Psychiatrists in Bristol County, MA

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Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Coyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mansfield, MA 02048
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(508) 939-3139 View (508) 939-3139
Photo of Liza Hunter, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Liza Hunter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
I want to work with clients who are active partners rather than recipients. I view providing care as a partnership. My ideal patient is seeking care because they want to feel better and improve their life. An ideal patient makes their needs and goals known as we work together. I admire my patients who have an open mind to suggestions for interventions that may improve how they feel. I believe this flexibility can open up new possibilities for well-being.
I want to work with clients who are active partners rather than recipients. I view providing care as a partnership. My ideal patient is seeking care because they want to feel better and improve their life. An ideal patient makes their needs and goals known as we work together. I admire my patients who have an open mind to suggestions for interventions that may improve how they feel. I believe this flexibility can open up new possibilities for well-being.
(339) 227-6504 View (339) 227-6504
Photo of Lynetta Loveland, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lynetta Loveland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My model of mental health care puts patients in the middle. First and foremost, I believe in listening to the patient. So much can be learned by listening, watching, and truly hearing what a patient tells me is happening with them and their body. I conduct psychiatric assessments and make recommendations for treatment with psychiatric medications.
My model of mental health care puts patients in the middle. First and foremost, I believe in listening to the patient. So much can be learned by listening, watching, and truly hearing what a patient tells me is happening with them and their body. I conduct psychiatric assessments and make recommendations for treatment with psychiatric medications.
(508) 252-8342 View (508) 252-8342
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02747
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(508) 691-8476 View (508) 691-8476
Photo of Wendy Rayne, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, LICSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wendy Rayne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Somerset, MA 02726
Wendy is a caring and dedicated board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner across the lifespan. She is passionate about helping clients maintain their physical and mental health and wellbeing. Wendy is patient, kind, and honest when it comes to creating goals with you during your treatment. She listens and works to get to know you as a person. Wendy has over 20 years of experience in working with clients who need support with psychiatric medications. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Wendy is a caring and dedicated board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner across the lifespan. She is passionate about helping clients maintain their physical and mental health and wellbeing. Wendy is patient, kind, and honest when it comes to creating goals with you during your treatment. She listens and works to get to know you as a person. Wendy has over 20 years of experience in working with clients who need support with psychiatric medications. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
(508) 281-1064 View (508) 281-1064
Declan Fotoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Mansfield, MA 02048
Declan Fotoh, CNP, PMHNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has over four years of experience offering compassionate, empathetic, patient-centered, culturally sensitive, and non-judgement care as a registered nurse and nurse Practitioner to patients with diverse mental challenges. She has experience in managing mental illness across the lifespan. She has experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She is a mental health advocate.
Declan Fotoh, CNP, PMHNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has over four years of experience offering compassionate, empathetic, patient-centered, culturally sensitive, and non-judgement care as a registered nurse and nurse Practitioner to patients with diverse mental challenges. She has experience in managing mental illness across the lifespan. She has experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She is a mental health advocate.
(508) 978-2334 View (508) 978-2334
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mansfield, MA 02048
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(508) 500-8931 View (508) 500-8931
Photo of Teshera Tull-Yearwood - Rise Above Wellness Health Services, LLC, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rise Above Wellness Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Treating Patients aged 12-65! As board-certified mental health professionals, we understand that recovery is non-linear. We offer flexibility and support as we work with you through your trials. We strive to help you restore and maintain your mental health through medication management and the promotion of healthy habits. We treat the whole person using evidence-based practices to induce the best patient outcomes.
Treating Patients aged 12-65! As board-certified mental health professionals, we understand that recovery is non-linear. We offer flexibility and support as we work with you through your trials. We strive to help you restore and maintain your mental health through medication management and the promotion of healthy habits. We treat the whole person using evidence-based practices to induce the best patient outcomes.
(508) 348-7255 View (508) 348-7255
Photo of Liza Hunter, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Liza Hunter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Mansfield, MA 02048
I want to work with clients who are active partners rather than recipients. I view providing care as a partnership. My ideal patient is seeking care because they want to feel better and improve their life. An ideal patient makes their needs and goals known as we work together. I admire my patients who have an open mind to suggestions for interventions that may improve how they feel. I believe this flexibility can open up new possibilities for well-being.
I want to work with clients who are active partners rather than recipients. I view providing care as a partnership. My ideal patient is seeking care because they want to feel better and improve their life. An ideal patient makes their needs and goals known as we work together. I admire my patients who have an open mind to suggestions for interventions that may improve how they feel. I believe this flexibility can open up new possibilities for well-being.
(339) 237-4010 View (339) 237-4010
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(508) 206-9726 View (508) 206-9726
Photo of Ryan Perry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Perry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, MA 02747
Ryan Perry, PMHNP-BC is a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric mental health NP with a rich background in emergency medicine. With over two decades of experience as an Emergency Department RN, Ryan has honed his skills in caring for diverse patient populations, particularly those facing health disparities. Ryan's journey in healthcare began in 1999, serving at prestigious institutions such as Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and St. Luke’s Hospital. Throughout his extensive career in emergency medicine, he has worked closely with vulnerable communities, fostering a deep understanding of their unique needs and challenges.
Ryan Perry, PMHNP-BC is a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric mental health NP with a rich background in emergency medicine. With over two decades of experience as an Emergency Department RN, Ryan has honed his skills in caring for diverse patient populations, particularly those facing health disparities. Ryan's journey in healthcare began in 1999, serving at prestigious institutions such as Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and St. Luke’s Hospital. Throughout his extensive career in emergency medicine, he has worked closely with vulnerable communities, fostering a deep understanding of their unique needs and challenges.
(774) 992-8773 View (774) 992-8773
Photo of Kerry Pimentel Taveira, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kerry Pimentel Taveira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Fall River, MA 02720
I am a co-founder/owner of Essentia Health and Wellness Center. I am a board certified NP in Adult Psychiatric/Mental Health and Adult Health. I graduated from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA in 2004. Since then, I have worked in several capacities, including medical hospitalist in the behavioral units at Carney and Norwood Hospital, psychiatric consultant in skilled nursing facilities in the Boston area, and most recently at South Coast Behavioral Health and DLH Consulting and Psychiatric Services.
I am a co-founder/owner of Essentia Health and Wellness Center. I am a board certified NP in Adult Psychiatric/Mental Health and Adult Health. I graduated from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA in 2004. Since then, I have worked in several capacities, including medical hospitalist in the behavioral units at Carney and Norwood Hospital, psychiatric consultant in skilled nursing facilities in the Boston area, and most recently at South Coast Behavioral Health and DLH Consulting and Psychiatric Services.
(774) 357-0933 View (774) 357-0933
Photo of Wendy Marie Carlson - Wendy M Carlson Psychiatric Care LLC, MSCJ, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wendy M Carlson Psychiatric Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSCJ, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Berkley, MA 02779
Welcome! I AM accepting new patients for medication management. I am a Board Certified PMHNP with 22 years nursing experience. My nursing philosophy hasn't changed in 22 years. My aim is to deliver the same level of care equal which is expected for members of my family. Treatment efforts should be comprehensive and collaborative with the treatment team and the client's family.
Welcome! I AM accepting new patients for medication management. I am a Board Certified PMHNP with 22 years nursing experience. My nursing philosophy hasn't changed in 22 years. My aim is to deliver the same level of care equal which is expected for members of my family. Treatment efforts should be comprehensive and collaborative with the treatment team and the client's family.
(508) 403-0192 View (508) 403-0192
Photo of Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Carol Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
(508) 978-4823 View (508) 978-4823
Photo of Liza Hunter, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Liza Hunter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02747
I want to work with clients who are active partners rather than recipients. I view providing care as a partnership. My ideal patient is seeking care because they want to feel better and improve their life. An ideal patient makes their needs and goals known as we work together. I admire my patients who have an open mind to suggestions for interventions that may improve how they feel. I believe this flexibility can open up new possibilities for well-being.
I want to work with clients who are active partners rather than recipients. I view providing care as a partnership. My ideal patient is seeking care because they want to feel better and improve their life. An ideal patient makes their needs and goals known as we work together. I admire my patients who have an open mind to suggestions for interventions that may improve how they feel. I believe this flexibility can open up new possibilities for well-being.
(339) 237-4159 View (339) 237-4159
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(508) 213-0926 View (508) 213-0926
Photo of Melissa Gregory, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Gregory
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! My name is Melissa. As a Lifespan Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to offering individualized, holistic, and comprehensive mental health treatment to each patient. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, eating disorders, OCD, women's health, sleep disorders, self-esteem issues, bipolar and mood disorders. I understand that mental health is multifaceted and deeply interconnected with various aspects of an individual's life, including physical health, relationships, and lifestyle factors.
Welcome! My name is Melissa. As a Lifespan Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to offering individualized, holistic, and comprehensive mental health treatment to each patient. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, eating disorders, OCD, women's health, sleep disorders, self-esteem issues, bipolar and mood disorders. I understand that mental health is multifaceted and deeply interconnected with various aspects of an individual's life, including physical health, relationships, and lifestyle factors.
(774) 500-3498 View (774) 500-3498
Photo of Jacqueline Lebel, MD, JD, Psychiatrist
Jacqueline Lebel
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Verified Verified
Fall River, MA 02720
Hello! I am available to help those struggling with life transitions, relationships, their mood, anxiety, thoughts, family relationships, loneliness, academic issues, ADHD, developmental disabilities or autism spectrum disorder.
Hello! I am available to help those struggling with life transitions, relationships, their mood, anxiety, thoughts, family relationships, loneliness, academic issues, ADHD, developmental disabilities or autism spectrum disorder.
(508) 859-9524 View (508) 859-9524
Photo of Franklin Quider, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Franklin Quider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I’m Franklin, a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Michigan State University. I have experience as a bedside nurse in inpatient and emergency departments, working with pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric mental health patients. My extensive training and background have taught me that every journey to optimal health is unique. I enjoy partnering with clients to understand their needs, highlight their strengths, and use a motivational approach to care.
Hello, I’m Franklin, a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Michigan State University. I have experience as a bedside nurse in inpatient and emergency departments, working with pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric mental health patients. My extensive training and background have taught me that every journey to optimal health is unique. I enjoy partnering with clients to understand their needs, highlight their strengths, and use a motivational approach to care.
(774) 228-4906 x2 View (774) 228-4906 x2
Photo of Toyosi Oyebode, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Toyosi Oyebode
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling to get through each day? Do you feel disconnected from life, family, and friends? Are you easily overwhelmed? Have you stopped enjoying the simple things that once made you happy? Do you cry more often and feel like nothing can be done to fix your life? Do you have trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you wake up? I understand that mental health challenges can be difficult. I offer supportive, empathetic care to clients with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and insomnia.
Are you struggling to get through each day? Do you feel disconnected from life, family, and friends? Are you easily overwhelmed? Have you stopped enjoying the simple things that once made you happy? Do you cry more often and feel like nothing can be done to fix your life? Do you have trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you wake up? I understand that mental health challenges can be difficult. I offer supportive, empathetic care to clients with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and insomnia.
(508) 500-1626 View (508) 500-1626
1

See more therapy options for Bristol County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bristol County, MA

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Bristol County, MA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
91% Depression
83% Bipolar Disorder
75% Medication Management
74% ADHD
74% Trauma and PTSD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

99% BlueCross and BlueShield
85% Aetna
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Bristol County, MA see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

88% Female
12% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bristol County?

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.