Psychiatrists in Amherst, MA

Photo of Nora Schwartz-Martin, Psychiatrist, MD
Nora Schwartz-Martin
Psychiatrist, MD
Amherst, MA 01002
I have worked for 30 plus years as a psychiatrist- mostly with families- and those who have struggled with anxiety/ trauma and mood disorders- as well as adhd. I see people for initial evaluations for what you are struggling with and make recommendations about potential diagnoses and treatment options- I then follow up with you for either medication management or support around your treatment options.
I have worked for 30 plus years as a psychiatrist- mostly with families- and those who have struggled with anxiety/ trauma and mood disorders- as well as adhd. I see people for initial evaluations for what you are struggling with and make recommendations about potential diagnoses and treatment options- I then follow up with you for either medication management or support around your treatment options.
(413) 327-9375 View (413) 327-9375
Photo of Katherine Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP
Katherine Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP
Amherst, MA 01002
Katherine brings a humanistic approach to her practice. She uses her background in primary care medicine as well as psychiatry to provide compassionate and client-focused care, and to meet the needs of each patient as individuals. Katherine’s clinical experience is broad and includes adult medicine, geriatrics, community health, and college health. Katherine provides medication therapy using evidence-based practice, which include micro-dosing strategies for care tailored to individual needs.
Katherine brings a humanistic approach to her practice. She uses her background in primary care medicine as well as psychiatry to provide compassionate and client-focused care, and to meet the needs of each patient as individuals. Katherine’s clinical experience is broad and includes adult medicine, geriatrics, community health, and college health. Katherine provides medication therapy using evidence-based practice, which include micro-dosing strategies for care tailored to individual needs.
(413) 666-1412 View (413) 666-1412
Photo of Jenna Jolly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Jenna Jolly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002
I am accepting new patients! I am a dual certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner accepting new patients in-person in Amherst, as well as virtually. I will approach your mental health concerns with both my psychiatric and medical knowledge and I will assist you in optimizing your emotional and physical health. I offer treatment for adults and adolescents with symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance use, insomnia, anger, and more. I am excited to build therapeutic relationships with my patients.
I am accepting new patients! I am a dual certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner accepting new patients in-person in Amherst, as well as virtually. I will approach your mental health concerns with both my psychiatric and medical knowledge and I will assist you in optimizing your emotional and physical health. I offer treatment for adults and adolescents with symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance use, insomnia, anger, and more. I am excited to build therapeutic relationships with my patients.
(413) 798-5828 View (413) 798-5828
Photo of Kristen Briody, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Kristen Briody
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who helps people across the life span manage their diagnoses and medications. I have worked with people who struggle with various symptoms including but not limited to anxiety, depressive symptoms, insomnia, and attentional issues.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who helps people across the life span manage their diagnoses and medications. I have worked with people who struggle with various symptoms including but not limited to anxiety, depressive symptoms, insomnia, and attentional issues.
(413) 414-5535 View (413) 414-5535
Photo of Olga Pavleyeva, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Olga Pavleyeva
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002
Olga is committed to helping people find relief from depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and OCD. She offers compassionate, patient-focused treatments for mood and anxiety disorders using Ketamine, TMS and Psychedelic Therapy / Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), as well as psychiatric medication management and treatment consultation services.
Olga is committed to helping people find relief from depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and OCD. She offers compassionate, patient-focused treatments for mood and anxiety disorders using Ketamine, TMS and Psychedelic Therapy / Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), as well as psychiatric medication management and treatment consultation services.
(413) 402-6794 View (413) 402-6794
Photo of Danielle Lamagna, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Danielle Lamagna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amherst, MA 01002
Danielle brings warmth, humor, and compassion into each session, and engages whole-heartedly in providing holistic and patient-centered care. She has a “less is more” approach with medication management, believing that the bare minimum amount of medication that can provide a thriving quality of life is always ideal. She blends her knowledge of psychopharmacology with thoughtful therapeutic relationship-building to provide a trusting, informed, and judgement-free atmosphere for her patients.
Danielle brings warmth, humor, and compassion into each session, and engages whole-heartedly in providing holistic and patient-centered care. She has a “less is more” approach with medication management, believing that the bare minimum amount of medication that can provide a thriving quality of life is always ideal. She blends her knowledge of psychopharmacology with thoughtful therapeutic relationship-building to provide a trusting, informed, and judgement-free atmosphere for her patients.
(413) 384-5053 View (413) 384-5053
Photo of Daniel Abraham Brenner - Cambridge Biotherapies, Psychiatrist, MD
Cambridge Biotherapies
Psychiatrist, MD
Amherst, MA 01002
At Cambridge Biotherapies, we genuinely understand the struggles you may be experiencing with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and OCD. Our state-of-the-art treatments, including Ketamine, Psychedelic Therapy (KAP), and TMS, offer rapid relief, transforming lives within days. Ketamine provides swift results for depression and PTSD, while TMS, an FDA-approved therapy, is twice as effective as traditional antidepressants.
At Cambridge Biotherapies, we genuinely understand the struggles you may be experiencing with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and OCD. Our state-of-the-art treatments, including Ketamine, Psychedelic Therapy (KAP), and TMS, offer rapid relief, transforming lives within days. Ketamine provides swift results for depression and PTSD, while TMS, an FDA-approved therapy, is twice as effective as traditional antidepressants.
(413) 402-6794 View (413) 402-6794
Photo of Shadi Zaghloul, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Shadi Zaghloul
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Serves Area
Dr. Zaghloul is a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Zaghloul has affiliations with Baystate Hospitals, Cooley Dickinson Hospital and Holyoke Medical Center. He has taught medical students, psychiatry residents and child psychiatry fellows. He earned his M.B.A. with a focus on health care from the UMass-Amherst Isenberg School of Management in the spring of 2021.
Dr. Zaghloul is a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Zaghloul has affiliations with Baystate Hospitals, Cooley Dickinson Hospital and Holyoke Medical Center. He has taught medical students, psychiatry residents and child psychiatry fellows. He earned his M.B.A. with a focus on health care from the UMass-Amherst Isenberg School of Management in the spring of 2021.
(413) 251-5046 View (413) 251-5046
Photo of Toussaint Casimir, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Toussaint Casimir
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am licensed in Massachusetts and Florida. For several years, I have been serving those struggling to fulfill their goals due to mental illness. I extend my services from adolescents to adults of all ages. I see patients with conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar and more.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am licensed in Massachusetts and Florida. For several years, I have been serving those struggling to fulfill their goals due to mental illness. I extend my services from adolescents to adults of all ages. I see patients with conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar and more.
(413) 308-6694 View (413) 308-6694
Lydia R Elison
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I have just opened a psychiatry practice in Hadley, Massachusetts. I treat adult patients for a range of psychiatric issues and my practice, at this time, is open to new patients. I offer thoughtful medication evaluations and medication management. I also have a strong commitment to holistic treatment and offer psychotherapy, for individuals who have an interest in this. I utilize various tools from psychopharmacology and from the different forms of therapy that I've studied and employed.
I have just opened a psychiatry practice in Hadley, Massachusetts. I treat adult patients for a range of psychiatric issues and my practice, at this time, is open to new patients. I offer thoughtful medication evaluations and medication management. I also have a strong commitment to holistic treatment and offer psychotherapy, for individuals who have an interest in this. I utilize various tools from psychopharmacology and from the different forms of therapy that I've studied and employed.
(413) 369-3793 View (413) 369-3793
Photo of Alexis Brooks, Psychiatrist, MD
Alexis Brooks
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I am an adult psychiatrist specializing in comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and treatment. I work collaboratively with you, your therapist, and whoever else you wish to be on your team. My approach is holistic, collaborative, compassionate, and supportive. A warm and caring physician, I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve their highest possible level of well-being. I have been in practice for more than 25 years, and have expertise in mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, pain, sleep issues, as well as other conditions. I also treat psychiatric conditions in the peripartum period.
I am an adult psychiatrist specializing in comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and treatment. I work collaboratively with you, your therapist, and whoever else you wish to be on your team. My approach is holistic, collaborative, compassionate, and supportive. A warm and caring physician, I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve their highest possible level of well-being. I have been in practice for more than 25 years, and have expertise in mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, pain, sleep issues, as well as other conditions. I also treat psychiatric conditions in the peripartum period.
(413) 269-8701 View (413) 269-8701
Photo of Kerri Ellis - Be Your Best Self Psychiatric Care, Kerri Ellis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ACNP
Be Your Best Self Psychiatric Care, Kerri Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ACNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Be Your Best Self Psychiatric Care, I’m dedicated to supporting clients aged 6 and up who are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with focus and motivation, or navigating the ups and downs of mood disorders. As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and more, using a holistic approach that combines medication management and therapy. I am able to provide GeneSight testing and depending on your insurance this will cost you little to no cost out of pocket.
At Be Your Best Self Psychiatric Care, I’m dedicated to supporting clients aged 6 and up who are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with focus and motivation, or navigating the ups and downs of mood disorders. As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and more, using a holistic approach that combines medication management and therapy. I am able to provide GeneSight testing and depending on your insurance this will cost you little to no cost out of pocket.
(508) 731-3951 View (508) 731-3951
Photo of Erin Savage, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erin Savage
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Before becoming a nurse practitioner, I had the privilege of working at McLean Hospital as a registered nurse on inpatient psychiatric units. During this time, I cared for clients with various mental health diagnoses, facilitated coping skills-based group therapy, and collaborated closely with interdisciplinary treatment teams. This experience ignited my passion for working with clients experiencing mental health conditions. I approach each client with compassion and empathetic listening. By understanding your goals and experiences, I tailor your treatment to meet your individual needs.
Before becoming a nurse practitioner, I had the privilege of working at McLean Hospital as a registered nurse on inpatient psychiatric units. During this time, I cared for clients with various mental health diagnoses, facilitated coping skills-based group therapy, and collaborated closely with interdisciplinary treatment teams. This experience ignited my passion for working with clients experiencing mental health conditions. I approach each client with compassion and empathetic listening. By understanding your goals and experiences, I tailor your treatment to meet your individual needs.
(978) 915-2635 View (978) 915-2635
Photo of Donald A Smith Adult Psychiatrist, Psychiatrist, MD
Donald A Smith Adult Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Yes, I am accepting new patients at the present time. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, empathic listener, and I have 22 years of experience as a physician and 13 years in private practice. I look forward to helping you to feel better. I practice holistic and evidence supported psychiatry. I provide comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic assessment, education, and prescribe medication to treat your symptoms. Maintaining your privacy is very important to me. Because my practice is out of network, which means I do not accept insurance, I can spend more time with you.
Yes, I am accepting new patients at the present time. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, empathic listener, and I have 22 years of experience as a physician and 13 years in private practice. I look forward to helping you to feel better. I practice holistic and evidence supported psychiatry. I provide comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic assessment, education, and prescribe medication to treat your symptoms. Maintaining your privacy is very important to me. Because my practice is out of network, which means I do not accept insurance, I can spend more time with you.
(413) 306-4078 View (413) 306-4078
Photo of Joel E. Rosen, Psychiatrist, MD
Joel E. Rosen
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
My first priority throughout my many years of practice of psychotherapy and psychoanalysis has been to create the environment of trust and safety that any therapeutic relationship must have to be successful. I believe that the changes psychotherapy can bring about occur through an increased capacity for self-understanding and the ability to make sense of one's own experience. I am pragmatic and believe that a variety of psychodynamic approaches may be used depending on the problem at hand.
My first priority throughout my many years of practice of psychotherapy and psychoanalysis has been to create the environment of trust and safety that any therapeutic relationship must have to be successful. I believe that the changes psychotherapy can bring about occur through an increased capacity for self-understanding and the ability to make sense of one's own experience. I am pragmatic and believe that a variety of psychodynamic approaches may be used depending on the problem at hand.
(413) 277-7948 View (413) 277-7948
Photo of Kathleen Hawk, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Kathleen Hawk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Serves Area
Kathleen “Kate” Hawk is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development & Family Studies from the University of Connecticut and a Master’s Degree in Psychiatric Nursing from Yale University. She has provided psychiatric services in Western Massachusetts since 2013 and feels privileged to reside in our diverse community. She has worked with individuals of all ages and backgrounds in both acute and community outpatient care for Behavioral Health Network Inc. and The Carson Center For Human Services.
Kathleen “Kate” Hawk is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development & Family Studies from the University of Connecticut and a Master’s Degree in Psychiatric Nursing from Yale University. She has provided psychiatric services in Western Massachusetts since 2013 and feels privileged to reside in our diverse community. She has worked with individuals of all ages and backgrounds in both acute and community outpatient care for Behavioral Health Network Inc. and The Carson Center For Human Services.
(413) 269-8537 View (413) 269-8537
Photo of Patti Jacques, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP-C
Patti Jacques
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP-C
Serves Area
Family Nurse Practitioner offering medication management for mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, and menopause. Access care online. Benefit from email communication with your provider and treatment for common health conditions. Our goal is to provide traditional, comprehensive care in the modern online environment.
Family Nurse Practitioner offering medication management for mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, and menopause. Access care online. Benefit from email communication with your provider and treatment for common health conditions. Our goal is to provide traditional, comprehensive care in the modern online environment.
(508) 715-6858 View (508) 715-6858
Photo of Amalia F Lee, Psychiatrist, MD
Amalia F Lee
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified psychiatrist and have been practicing for 41 years. I have expertise and extensive training in interpersonal and dynamic psychotherapy, and in psychopharmacology. I believe in working with patients to develop a treatment plan that is uniquely appropriate to them, and I devote the time necessary to provide the care patients need. And to provide maximum therapeutic benefit with minimum negative side effects, I take a conservative approach to medication, and get to know you well before prescribing.
I am a Board Certified psychiatrist and have been practicing for 41 years. I have expertise and extensive training in interpersonal and dynamic psychotherapy, and in psychopharmacology. I believe in working with patients to develop a treatment plan that is uniquely appropriate to them, and I devote the time necessary to provide the care patients need. And to provide maximum therapeutic benefit with minimum negative side effects, I take a conservative approach to medication, and get to know you well before prescribing.
(413) 749-4719 View (413) 749-4719
Photo of Barry Federman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Barry Federman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified advanced practice Psychiatric Nurse. The majority of my practice is psychopharmacology ( prescribing psychiatric medications). I treat each person individually and in our collaboration will listen carefully to your concerns, symptoms, and needs to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. In my practice I treat a variety of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, , Bipolar disorder , PTSD as well as others. My  clients range  from late adolescents to geriatrics.  Best way to contact me is email through Psychology Today website.
I am a Board Certified advanced practice Psychiatric Nurse. The majority of my practice is psychopharmacology ( prescribing psychiatric medications). I treat each person individually and in our collaboration will listen carefully to your concerns, symptoms, and needs to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. In my practice I treat a variety of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, , Bipolar disorder , PTSD as well as others. My  clients range  from late adolescents to geriatrics.  Best way to contact me is email through Psychology Today website.
(413) 307-4086 View (413) 307-4086
Photo of Ethan Slabaugh - Wolverine Healthcare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC
Wolverine Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC
Online Only
If you're struggling with ADHD and looking for a more effective way to manage your symptoms, I’m here to help. Whether it's difficulty focusing, managing time, or regulating emotions, I can work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs. Together, we’ll focus on practical strategies to improve organization, reduce frustration, and help you reach your goals. If you’re ready to better understand your ADHD and build a life where you can truly thrive, let’s work together to make it happen.
If you're struggling with ADHD and looking for a more effective way to manage your symptoms, I’m here to help. Whether it's difficulty focusing, managing time, or regulating emotions, I can work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs. Together, we’ll focus on practical strategies to improve organization, reduce frustration, and help you reach your goals. If you’re ready to better understand your ADHD and build a life where you can truly thrive, let’s work together to make it happen.
(857) 887-1582 View (857) 887-1582

See more therapy options for Amherst

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Amherst, MA

20+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in Amherst, MA who prioritize treating:

81% Depression
76% Anxiety
62% Bipolar Disorder
48% ADHD
48% Trauma and PTSD
43% Medication Management
38% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

23 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% BlueCross and BlueShield
60% Aetna
60% Harvard Pilgrim

How Psychiatrists in Amherst, MA see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
31% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Amherst?

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.