Psychiatrists in Byfield, MA
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I am a multilingual psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked across the lifespan in Massachusetts. I work with clients who are struggling with a myriad of mental health concerns, including substance abuse. My goal is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients to empower them to engage in their treatment to reach their maximum potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have adequate information while being an active participant to make an informed decision about their treatment plan.
I am a multilingual psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked across the lifespan in Massachusetts. I work with clients who are struggling with a myriad of mental health concerns, including substance abuse. My goal is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients to empower them to engage in their treatment to reach their maximum potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have adequate information while being an active participant to make an informed decision about their treatment plan.

When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.

Vibrant Minds and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wakefield, MA 01880
Accepting new patients! with same week appointments available.Meet our team: Carmen Guy,MSN,PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC is a double board certified nurse practitioner and Shaun Spanos, MSN, PMHNP-BC are esteemed healthcare professionals that bring a wealth of expertise, and are committed to providing comprehensive psychiatric and wellness solutions to our community.Both providers have a special interest in substance abuse treatment, the LGBTQ & first responders comnnuity, Carmen is a native Spanish speaker (se tabla Espanol) who also provides psychotherapy.
Accepting new patients! with same week appointments available.Meet our team: Carmen Guy,MSN,PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC is a double board certified nurse practitioner and Shaun Spanos, MSN, PMHNP-BC are esteemed healthcare professionals that bring a wealth of expertise, and are committed to providing comprehensive psychiatric and wellness solutions to our community.Both providers have a special interest in substance abuse treatment, the LGBTQ & first responders comnnuity, Carmen is a native Spanish speaker (se tabla Espanol) who also provides psychotherapy.

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.

Taylor Blando
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
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.

Juliana Pires
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have helped people who reported anxiety that "comes unannounced from nowhere", or had been feeling low and having difficulty finding motivation, or who were just not feeling like themselves for different reasons including poor sleep, low energy, inability to stop worrying, and inability to concentrate to complete tasks.
I have helped people who reported anxiety that "comes unannounced from nowhere", or had been feeling low and having difficulty finding motivation, or who were just not feeling like themselves for different reasons including poor sleep, low energy, inability to stop worrying, and inability to concentrate to complete tasks.

I create a calm, listening atmosphere when working with my patients. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including ADD & ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, medication management, mood disorders, panic disorders, and sleep issues. My name is Dr. Ann O. Irorere, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP. I provide psychiatric assessment and medication management for adolescents, adults and seniors. I completed my Psychiatric NP and Adult- Geri NP trainings at Regis college in Massachusetts and my doctoral training at Grand Canyon University in Arizona.
I create a calm, listening atmosphere when working with my patients. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including ADD & ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, medication management, mood disorders, panic disorders, and sleep issues. My name is Dr. Ann O. Irorere, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP. I provide psychiatric assessment and medication management for adolescents, adults and seniors. I completed my Psychiatric NP and Adult- Geri NP trainings at Regis college in Massachusetts and my doctoral training at Grand Canyon University in Arizona.

Carolyne Mburu Gerena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client feels weighed down by anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, or trauma. They may struggle with persistent worries, mood swings, low energy, or a sense of being “stuck,” often coupled with sleep issues, forgetfulness, and feeling disconnected. They need a compassionate, judgment-free space to explore their emotions and receive personalized, evidence-based care tailored to their unique challenges. Their goals include finding emotional balance, building resilience, and regaining clarity and confidence. I we guide clients toward purpose and healing, empowering them to embrace a brighter future.
My ideal client feels weighed down by anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, or trauma. They may struggle with persistent worries, mood swings, low energy, or a sense of being “stuck,” often coupled with sleep issues, forgetfulness, and feeling disconnected. They need a compassionate, judgment-free space to explore their emotions and receive personalized, evidence-based care tailored to their unique challenges. Their goals include finding emotional balance, building resilience, and regaining clarity and confidence. I we guide clients toward purpose and healing, empowering them to embrace a brighter future.

Naila Azhar is a Boston-based psychiatrist trained both in psychotherapy and medication management. She helps her patients gain heightened self-awareness for making deep-seated and meaningful changes to his/her/their personality and emotional development. Understanding each patient’s unique neuro-biology, psychology, immune system functioning, hormonal levels, nutrition, and metabolism will be an integral part of prescribing medications for each patient. In addition, she uses psychotherapy and behavioral modification interventions to promote psychiatric health and well-being.
Naila Azhar is a Boston-based psychiatrist trained both in psychotherapy and medication management. She helps her patients gain heightened self-awareness for making deep-seated and meaningful changes to his/her/their personality and emotional development. Understanding each patient’s unique neuro-biology, psychology, immune system functioning, hormonal levels, nutrition, and metabolism will be an integral part of prescribing medications for each patient. In addition, she uses psychotherapy and behavioral modification interventions to promote psychiatric health and well-being.

Mariam Ssozi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Lowell, MA 01854
MA & NH Accepting New Patients Across Life Span. I am a board-certified nurse practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of my practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, substance abuse, and Insomnia
MA & NH Accepting New Patients Across Life Span. I am a board-certified nurse practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of my practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, substance abuse, and Insomnia

My ideal client is suffering from some type of psychiatric illness. You are motivated to work to improve your quality of life. Ideally you are in therapy and want to add medication management to augment what you are already working on.
My ideal client is suffering from some type of psychiatric illness. You are motivated to work to improve your quality of life. Ideally you are in therapy and want to add medication management to augment what you are already working on.

Focuspoint Behavior Health Solutions LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lawrence, MA 01840
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP, Licensed in MA and NH, accepting new patients in-person/telehealth. Is Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Depression, Bipolar, PTSD/Trauma, Addiction taken over your life? Many Americans are facing similar problem, we will utilize a holistic approach, developed skills and implement comprehensive treatment plans, fostering a supportive environment for your recovery. High-quality individualized care, emphasizing on empathy and effective communication. I believe in the power of listening and strive to be a compassionate leader, your worries are mine too and no one is above mental illness.
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP, Licensed in MA and NH, accepting new patients in-person/telehealth. Is Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Depression, Bipolar, PTSD/Trauma, Addiction taken over your life? Many Americans are facing similar problem, we will utilize a holistic approach, developed skills and implement comprehensive treatment plans, fostering a supportive environment for your recovery. High-quality individualized care, emphasizing on empathy and effective communication. I believe in the power of listening and strive to be a compassionate leader, your worries are mine too and no one is above mental illness.

When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.

Helen Macharia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Danvers, MA 01923
Are you or a loved one navigating mental health challenges and seeking a compassionate and holistic approach to mental health care? Are you in a transitional phase, such as the shift from college to adulthood, worrying about your future success, and looking for personalized support to navigate these changes? Do you value a collaborative and empathetic approach where medication management, therapy, and lifestyle guidance are seamlessly integrated? If any of these questions resonate with you, Helen Macharia at Cagway Health and Wellness is here to support your journey toward stabilization, healing, and an improved quality of life.
Are you or a loved one navigating mental health challenges and seeking a compassionate and holistic approach to mental health care? Are you in a transitional phase, such as the shift from college to adulthood, worrying about your future success, and looking for personalized support to navigate these changes? Do you value a collaborative and empathetic approach where medication management, therapy, and lifestyle guidance are seamlessly integrated? If any of these questions resonate with you, Helen Macharia at Cagway Health and Wellness is here to support your journey toward stabilization, healing, and an improved quality of life.

Mass Behavioral Health Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Mass Behavioral Health Center (MBHC) is an outpatient Mental Health Center in Worcester, Massachusetts which provides diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive services related to mental and behavioral disorders. At MBHC, We have certified Professionals with years of experience, and our mission is to find your hidden potential and give you all the necessary tools to develop, grow, and overcome your challenges. Ranked among the leading outpatient mental health providers in Worcester County, the center is a leading mental health service provider that specializes in the treatment of all ages with mental health problems.
Mass Behavioral Health Center (MBHC) is an outpatient Mental Health Center in Worcester, Massachusetts which provides diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive services related to mental and behavioral disorders. At MBHC, We have certified Professionals with years of experience, and our mission is to find your hidden potential and give you all the necessary tools to develop, grow, and overcome your challenges. Ranked among the leading outpatient mental health providers in Worcester County, the center is a leading mental health service provider that specializes in the treatment of all ages with mental health problems.

Currently, I am accepting new patients into my practice for those interested in weekly psychotherapy and psychotropic medication supervision in a psychodynamic frame.
The focus of my practice is on establishing meaningful and longitudinal therapeutic relationships with patients seeking to explore their problems in living. Through a relational and integrative approach, I focus on the thoughts and feelings that emerge in the therapeutic relationship to elucidate and interpret the challenges patients face in the wider world.
Currently, I am accepting new patients into my practice for those interested in weekly psychotherapy and psychotropic medication supervision in a psychodynamic frame.
The focus of my practice is on establishing meaningful and longitudinal therapeutic relationships with patients seeking to explore their problems in living. Through a relational and integrative approach, I focus on the thoughts and feelings that emerge in the therapeutic relationship to elucidate and interpret the challenges patients face in the wider world.

Joshua Hatcher-Mullins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Joshua believes in caring for the whole person holistically. He strives to understand current mental health concerns as well as various stressors and past traumas. He provides a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment for clients. He works collaboratively with clients to create a plan, overcome stuck points, and reach treatment goals utilizing both therapeutic techniques and medication. Joshua's education consists of some of the highest rated programs in the country - Cornell, Duke University, and GSU, as well as an Emory Residency program. Most insurances accepted, generally with very low or NO copay - verified before first visit!
Joshua believes in caring for the whole person holistically. He strives to understand current mental health concerns as well as various stressors and past traumas. He provides a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment for clients. He works collaboratively with clients to create a plan, overcome stuck points, and reach treatment goals utilizing both therapeutic techniques and medication. Joshua's education consists of some of the highest rated programs in the country - Cornell, Duke University, and GSU, as well as an Emory Residency program. Most insurances accepted, generally with very low or NO copay - verified before first visit!

Brianna Kamruzzaman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, CDDN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Just trying to help one person one day at a time.
Just trying to help one person one day at a time.
I am a board certified Psychiatric- Mental Health as well as Family Nurse Practitioner. After working in several outpatient and inpatient facilities for almost two decades, I’ve developed a holistic approach in managing clients. I offer mental health management for individuals across the lifespan. These services include initial psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, second-opinions, and medication management for disorders including anxiety, trauma, mood and psychotic disorders. I look forward to collaborating with you (and/or your child) in achieving your mental health goals.
I am a board certified Psychiatric- Mental Health as well as Family Nurse Practitioner. After working in several outpatient and inpatient facilities for almost two decades, I’ve developed a holistic approach in managing clients. I offer mental health management for individuals across the lifespan. These services include initial psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, second-opinions, and medication management for disorders including anxiety, trauma, mood and psychotic disorders. I look forward to collaborating with you (and/or your child) in achieving your mental health goals.

Essex Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Methuen, MA 01844
Making the decision to get help isn't always easy, but it is an important step towards reclaiming your healing and growth. I strongly believe in building a therapeutic relationship by providing a safe, confidential, and reliable environment for my patients. Although the bulk of my practice is in medication management, I believe that combining therapy and medication management usually yields the best results with treatment goals. The goal of my treatment is to help my patients achieve their fullest potential and to improve their quality of life.
Making the decision to get help isn't always easy, but it is an important step towards reclaiming your healing and growth. I strongly believe in building a therapeutic relationship by providing a safe, confidential, and reliable environment for my patients. Although the bulk of my practice is in medication management, I believe that combining therapy and medication management usually yields the best results with treatment goals. The goal of my treatment is to help my patients achieve their fullest potential and to improve their quality of life.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Byfield, MA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Byfield, MA who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Byfield, MA see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Byfield?
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.