Psychiatrists in 03104

Photo of Frederick Bernhofer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Frederick Bernhofer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Manchester, NH 03104
Frederick “Wes” Bernhofer grew up outside of Cleveland Ohio and the 7th of 8 children in his family. His passion to work with others began at a young age as he navigated life in a large family and faith community. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, he is licensed to diagnose and manage a diverse range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and substance use issues for individuals throughout the lifespan (children, adolescents, and adults). He combines careful evaluation and assessment to create treatment plans that are collaborative with patients and include both medication and therapy.
Frederick “Wes” Bernhofer grew up outside of Cleveland Ohio and the 7th of 8 children in his family. His passion to work with others began at a young age as he navigated life in a large family and faith community. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, he is licensed to diagnose and manage a diverse range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and substance use issues for individuals throughout the lifespan (children, adolescents, and adults). He combines careful evaluation and assessment to create treatment plans that are collaborative with patients and include both medication and therapy.
(844) 410-9534 x120 View (844) 410-9534 x120
Photo of Meghan Quelch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Meghan Quelch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03104
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience in the treatment of substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders. I seek to provide holistic care that is tailored to each individual's unique needs. My approach is both personalized and compassionate, ensuring that every client feels heard, respected, and empowered. I enjoy building strong therapeutic relationships with my clients and supporting them through their life journey.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience in the treatment of substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders. I seek to provide holistic care that is tailored to each individual's unique needs. My approach is both personalized and compassionate, ensuring that every client feels heard, respected, and empowered. I enjoy building strong therapeutic relationships with my clients and supporting them through their life journey.
(833) 482-1619 x4 View (833) 482-1619 x4
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Manchester, NH 03104
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in New Hampshire for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in New Hampshire for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
(734) 212-8601 View (734) 212-8601
Photo of Matthew Payne, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Matthew Payne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03104
I provide medication management and am committed to providing integrative care focusing on the “whole person” by examining the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual needs of every person who comes into the office. To this end, there are many behavioral modification techniques and interventions that will be discussed in addition to medications.
I provide medication management and am committed to providing integrative care focusing on the “whole person” by examining the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual needs of every person who comes into the office. To this end, there are many behavioral modification techniques and interventions that will be discussed in addition to medications.
(855) 938-2626 View (855) 938-2626
Photo of Ry Billadeau, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Ry Billadeau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Manchester, NH 03104
Now accepting new clients! With avaialbility within 1-2 weeks- Ry approaches treatment with a warm, caring and enthusiastic attitude. He has over 5 years of experience in the field of psychiatry. Prior to working as an APRN, Ry was an ER nurse where he became aware of the need for understanding and compassionate treatment of those with mental-health challenges. He enjoys helping clients accomplish their goals and is experienced in treating clients of all ages. He offers diagnostic consultation regarding medication questions and medication management for acute or chronic psychiatric condition
Now accepting new clients! With avaialbility within 1-2 weeks- Ry approaches treatment with a warm, caring and enthusiastic attitude. He has over 5 years of experience in the field of psychiatry. Prior to working as an APRN, Ry was an ER nurse where he became aware of the need for understanding and compassionate treatment of those with mental-health challenges. He enjoys helping clients accomplish their goals and is experienced in treating clients of all ages. He offers diagnostic consultation regarding medication questions and medication management for acute or chronic psychiatric condition
(603) 634-8077 View (603) 634-8077
Photo of Clear View Psychiatric Services - Kathleen Czarnec, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Clear View Psychiatric Services - Kathleen Czarnec
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03104
“I’m accepting new patients in the office or telehealth.” I'm a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner. I'm here to help with your mental health goals, and any pharmacological needs. I want us to work together as a team on these goals to come up with a plan that works best for you. I like to take a ‘holistic” approach to caring for my clients by also addressing their physical, emotional and spiritual health along with their mental health.
“I’m accepting new patients in the office or telehealth.” I'm a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner. I'm here to help with your mental health goals, and any pharmacological needs. I want us to work together as a team on these goals to come up with a plan that works best for you. I like to take a ‘holistic” approach to caring for my clients by also addressing their physical, emotional and spiritual health along with their mental health.
(603) 716-9124 View (603) 716-9124
Linda Pimenta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03104
I provide treatment for several psychiatric diagnoses with dignity and respect for all who seek treatment. I am willing to see you during off hours (evenings or a weekend) if that is best for you. Working together, we can help you feel like YOU again.
I provide treatment for several psychiatric diagnoses with dignity and respect for all who seek treatment. I am willing to see you during off hours (evenings or a weekend) if that is best for you. Working together, we can help you feel like YOU again.
(603) 865-7300 View (603) 865-7300
Photo of Chloe Griffith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
(844) 462-8585 View (844) 462-8585
Photo of May Chen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
May Chen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Manchester, NH 03104
I specialize in medication management and psychiatric care for adults, teens, and the LGBTQIA+ community. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and holistic. I believe mental health care works best when we partner together to find the right balance — whether through medication, therapy, or lifestyle support. I treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I offer flexible in-person and telehealth appointments on Fridays and Saturdays. If you're ready for personalized care, I’d be honored to work with you.
I specialize in medication management and psychiatric care for adults, teens, and the LGBTQIA+ community. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and holistic. I believe mental health care works best when we partner together to find the right balance — whether through medication, therapy, or lifestyle support. I treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I offer flexible in-person and telehealth appointments on Fridays and Saturdays. If you're ready for personalized care, I’d be honored to work with you.
(603) 270-9217 x710 View (603) 270-9217 x710
Photo of Dr. Joy Ichie - A-1 Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP
A-1 Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03104
Need to be seen urgently within 24 to 48 hours, give us a all. A-1 Behavioral Health, is currently accepting new clients - children from age 10 and adults of all ages for mental/behavioral health treatment. We offer psychiatric evaluation and follow up appointments with flexible virtual, evening, daytime, and weekend availabilities. In-person visits are by appointment only. Please call the office to enquire more.
Need to be seen urgently within 24 to 48 hours, give us a all. A-1 Behavioral Health, is currently accepting new clients - children from age 10 and adults of all ages for mental/behavioral health treatment. We offer psychiatric evaluation and follow up appointments with flexible virtual, evening, daytime, and weekend availabilities. In-person visits are by appointment only. Please call the office to enquire more.
(603) 207-8509 View (603) 207-8509
Photo of Olivia Clement, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olivia Clement
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a conservative approach to medication management. I don't believe that more medication is always better. I focus on getting my clients better through a combination of medication and therapy. My approach to care is patient-centered. Patient-centered care is about respecting your individual preferences and diversity. Patient-centered care involves recognizing your needs and respecting your right to make health decisions and choices. Patient-centered care includes your right to comment, ask questions, and make complaints about your healthcare
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a conservative approach to medication management. I don't believe that more medication is always better. I focus on getting my clients better through a combination of medication and therapy. My approach to care is patient-centered. Patient-centered care is about respecting your individual preferences and diversity. Patient-centered care involves recognizing your needs and respecting your right to make health decisions and choices. Patient-centered care includes your right to comment, ask questions, and make complaints about your healthcare
(888) 364-4662 View (888) 364-4662
Photo of Jeremy Freund, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jeremy Freund
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Jeremy Freund is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 20 years of experience helping improve patient quality of life. He works with adults of all ages and especially has experience helping people with trauma histories, veterans and those with medical conditions.
Jeremy Freund is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 20 years of experience helping improve patient quality of life. He works with adults of all ages and especially has experience helping people with trauma histories, veterans and those with medical conditions.
(855) 563-0807 View (855) 563-0807
Photo of Nikhil Teja, Psychiatrist, MD
Nikhil Teja
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Teja has a particular fondness of teaching and has over a decade of experience instructing pre-medical and medical students. He has also served as an instructor and supervisor for residents in the Adult Psychiatry Residency at Dartmouth Hitchcock and has offered seminars on addictive disease for physicians in other specialties. This love for teaching is evident in all his clinical interactions as he strives to educate patients on psychiatric conditions and their treatments. Dr.
Dr. Teja has a particular fondness of teaching and has over a decade of experience instructing pre-medical and medical students. He has also served as an instructor and supervisor for residents in the Adult Psychiatry Residency at Dartmouth Hitchcock and has offered seminars on addictive disease for physicians in other specialties. This love for teaching is evident in all his clinical interactions as he strives to educate patients on psychiatric conditions and their treatments. Dr.
(844) 710-5852 View (844) 710-5852
Photo of Jane McGrath, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Jane McGrath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Serves Area
Ms. McGrath is licensed in the State of New Hampshire to practice independently as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner. She is licensed through the Drug Enforcement Agency to prescribe medications and is credentialed through the American Nurses Credential Center as a Clinic Specialist in Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. Ms. McGrath specializes in psychopharmacology evaluation and medication management. She has gained experience and expertise working a hospital setting as well as outpatient clinics.
Ms. McGrath is licensed in the State of New Hampshire to practice independently as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner. She is licensed through the Drug Enforcement Agency to prescribe medications and is credentialed through the American Nurses Credential Center as a Clinic Specialist in Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. Ms. McGrath specializes in psychopharmacology evaluation and medication management. She has gained experience and expertise working a hospital setting as well as outpatient clinics.
(844) 858-5351 View (844) 858-5351
Photo of Corneliu Stanciu, Psychiatrist, MD
Corneliu Stanciu
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Cornel N. Stanciu, M.D., M.R.O., C.P.E., F.A.S.A.M., F.A.P.A. is a quadruple board-certified physician with expertise in psychiatric and addictive disorders. Dr. Stanciu completed advanced training at Dartmouth, following earlier training at Duke University and East Carolina University, where he actively contributed to academic research and community outreach initiatives. A distinguished academic, Dr. Stanciu has authored numerous highly cited publications on addiction, substance abuse, and affective disorders, with his research presented at international conferences and incorporated into guideline development efforts.
Cornel N. Stanciu, M.D., M.R.O., C.P.E., F.A.S.A.M., F.A.P.A. is a quadruple board-certified physician with expertise in psychiatric and addictive disorders. Dr. Stanciu completed advanced training at Dartmouth, following earlier training at Duke University and East Carolina University, where he actively contributed to academic research and community outreach initiatives. A distinguished academic, Dr. Stanciu has authored numerous highly cited publications on addiction, substance abuse, and affective disorders, with his research presented at international conferences and incorporated into guideline development efforts.
(833) 708-3579 View (833) 708-3579
Photo of Helen Lancy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Helen Lancy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Online Only
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
Helen Lancy is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Spring Arbor University, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Missouri. With four years of adult-gerontology psychiatry experience, she specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma in adults 18+. Passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care, Helen is dedicated to serving patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underserved communities. Helen champions patient empowerment, guiding her patients to take control of their health and emotional wellbeing.
(877) 916-6034 View (877) 916-6034
Photo of Christina Farnworth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Christina Farnworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! My name is Chris Farnworth APRN. Besides being a psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience with kids and adolescents, I am also passionate about supporting adults through their mental health concerns. I value your opinion and enjoy making decisions together with my client. I feel a person can feel good about their decisions if they have a say in those choices. I typically work with people who have depression and Anxiety, but also enjoy working people with bipolar disorder, OCD and trauma. I also treat mild autism and psychotic disorders.
Hello! My name is Chris Farnworth APRN. Besides being a psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience with kids and adolescents, I am also passionate about supporting adults through their mental health concerns. I value your opinion and enjoy making decisions together with my client. I feel a person can feel good about their decisions if they have a say in those choices. I typically work with people who have depression and Anxiety, but also enjoy working people with bipolar disorder, OCD and trauma. I also treat mild autism and psychotic disorders.
(877) 734-7402 View (877) 734-7402
Photo of Julie Cunningham - Holistic Psychiatric Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MBA
Holistic Psychiatric Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MBA
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, mood, stress and focus? Are you considering medication or therapy? You are in the right place! We provide mental health evaluations, diagnosis, and treatments for a wide array of mental health struggles. We offer medication management and therapy services, as well as many other alternatives. Self schedule a free phone consult at our website where we can discuss your needs and get you scheduled. We are looking forward to meeting you!
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, mood, stress and focus? Are you considering medication or therapy? You are in the right place! We provide mental health evaluations, diagnosis, and treatments for a wide array of mental health struggles. We offer medication management and therapy services, as well as many other alternatives. Self schedule a free phone consult at our website where we can discuss your needs and get you scheduled. We are looking forward to meeting you!
(508) 545-9464 View (508) 545-9464
Photo of Jennifer Sims, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(866) 792-2871 View (866) 792-2871
Photo of Margaret Oliver, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Margaret Oliver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
(844) 780-3461 View (844) 780-3461

See more therapy options for 03104

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 03104

30+

Average cost per session

$125

Psychiatrists in 03104 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
91% Bipolar Disorder
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
68% ADHD
68% Trauma and PTSD
62% Medication Management

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Optum
94% Cigna and Evernorth
94% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 03104 see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

59% Female
41% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 03104?

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.