenetix (genetic testing) for the ability to customize medication management to those interested.
Bright Act Behavioral Health Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Bright Act Behavioral Center LLC is an outpatient Mental Health Center in Worcester, Massachusetts which provides diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive services related to mental and behavioral disorders. At Bright Act Behavioral Center We've been proudly attending to our patients’ mental health needs and have been working tirelessly to brighten peoples lives coupled with offering proactive quality Mental healthcare in a safe and comfortable environment. We offer services including Medication Management, Counselling, Substance abuse counselling and other related mental health needs. We guarantee to provide quality mental health.
Bright Act Behavioral Center LLC is an outpatient Mental Health Center in Worcester, Massachusetts which provides diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive services related to mental and behavioral disorders. At Bright Act Behavioral Center We've been proudly attending to our patients’ mental health needs and have been working tirelessly to brighten peoples lives coupled with offering proactive quality Mental healthcare in a safe and comfortable environment. We offer services including Medication Management, Counselling, Substance abuse counselling and other related mental health needs. We guarantee to provide quality mental health.
Bernard Waigi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN/MPH, PMHNP-B, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
I am an experienced board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of the VA Boston Healthcare Nurse Practitioner Residency Program. I work with patients, adults ages 18 and above. I am well-versed with best practices and utilization of evidence-based care that is patient centered. I am also a very experienced educator, compassionate provider who works to build a strong relationship with patients and their loved ones. It is my believe that treatment works best when an empathic and trusting relationship exists between the patient and the clinician.
I am an experienced board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of the VA Boston Healthcare Nurse Practitioner Residency Program. I work with patients, adults ages 18 and above. I am well-versed with best practices and utilization of evidence-based care that is patient centered. I am also a very experienced educator, compassionate provider who works to build a strong relationship with patients and their loved ones. It is my believe that treatment works best when an empathic and trusting relationship exists between the patient and the clinician.
Jillian Bonzani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (Online Only)
Jillian is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression and anxiety. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Jillian’s role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Jillian completed her Master's Degree in Nursing at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
Jillian is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression and anxiety. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Jillian’s role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Jillian completed her Master's Degree in Nursing at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
Jennifer Caraballo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (Online Only)
Jennifer Caraballo DNP- PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, school issues, sleep/insomnia, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bipolar disorder. Jennifer enjoys working with adolescents, young adults, and across the life span providing comprehensive and compassionate care.
Jennifer Caraballo DNP- PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, school issues, sleep/insomnia, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bipolar disorder. Jennifer enjoys working with adolescents, young adults, and across the life span providing comprehensive and compassionate care.
“Accepting new patients” - I am a board certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in wide range of psychiatric disorders. I work with both adolescents and adults struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, insomnia, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, substance use disorders and other psychiatric disorders.
“Accepting new patients” - I am a board certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in wide range of psychiatric disorders. I work with both adolescents and adults struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, insomnia, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, substance use disorders and other psychiatric disorders.
Claire Wakulyaka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
I am accepting new patients. My name is Claire Wakulyaka. I want to help you work through your mental health challenges. The goal is to build a therapeutic relationship that will lead to better outcomes. You can expect a compassionate, empathetic, engaging, and safe environment where you are respected and listened to. The treatment plan may include medication management and/or brief therapy.
I am accepting new patients. My name is Claire Wakulyaka. I want to help you work through your mental health challenges. The goal is to build a therapeutic relationship that will lead to better outcomes. You can expect a compassionate, empathetic, engaging, and safe environment where you are respected and listened to. The treatment plan may include medication management and/or brief therapy.
At Copley Healthcare, a team of dedicated professionals with multiple years of experience in behavioral health, addiction and internal medicine, provide comprehensive psychiatric services to patients with varied diagnosis, including, but not limited to depression, ADD, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Complete continuum of care allows us to help our patients at different stages of their treatment, and coordinate their care.
At Copley Healthcare, a team of dedicated professionals with multiple years of experience in behavioral health, addiction and internal medicine, provide comprehensive psychiatric services to patients with varied diagnosis, including, but not limited to depression, ADD, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Complete continuum of care allows us to help our patients at different stages of their treatment, and coordinate their care.
Integrated Psychiatric Consulting, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (Online Only)
At Integrated Psychiatric Consulting, PC, our providers have a broad background in mental health conditions. We provide medication management for conditions like ADHD, anxiety and mood disorders, impulse control disorders, and neuropsychiatric conditions, such as brain injuries and intellectual/developmental disabilities. We also provide cognitive-behavioral therapy for these conditions as well as coping with phase of life transitions, men's and women's mental health, and relationship and peer difficulties. Please give us a call to see how we can help.
At Integrated Psychiatric Consulting, PC, our providers have a broad background in mental health conditions. We provide medication management for conditions like ADHD, anxiety and mood disorders, impulse control disorders, and neuropsychiatric conditions, such as brain injuries and intellectual/developmental disabilities. We also provide cognitive-behavioral therapy for these conditions as well as coping with phase of life transitions, men's and women's mental health, and relationship and peer difficulties. Please give us a call to see how we can help.
Lisa M Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (Online Only)
Individuals seeking mental health care, regardless of age, may be grappling with a range of issues such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, eating and mood disorders, PTSD, or OCD. These conditions can significantly impact their daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being. Their needs revolve around finding effective treatment and support tailored to their unique circumstances and preferences. Their ultimate goal is to alleviate symptoms, improve coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of stability and fulfillment in their lives. They seek understanding, empathy, and guidance on their journey towards mental wellness.
Individuals seeking mental health care, regardless of age, may be grappling with a range of issues such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, eating and mood disorders, PTSD, or OCD. These conditions can significantly impact their daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being. Their needs revolve around finding effective treatment and support tailored to their unique circumstances and preferences. Their ultimate goal is to alleviate symptoms, improve coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of stability and fulfillment in their lives. They seek understanding, empathy, and guidance on their journey towards mental wellness.
Brain Dynamic Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, as humans, we all have our innate given potentials. My core believe is to help individuals live and attain their maximum potentials irrespective of mental health challenges. My treatment modality is based on collaborative approach that is centered on careful Psychopharmacological management that incorporates Psychotherapy for upmost outcome. My goal is to provide holistic care that is based on evidence-based research. Understanding human brain as a complex structure with an intricate network of neuro-chemical activity is a key to understanding the imbalance in brain activity.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, as humans, we all have our innate given potentials. My core believe is to help individuals live and attain their maximum potentials irrespective of mental health challenges. My treatment modality is based on collaborative approach that is centered on careful Psychopharmacological management that incorporates Psychotherapy for upmost outcome. My goal is to provide holistic care that is based on evidence-based research. Understanding human brain as a complex structure with an intricate network of neuro-chemical activity is a key to understanding the imbalance in brain activity.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Stacie Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605 (Online Only)
Stacie is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, providing diagnostic mental health evaluations, medication, and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of psychosocial and behavioral health concerns. Utilizing an integrative approach, treatment is a collaborative process that may include a combination of psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle/nutritional modifications, and complementary practices.
Stacie is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, providing diagnostic mental health evaluations, medication, and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of psychosocial and behavioral health concerns. Utilizing an integrative approach, treatment is a collaborative process that may include a combination of psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle/nutritional modifications, and complementary practices.
Corrine Potter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01608 (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years experience in nursing. I believe in providing individualized care specific to each patient and their needs. I utilize medication management and psychotherapy during appointments for optimal patient outcomes. I specialize in Anxiety, Panic disorders, Depression, Bipolar disorders, Insomnia, Adjustment disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Eating disorders, ADHD, ADD, OCD, Stress and Psychotic disorders.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years experience in nursing. I believe in providing individualized care specific to each patient and their needs. I utilize medication management and psychotherapy during appointments for optimal patient outcomes. I specialize in Anxiety, Panic disorders, Depression, Bipolar disorders, Insomnia, Adjustment disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Eating disorders, ADHD, ADD, OCD, Stress and Psychotic disorders.
Savina Nicole (Nikki) Setze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients for medication management! In-network with BCBS of MA, Aetna, and UnitedHealthcare. To request an appointment, please send me an email with details on what I can help you with, your insurance information, and best days/times for scheduling a 60-min intake appointment. Office hours are Tuesday-Thursday 10a-6p and Friday 10a-4p. The office is closed weekends and Mondays.
Accepting new patients for medication management! In-network with BCBS of MA, Aetna, and UnitedHealthcare. To request an appointment, please send me an email with details on what I can help you with, your insurance information, and best days/times for scheduling a 60-min intake appointment. Office hours are Tuesday-Thursday 10a-6p and Friday 10a-4p. The office is closed weekends and Mondays.
See more therapy options for 01545
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 01545
10+
Average cost per session
$275
Psychiatrists in 01545 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
88% | ADHD |
88% | Bipolar Disorder |
88% | Medication Management |
82% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
82% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Optum |
94% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
81% | Harvard Pilgrim |
How Psychiatrists in 01545 see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
35% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 01545?
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.