Psychiatrists in 02324
BrighterSpace Mental Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgewater, MA 02324
Mesode is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who empowers individuals to achieve mental wellness from pre-adolescent to adulthood. She is committed to providing compassionate/empathetic care and personalized treatment plans. With expertise in assessment, diagnosis, relationship-building skills, and medication management. She strives to foster a supportive therapeutic environment where clients can thrive and regain control of their lives. Collaborating with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams, she aims to promote holistic well-being and resilience in the face of mental challenges.
Mesode is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who empowers individuals to achieve mental wellness from pre-adolescent to adulthood. She is committed to providing compassionate/empathetic care and personalized treatment plans. With expertise in assessment, diagnosis, relationship-building skills, and medication management. She strives to foster a supportive therapeutic environment where clients can thrive and regain control of their lives. Collaborating with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams, she aims to promote holistic well-being and resilience in the face of mental challenges.
Mesode Sobe-Uduaghan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgewater, MA 02324
Mesode is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who empowers individuals to achieve mental wellness from pre-adolescent to adulthood. She is committed to providing compassionate/empathetic care and personalized treatment plans. With expertise in assessment, diagnosis, relationship-building skills, and medication management. She strives to foster a supportive therapeutic environment where clients can thrive and regain control of their lives. Collaborating with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams, she aims to promote holistic well-being and resilience in the face of mental challenges.
Mesode is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who empowers individuals to achieve mental wellness from pre-adolescent to adulthood. She is committed to providing compassionate/empathetic care and personalized treatment plans. With expertise in assessment, diagnosis, relationship-building skills, and medication management. She strives to foster a supportive therapeutic environment where clients can thrive and regain control of their lives. Collaborating with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams, she aims to promote holistic well-being and resilience in the face of mental challenges.
Peter A Bertelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgewater, MA 02324 (Online Only)
Ready to embrace change and transform your mental health journey? Are you feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Is anxiety or depression overshadowing your daily life? If you're considering a holistic approach to mental health or questioning the effectiveness of your current medications, you're in the right place. As a psychiatric/mental health nurse, I don't just treat symptoms—I address the whole person. Together, we will explore your mental health struggles, your life circumstances, and practical ways to enact meaningful change. From lifestyle adjustments to therapy and discussions of medication options, I'm here to
Ready to embrace change and transform your mental health journey? Are you feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Is anxiety or depression overshadowing your daily life? If you're considering a holistic approach to mental health or questioning the effectiveness of your current medications, you're in the right place. As a psychiatric/mental health nurse, I don't just treat symptoms—I address the whole person. Together, we will explore your mental health struggles, your life circumstances, and practical ways to enact meaningful change. From lifestyle adjustments to therapy and discussions of medication options, I'm here to
Judith Austin, PMHNP, Align Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgewater, MA 02324 (Online Only)
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management only; I do NOT provide counseling/therapy services. I am passionate about the work I do and I am committed to assisting you in improving your mental health. I am also a provider that will be direct with my patients, ensuring that plain-speaking, honest conversation leads to open lines of communication. As a prescriber of psychiatric medications, and before discussing a potential medication regimen that you may benefit from, we will engage in a thorough discussion about your life, your past history, your current situation, and your treatment goals.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management only; I do NOT provide counseling/therapy services. I am passionate about the work I do and I am committed to assisting you in improving your mental health. I am also a provider that will be direct with my patients, ensuring that plain-speaking, honest conversation leads to open lines of communication. As a prescriber of psychiatric medications, and before discussing a potential medication regimen that you may benefit from, we will engage in a thorough discussion about your life, your past history, your current situation, and your treatment goals.
Mind Over Matters Therapeutic & Wellness Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CNP, MSN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bridgewater, MA 02324
We are here for individuals navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders and are ready to take that important step toward better mental health. If you’re seeking a professional who truly understands what you're going through, we are here to provide personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Our approach focuses on offering effective treatment strategies that help you manage symptoms, build healthy coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of stability. Our goal is to support you on your journey toward well-being, empowering you to take control of your mental health and improve your quality of life.
We are here for individuals navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders and are ready to take that important step toward better mental health. If you’re seeking a professional who truly understands what you're going through, we are here to provide personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Our approach focuses on offering effective treatment strategies that help you manage symptoms, build healthy coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of stability. Our goal is to support you on your journey toward well-being, empowering you to take control of your mental health and improve your quality of life.
William Chad Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgewater, MA 02324
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
Spring of Hope Health Services Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgewater, MA 02324
At Spring of hope, we are passionate in helping people find healing and fulfillment. We have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health sector. We are board-certified to diagnose various mental health conditions, prescribe medications, manage psychiatric needs, and provide psychotherapy to young and older adults. Our goal as psychiatric providers is to see people live at their full potential. We offer comprehensive assessment and treatment of Depression, anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, insomnia, Schizophrenia and other psychiatric illnesses. Spring forth and start enjoying life at it's best.
At Spring of hope, we are passionate in helping people find healing and fulfillment. We have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health sector. We are board-certified to diagnose various mental health conditions, prescribe medications, manage psychiatric needs, and provide psychotherapy to young and older adults. Our goal as psychiatric providers is to see people live at their full potential. We offer comprehensive assessment and treatment of Depression, anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, insomnia, Schizophrenia and other psychiatric illnesses. Spring forth and start enjoying life at it's best.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Katherine Orlowski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Middleborough, MA 02346
Hello and welcome! Over the past decade I have worked in various psychiatric settings including inpatient, outpatient and substance use disorder clinics. I received my doctorate in psychiatric nursing from University of Massachusetts Dartmouth with my research centering around trauma informed care. I have experience with psychiatric illness across the lifespan, including substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. I have a passion for working with patients to help you reach your mental health goals.
Hello and welcome! Over the past decade I have worked in various psychiatric settings including inpatient, outpatient and substance use disorder clinics. I received my doctorate in psychiatric nursing from University of Massachusetts Dartmouth with my research centering around trauma informed care. I have experience with psychiatric illness across the lifespan, including substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. I have a passion for working with patients to help you reach your mental health goals.
Power Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raynham, MA 02767
Power Behavioral Health is a small private practice located on the South Shore offering medication management for clients who are currently undergoing therapy but feel they need further treatment. We treat a wide range of mental health conditions. We accept most commercial insurance plans as well as self pay. Please visit www.powerbehavioralhealth.com for more details or to book an appointment online.
Power Behavioral Health is a small private practice located on the South Shore offering medication management for clients who are currently undergoing therapy but feel they need further treatment. We treat a wide range of mental health conditions. We accept most commercial insurance plans as well as self pay. Please visit www.powerbehavioralhealth.com for more details or to book an appointment online.
Elizabeth Frade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Middleborough, MA 02346
Accepting new clients ! I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with over twelve years of experience working in various settings treating patients with mental health and substance use disorders. I believe that a collaborative and therapeutic relationship is central to the success of my patients and therefore is an extremely important component of treatment. I have experience with psychiatric illness across the lifespan with a focus in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and SUD. With experience in emergency medicine, I also specialize in treating frontline workers including nurses, police, EMS, and Fire.
Accepting new clients ! I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with over twelve years of experience working in various settings treating patients with mental health and substance use disorders. I believe that a collaborative and therapeutic relationship is central to the success of my patients and therefore is an extremely important component of treatment. I have experience with psychiatric illness across the lifespan with a focus in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and SUD. With experience in emergency medicine, I also specialize in treating frontline workers including nurses, police, EMS, and Fire.
Claire DiIlio
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Bridgewater, MA 02379 (Online Only)
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management to individuals across the lifespan. I graduated from the MGH Institute of Health Professions with a BS in Nursing and, after gaining experience as a registered nurse, attained a master's from Northeastern University. As an RN, I worked at Massachusetts General Hospital on the Inpatient Psychiatric Service. Through this experience, I became familiar with the holistic, interdisciplinary approach to the management of mental illness with a patient-centered focus.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management to individuals across the lifespan. I graduated from the MGH Institute of Health Professions with a BS in Nursing and, after gaining experience as a registered nurse, attained a master's from Northeastern University. As an RN, I worked at Massachusetts General Hospital on the Inpatient Psychiatric Service. Through this experience, I became familiar with the holistic, interdisciplinary approach to the management of mental illness with a patient-centered focus.
A Compassionate Mind And Wellness, LLC,
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNPBC, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
Halifax, MA 02338 (Online Only)
Hi my name is Michele Graney, NP, and I would welcome the opportunity to help you. I know that reaching out for support can feel awkward & that it can take time to build comfort, trust, and rapport. As a experienced NP, I do not believe in scheduling "speedy appointments" as this compromises quality of care. My appointments are not rushed, to allow time for questions to be asked & time for you to be heard. I provide a safe place to encourage each patient to feel free to express their issues. I believe in being open & honest with each patient which are crucial in building & maintaining a trusting and genuine therapeutic alliance.
Hi my name is Michele Graney, NP, and I would welcome the opportunity to help you. I know that reaching out for support can feel awkward & that it can take time to build comfort, trust, and rapport. As a experienced NP, I do not believe in scheduling "speedy appointments" as this compromises quality of care. My appointments are not rushed, to allow time for questions to be asked & time for you to be heard. I provide a safe place to encourage each patient to feel free to express their issues. I believe in being open & honest with each patient which are crucial in building & maintaining a trusting and genuine therapeutic alliance.
Thoughtful Therapies, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raynham, MA 02767 (Online Only)
Taking care of your mental health doesn’t have to be complicated. That’s why I offer simple, accessible telehealth services that fit into your schedule. At Thoughtful Therapies, you’ll find a safe space to talk about anything weighing on you. Whether it’s anxiety, low self-esteem, or even trouble sleeping. Together, we’ll build a treatment plan tailored to you. I also provide psychotherapy alongside medication management, so we can ensure both work seamlessly to support your well-being. Let’s find what works for you by scheduling a session today!
Taking care of your mental health doesn’t have to be complicated. That’s why I offer simple, accessible telehealth services that fit into your schedule. At Thoughtful Therapies, you’ll find a safe space to talk about anything weighing on you. Whether it’s anxiety, low self-esteem, or even trouble sleeping. Together, we’ll build a treatment plan tailored to you. I also provide psychotherapy alongside medication management, so we can ensure both work seamlessly to support your well-being. Let’s find what works for you by scheduling a session today!
Nancy Perroni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Middleborough, MA 02344
Welcome! I am accepting new adult clients! I look forward to meeting with you to gain an understanding of your individual mental health needs with either in-person or telehealth visits. Together, we can explore what treatments were or were not effective in the past, and work together to make a plan to meet your goals. I offer Genesight cheek swab testing which analyzes individual client’s gene/drug metabolism which can guide treatment when other options have failed. Spravato for treatment resistant depression is also available in the office. I specialize in psychopharmacology for those who have a variety of mental health conditions.
Welcome! I am accepting new adult clients! I look forward to meeting with you to gain an understanding of your individual mental health needs with either in-person or telehealth visits. Together, we can explore what treatments were or were not effective in the past, and work together to make a plan to meet your goals. I offer Genesight cheek swab testing which analyzes individual client’s gene/drug metabolism which can guide treatment when other options have failed. Spravato for treatment resistant depression is also available in the office. I specialize in psychopharmacology for those who have a variety of mental health conditions.
Franklin Quider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raynham, MA 02767 (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Franklin, a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Michigan State University. I have experience as a bedside nurse in inpatient and emergency departments, working with pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric mental health patients. My extensive training and background have taught me that every journey to optimal health is unique. I enjoy partnering with clients to understand their needs, highlight their strengths, and use a motivational approach to care.
Hello, I’m Franklin, a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Michigan State University. I have experience as a bedside nurse in inpatient and emergency departments, working with pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric mental health patients. My extensive training and background have taught me that every journey to optimal health is unique. I enjoy partnering with clients to understand their needs, highlight their strengths, and use a motivational approach to care.
Wendy M Carlson Psychiatric Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSCJ, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Raynham, MA 02767
Welcome! I AM accepting new patients for medication management. I am a Board Certified PMHNP with 22 years nursing experience. My nursing philosophy hasn't changed in 22 years. My aim is to deliver the same level of care equal which is expected for members of my family. Treatment efforts should be comprehensive and collaborative with the treatment team and the client's family.
Welcome! I AM accepting new patients for medication management. I am a Board Certified PMHNP with 22 years nursing experience. My nursing philosophy hasn't changed in 22 years. My aim is to deliver the same level of care equal which is expected for members of my family. Treatment efforts should be comprehensive and collaborative with the treatment team and the client's family.
My name is Lauren Wenzl, I am a certified Physician Assistant specializing in Psychiatric-Mental Health. In 2016 I achieved a Masters Degree in Physician Assistance from Keiser University and now have 7 years practice experience. I have come to understand that all of us need someone to listen to our concerns. Someone who listens without judging, offers empathy, compassion, and lends an ear to our struggles can make a significant impact in our mental health. My goal is to provide that relief to my patients through talk, recommendations, medications, or therapeutic care guidance.
My name is Lauren Wenzl, I am a certified Physician Assistant specializing in Psychiatric-Mental Health. In 2016 I achieved a Masters Degree in Physician Assistance from Keiser University and now have 7 years practice experience. I have come to understand that all of us need someone to listen to our concerns. Someone who listens without judging, offers empathy, compassion, and lends an ear to our struggles can make a significant impact in our mental health. My goal is to provide that relief to my patients through talk, recommendations, medications, or therapeutic care guidance.
Enrich Wellness Health Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301
Are you looking for a provider who provides high-quality, patient-centered psychiatric care, using a nonjudgmental approach? A provider with clinical skills, one who is compassionate, empathetic, and goal-oriented? Enrich Wellness Health Center is the place for you. At Enrich, we instill hope to our clients while building a foundation of trust that allows clients to be active participants of their treatment journey. Our main goal is to provide holistic care to a diverse population, equipping clients towards self-actualization and optimal functioning. We provide a warm and welcoming environment that encourages wellness.
Are you looking for a provider who provides high-quality, patient-centered psychiatric care, using a nonjudgmental approach? A provider with clinical skills, one who is compassionate, empathetic, and goal-oriented? Enrich Wellness Health Center is the place for you. At Enrich, we instill hope to our clients while building a foundation of trust that allows clients to be active participants of their treatment journey. Our main goal is to provide holistic care to a diverse population, equipping clients towards self-actualization and optimal functioning. We provide a warm and welcoming environment that encourages wellness.
Lynetta Loveland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Raynham, MA 02767 (Online Only)
My model of mental health care puts patients in the middle. First and foremost, I believe in listening to the patient. So much can be learned by listening, watching, and truly hearing what a patient tells me is happening with them and their body. I conduct psychiatric assessments and make recommendations for treatment with psychiatric medications.
My model of mental health care puts patients in the middle. First and foremost, I believe in listening to the patient. So much can be learned by listening, watching, and truly hearing what a patient tells me is happening with them and their body. I conduct psychiatric assessments and make recommendations for treatment with psychiatric medications.
It’s hard to decide to seek help; now looking for that help brings more stress. I hope I can help you get your life back on track. Most issues respond best to a combination of therapy and medications, so I provide both. My approach is strategy-focused; I offer suggestions, & you choose which to try. Medications must be an open & honest collaboration between us. I provide information about the options, and respect your informed decision. I do not accept insurance (self-pay only), because I don't want to rush through an insurance checklist, seeing clients as quickly as possible. I want us to have the time to actually talk.
It’s hard to decide to seek help; now looking for that help brings more stress. I hope I can help you get your life back on track. Most issues respond best to a combination of therapy and medications, so I provide both. My approach is strategy-focused; I offer suggestions, & you choose which to try. Medications must be an open & honest collaboration between us. I provide information about the options, and respect your informed decision. I do not accept insurance (self-pay only), because I don't want to rush through an insurance checklist, seeing clients as quickly as possible. I want us to have the time to actually talk.
See more therapy options for 02324
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 02324
< 10
Psychiatrists in 02324 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
86% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
86% | Sleep or Insomnia |
86% | Stress |
71% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 02324 see their clients
72% | In Person and Online | |
28% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 02324?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.