Psychiatrists in Bridgewater, MA

Christine Basile is a highly skilled Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC, FNP-C) with extensive experience providing compassionate and comprehensive care to clients across the lifespan. Her diverse background in outpatient psychiatric settings equips her to support individuals with a wide range of mental health needs.
Christine Basile is a highly skilled Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC, FNP-C) with extensive experience providing compassionate and comprehensive care to clients across the lifespan. Her diverse background in outpatient psychiatric settings equips her to support individuals with a wide range of mental health needs.

BrighterSpace Mental Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
2 Endorsed
Bridgewater, MA 02324
She is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner deeply committed to helping individuals achieve mental wellness and build resilience from pre-teen through adulthood. With over 20 years of nursing experience, she offers a compassionate, empathetic, and personalized approach to mental health care, ensuring that each individual receives the attention, understanding, and support they deserve.
Her expertise spans assessment, diagnosis, relationship-building, and medication management, offering comprehensive care for various mental health concerns. Mesode creates personalized treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs.
She is a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner deeply committed to helping individuals achieve mental wellness and build resilience from pre-teen through adulthood. With over 20 years of nursing experience, she offers a compassionate, empathetic, and personalized approach to mental health care, ensuring that each individual receives the attention, understanding, and support they deserve.
Her expertise spans assessment, diagnosis, relationship-building, and medication management, offering comprehensive care for various mental health concerns. Mesode creates personalized treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs.

Spring of Hope Health Services Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC, CNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.

Judith Austin, PMHNP, Align Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CARN-AP
1 Endorsed
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.

Are you finding yourself facing the challenges of anxiety and depression, grappling with addiction, or experiencing difficulties with attention and focus? Do you find it challenging to regulate your mood and emotions? If so, know that you're not alone, and seeking support is a courageous and vital step. At the core of my practice is a belief in the power of genuine connections. I prioritize building strong therapeutic relationships with my clients, creating a safe and supportive space for them to express themselves openly. This connection is the foundation which we collaboratively develop and implement personalized treatment plans.
Are you finding yourself facing the challenges of anxiety and depression, grappling with addiction, or experiencing difficulties with attention and focus? Do you find it challenging to regulate your mood and emotions? If so, know that you're not alone, and seeking support is a courageous and vital step. At the core of my practice is a belief in the power of genuine connections. I prioritize building strong therapeutic relationships with my clients, creating a safe and supportive space for them to express themselves openly. This connection is the foundation which we collaboratively develop and implement personalized treatment plans.

Highly skilled PMHNP with more than 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing. Extensive background working with Active Duty and Veteran populations with expertise in the treatment of trauma and substance use disorders. Currently available to see new patients through Thriveworks. Demonstrated passion for providing the highest quality behavioral and medical care. Compassionate and empathetic advocate for patients and families.
Highly skilled PMHNP with more than 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing. Extensive background working with Active Duty and Veteran populations with expertise in the treatment of trauma and substance use disorders. Currently available to see new patients through Thriveworks. Demonstrated passion for providing the highest quality behavioral and medical care. Compassionate and empathetic advocate for patients and families.

When you're struggling, you need support right away, not in a month. If you're dealing with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia that are impacting your life, visit my website and click on the "Request Consultation" button to get started today.
When you're struggling, you need support right away, not in a month. If you're dealing with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia that are impacting your life, visit my website and click on the "Request Consultation" button to get started today.

Welcome to Guiding Light Psychiatry in Carver, MA!
At Guiding Light Psychiatry, we are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. Our practice offers a safe, supportive space where healing begins and progress is nurtured.
Welcome to Guiding Light Psychiatry in Carver, MA!
At Guiding Light Psychiatry, we are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults. Our practice offers a safe, supportive space where healing begins and progress is nurtured.

Dan is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing a range of psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication review and management, and psychotherapy. Dan’s approach to diagnosing, treatment and medication management is based on utilizing effective evidence-based best practice treatment methods.
Dan is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing a range of psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication review and management, and psychotherapy. Dan’s approach to diagnosing, treatment and medication management is based on utilizing effective evidence-based best practice treatment methods.

Mind Over Matters Therapeutic & Wellness Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CNP, MSN
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders? We know how challenging it can be to manage these feelings on your own, and we're here to support you. Our caring team offers personalized treatment plans designed to address your unique needs. We focus on effective strategies to help you manage symptoms, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of balance in your life. Ready to take a positive step toward better mental health? Reach out today—we’re here to guide you on your journey to a brighter, more fulfilling future. Join us to reclaim the vibrant life you deserve—embrace wellness! Now! Call Today!
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders? We know how challenging it can be to manage these feelings on your own, and we're here to support you. Our caring team offers personalized treatment plans designed to address your unique needs. We focus on effective strategies to help you manage symptoms, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of balance in your life. Ready to take a positive step toward better mental health? Reach out today—we’re here to guide you on your journey to a brighter, more fulfilling future. Join us to reclaim the vibrant life you deserve—embrace wellness! Now! Call Today!
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Dr. Swaminathan Thangaraj is a double-board certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist in the Boston area. He is currently an assistant professor at Drexel College of Medicine. Dr. Thangaraj also worked at McLean Hospital/Harvard University and Sheppard Pratt establishing various inpatient units. He is one of the few doctors who treats patients of all ages from toddler, adolescence to adulthood.
Dr. Swaminathan Thangaraj is a double-board certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist in the Boston area. He is currently an assistant professor at Drexel College of Medicine. Dr. Thangaraj also worked at McLean Hospital/Harvard University and Sheppard Pratt establishing various inpatient units. He is one of the few doctors who treats patients of all ages from toddler, adolescence to adulthood.

Jennifer Lehto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I am a double board-certified Nurse Practitioner who started her journey into the mental health field after obtaining my baccalaureate degree in psychology in 2004. First I became a Family Nurse Practitioner and provided both primary care and mental health services to all ages. During that time, I realized that the true path to Peak Wellness is through promoting inner peace, resilience, and finding joy, not just by managing chronic illnesses after they manifest. So, I went back and earned a post-master’s certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, expanding my expertise as a mental health provider.
I am a double board-certified Nurse Practitioner who started her journey into the mental health field after obtaining my baccalaureate degree in psychology in 2004. First I became a Family Nurse Practitioner and provided both primary care and mental health services to all ages. During that time, I realized that the true path to Peak Wellness is through promoting inner peace, resilience, and finding joy, not just by managing chronic illnesses after they manifest. So, I went back and earned a post-master’s certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, expanding my expertise as a mental health provider.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing for 7 years. I earned my BS in Neuroscience from Trinity College in 2012 after which I went on to graduate from Boston College Connell School of Nursing, earning a Master’s degree in Nursing in 2014. I have broad-ranging experience working in outpatient settings particularly in in private practice. I have worked and continue to work extensively with diverse populations. My expertise includes treating adolescents, adult and geriatric populations; utilizing a combination of psychopharmacology and supportive therapy.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing for 7 years. I earned my BS in Neuroscience from Trinity College in 2012 after which I went on to graduate from Boston College Connell School of Nursing, earning a Master’s degree in Nursing in 2014. I have broad-ranging experience working in outpatient settings particularly in in private practice. I have worked and continue to work extensively with diverse populations. My expertise includes treating adolescents, adult and geriatric populations; utilizing a combination of psychopharmacology and supportive therapy.

When life feels heavy with worry, sadness, or self-doubt, you don’t have to face it alone. I work with adults who feel overwhelmed, stuck in recurring patterns, or uncertain about their direction in life. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, or deeper personality-related challenges, my approach is designed to meet you where you are—and help you move toward where you want to be. In our work together, we’ll explore the underlying emotional experiences driving your distress so we can create meaningful and lasting change.
When life feels heavy with worry, sadness, or self-doubt, you don’t have to face it alone. I work with adults who feel overwhelmed, stuck in recurring patterns, or uncertain about their direction in life. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, or deeper personality-related challenges, my approach is designed to meet you where you are—and help you move toward where you want to be. In our work together, we’ll explore the underlying emotional experiences driving your distress so we can create meaningful and lasting change.

I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 17 years of experience working in psychiatry, 5 of which are as a medication prescriber. I follow a patient-centered approach where we work together as a team to develop a treatment plan. I do not treat the diagnosis; I treat the patient as a whole, addressing symptoms that help improve quality of life.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 17 years of experience working in psychiatry, 5 of which are as a medication prescriber. I follow a patient-centered approach where we work together as a team to develop a treatment plan. I do not treat the diagnosis; I treat the patient as a whole, addressing symptoms that help improve quality of life.

I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of mental health conditions for individuals across the lifespan. My approach is holistic, evidence-based, and tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I provide care for conditions such as anxiety, depression, sleep, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, and other mood and psychotic disorders. Additionally, I support those struggling with substance use disorders, stress-related conditions, and sleep disturbances. Through medication management, therapy, and patient education, I strive to empower individuals on their journey to mental wellness and stability.
I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of mental health conditions for individuals across the lifespan. My approach is holistic, evidence-based, and tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I provide care for conditions such as anxiety, depression, sleep, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, and other mood and psychotic disorders. Additionally, I support those struggling with substance use disorders, stress-related conditions, and sleep disturbances. Through medication management, therapy, and patient education, I strive to empower individuals on their journey to mental wellness and stability.

Are you constantly feeling overwhelmed, having difficulty concentrating on tasks, and having sleep problems? Mental illness can affect every aspect of your life. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who strives to meet every individual's unique physical and mental health, and wellness needs no matter what situation life brings to them. It is always a challenge for clients going through a divorce, losing a relative or job, having a terminal illness, adjusting to a new school or location, retiring, and taking care of elderly –ill parents.
Are you constantly feeling overwhelmed, having difficulty concentrating on tasks, and having sleep problems? Mental illness can affect every aspect of your life. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who strives to meet every individual's unique physical and mental health, and wellness needs no matter what situation life brings to them. It is always a challenge for clients going through a divorce, losing a relative or job, having a terminal illness, adjusting to a new school or location, retiring, and taking care of elderly –ill parents.

Jillian believes that whole health depends on more than just your physical body. With a background in oncology, cardiology, and psychiatry, she recognizes how emotional, behavioral, and physical problems interfere with our daily lives.
Jillian believes that whole health depends on more than just your physical body. With a background in oncology, cardiology, and psychiatry, she recognizes how emotional, behavioral, and physical problems interfere with our daily lives.

Enrich Wellness Health Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Randolph, MA 02368
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.

I am a dual Board Certified Nurse Practitioner (psychiatry mental health and family medicine). I am happy to welcome new patients via telehealth during the covid crisis. I find of most importance in care is building and fostering a provider/patient relationship. I have been a nurse since 2008 working primarily at MGH and as an NP since 2016 at the VA as well as a private eating disorder facility in Boston, The Renfrew Center. I have notable experience working with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, psychotic and personality disorders. Note, I will see pediatric patients on a case by case basis.
I am a dual Board Certified Nurse Practitioner (psychiatry mental health and family medicine). I am happy to welcome new patients via telehealth during the covid crisis. I find of most importance in care is building and fostering a provider/patient relationship. I have been a nurse since 2008 working primarily at MGH and as an NP since 2016 at the VA as well as a private eating disorder facility in Boston, The Renfrew Center. I have notable experience working with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, psychotic and personality disorders. Note, I will see pediatric patients on a case by case basis.
See more therapy options for Bridgewater
Nearby Searches for Bridgewater
- Abington
- Brockton
- Easton
- Hanover
- Lakeville
- Mansfield
- Middleborough
- Pembroke
- Raynham
- Stoughton
- Taunton
- West Bridgewater
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bridgewater, MA
10+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Bridgewater, MA who prioritize treating:
80% | Depression |
80% | Anxiety |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
60% | ADHD |
60% | Trauma and PTSD |
60% | Anger Management |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
89% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Bridgewater, MA see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bridgewater?
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.