Psychiatrists in Concord, MA

Photo of Elizabeth W Morrison, PMHNP, AGNP, LICSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth W Morrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, MA 01742
Currently accepting NEW patients! I am a dually certified Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who has worked in the field of behavioral health for my 20 + year career. I have worked in acute care inpatient psychiatric settings, the emergency department performing crisis evals as well as medical settings as an RN in several hospitals on the north shore and in Boston. My approach is personable, patient and caring as I get to know you and work WITH you to help you achieve the highest level of function possible.
Currently accepting NEW patients! I am a dually certified Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who has worked in the field of behavioral health for my 20 + year career. I have worked in acute care inpatient psychiatric settings, the emergency department performing crisis evals as well as medical settings as an RN in several hospitals on the north shore and in Boston. My approach is personable, patient and caring as I get to know you and work WITH you to help you achieve the highest level of function possible.
(857) 229-2852 View (857) 229-2852
Photo of Dr. Veronika Stock, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Veronika Stock
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
Waitlist for new clients
In past decade, I observed the mental health crisis culminating while access to help stagnate, or worse - decline. Most people are getting their psychiatric prescription from their general practitioner. This may be enough for some, but not all people affected by mental illness. In most cases, careful and stepwise stabilization is needed, sometimes with two of more medications. In addition, people suffering form several side effects may benefit from genetic testing.
In past decade, I observed the mental health crisis culminating while access to help stagnate, or worse - decline. Most people are getting their psychiatric prescription from their general practitioner. This may be enough for some, but not all people affected by mental illness. In most cases, careful and stepwise stabilization is needed, sometimes with two of more medications. In addition, people suffering form several side effects may benefit from genetic testing.
(978) 381-1903 View (978) 381-1903
Photo of Wendi Diamond, MD, Psychiatrist
Wendi Diamond
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
I’m a psychiatrist double boarded in Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults from ages 5 through 65. My undergraduate training was at Harvard University, my medical school training was at Boston University, my 4 year Adult Psychiatry Residency was at Walter Reed, and my 2 year Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship was at Duke University, where I was Chief Fellow. I worked at Duke University and Womack Army Medical Center as an Adult Psychiatrist, then as a Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist for the past 20 years.
I’m a psychiatrist double boarded in Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults from ages 5 through 65. My undergraduate training was at Harvard University, my medical school training was at Boston University, my 4 year Adult Psychiatry Residency was at Walter Reed, and my 2 year Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship was at Duke University, where I was Chief Fellow. I worked at Duke University and Womack Army Medical Center as an Adult Psychiatrist, then as a Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist for the past 20 years.
(857) 524-9223 View (857) 524-9223
Photo of Katie Johnson, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katie Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years working in the mental health field. I have worked in various settings including inpatient psychiatry, crisis stabilization, emergency room, and home care. I have particular interest in depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, and peri/postpartum care.
Currently accepting new clients! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years working in the mental health field. I have worked in various settings including inpatient psychiatry, crisis stabilization, emergency room, and home care. I have particular interest in depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, and peri/postpartum care.
(978) 643-1367 View (978) 643-1367
Photo of Courtney Joachim, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Courtney Joachim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, MA 01742
After several years working as a nurse in the medical field and understanding the mind-body connection, I discovered that I wanted to work in a way that I could create long term relationships with my patients. I believe that mental health is just as important as our physical health. Although I am a strong advocate for holistic modalities such as therapy, movement, nutrition, and sleep, psychopharmacology can be a critical part of your treatment journey. Medications work best when used in conjunction with therapy and overall well-being practices.
After several years working as a nurse in the medical field and understanding the mind-body connection, I discovered that I wanted to work in a way that I could create long term relationships with my patients. I believe that mental health is just as important as our physical health. Although I am a strong advocate for holistic modalities such as therapy, movement, nutrition, and sleep, psychopharmacology can be a critical part of your treatment journey. Medications work best when used in conjunction with therapy and overall well-being practices.
(978) 647-3856 View (978) 647-3856
Photo of Nina Abelowitz, ANP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nina Abelowitz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, MA 01742
I'm OPEN to new clients! I'm a Nurse Practitioner with fourteen years of experience. I have cared for patients in primary care, oncology and psychiatry throughout the Boston and South Florida area.
I'm OPEN to new clients! I'm a Nurse Practitioner with fourteen years of experience. I have cared for patients in primary care, oncology and psychiatry throughout the Boston and South Florida area.
(978) 625-9708 View (978) 625-9708
Photo of Stephen Luippold, MA, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephen Luippold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, APRN
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In my 25 years of practice I have treated those with diverse backgrounds in various healthcare settings. I offer psychiatric care with a focus on psychiatric evaluations and, when indicated, medication management for anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma, and ADHD. I have worked extensively with those experiencing forms of chronic illness and pain syndromes. My approach to treatment encompasses a mind/body/spirit philosophy toward care and wellness. You must be actively engaged in therapy as I view medication as a adjunctive treatment to the work you are currently doing with your therapist with whom I will collaborate with.
In my 25 years of practice I have treated those with diverse backgrounds in various healthcare settings. I offer psychiatric care with a focus on psychiatric evaluations and, when indicated, medication management for anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma, and ADHD. I have worked extensively with those experiencing forms of chronic illness and pain syndromes. My approach to treatment encompasses a mind/body/spirit philosophy toward care and wellness. You must be actively engaged in therapy as I view medication as a adjunctive treatment to the work you are currently doing with your therapist with whom I will collaborate with.
(978) 678-4077 View (978) 678-4077
Photo of Emmy Callahan, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emmy Callahan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
As a clinician, I strongly believe in meeting patients where they are. I bring kindness, warmth, and a sense of non-judgement to my patients. I love to incorporate elements of CBT and mindfulness into her practice, and I believe in incorporating medications with a collaborative approach with patients and families. I have a particular interest and deep experience in working with patients suffering from depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, and PTSD, and an intense focus in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
As a clinician, I strongly believe in meeting patients where they are. I bring kindness, warmth, and a sense of non-judgement to my patients. I love to incorporate elements of CBT and mindfulness into her practice, and I believe in incorporating medications with a collaborative approach with patients and families. I have a particular interest and deep experience in working with patients suffering from depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, and PTSD, and an intense focus in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
(978) 243-4463 View (978) 243-4463
Photo of Roger J Martinkus - New Healing Pathways, PLLC, PMHNP, MSN, MHSA, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
New Healing Pathways, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MHSA, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, MA 01742
UPDATE - I am open to collaborate with therapists and PCPs to provide medication management and collaboration. My name is Roger Martinkus I'm originally am from and currently live in Massachusetts . After 24 year of service I retired from the US Army as a MSG / E8 in 2013. I completed both by BSN and MSN from Regis College in Weston, MA and am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My hobbies outside of work are watching the Bruins, Red Sox and Patriots and supporting veterans and veterans causes. I look forward to working with you while walking with you in your journey to wellness.
UPDATE - I am open to collaborate with therapists and PCPs to provide medication management and collaboration. My name is Roger Martinkus I'm originally am from and currently live in Massachusetts . After 24 year of service I retired from the US Army as a MSG / E8 in 2013. I completed both by BSN and MSN from Regis College in Weston, MA and am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My hobbies outside of work are watching the Bruins, Red Sox and Patriots and supporting veterans and veterans causes. I look forward to working with you while walking with you in your journey to wellness.
(857) 425-3488 View (857) 425-3488
Photo of Henry Kengong Ntoro, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Henry Kengong Ntoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
I am an adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a unique experience in psychopharmacology focusing on mechanism of action for psychotropic medications. Please go to my website yourplaceofcare.com, fill a referral form and send to me via email or fax. I am also offering pharmacogenetic testing as need arises. It's all about you!
I am an adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a unique experience in psychopharmacology focusing on mechanism of action for psychotropic medications. Please go to my website yourplaceofcare.com, fill a referral form and send to me via email or fax. I am also offering pharmacogenetic testing as need arises. It's all about you!
(603) 392-7984 View (603) 392-7984
Photo of Mayumi Okuda Benavides, MD, Psychiatrist
Mayumi Okuda Benavides
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
(978) 643-5182 View (978) 643-5182
Photo of Mayumi Okuda Benavides, MD, Psychiatrist
Mayumi Okuda Benavides
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742  (Online Only)
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
(831) 539-0572 View (831) 539-0572
Photo of David H. Brendel, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
David H. Brendel
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, MA 01742
As a psychiatrist, executive coach, and philosophical counselor, I help clients confronting the stress that accompanies life transitions. As a psychiatrist, I diagnose and treat people with anxiety, mood instability, insomnia, and attention deficits. As an executive coach, I help clients manage work stress, overcome burnout, make career transitions, develop leaderships skills, and improve their overall functioning. As a philosophical counselor, I help clients attain deeper insight and fulfillment by engaging in self-reflection. In each role, I help clients handle stress, develop their core strengths, gain self-awareness, and achieve peak performance. This empowers clients to lead more fulfilled, joyful, compassionate, and productive lives.
As a psychiatrist, executive coach, and philosophical counselor, I help clients confronting the stress that accompanies life transitions. As a psychiatrist, I diagnose and treat people with anxiety, mood instability, insomnia, and attention deficits. As an executive coach, I help clients manage work stress, overcome burnout, make career transitions, develop leaderships skills, and improve their overall functioning. As a philosophical counselor, I help clients attain deeper insight and fulfillment by engaging in self-reflection. In each role, I help clients handle stress, develop their core strengths, gain self-awareness, and achieve peak performance. This empowers clients to lead more fulfilled, joyful, compassionate, and productive lives.
(617) 379-1452 View (617) 379-1452
Photo of Mark Strecker, MD, Psychiatrist
Mark Strecker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
How do we learn to understand and trust what our feelings are saying to us? What makes it possible to change entrenched ways of coping that are not working? My focus in therapy is to help patients deepen their personal relationships and find their work more rewarding; medication can sometimes help alleviate symptoms that interfere with achieving these goals. By providing a safe and supportive environment for the patient's search for self-understanding, and listening closely to what is being said and not said, I collaborate with the patient in finding creative and pragmatic ways to overcome obstacles to change.
How do we learn to understand and trust what our feelings are saying to us? What makes it possible to change entrenched ways of coping that are not working? My focus in therapy is to help patients deepen their personal relationships and find their work more rewarding; medication can sometimes help alleviate symptoms that interfere with achieving these goals. By providing a safe and supportive environment for the patient's search for self-understanding, and listening closely to what is being said and not said, I collaborate with the patient in finding creative and pragmatic ways to overcome obstacles to change.
(781) 996-3478 View (781) 996-3478
Photo of Margaret Cheng Tuttle, MD, Psychiatrist
Margaret Cheng Tuttle
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
Not accepting new clients
I am a psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital, where I see adults in the outpatient general psychiatry clinic. In my private practice in Lexington, I enjoy working with clients to design individualized treatment plans, taking into account preferences for psychotherapy, medication, or some combination of the two.
I am a psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital, where I see adults in the outpatient general psychiatry clinic. In my private practice in Lexington, I enjoy working with clients to design individualized treatment plans, taking into account preferences for psychotherapy, medication, or some combination of the two.
(781) 243-3785 View (781) 243-3785
Photo of Benjamin Brent, MD, MS, FABP, Psychiatrist
Benjamin Brent
Psychiatrist, MD, MS, FABP
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
I bring a psychoanalytically-informed approach to helping individuals with symptom relief, emotional pain, and interpersonal growth. This involves a focus on the role of emotions in a person's mental life, consideration of how psychological defenses may complicate greater personal fulfillment, and exploration of how the relationship between me and the patient may shed light on problematic interpersonal patterns. I integrate psychiatric medications in the therapeutic work whenever appropriate to reduce emotional suffering, enhance the capacity for reflection on painful experiences, and to facilitate relational understanding.
I bring a psychoanalytically-informed approach to helping individuals with symptom relief, emotional pain, and interpersonal growth. This involves a focus on the role of emotions in a person's mental life, consideration of how psychological defenses may complicate greater personal fulfillment, and exploration of how the relationship between me and the patient may shed light on problematic interpersonal patterns. I integrate psychiatric medications in the therapeutic work whenever appropriate to reduce emotional suffering, enhance the capacity for reflection on painful experiences, and to facilitate relational understanding.
(617) 401-0712 View (617) 401-0712
Photo of Karina Riedel, PMHNP-B, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse
Karina Riedel
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP-B, MSN
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
Taking New Patients. I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, currently practicing recently relocated from Austin, Texas. I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing from Boston College and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. I bring a comprehensive educational background to my role as my clinical experience is extensive.
Taking New Patients. I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, currently practicing recently relocated from Austin, Texas. I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing from Boston College and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. I bring a comprehensive educational background to my role as my clinical experience is extensive.
(617) 380-4472 View (617) 380-4472
Photo of Ryan Henner, Psychiatrist
Ryan Henner
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
What is getting in the way of your happiness? Let's find out together. I am a board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist. I run an esketamine clinic at a Boston teaching hospital, and am now accepting patients in my private practice in MetroWest. I offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) for people who have tried initial treatments, and are hoping to deepen their insights and awareness.
What is getting in the way of your happiness? Let's find out together. I am a board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist. I run an esketamine clinic at a Boston teaching hospital, and am now accepting patients in my private practice in MetroWest. I offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) for people who have tried initial treatments, and are hoping to deepen their insights and awareness.
(978) 570-8649 View (978) 570-8649
Photo of Aderonke Pederson, MD, Psychiatrist
Aderonke Pederson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Concord, MA 01742
Accepting new patients. I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering therapy and medication services, with a focus on mood disorders, depression, and anxiety. I am currently an Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School and Attending Psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital. I specialize in addressing mental health with a keen appreciation for my patient's cultural and family contexts. I seek to understand your values and goals. During the initial intake, I conduct a comprehensive evaluation to ensure your specific short and long term mental health goals are addressed.
Accepting new patients. I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering therapy and medication services, with a focus on mood disorders, depression, and anxiety. I am currently an Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School and Attending Psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital. I specialize in addressing mental health with a keen appreciation for my patient's cultural and family contexts. I seek to understand your values and goals. During the initial intake, I conduct a comprehensive evaluation to ensure your specific short and long term mental health goals are addressed.
(781) 562-4375 View (781) 562-4375
Photo of Regina Perry Siu, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Regina Perry Siu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
My practice offers psychiatric medication management for a range of needs from anxiety and depression, perimenopause and menopause, ADHD, insomnia, or substance dependence. My own experience with postpartum depression and being treated by knowledgeable, kind providers prompted me to consider a career change from law to mental health. I bring empathy, education, and a range of life experiences to my psychiatric practice.
My practice offers psychiatric medication management for a range of needs from anxiety and depression, perimenopause and menopause, ADHD, insomnia, or substance dependence. My own experience with postpartum depression and being treated by knowledgeable, kind providers prompted me to consider a career change from law to mental health. I bring empathy, education, and a range of life experiences to my psychiatric practice.
(774) 458-9318 View (774) 458-9318
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Concord, MA

30+

Average cost per session

$350

Psychiatrists in Concord, MA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
90% Depression
70% ADHD
67% Medication Management
63% Bipolar Disorder
60% Trauma and PTSD
60% Stress

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
78% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Concord, MA see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Concord?

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.