Psychiatrists in 01913

Photo of John Njuguna - Amani Mental Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amani Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Amesbury, MA 01913
Looking for someone who truly listens and understands your mental health needs? Meet John Njuguna, a caring and experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, licensed in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. He helps people dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse. John offers personalized care and expert medication management to support your well-being. His goal is simple: to help you feel better, function better, and enjoy life more. Ready to take the first step? Reach out to John today and start your journey to better mental health.
Looking for someone who truly listens and understands your mental health needs? Meet John Njuguna, a caring and experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, licensed in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. He helps people dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse. John offers personalized care and expert medication management to support your well-being. His goal is simple: to help you feel better, function better, and enjoy life more. Ready to take the first step? Reach out to John today and start your journey to better mental health.
(978) 717-0852 View (978) 717-0852
Photo of Gregory Marcellin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Gregory Marcellin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Amesbury, MA 01913
My goal is geared towards establishing an environment centered on trust and meaning for all patients from all backgrounds. As a lead nurse practitioner during the pandemic times of isolation, quarantine, and minimal social events, I observed and treated the immediate, short-term impacts of COVID-19 and grew an interest in understanding the long-term mental health impacts of the pandemic, especially among marginalized groups of people.
My goal is geared towards establishing an environment centered on trust and meaning for all patients from all backgrounds. As a lead nurse practitioner during the pandemic times of isolation, quarantine, and minimal social events, I observed and treated the immediate, short-term impacts of COVID-19 and grew an interest in understanding the long-term mental health impacts of the pandemic, especially among marginalized groups of people.
(978) 924-4334 View (978) 924-4334
Photo of Jill Ruggiero, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, BC
Jill Ruggiero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, BC
Amesbury, MA 01913
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, make diagnoses, and prescribe medications based on evidence-based practices in medicine. I work with adults only. I have experience with a broad spectrum of disorders including depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, and PTSD. I practiced as a NP in a community mental health center for the 10 years prior to opening my own practice. I also worked in a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center for 5 + years. I do not accept Medicare at this time. I work mostly days.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, make diagnoses, and prescribe medications based on evidence-based practices in medicine. I work with adults only. I have experience with a broad spectrum of disorders including depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, and PTSD. I practiced as a NP in a community mental health center for the 10 years prior to opening my own practice. I also worked in a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center for 5 + years. I do not accept Medicare at this time. I work mostly days.
(978) 518-9720 View (978) 518-9720
Photo of Emily Gorsuch, Psychiatric Nurse, RN
Emily Gorsuch
Psychiatric Nurse, RN
Online Only
Like water we flow through the rocks in life's river. You will re-discover the strength and capacity you already have.
Like water we flow through the rocks in life's river. You will re-discover the strength and capacity you already have.
(978) 506-9807 View (978) 506-9807
Photo of Dr. Mary Elizabeth Keyes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dr. Mary Elizabeth Keyes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Amesbury, MA 01913
Waitlist for new clients
Now accepting patients ages 5-18 who reside in MA and NH for medication management. For more information or to schedule a consultation call please visit www.keyesbehavioralhealth.com. I am a doctorally prepared board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I became passionate about child and adolescent mental health while treating families at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. I enjoy working with children and their families affected by ADHD, autism, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and psychotic disorders.
Now accepting patients ages 5-18 who reside in MA and NH for medication management. For more information or to schedule a consultation call please visit www.keyesbehavioralhealth.com. I am a doctorally prepared board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I became passionate about child and adolescent mental health while treating families at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. I enjoy working with children and their families affected by ADHD, autism, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and psychotic disorders.
(978) 696-8578 View (978) 696-8578
Photo of Shirley Kelly LaBrecque - Arches Psychiatric Services, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, MSW, LICSW
Arches Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, MSW, LICSW
Amesbury, MA 01913
I look forward to meeting you and developing a plan to assist you in moving forward in your journey toward hope and healing. I believe that developing a therapeutic alliance with my client is the most important part of my treatment.
I look forward to meeting you and developing a plan to assist you in moving forward in your journey toward hope and healing. I believe that developing a therapeutic alliance with my client is the most important part of my treatment.
(774) 238-8783 View (774) 238-8783
Photo of Cristin O'Connell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, MSN, APRN, MEd
Cristin O'Connell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, MSN, APRN, MEd
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I'm Cristin O'Connell, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to offer a safe space for adults to explore medication management. I take an integrative approach to mental health treatment through medication management, genetic testing/labwork, and supplements. Are you feeling overwhelmed and wondering if medication could be a way to support your healing? Medication along with integrative therapies are often tools to support your healing journey. Please know that you are welcome in this space.
I'm Cristin O'Connell, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to offer a safe space for adults to explore medication management. I take an integrative approach to mental health treatment through medication management, genetic testing/labwork, and supplements. Are you feeling overwhelmed and wondering if medication could be a way to support your healing? Medication along with integrative therapies are often tools to support your healing journey. Please know that you are welcome in this space.
(617) 405-8173 View (617) 405-8173
Photo of Margery Walentuk, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FMHNP, -BC, CARN-NP
Margery Walentuk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FMHNP, -BC, CARN-NP
Serves Area
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with the unique combination of 14 years as a School Nurse as well as 20 years with a variety of inpatient and outpatient community based Mental Health clinics. This background allows me to support the child as well as the family and offer clients the opportunity for medication management in conjunction with psychiatric evaluations, collaboration with school personnel and psychotherapists, and appropriate referrals. This comprehensive approach delivers the opportunity to achieve the optimum health in all areas for children age 6 and older, adolescents and adults.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with the unique combination of 14 years as a School Nurse as well as 20 years with a variety of inpatient and outpatient community based Mental Health clinics. This background allows me to support the child as well as the family and offer clients the opportunity for medication management in conjunction with psychiatric evaluations, collaboration with school personnel and psychotherapists, and appropriate referrals. This comprehensive approach delivers the opportunity to achieve the optimum health in all areas for children age 6 and older, adolescents and adults.
(978) 666-0326 View (978) 666-0326
Photo of James Gregory Bouras - James G. Bouras, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
James G. Bouras, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I really enjoy working with all. In particular I think its important to have a mutual relationship where both parties collaborate and agree on the proper treatment. It is essential to also incorporate good diet and exercise in order to feel better! I focus in on clients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, and ADD symptoms.
I really enjoy working with all. In particular I think its important to have a mutual relationship where both parties collaborate and agree on the proper treatment. It is essential to also incorporate good diet and exercise in order to feel better! I focus in on clients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, and ADD symptoms.
(978) 451-6270 View (978) 451-6270
Photo of Angela Algabri - Encore Behavioral Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Encore Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
New clients are welcome. I offer medication management services to patients ages 6+ throughout Massachusetts via a secure, private online telehealth platform. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions through a combination of medication management and supportive therapy. My goal is to provide a warm and welcoming environment where you’ll feel valued, accepted and empowered. Our practice is inclusive, culturally sensitive, and free of judgment, supporting individuals from all walks of life. Let's work together to develop a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle.
New clients are welcome. I offer medication management services to patients ages 6+ throughout Massachusetts via a secure, private online telehealth platform. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions through a combination of medication management and supportive therapy. My goal is to provide a warm and welcoming environment where you’ll feel valued, accepted and empowered. Our practice is inclusive, culturally sensitive, and free of judgment, supporting individuals from all walks of life. Let's work together to develop a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle.
(978) 862-4218 View (978) 862-4218
Photo of Jennifer MacNeil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jennifer MacNeil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you generally happy and grateful, yet find yourself struggling emotionally in your personal or professional life? Do you live with a mental health condition that impacts your day-to-day functioning? You’re not alone. Staying present and keeping up with the demands of work, family, and relationships can feel overwhelming at times. I’m here to help you navigate those challenges by building insight, learning to trust yourself, reframing negative thought patterns, and identifying unhealthy behaviors or relationships. Together, we’ll work to uncover the answers already within you to meet your goals and support your well-being.
Are you generally happy and grateful, yet find yourself struggling emotionally in your personal or professional life? Do you live with a mental health condition that impacts your day-to-day functioning? You’re not alone. Staying present and keeping up with the demands of work, family, and relationships can feel overwhelming at times. I’m here to help you navigate those challenges by building insight, learning to trust yourself, reframing negative thought patterns, and identifying unhealthy behaviors or relationships. Together, we’ll work to uncover the answers already within you to meet your goals and support your well-being.
(978) 344-6844 View (978) 344-6844

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Sarlah Bernard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sarlah Bernard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
North Andover, MA 01845
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 to make 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 to make an informed decision about their treatment plan.
(508) 456-9580 View (508) 456-9580
Photo of Sarlah Bernard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Sarlah Bernard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Salem, MA 01970
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 Joshua Ritz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joshua Ritz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Salem, MA 01970
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, trauma, and mood disorders. I have had a long career working in mental healthcare at McLean Hospital, treating patients ranging in age from late adolescence through the elderly, and completed my clinical training there while earning my graduate degree from Regis College. I believe treatment to be multifaceted, with medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes as factors that work best in concert with each other.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, trauma, and mood disorders. I have had a long career working in mental healthcare at McLean Hospital, treating patients ranging in age from late adolescence through the elderly, and completed my clinical training there while earning my graduate degree from Regis College. I believe treatment to be multifaceted, with medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes as factors that work best in concert with each other.
(508) 290-6732 View (508) 290-6732
Photo of Paul K Langat, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, AGNP, PMHNP
Paul K Langat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, AGNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a dual-certified AGNP and PMHNP with over 9 years of diverse healthcare experience. My goals and aims are to establish a therapeutic relationship with my clients and empower them to engage in their individualized treatment, thereby restoring their potential and promoting a maximum state of well-being. I strive to provide my clients with adequate information to enable them to make adequate choices about their treatment.
I am a dual-certified AGNP and PMHNP with over 9 years of diverse healthcare experience. My goals and aims are to establish a therapeutic relationship with my clients and empower them to engage in their individualized treatment, thereby restoring their potential and promoting a maximum state of well-being. I strive to provide my clients with adequate information to enable them to make adequate choices about their treatment.
(781) 773-2791 View (781) 773-2791
Photo of William Chad Garrett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
William Chad Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Peabody, MA 01960
When you're struggling, you need support right away, not in a month. If you're dealing with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia that are impacting your life, visit my website and click on the "Request Consultation" button to get started today.
When you're struggling, you need support right away, not in a month. If you're dealing with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia that are impacting your life, visit my website and click on the "Request Consultation" button to get started today.
(508) 413-6401 View (508) 413-6401
Photo of William Chad Garrett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
William Chad Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Lowell, MA 01852
When you're struggling, you need support right away, not in a month. If you're dealing with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia that are impacting your life, visit my website and click on the "Request Consultation" button to get started today.
When you're struggling, you need support right away, not in a month. If you're dealing with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia that are impacting your life, visit my website and click on the "Request Consultation" button to get started today.
(351) 200-4531 View (351) 200-4531
Photo of Dr. Joseph Okrah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Dr. Joseph Okrah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
Hello, I'm Joseph, a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for delivering comprehensive care to individuals facing mental health challenges. Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure about how to manage your symptoms? You're not alone. I'm here to guide you through the process of discovering the underlying causes of your struggles and developing a personalized treatment plan that incorporates evidence-based approaches for effective healing.
Hello, I'm Joseph, a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for delivering comprehensive care to individuals facing mental health challenges. Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure about how to manage your symptoms? You're not alone. I'm here to guide you through the process of discovering the underlying causes of your struggles and developing a personalized treatment plan that incorporates evidence-based approaches for effective healing.
(202) 601-3312 View (202) 601-3312
Photo of Donald A. Smith, Psychiatrist, MD
Donald A. Smith
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Yes, I am accepting new patients at the present time. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, empathic listener, and I have 22 years of experience as a physician and 13 years in private practice. I look forward to helping you to feel better. I practice holistic and evidence supported psychiatry. I provide comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic assessment, education, and prescribe medication to treat your symptoms. I do not accept insurance, so I am able to spend more time with you than in-network providers. I have caring administrative support staff. I grew up in Wellesley.
Yes, I am accepting new patients at the present time. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, empathic listener, and I have 22 years of experience as a physician and 13 years in private practice. I look forward to helping you to feel better. I practice holistic and evidence supported psychiatry. I provide comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic assessment, education, and prescribe medication to treat your symptoms. I do not accept insurance, so I am able to spend more time with you than in-network providers. I have caring administrative support staff. I grew up in Wellesley.
(413) 207-9189 View (413) 207-9189
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
North Andover, MA 01845
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 diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient 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 diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(508) 691-8391 View (508) 691-8391

See more therapy options for 01913

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 01913

10+

Average cost per session

$162

Psychiatrists in 01913 who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
91% Bipolar Disorder
91% Sleep or Insomnia
82% ADHD
82% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
82% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
89% Aetna
78% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 01913 see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 01913?

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.