Psychiatrists in Danvers, MA

Photo of Grace Lilienthal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Grace Lilienthal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I provide care to clients located anywhere in Massachusetts via telehealth. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of Renbrook Center for Mental Health LLC. I am licensed to provide the following services: 1. Psychotherapy (talk therapy); 2. Psychiatric medication prescribing; or 3. Both. I am committed to providing high-quality, individualized mental healthcare to every person I come to know in my practice. To book, visit my website to request an electronic intake form.
I provide care to clients located anywhere in Massachusetts via telehealth. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of Renbrook Center for Mental Health LLC. I am licensed to provide the following services: 1. Psychotherapy (talk therapy); 2. Psychiatric medication prescribing; or 3. Both. I am committed to providing high-quality, individualized mental healthcare to every person I come to know in my practice. To book, visit my website to request an electronic intake form.
(339) 214-9007 View (339) 214-9007
Photo of Rosibel Guzman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Rosibel Guzman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Danvers, MA 01923
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my ideal client includes individuals of all ages facing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, schizophrenia, substance abuse, autism, or OCD. These clients often feel overwhelmed by symptoms that interfere with relationships, work, or education, yet they hold a strong desire for connection and self-fulfillment. They seek support with medication management, coping strategies, and emotional regulation in a safe, judgment-free environment. Their goal is to build resilience, improve interpersonal skills, and reclaim hope for a fulfilling life.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my ideal client includes individuals of all ages facing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, schizophrenia, substance abuse, autism, or OCD. These clients often feel overwhelmed by symptoms that interfere with relationships, work, or education, yet they hold a strong desire for connection and self-fulfillment. They seek support with medication management, coping strategies, and emotional regulation in a safe, judgment-free environment. Their goal is to build resilience, improve interpersonal skills, and reclaim hope for a fulfilling life.
(978) 709-2851 View (978) 709-2851
Photo of Grace Lilienthal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Grace Lilienthal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I provide care to clients located anywhere in Massachusetts via telehealth. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of Renbrook Center for Mental Health LLC. I am licensed to provide the following services: 1. Psychotherapy (talk therapy); 2. Psychiatric medication prescribing; or 3. Both. I am committed to providing high-quality, individualized mental healthcare to every person I come to know in my practice. To book, visit my website to request an electronic intake form.
I provide care to clients located anywhere in Massachusetts via telehealth. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of Renbrook Center for Mental Health LLC. I am licensed to provide the following services: 1. Psychotherapy (talk therapy); 2. Psychiatric medication prescribing; or 3. Both. I am committed to providing high-quality, individualized mental healthcare to every person I come to know in my practice. To book, visit my website to request an electronic intake form.
(978) 307-6739 View (978) 307-6739
Photo of Kimberly Seaward, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kimberly Seaward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Currently Accepting New Patients! Coastal Psychiatry provides outpatient mental health and medication management services to adolescents and adults (ages 12 and older) located anywhere in Massachusetts via telehealth. We treat a range of Behavioral Health Disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Adjustments Disorders, Grief and Bereavement, Divorce and Separation, Relationship issues as well as sleep issues.
Currently Accepting New Patients! Coastal Psychiatry provides outpatient mental health and medication management services to adolescents and adults (ages 12 and older) located anywhere in Massachusetts via telehealth. We treat a range of Behavioral Health Disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Adjustments Disorders, Grief and Bereavement, Divorce and Separation, Relationship issues as well as sleep issues.
(978) 982-2314 View (978) 982-2314
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 Grace Lilienthal - Renbrook Center for Mental Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Renbrook Center for Mental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I provide care to clients located anywhere in Massachusetts via telehealth. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of Renbrook Center for Mental Health LLC. I am licensed to provide the following services: 1. Psychotherapy (talk therapy); 2. Psychiatric medication prescribing; or 3. Both. I am committed to providing high-quality, individualized mental healthcare to every person I come to know in my practice. To book, visit my website to request an electronic intake form.
I provide care to clients located anywhere in Massachusetts via telehealth. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of Renbrook Center for Mental Health LLC. I am licensed to provide the following services: 1. Psychotherapy (talk therapy); 2. Psychiatric medication prescribing; or 3. Both. I am committed to providing high-quality, individualized mental healthcare to every person I come to know in my practice. To book, visit my website to request an electronic intake form.
(978) 693-5832 View (978) 693-5832
Photo of Julia Martyn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Julia Martyn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
16 Endorsed
Danvers, MA 01923
Searching for someone to help you with mental clarity? Do you need reliable, customized professional psychiatric help? Whether it’s long-term or short-term, outpatient tele-health and in-person appointments will help you get a step ahead in your pursuit towards mental wellness. Wheeler Brook Psychiatric Care is a private, independent clinic providing diagnosis, medication management, counseling, and treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, panic attacks, PTSD, mood disorders, ADHD, and more. I provide compassionate, safe, judgement-free, comprehensive and personalized psychiatric care to empower you on your mental wellness journey.
Searching for someone to help you with mental clarity? Do you need reliable, customized professional psychiatric help? Whether it’s long-term or short-term, outpatient tele-health and in-person appointments will help you get a step ahead in your pursuit towards mental wellness. Wheeler Brook Psychiatric Care is a private, independent clinic providing diagnosis, medication management, counseling, and treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, panic attacks, PTSD, mood disorders, ADHD, and more. I provide compassionate, safe, judgement-free, comprehensive and personalized psychiatric care to empower you on your mental wellness journey.
(351) 999-7526 View (351) 999-7526
Photo of Helen Macharia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Helen Macharia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
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.
(978) 878-2332 View (978) 878-2332
Photo of Cecilia Sky Ryll, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP
Cecilia Sky Ryll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP
Danvers, MA 01923
I am a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with experience in evaluating and treating anxiety disorders, depression, various mood disorders such as bipolar, PTSD, neurocognitive and psychotic disorders. I graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a post-master certificate in psychiatry and mental health. Prior to this I earned my MSN with specialization in women’s health and then my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Frontier University, and worked as a women’s health nurse practitioner and a primary care provider for women. My niche is focusing on issues involving both areas.
I am a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with experience in evaluating and treating anxiety disorders, depression, various mood disorders such as bipolar, PTSD, neurocognitive and psychotic disorders. I graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a post-master certificate in psychiatry and mental health. Prior to this I earned my MSN with specialization in women’s health and then my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Frontier University, and worked as a women’s health nurse practitioner and a primary care provider for women. My niche is focusing on issues involving both areas.
(508) 625-7434 View (508) 625-7434
Photo of Gregory Marcellin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Gregory Marcellin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Danvers, MA 01923
My goal is geared towards establishing an environment centered on trust and meaning for all patients from all backgrounds. As a lead nurse practitioner during the pandemic times of isolation, quarantine, and minimal social events, I observed and treated the immediate, short-term impacts of COVID-19 and grew an interest in understanding the long-term mental health impacts of the pandemic, especially among marginalized groups of people.
My goal is geared towards establishing an environment centered on trust and meaning for all patients from all backgrounds. As a lead nurse practitioner during the pandemic times of isolation, quarantine, and minimal social events, I observed and treated the immediate, short-term impacts of COVID-19 and grew an interest in understanding the long-term mental health impacts of the pandemic, especially among marginalized groups of people.
(978) 924-4334 View (978) 924-4334
Photo of Alissa Fodor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, APRN, MPHNP
Alissa Fodor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, APRN, MPHNP
Serves Area
I want to help my clients find an ultimate and healthy approach to their mental wellbeing. My choice of treatment plan is consistent with my client's commitment. Psychiatric symptoms such as Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Depression, Bipolar disorder, ext. can be triggered and exacerbated by many things such as: endocrine issues, insufficient self-care, lack of exercise, poor diet and more. Armed with an understanding of holistic approach along with Psychiatric Medicine, I diagnose and create medication management plans for each of my patients and help address other issues by consulting with appropriate professionals.
I want to help my clients find an ultimate and healthy approach to their mental wellbeing. My choice of treatment plan is consistent with my client's commitment. Psychiatric symptoms such as Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Depression, Bipolar disorder, ext. can be triggered and exacerbated by many things such as: endocrine issues, insufficient self-care, lack of exercise, poor diet and more. Armed with an understanding of holistic approach along with Psychiatric Medicine, I diagnose and create medication management plans for each of my patients and help address other issues by consulting with appropriate professionals.
(781) 244-0115 View (781) 244-0115
Photo of William Chad Garrett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
William Chad Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
When you're struggling, you need support right away, not in a month. If you're dealing with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia that are impacting your life, visit my website and click on the "Request Consultation" button to get started today.
When you're struggling, you need support right away, not in a month. If you're dealing with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia that are impacting your life, visit my website and click on the "Request Consultation" button to get started today.
(508) 466-6717 View (508) 466-6717
Photo of Brian Grace, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MBA
Brian Grace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MBA
Online Only
I have spent my entire adult life caring for people struggling with mental health illness. For over two decades as a psychiatric RN, I came to realize that every person has a unique set of characteristics, and as such has a unique path to wellness. I have taken this philosophy into my private practice as a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I strive to create a safe and judgement free treatment environment where my patients feel comfortable sharing the true nature of their distress. It is from this place of honesty that an effective treatment plan can be implemented and true healing can begin.
I have spent my entire adult life caring for people struggling with mental health illness. For over two decades as a psychiatric RN, I came to realize that every person has a unique set of characteristics, and as such has a unique path to wellness. I have taken this philosophy into my private practice as a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I strive to create a safe and judgement free treatment environment where my patients feel comfortable sharing the true nature of their distress. It is from this place of honesty that an effective treatment plan can be implemented and true healing can begin.
(978) 579-1827 View (978) 579-1827
Photo of Shaun Spanos - Vibrant Minds and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vibrant Minds and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
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.
(339) 218-5822 View (339) 218-5822
Photo of Sarlah Bernard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Sarlah Bernard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Serves Area
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 in making 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 in making an informed decision about their treatment plan.
(857) 376-4758 View (857) 376-4758
Photo of Nell Peiken, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, MSN
Nell Peiken
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, MSN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I work with children, adolescents, and adults; and provide medication evaluations and ongoing medication management. Please go directly to my website (www.nellpeiken.com) for information on scheduling.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I work with children, adolescents, and adults; and provide medication evaluations and ongoing medication management. Please go directly to my website (www.nellpeiken.com) for information on scheduling.
(978) 607-3815 View (978) 607-3815
Photo of Edwin J. Agbonavbare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, ARNP-BC
Edwin J. Agbonavbare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, ARNP-BC
Serves Area
Nice to meet you, I am the founder of Rejuvenate Psychiatric Mental Health Services, LLC. As a psych nurse practitioner, my purpose is to bring life back to normalcy after mental health challenges. My purpose is to eradicate the stigma that surrounds mental health. It is okay to have mental health challenges. I will help individuals manage long-term mental health conditions, offer therapy for a wide variety of psychological disorders, provide individuals and parent education, and offer referrals to other medical specialties as needed. I also provide assessment, evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and medication management.
Nice to meet you, I am the founder of Rejuvenate Psychiatric Mental Health Services, LLC. As a psych nurse practitioner, my purpose is to bring life back to normalcy after mental health challenges. My purpose is to eradicate the stigma that surrounds mental health. It is okay to have mental health challenges. I will help individuals manage long-term mental health conditions, offer therapy for a wide variety of psychological disorders, provide individuals and parent education, and offer referrals to other medical specialties as needed. I also provide assessment, evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and medication management.
(978) 708-4603 View (978) 708-4603
Photo of Nikolas Wilde - Awaken Mind Center, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Awaken Mind Center
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Awaken Mind Center, we are dedicated in providing comprehensive mental health services to support your progress towards well-being. We provide a wide range of services tailored to your unique needs. Whether through therapy, medication management, genetic testing, our goal is to support your mental wellness with compassionate, and evidence-based care. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve a better quality of life.
At Awaken Mind Center, we are dedicated in providing comprehensive mental health services to support your progress towards well-being. We provide a wide range of services tailored to your unique needs. Whether through therapy, medication management, genetic testing, our goal is to support your mental wellness with compassionate, and evidence-based care. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve a better quality of life.
(857) 382-2814 View (857) 382-2814
Photo of James Gregory Bouras - James G. Bouras, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
James G. Bouras, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I really enjoy working with all. In particular I think its important to have a mutual relationship where both parties collaborate and agree on the proper treatment. It is essential to also incorporate good diet and exercise in order to feel better! I focus in on clients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, and ADD symptoms.
I really enjoy working with all. In particular I think its important to have a mutual relationship where both parties collaborate and agree on the proper treatment. It is essential to also incorporate good diet and exercise in order to feel better! I focus in on clients suffering from Depression, Anxiety, and ADD symptoms.
(978) 451-6270 View (978) 451-6270
Photo of Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD, CDS
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD, CDS
Serves Area
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 diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient 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 diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(857) 597-2414 View (857) 597-2414

See more therapy options for Danvers

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Danvers, MA

20+

Average cost per session

$187

Psychiatrists in Danvers, MA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
96% Anxiety
88% ADHD
85% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
77% Sleep or Insomnia
73% Trauma and PTSD
73% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
95% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Danvers, MA see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

63% Female
37% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Danvers?

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.