Psychiatrists in 01950

Photo of Jennifer MacNeil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jennifer MacNeil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Newburyport, MA 01950
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
Photo of Stephanie White, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Stephanie White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Newburyport, MA 01950
Hi, I'm Steph, The ADHD NP! My ideal client is anyone who has, or suspects that they have, ADHD. They struggle with executive functioning; they basically work very hard to just get through any given day: regulating attention (NOT a deficit of); working memory ("what was I saying? what did i come in the room for?"); time management; easy-to-overwhelm-or-frustrate that can lead to mood swings due to stress intolerance; self-restraint; starting AND finishing tasks (motivation, procrastination, focus); planning/prioritization/delegating; organization; defining and achieving goals. I'm private pay only; see below for more details.
Hi, I'm Steph, The ADHD NP! My ideal client is anyone who has, or suspects that they have, ADHD. They struggle with executive functioning; they basically work very hard to just get through any given day: regulating attention (NOT a deficit of); working memory ("what was I saying? what did i come in the room for?"); time management; easy-to-overwhelm-or-frustrate that can lead to mood swings due to stress intolerance; self-restraint; starting AND finishing tasks (motivation, procrastination, focus); planning/prioritization/delegating; organization; defining and achieving goals. I'm private pay only; see below for more details.
(351) 247-8493 View (351) 247-8493
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Newburyport, MA 01950
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) 648-3096 View (978) 648-3096
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Newburyport, MA 01950
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) 705-5677 View (978) 705-5677
Photo of Sarlah Bernard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Sarlah Bernard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Newburyport, MA 01950
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.
(978) 297-8451 View (978) 297-8451
Photo of Margery Walentuk, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FMHNP, -BC, CARN-NP
Margery Walentuk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FMHNP, -BC, CARN-NP
Newburyport, MA 01950
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 Susan Martinson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Susan Martinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Newburyport, MA 01950
You may have struggled with managing depression and anxiety for years, or have had a recent triggering event and need guidance and support. I have been an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) since 2002 with experience in both women's health and mental health. I am licensed in Massachusetts and New Hampshire and offer therapy and medication management. I look forward to getting to know you and your unique situation, and to building a trusting relationship.
You may have struggled with managing depression and anxiety for years, or have had a recent triggering event and need guidance and support. I have been an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) since 2002 with experience in both women's health and mental health. I am licensed in Massachusetts and New Hampshire and offer therapy and medication management. I look forward to getting to know you and your unique situation, and to building a trusting relationship.
(978) 581-9560 View (978) 581-9560
Photo of Dr. Karina Tamir, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Karina Tamir
Psychiatrist, DO
Newburyport, MA 01950
Are you struggling with making decisions, coping with change, loss, relationship issues, or anxiety and mood instability? Effective treatment with an experienced psychiatrist/psychotherapist can bring relief. It is also an opportunity to become more authentic and connected with others and with yourself.
Are you struggling with making decisions, coping with change, loss, relationship issues, or anxiety and mood instability? Effective treatment with an experienced psychiatrist/psychotherapist can bring relief. It is also an opportunity to become more authentic and connected with others and with yourself.
(978) 717-0162 View (978) 717-0162
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD, CDS
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD, CDS
Newburyport, MA 01950
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.
(978) 636-1523 View (978) 636-1523
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 Cristin O'Connell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, MSN, APRN, MEd
Cristin O'Connell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, MSN, APRN, MEd
3 Endorsed
Newburyport, MA 01950
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 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 David J Schopick, Psychiatrist, MD
David J Schopick
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
The goal of my practice is helping people get their lives back. Restoring mental health can be a tricky road to navigate, but with perseverance and treatment, change is possible. I enjoy working with people, and from long years of experience, have a good sense of what it takes to help my patients return to productive, healthy lives. I am Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry. Dr. David Schopick primarily serves New Hampshire, southern Maine and northern Massachusetts, but is also available for telemedicine appointments.
The goal of my practice is helping people get their lives back. Restoring mental health can be a tricky road to navigate, but with perseverance and treatment, change is possible. I enjoy working with people, and from long years of experience, have a good sense of what it takes to help my patients return to productive, healthy lives. I am Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry. Dr. David Schopick primarily serves New Hampshire, southern Maine and northern Massachusetts, but is also available for telemedicine appointments.
(603) 967-4466 View (603) 967-4466
Photo of Jeremy Ashley Spiegel, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeremy Ashley Spiegel
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Jeremy Spiegel, MD, is available for psychiatric evaluations and medication management at his Portland, Maine office at Casco Bay Medical with both in person and virtual visits. He specializes in treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety and most other psychiatric disorders and conditions. New Treatment Offering: Brief Psychotherapy. Dr. Spiegel, as psychotherapist and collaborative problem solver, can help address your core psychological problem with weekly virtual visits over 12 sessions. Call the office for more details to see if you may be a candidate for this exciting approach.
Jeremy Spiegel, MD, is available for psychiatric evaluations and medication management at his Portland, Maine office at Casco Bay Medical with both in person and virtual visits. He specializes in treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety and most other psychiatric disorders and conditions. New Treatment Offering: Brief Psychotherapy. Dr. Spiegel, as psychotherapist and collaborative problem solver, can help address your core psychological problem with weekly virtual visits over 12 sessions. Call the office for more details to see if you may be a candidate for this exciting approach.
(351) 247-3908 View (351) 247-3908
Photo of Paul F Belliveau - Paul F. Belliveau, M.D., Psychiatrist, MD
Paul F. Belliveau, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
We offer traditional adult psychiatry treatment as well as newer interventional psychiatry treatments. We will work in collaboration with your current treatment team. Interventional psychiatry is a branch of psychiatry that specializes in providing r-TMS or Spravato/Ketamine treatment. These are two treatment options for people who still suffer from depression despite past trials of antidepressants and psychotherapy.
We offer traditional adult psychiatry treatment as well as newer interventional psychiatry treatments. We will work in collaboration with your current treatment team. Interventional psychiatry is a branch of psychiatry that specializes in providing r-TMS or Spravato/Ketamine treatment. These are two treatment options for people who still suffer from depression despite past trials of antidepressants and psychotherapy.
(603) 606-9452 View (603) 606-9452
Photo of Meredith Morrison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Meredith Morrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients with mental health issues across the lifespan. My clinical career has taken me on a journey through the healthcare system, from inpatient to outpatient settings. My clinical practice focuses on assessing, diagnosing, treatment planning and care coordination for those struggling with a wide range of mental health issues. I specialize in psychopharmacology and provide diagnostic evaluations, assessments and ongoing treatment via medication management for my clients, tailored to their individual needs’.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients with mental health issues across the lifespan. My clinical career has taken me on a journey through the healthcare system, from inpatient to outpatient settings. My clinical practice focuses on assessing, diagnosing, treatment planning and care coordination for those struggling with a wide range of mental health issues. I specialize in psychopharmacology and provide diagnostic evaluations, assessments and ongoing treatment via medication management for my clients, tailored to their individual needs’.
(781) 222-9383 View (781) 222-9383
Photo of Jill Ruggiero, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, BC
Jill Ruggiero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, BC
Serves Area
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 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
Serves Area
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 Emelda Iwobi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Emelda Iwobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Clients struggling in their mental health journey. I want you to feel empowered and supported throughout our journey together. Trust is not just a word to me-it is the foundation of our meeting. I am fully committed to helping you reach your goals and realize your dreams.
Clients struggling in their mental health journey. I want you to feel empowered and supported throughout our journey together. Trust is not just a word to me-it is the foundation of our meeting. I am fully committed to helping you reach your goals and realize your dreams.
(339) 217-6804 View (339) 217-6804
Photo of Marina Vijayakanthan, Psychiatrist, MD
Marina Vijayakanthan
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Mental health concerns are increasing rapidly in the past few years due to social media, the pandemic and recent tragedies. It should no longer be stigmatized but rather talked about openly so that individuals understand that they are not alone and that symptoms can improve. I have years of experience assessing and treating individuals with mental illness throughout their lifespan. I believe that at the core of any great mental health service should be trust and good rapport. When someone truly feels comfortable, they are better able to access therapeutic skills that will improve their symptoms.
Mental health concerns are increasing rapidly in the past few years due to social media, the pandemic and recent tragedies. It should no longer be stigmatized but rather talked about openly so that individuals understand that they are not alone and that symptoms can improve. I have years of experience assessing and treating individuals with mental illness throughout their lifespan. I believe that at the core of any great mental health service should be trust and good rapport. When someone truly feels comfortable, they are better able to access therapeutic skills that will improve their symptoms.
(508) 422-4185 View (508) 422-4185

See more therapy options for 01950

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 01950

20+

Average cost per session

$255

Psychiatrists in 01950 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
95% Anxiety
90% ADHD
90% Bipolar Disorder
81% Sleep or Insomnia
81% Medication Management
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Harvard Pilgrim
75% Tufts

How Psychiatrists in 01950 see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 01950?

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.