Psychiatrists in 01826

Photo of Kelly Hargett - Light Mental Health, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Light Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Dracut, MA 01826
I value compassion, comprehensive, open and honest communication, where individuals feel understood and validated. Alliance in treatment is my goal, therefore I will work to understand your beliefs, values and goals to develop a treatment plan that is comfortable, effective while obtaining hope towards an optimal quality of life.
I value compassion, comprehensive, open and honest communication, where individuals feel understood and validated. Alliance in treatment is my goal, therefore I will work to understand your beliefs, values and goals to develop a treatment plan that is comfortable, effective while obtaining hope towards an optimal quality of life.
Photo of Holistic Behavioral Health Services Llc - Holistic Behavioral Health Services LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Holistic Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Dracut, MA 01826
Holistic Behavioral Health Services provides both outpatient and tele-psychiatry mental health services in Dracut and surrounding areas. Tele-psychiatry services are provided in the comfort of your home using a computer/ a phone. We accepting new patients. Evening and weekend hours are available to those busy during office hours. Board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with training and experience across the lifespan in outpatient settings.
Holistic Behavioral Health Services provides both outpatient and tele-psychiatry mental health services in Dracut and surrounding areas. Tele-psychiatry services are provided in the comfort of your home using a computer/ a phone. We accepting new patients. Evening and weekend hours are available to those busy during office hours. Board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with training and experience across the lifespan in outpatient settings.
(978) 693-5001 View (978) 693-5001
Photo of Massiel Reyes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , FNP, BC
Massiel Reyes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , FNP, BC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hi, I’m excited to be your guide on the journey to improved mental health at Healing Through Psychiatry. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I’m passionate about providing holistic care that supports both the mind and body. My approach combines evidence-based practices, therapeutic techniques, and a deep understanding of cultural nuances to tailor care to your unique needs. Whether you’re navigating life’s challenges or seeking balance, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together, from the comfort of your home. Mental wellbeing matters, and I’m here to help.
Hi, I’m excited to be your guide on the journey to improved mental health at Healing Through Psychiatry. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I’m passionate about providing holistic care that supports both the mind and body. My approach combines evidence-based practices, therapeutic techniques, and a deep understanding of cultural nuances to tailor care to your unique needs. Whether you’re navigating life’s challenges or seeking balance, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together, from the comfort of your home. Mental wellbeing matters, and I’m here to help.
(978) 541-3607 View (978) 541-3607
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions, including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions, including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(978) 636-1291 View (978) 636-1291
Photo of Silibaziso Masebe - Silibaziso Masebe (My Mental Health Matters), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Silibaziso Masebe (My Mental Health Matters)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Currently not accepting new patients. I'm a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of experience. I specialize in trauma-informed care for individuals with mental health conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, ADHD, and more. My clinical expertise includes psychiatric evaluations, medication management, CBT, DBT, motivational therapy, and evidence-based interventions for patients of all ages. I'm committed to patient-centered care and improving outcomes through an empathetic and holistic approach to every clinical interaction.
Currently not accepting new patients. I'm a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of experience. I specialize in trauma-informed care for individuals with mental health conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, ADHD, and more. My clinical expertise includes psychiatric evaluations, medication management, CBT, DBT, motivational therapy, and evidence-based interventions for patients of all ages. I'm committed to patient-centered care and improving outcomes through an empathetic and holistic approach to every clinical interaction.
(617) 468-1115 View (617) 468-1115
Photo of Sarlah Bernard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Sarlah Bernard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
I am a multilingual psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked across the lifespan in Massachusetts. I work with clients who are struggling with a myriad of mental health concerns, including substance abuse. My goal is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients to empower them to engage in their treatment to reach their maximum potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have adequate information while being an active participant in making an informed decision about their treatment plan.
I am a multilingual psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked across the lifespan in Massachusetts. I work with clients who are struggling with a myriad of mental health concerns, including substance abuse. My goal is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients to empower them to engage in their treatment to reach their maximum potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have adequate information while being an active participant in making an informed decision about their treatment plan.
(978) 800-2479 View (978) 800-2479
Photo of Susan Njuguna, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN
Susan Njuguna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome to DJS Psychiatry and Services team that cares. My name is Susan Njuguna. I am a psychiatric medication provider located in 34 Salem Street Ste 201Reading MA 01867. At DJS Psychiatry, we have a team of Psychiatric medication providers and Psychotherapist. We welcome clients seeking support for mental health such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and Trauma. Our ideal client aims to manage symptoms, improve relationships, and regain control over their life through compassionate, evidence-based care, including therapy, medication management, and innovative treatments like TMS.
Welcome to DJS Psychiatry and Services team that cares. My name is Susan Njuguna. I am a psychiatric medication provider located in 34 Salem Street Ste 201Reading MA 01867. At DJS Psychiatry, we have a team of Psychiatric medication providers and Psychotherapist. We welcome clients seeking support for mental health such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and Trauma. Our ideal client aims to manage symptoms, improve relationships, and regain control over their life through compassionate, evidence-based care, including therapy, medication management, and innovative treatments like TMS.
(781) 807-3020 View (781) 807-3020
Photo of Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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 diagnoses and substance use disorders, and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient 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 diagnoses and substance use disorders, and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(978) 404-5494 View (978) 404-5494
Photo of Andrea Papa- Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrea Papa- Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(978) 506-0987 View (978) 506-0987

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Eric Toe Togba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP -, BC
Eric Toe Togba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP -, BC
Serves Area
Telehealth and in-person Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner working with Children, Adolescents, Adults, and Older Adults in Raynham, MA. I conduct individual Assessment, order tests, diagnose chronic or acute mental illness, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions and substance use disorders. I provide psychotherapy, prescribe medications, manage and evaluate treatment plans for individual across the lifespan, and adjust medications dosages and combinations. I educate patients and families about mental health and participate in crisis intervention with a specialization in trauma and early childhood development.
Telehealth and in-person Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner working with Children, Adolescents, Adults, and Older Adults in Raynham, MA. I conduct individual Assessment, order tests, diagnose chronic or acute mental illness, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions and substance use disorders. I provide psychotherapy, prescribe medications, manage and evaluate treatment plans for individual across the lifespan, and adjust medications dosages and combinations. I educate patients and families about mental health and participate in crisis intervention with a specialization in trauma and early childhood development.
(774) 515-2701 View (774) 515-2701
Photo of Kimberly O'Brien, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Kimberly O'Brien
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychopharmacology and treat adult clients with a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder and ADHD. I provide thorough diagnostic evaluations, assessments and ongoing treatment via medication management for my clients. I have over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field in varying roles including working as a mental health counselor, registered nurse and a psychiatric nurse practitioner.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychopharmacology and treat adult clients with a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder and ADHD. I provide thorough diagnostic evaluations, assessments and ongoing treatment via medication management for my clients. I have over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field in varying roles including working as a mental health counselor, registered nurse and a psychiatric nurse practitioner.
(508) 433-3922 View (508) 433-3922
Photo of Sarah Moore-Ede, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sarah Moore-Ede
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with six years of experience treating individuals of all ages for mood disorders, anxiety, sleep disorders, and ADHD. I also have extensive experience working as a nurse at both McLean Hospital and Children's Hospital Boston. My approach is warm, affirming, and collaborative. I believe in working together with my patients to create a personalized plan that optimizes mental health and well-being.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with six years of experience treating individuals of all ages for mood disorders, anxiety, sleep disorders, and ADHD. I also have extensive experience working as a nurse at both McLean Hospital and Children's Hospital Boston. My approach is warm, affirming, and collaborative. I believe in working together with my patients to create a personalized plan that optimizes mental health and well-being.
(508) 310-4977 View (508) 310-4977
Photo of Dr. Leonardo Batista - Mental Health Mastery Group, LLC, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Mental Health Mastery Group, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
MHMG was founded by Dr. Leonardo Batista, a distinguished psychiatrist and behavioral health officer trained at Brown University and Harvard Medical School, with extensive experience in academic, hospital, and military settings. Dr. Batista’s mission is to empower individuals in the medical and mental health field to master their skills and achieve excellence.
MHMG was founded by Dr. Leonardo Batista, a distinguished psychiatrist and behavioral health officer trained at Brown University and Harvard Medical School, with extensive experience in academic, hospital, and military settings. Dr. Batista’s mission is to empower individuals in the medical and mental health field to master their skills and achieve excellence.
(508) 501-8282 View (508) 501-8282
Photo of Marinelle Garraud - Mental Health Plus LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mental Health Plus LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Living is leaning to face life challenges with a sense of acceptance and control. However, it's not always easy to do on our own. Without a doubt, many of us on earth have a negative answer when dealing with our mental health. Here, at Mental Health Plus LLC, we are interested in seeing you take control of yourself. We strive to encourage our clients to live life to the fullest by being assisted with a unique bundle care approach. Partner with us.
Living is leaning to face life challenges with a sense of acceptance and control. However, it's not always easy to do on our own. Without a doubt, many of us on earth have a negative answer when dealing with our mental health. Here, at Mental Health Plus LLC, we are interested in seeing you take control of yourself. We strive to encourage our clients to live life to the fullest by being assisted with a unique bundle care approach. Partner with us.
(978) 288-1303 View (978) 288-1303
Photo of Anna Roglieri, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS, MSN
Anna Roglieri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS, MSN
Winchester, MA 01890
We have the power to improve our mental health. We can choose what to think about and challenge & reframe our thoughts; live by our own values rather than by others' expectations; focus outward to create purpose, surround ourselves with good people and good energy. Nourishing and honoring our bodies with food and exercise, and, connecting with our fellow beings, can produce and release chemicals that make us feel good. Even the ability to activate our parasympathetic or calming nervous system is within our control, with a few simple techniques. We already have the tools to thrive in life. I would love to help you uncover them.
We have the power to improve our mental health. We can choose what to think about and challenge & reframe our thoughts; live by our own values rather than by others' expectations; focus outward to create purpose, surround ourselves with good people and good energy. Nourishing and honoring our bodies with food and exercise, and, connecting with our fellow beings, can produce and release chemicals that make us feel good. Even the ability to activate our parasympathetic or calming nervous system is within our control, with a few simple techniques. We already have the tools to thrive in life. I would love to help you uncover them.
(617) 766-3288 View (617) 766-3288
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Boston, MA 02114
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(617) 882-7176 View (617) 882-7176
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Burlington, MA 01803
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(339) 229-6555 View (339) 229-6555
Photo of Lynne Barry - Healthy Minds Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Healthy Minds Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
18 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Healthy Minds Psychiatry, we are committed to providing high quality, personalized mental health care to those seeking treatment through medication management. Our approach is rooted in the belief that each individual is unique, and their mental health journey deserves a person-centered and comprehensive approach. Here, we deeply value each relationship with our clients, after all, you are trusting us with your mental health care and we know how lucky we are for the opportunity. We understand that mental health treatment is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor but a deeply personal journey.
At Healthy Minds Psychiatry, we are committed to providing high quality, personalized mental health care to those seeking treatment through medication management. Our approach is rooted in the belief that each individual is unique, and their mental health journey deserves a person-centered and comprehensive approach. Here, we deeply value each relationship with our clients, after all, you are trusting us with your mental health care and we know how lucky we are for the opportunity. We understand that mental health treatment is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor but a deeply personal journey.
(508) 730-7830 View (508) 730-7830
Photo of Lisa J Pugh, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN-BC, FPMHNP
Lisa J Pugh
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN-BC, FPMHNP
Saugus, MA 01906
Not accepting new clients
Hi I'm Lisa and I am here to help you. I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in anxiety and depression. I can offer you both therapy as well as medication management if appropriate. I am here to assist you with any array of symptoms or life experiencing that you may struggling that are disruptive to the quality of life that you want and deserve. I want to walk through this with you. I can offer you the option of in person sessions as well as telehealth conducted on a secure, confidential platform. My office is conveniently located on Rt. 1 in Saugus. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
Hi I'm Lisa and I am here to help you. I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in anxiety and depression. I can offer you both therapy as well as medication management if appropriate. I am here to assist you with any array of symptoms or life experiencing that you may struggling that are disruptive to the quality of life that you want and deserve. I want to walk through this with you. I can offer you the option of in person sessions as well as telehealth conducted on a secure, confidential platform. My office is conveniently located on Rt. 1 in Saugus. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
(781) 328-2045 View (781) 328-2045
Photo of Carol Smith, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Carol Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Burlington, MA 01803
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
(339) 217-7202 View (339) 217-7202

See more therapy options for 01826

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 01826

< 10

Psychiatrists in 01826 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Sleep or Insomnia
89% ADHD
89% Trauma and PTSD
89% Bipolar Disorder
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
89% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 01826 see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 01826?

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.