Psychiatrists in Cohasset, MA

Photo of Jacqueline Ann Owens, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Jacqueline Ann Owens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Cohasset, MA 02025
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner clinically trained in treating patients with mental health diagnoses across the lifespan. I received my Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nursing degree from Walden University, in Minneapolis, MN. Prior to becoming an advanced practice nurse, I worked in Southern California, which was an irreplaceable experience for me, both personally and professionally. Returning home to Boston, I had the opportunity to work for Boston Medical Center, and then South Shore Hospital’s Emergency Department for 15 years, holding certification and accreditation in Case Management.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner clinically trained in treating patients with mental health diagnoses across the lifespan. I received my Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nursing degree from Walden University, in Minneapolis, MN. Prior to becoming an advanced practice nurse, I worked in Southern California, which was an irreplaceable experience for me, both personally and professionally. Returning home to Boston, I had the opportunity to work for Boston Medical Center, and then South Shore Hospital’s Emergency Department for 15 years, holding certification and accreditation in Case Management.
(617) 340-2316 View (617) 340-2316
Photo of Rachael A Darian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP, BC
Rachael A Darian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP, BC
Online Only
As a Christian psychiatric nurse practitioner, I believe in treating clients with the dignity and compassion found in my faith while adhering to the highest standards of evidence-based psychiatric care. I provide an open, nonjudgmental, and respectful treatment environment where clients of all backgrounds and faiths can effectively address their mental health challenges. My goal is to work alongside you to find hope, meaning, and healing.
As a Christian psychiatric nurse practitioner, I believe in treating clients with the dignity and compassion found in my faith while adhering to the highest standards of evidence-based psychiatric care. I provide an open, nonjudgmental, and respectful treatment environment where clients of all backgrounds and faiths can effectively address their mental health challenges. My goal is to work alongside you to find hope, meaning, and healing.
(339) 218-3661 View (339) 218-3661
Photo of Ashley L Baker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Ashley L Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
Cohasset, MA 02025
Ashley Baker, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13+ years of experience. She provides diagnostic evaluations and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions. Ashley earned her BSN from Villanova University (2012) with a minor in Psychology and her MSN from Vanderbilt University (2016), where she graduated top of her class and was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau. Her clinical experience includes Northwestern Medicine, Boston Medical Center, and the Coleman Institute under Dr. Peter Coleman.
Ashley Baker, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13+ years of experience. She provides diagnostic evaluations and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions. Ashley earned her BSN from Villanova University (2012) with a minor in Psychology and her MSN from Vanderbilt University (2016), where she graduated top of her class and was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau. Her clinical experience includes Northwestern Medicine, Boston Medical Center, and the Coleman Institute under Dr. Peter Coleman.
(339) 675-1718 View (339) 675-1718
Photo of Carolyn Rooney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMH NP
Carolyn Rooney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMH NP
Serves Area
As the saying goes, "it takes a village" and I am grateful to offer my expertise as an additional support in your village. Whether you are an expecting mother, a new mom, or have a child with ADHD, I provide a thorough assessment, specialized treatment plans, and personalized recommendations through a careful, warm, and thoughtful approach.
As the saying goes, "it takes a village" and I am grateful to offer my expertise as an additional support in your village. Whether you are an expecting mother, a new mom, or have a child with ADHD, I provide a thorough assessment, specialized treatment plans, and personalized recommendations through a careful, warm, and thoughtful approach.
(781) 746-8368 View (781) 746-8368
Photo of Ashley Baker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Ashley Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ashley Baker, NP is a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings warmth, clinical expertise, and a patient-centered approach to mental health care. Ashley works with adolescents and adults facing a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and life transitions. Her treatment style is rooted in empathy and collaboration, offering a safe, nonjudgmental space for patients to explore their needs and goals. Ashley provides thoughtful medication management and supportive therapeutic guidance, always tailoring care to the individual.
Ashley Baker, NP is a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings warmth, clinical expertise, and a patient-centered approach to mental health care. Ashley works with adolescents and adults facing a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and life transitions. Her treatment style is rooted in empathy and collaboration, offering a safe, nonjudgmental space for patients to explore their needs and goals. Ashley provides thoughtful medication management and supportive therapeutic guidance, always tailoring care to the individual.
(339) 674-4654 View (339) 674-4654

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. John Michael Huff, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. John Michael Huff
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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.
(929) 600-7937 View (929) 600-7937
Photo of Katelyn Ward, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Katelyn Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with Doctor of Nursing Practice and Master of Science in Nursing degrees from Columbia University. I am licensed in Massachusetts and New York. I work with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma related concerns, and substance use. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to begin, you are not alone.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with Doctor of Nursing Practice and Master of Science in Nursing degrees from Columbia University. I am licensed in Massachusetts and New York. I work with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma related concerns, and substance use. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to begin, you are not alone.
(857) 847-4638 View (857) 847-4638
Photo of Eleni Koudanis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHMP
Eleni Koudanis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHMP
1 Endorsed
Topsfield, MA 01983
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experience in anxiety disorders, ADHD, depression, trauma, and addiction. I offer clients a modern, warm, and elevated telehealth experience where your needs come first and you never feel rushed.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experience in anxiety disorders, ADHD, depression, trauma, and addiction. I offer clients a modern, warm, and elevated telehealth experience where your needs come first and you never feel rushed.
(978) 644-6312 View (978) 644-6312
Photo of Jessica Nicole Bookman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jessica Nicole Bookman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Yes, I am accepting new patients! Day and evening appointments available. Interested patients can go to our website and self schedule a free 15 minute consult. Are you seeking a provider that truly listens to you? I am dedicated to helping you navigate life’s challenges. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I have been a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for almost two decades of diverse experience. I am licensed in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Your personalized treatment plan will be tailored to fit your unique needs, goals, and preferences.
Yes, I am accepting new patients! Day and evening appointments available. Interested patients can go to our website and self schedule a free 15 minute consult. Are you seeking a provider that truly listens to you? I am dedicated to helping you navigate life’s challenges. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I have been a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for almost two decades of diverse experience. I am licensed in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Your personalized treatment plan will be tailored to fit your unique needs, goals, and preferences.
(855) 592-5918 View (855) 592-5918
Photo of Jordan Wilson, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Jordan Wilson
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Raynham, MA 02767
Hello, I’m Jordan, a Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatry. I completed an additional year of post-PA training in behavioral neurology and neuropsychiatry and have over eight years of experience treating complex cases in outpatient, correctional, and community mental health settings. My approach is grounded in careful evaluation and thoughtful clinical observation rather than one-size-fits-all treatment. I work with adults experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns and tailor care to each individual’s needs.
Hello, I’m Jordan, a Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatry. I completed an additional year of post-PA training in behavioral neurology and neuropsychiatry and have over eight years of experience treating complex cases in outpatient, correctional, and community mental health settings. My approach is grounded in careful evaluation and thoughtful clinical observation rather than one-size-fits-all treatment. I work with adults experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns and tailor care to each individual’s needs.
(774) 273-7285 View (774) 273-7285
Photo of Marcia L Zuckerman, Psychiatrist, MD
Marcia L Zuckerman
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling to get through the day? Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or sadness? I offer a safe space to help you figure out how you can move forward in your life. I am a Harvard-educated, Board-certified psychiatrist with 25 years of experience in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I treat adults with mood and anxiety disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, general anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I provide a warm and supportive relationship, listen without judgment, and have a gentle sense of humor. Your head and your heart are both welcome here.
Are you struggling to get through the day? Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or sadness? I offer a safe space to help you figure out how you can move forward in your life. I am a Harvard-educated, Board-certified psychiatrist with 25 years of experience in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I treat adults with mood and anxiety disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, general anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I provide a warm and supportive relationship, listen without judgment, and have a gentle sense of humor. Your head and your heart are both welcome here.
(617) 446-3315 View (617) 446-3315
Photo of Annet Bukulu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Annet Bukulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Natick, MA 01760
Annet Bukulu is a compassionate, board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who recently joined Boston Neurobehavioral Associates full-time. She previously worked at Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital, providing inpatient and community care for severe mental illness, and at CHA Everett Hospital as a psychiatric consultant. Annet also has extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, substance use, and other psychiatric conditions.
Annet Bukulu is a compassionate, board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who recently joined Boston Neurobehavioral Associates full-time. She previously worked at Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital, providing inpatient and community care for severe mental illness, and at CHA Everett Hospital as a psychiatric consultant. Annet also has extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, substance use, and other psychiatric conditions.
(508) 406-7415 View (508) 406-7415
Photo of Carol Emerson - Ferncroft Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ferncroft Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danvers, MA 01923
Ferncroft Behavioral Health provides comprehensive diagnostic and medication management services for clients aged 5-65. Our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are available for both in-person and telehealth appointment..
Ferncroft Behavioral Health provides comprehensive diagnostic and medication management services for clients aged 5-65. Our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are available for both in-person and telehealth appointment..
(978) 699-9925 View (978) 699-9925
Photo of Olena Dreyfus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSH, PMHNP
Olena Dreyfus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSH, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Mansfield, MA 02048
Olena Dreyfus, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts, provides compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to adults of all ages. She treats conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, psychotic disorders, and PTSD, combining medication with lifestyle and behavioral strategies. Olena’s holistic approach considers biological, psychological, spiritual, and social factors. Her top priority is creating a safe, non-judgmental space where patients feel heard, valued, and supported on their journey to wellness.
Olena Dreyfus, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts, provides compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to adults of all ages. She treats conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, psychotic disorders, and PTSD, combining medication with lifestyle and behavioral strategies. Olena’s holistic approach considers biological, psychological, spiritual, and social factors. Her top priority is creating a safe, non-judgmental space where patients feel heard, valued, and supported on their journey to wellness.
(508) 257-7424 View (508) 257-7424
Photo of Dr. Horacio Hojman, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Horacio Hojman
Psychiatrist, MD
North Easton, MA 02356
Dr. Horacio Hojman is a Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist at the MA Easton Lifestance Location. He is a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry and Human Behavior at the Alpert Medical School at Brown University and also Faculty at the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute. He has been working at RIH/Hasbro Children's Hospital in Providence for 25 years.
Dr. Horacio Hojman is a Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist at the MA Easton Lifestance Location. He is a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry and Human Behavior at the Alpert Medical School at Brown University and also Faculty at the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute. He has been working at RIH/Hasbro Children's Hospital in Providence for 25 years.
(774) 352-2877 View (774) 352-2877
Photo of Carlos Covarrubias, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Carlos Covarrubias
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Boston, offering online psychotherapy throughout Massachusetts, in-person therapy and medication management in Jamaica Plain, and online classes and workshops. I've worked with patients and clients in both impatient and outpatient settings and have about a decade of experience helping people with mental health issues. I also have experience as an educator and healer.
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Boston, offering online psychotherapy throughout Massachusetts, in-person therapy and medication management in Jamaica Plain, and online classes and workshops. I've worked with patients and clients in both impatient and outpatient settings and have about a decade of experience helping people with mental health issues. I also have experience as an educator and healer.
(617) 765-1310 View (617) 765-1310
Photo of Jenna Wessels, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Jenna Wessels
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Accepting New Clients! Jenna has a strong understanding of the complex nature of eating disorders, including their physical, psychological, and social implications. She is skilled in assessing patients' needs and collaborating with them to develop individualized treatment plans that address their unique needs.
Accepting New Clients! Jenna has a strong understanding of the complex nature of eating disorders, including their physical, psychological, and social implications. She is skilled in assessing patients' needs and collaborating with them to develop individualized treatment plans that address their unique needs.
(978) 780-2406 View (978) 780-2406
Photo of Brittany Palacios, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brittany Palacios
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Welcome to Grow Therapy. My name is Brittany Palacios and am currently a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Massachusetts. Establishing a therapeutic alliance with clients is essential. I prioritize an individual's ability to listen and receive feedback. I have over 10 years of clinical experience working as a registered nurse at the bedside. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Worcester State University in 2011. I graduated from Regis College in 2018 where I received my Master’s degree in advanced psychiatric nursing.
Welcome to Grow Therapy. My name is Brittany Palacios and am currently a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Massachusetts. Establishing a therapeutic alliance with clients is essential. I prioritize an individual's ability to listen and receive feedback. I have over 10 years of clinical experience working as a registered nurse at the bedside. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Worcester State University in 2011. I graduated from Regis College in 2018 where I received my Master’s degree in advanced psychiatric nursing.
(508) 205-2481 View (508) 205-2481
Photo of Suzanne Femino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Suzanne Femino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Marblehead, MA 01945
It is important for each person to feel a connection with a provider. My hope is to individualize care, treat each person with respect, and enhance a sense of wellbeing. Although I work with different ages, I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults. I offer medication management and psychotherapy in Marblehead, MA and Glastonbury, CT.
It is important for each person to feel a connection with a provider. My hope is to individualize care, treat each person with respect, and enhance a sense of wellbeing. Although I work with different ages, I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults. I offer medication management and psychotherapy in Marblehead, MA and Glastonbury, CT.
(860) 544-5934 View (860) 544-5934
Photo of Michela Cerasani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Michela Cerasani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Abington, MA 02351
Michela Cerasani is an empathetic and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who stands firm in the belief that mental health is just as critical as physical health. She recognizes the profound connection between mind and body, offering a truly holistic perspective to care. Michela is committed to providing culturally competent, patient-centered care by integrating each individual’s unique background, values, and experiences into the treatment process. Her approach is rooted in compassion and collaboration, empowering patients throughout their journey toward optimal well-being.
Michela Cerasani is an empathetic and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who stands firm in the belief that mental health is just as critical as physical health. She recognizes the profound connection between mind and body, offering a truly holistic perspective to care. Michela is committed to providing culturally competent, patient-centered care by integrating each individual’s unique background, values, and experiences into the treatment process. Her approach is rooted in compassion and collaboration, empowering patients throughout their journey toward optimal well-being.
(339) 345-3302 View (339) 345-3302

See more therapy options for Cohasset

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Cohasset, MA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Cohasset, MA who prioritize treating:

100% Medication Management
80% Depression
80% ADHD
80% Anxiety
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
60% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Aetna
60% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Cohasset, MA see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Cohasset?

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.