Psychiatrists in 01960

Photo of Jennifer Tufts, Psychiatrist, MD
Jennifer Tufts
Psychiatrist, MD
Peabody, MA 01960
Dr. Tufts, a Psychiatrist at Aster Mental Health, specializes in PTSD & trauma-related disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, substance abuse, women's mental health, and perinatal & postpartum psychiatry. Her multidimensional treatment approach utilizes tools such as medication, psychotherapy, mindfulness, & lifestyle changes. She is a University of Vermont & Boston University trained Psychiatrist offering medication management as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
Dr. Tufts, a Psychiatrist at Aster Mental Health, specializes in PTSD & trauma-related disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, substance abuse, women's mental health, and perinatal & postpartum psychiatry. Her multidimensional treatment approach utilizes tools such as medication, psychotherapy, mindfulness, & lifestyle changes. She is a University of Vermont & Boston University trained Psychiatrist offering medication management as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
(857) 675-3812 View (857) 675-3812
Photo of Ijeoma Onwuogu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN, CNP, MSN
Ijeoma Onwuogu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN, CNP, MSN
2 Endorsed
Peabody, MA 01960
Is your budget tight and you're looking to receive non-judgmental quality care, then you are in the right place. Restorative Mental Health offers a wide range of mental and behavioral health support ranging from Psychotherapy, evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. You are guaranteed to always feel welcome and at home. We utilize a holistic and person centered approach to provide quality care to our clients in a calm and relaxed environment or in the comfort of your home. We provide telehealth and office visits. IJ holds a Master's Degree in Nursing, and is board certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Is your budget tight and you're looking to receive non-judgmental quality care, then you are in the right place. Restorative Mental Health offers a wide range of mental and behavioral health support ranging from Psychotherapy, evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. You are guaranteed to always feel welcome and at home. We utilize a holistic and person centered approach to provide quality care to our clients in a calm and relaxed environment or in the comfort of your home. We provide telehealth and office visits. IJ holds a Master's Degree in Nursing, and is board certified Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(978) 404-8513 View (978) 404-8513
Photo of Monika Batra, Psychiatrist, DO
Monika Batra
Psychiatrist, DO
Peabody, MA 01960
As a psychiatrist at Aster Mental Health, I specialize in patients looking to treat and manage their ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I offer holistic care focused on mind, body and spirit which includes medication management, as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
As a psychiatrist at Aster Mental Health, I specialize in patients looking to treat and manage their ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I offer holistic care focused on mind, body and spirit which includes medication management, as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
(978) 386-8286 View (978) 386-8286
Photo of Kim Nelson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Kim Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Peabody, MA 01960
To further refine my understanding of client needs and optimize the efficacy of my services, I am actively engaging in a process of defining my ideal client profile. This involves considering a range of factors, including the specific presenting issues, the individual's personal strengths and resources, their desired treatment outcomes, and the reasons driving their pursuit of mental health services. A clear articulation of these factors will enable me to better align my skills and expertise with the unique requirements of each client, leading to more effective and fulfilling therapeutic relationships.
To further refine my understanding of client needs and optimize the efficacy of my services, I am actively engaging in a process of defining my ideal client profile. This involves considering a range of factors, including the specific presenting issues, the individual's personal strengths and resources, their desired treatment outcomes, and the reasons driving their pursuit of mental health services. A clear articulation of these factors will enable me to better align my skills and expertise with the unique requirements of each client, leading to more effective and fulfilling therapeutic relationships.
(978) 951-6166 View (978) 951-6166
Photo of Edwin J. Agbonavbare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, ARNP-BC
Edwin J. Agbonavbare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, ARNP-BC
Peabody, MA 01960
Nice to meet you, I am the founder of Rejuvenate Psychiatric Mental Health Services, LLC. As a psych nurse practitioner, my purpose is to bring life back to normalcy after mental health challenges. My purpose is to eradicate the stigma that surrounds mental health. It is okay to have mental health challenges. I will help individuals manage long-term mental health conditions, offer therapy for a wide variety of psychological disorders, provide individuals and parent education, and offer referrals to other medical specialties as needed. I also provide assessment, evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and medication management.
Nice to meet you, I am the founder of Rejuvenate Psychiatric Mental Health Services, LLC. As a psych nurse practitioner, my purpose is to bring life back to normalcy after mental health challenges. My purpose is to eradicate the stigma that surrounds mental health. It is okay to have mental health challenges. I will help individuals manage long-term mental health conditions, offer therapy for a wide variety of psychological disorders, provide individuals and parent education, and offer referrals to other medical specialties as needed. I also provide assessment, evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and medication management.
(978) 708-4603 View (978) 708-4603
Photo of Ann M DESLOGES - Behavioral and Mental Health Ann Desl, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP,C, APRN,BC, MSN
Behavioral and Mental Health Ann Desl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP,C, APRN,BC, MSN
Online Only
Welcome to Behavioral and Mental Health. As a double-boarded Adult Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. My journey in healthcare includes 20 years of service to our veterans as a VA NP, during which time I gained invaluable experience in addressing complex health needs.
Welcome to Behavioral and Mental Health. As a double-boarded Adult Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. My journey in healthcare includes 20 years of service to our veterans as a VA NP, during which time I gained invaluable experience in addressing complex health needs.
(351) 777-1526 View (351) 777-1526
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Peabody, MA 01960
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) 636-1755 View (978) 636-1755
Photo of Angelo Mallozzi, Psychiatrist, MD
Angelo Mallozzi
Psychiatrist, MD
Peabody, MA 01960
Dr. Mallozzi, a Psychiatrist at Aster Mental Health, specializes in treating patients looking to treat and manage their ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and schizophrenia.
Dr. Mallozzi, a Psychiatrist at Aster Mental Health, specializes in treating patients looking to treat and manage their ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and schizophrenia.
(978) 619-8653 View (978) 619-8653
Photo of Sarlah Bernard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Sarlah Bernard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Peabody, MA 01960
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) 691-9703 View (978) 691-9703
Photo of Danielle Walsh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Danielle Walsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Peabody, MA 01960
As an occupational therapist and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I follow a holistic, multi-faceted approach to assessing my clients' skills, challenges and needs. This approach allows me to offer therapeutic solutions and provide medication management to improve my clients' function across environments. As a clinician at Project CHILLD, I am a part of a multidisciplinary team of 19 providers including a psychologist, occupational therapists, speech and language pathologists, integrated listening specialists, and neurofeedback providers, which allows us to offer services tailored to our clients' needs.
As an occupational therapist and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I follow a holistic, multi-faceted approach to assessing my clients' skills, challenges and needs. This approach allows me to offer therapeutic solutions and provide medication management to improve my clients' function across environments. As a clinician at Project CHILLD, I am a part of a multidisciplinary team of 19 providers including a psychologist, occupational therapists, speech and language pathologists, integrated listening specialists, and neurofeedback providers, which allows us to offer services tailored to our clients' needs.
(978) 574-7458 View (978) 574-7458
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 Dr. Andrea Papa- Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa- Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Peabody, MA 01960
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) 503-0195 View (978) 503-0195
Photo of Mercy Bashir, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGPCNP, PMHNP
Mercy Bashir
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGPCNP, PMHNP
Peabody, MA 01960
My professional goal is to provide compassionate, comprehensive care for individuals struggling with mental and behavioral health challenges, emphasizing the integration of physical and mental wellness. With a solid foundation of experience in diverse healthcare settings, I am committed to addressing each individual's unique needs by fostering a deeper understanding of their emotional rhythms and overall well-being. My approach combines evidence-based practices such as self-care strategies, psychopharmacological treatments, and therapeutic interventions, tailored to support each individual's journey toward recovery and resilience.
My professional goal is to provide compassionate, comprehensive care for individuals struggling with mental and behavioral health challenges, emphasizing the integration of physical and mental wellness. With a solid foundation of experience in diverse healthcare settings, I am committed to addressing each individual's unique needs by fostering a deeper understanding of their emotional rhythms and overall well-being. My approach combines evidence-based practices such as self-care strategies, psychopharmacological treatments, and therapeutic interventions, tailored to support each individual's journey toward recovery and resilience.
(978) 547-8654 View (978) 547-8654
Photo of Jared Carbone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Jared Carbone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Peabody, MA 01960
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Family Nurse Practitioner, I, Jared J. Carbone APRN, PMHNP-BC have worked in various settings including both state-run and private mental health outpatient facilities within the state of South Carolina. I have had extensive training as a psychiatric nurse prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner and specializes in treating adult mood disorders including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, and insomnia. I incorporate the use of natural over-the-counter remedies in addition to the use of medications for residents within the state of South Carolina & Massachusetts.
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Family Nurse Practitioner, I, Jared J. Carbone APRN, PMHNP-BC have worked in various settings including both state-run and private mental health outpatient facilities within the state of South Carolina. I have had extensive training as a psychiatric nurse prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner and specializes in treating adult mood disorders including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, and insomnia. I incorporate the use of natural over-the-counter remedies in addition to the use of medications for residents within the state of South Carolina & Massachusetts.
(864) 202-6459 View (864) 202-6459
Photo of Kara Ruggiero, Physician Assistant, PA
Kara Ruggiero
Physician Assistant, PA
Peabody, MA 01960
I specialize in helping individuals manage ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and bipolar disorder. My holistic treatment approach combines medication management with evidence-based psychotherapy techniques, including CBT, DBT, and mindfulness. I provide psychiatric assessments, ongoing treatment, and personalized care to support your mental health and well-being every step of the way.
I specialize in helping individuals manage ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and bipolar disorder. My holistic treatment approach combines medication management with evidence-based psychotherapy techniques, including CBT, DBT, and mindfulness. I provide psychiatric assessments, ongoing treatment, and personalized care to support your mental health and well-being every step of the way.
(617) 299-7257 View (617) 299-7257
Photo of Shahrzad Sims, Psychiatrist, DO
Shahrzad Sims
Psychiatrist, DO
Peabody, MA 01960
Dr. Sims, psychiatrist at Aster Mental Health, specializes in patients looking to treat and manage their ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and schizophrenia. She offers medicine management as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
Dr. Sims, psychiatrist at Aster Mental Health, specializes in patients looking to treat and manage their ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and schizophrenia. She offers medicine management as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
(857) 877-3809 View (857) 877-3809
Photo of Brendan Campbell, Psychiatrist, MD
Brendan Campbell
Psychiatrist, MD
Peabody, MA 01960
My ideal client faces a range of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, or cognitive difficulties. They may be overwhelmed by the pressures of a high-performance lifestyle and are looking for ways to optimally manage stress. Perhaps they are looking be free from the effects of trauma or obsessive-compulsive behaviors that may are hindering them from accomplishing their goals. They desire not just relief from symptoms, but sustainable change that fosters a greater sense of belonging, purpose, and empowerment. Ultimately, they desire to be whole and at peace, finding joy no matter the trials or tribulations of life.
My ideal client faces a range of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, or cognitive difficulties. They may be overwhelmed by the pressures of a high-performance lifestyle and are looking for ways to optimally manage stress. Perhaps they are looking be free from the effects of trauma or obsessive-compulsive behaviors that may are hindering them from accomplishing their goals. They desire not just relief from symptoms, but sustainable change that fosters a greater sense of belonging, purpose, and empowerment. Ultimately, they desire to be whole and at peace, finding joy no matter the trials or tribulations of life.
(857) 678-2540 View (857) 678-2540
Photo of Jonathan Love, Psychiatrist, MD
Jonathan Love
Psychiatrist, MD
Peabody, MA 01960
Dr. Love, a Psychiatrist at Aster Mental Health, specializes in treating individuals with depressive disorders, bipolar spectrum disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, PTSD, OCD, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and substance use disorders. He is a Board-certified & Harvard-trained Psychiatrist offering medication management as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
Dr. Love, a Psychiatrist at Aster Mental Health, specializes in treating individuals with depressive disorders, bipolar spectrum disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, PTSD, OCD, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and substance use disorders. He is a Board-certified & Harvard-trained Psychiatrist offering medication management as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
(857) 323-5896 View (857) 323-5896
Photo of Megan Cavanaugh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Megan Cavanaugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Sometimes life can be overwhelming and we wisely recognize that we need more help. Other times we come to see that we are not functioning as our best selves, and wonder what might help. Medication can be a powerful tool to help us cope and function as our best selves. The right diagnosis and the right medication, can be life changing...... If you would like to inquire about becoming a patient, please use the link to my website on the left side of this page, from there you can submit the "New Patient Inquiry" , thank you..... Please note I provide medication management for behavioral health for ages 12-55 and not counseling/therapy.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming and we wisely recognize that we need more help. Other times we come to see that we are not functioning as our best selves, and wonder what might help. Medication can be a powerful tool to help us cope and function as our best selves. The right diagnosis and the right medication, can be life changing...... If you would like to inquire about becoming a patient, please use the link to my website on the left side of this page, from there you can submit the "New Patient Inquiry" , thank you..... Please note I provide medication management for behavioral health for ages 12-55 and not counseling/therapy.
(781) 512-6687 View (781) 512-6687
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

See more therapy options for 01960

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 01960

30+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 01960 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
86% Bipolar Disorder
83% Trauma and PTSD
80% Medication Management
77% ADHD
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
90% Aetna
84% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 01960 see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 01960?

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.