Psychiatrists in Georgetown, MA

Photo of Kevin Michael Berney, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kevin Michael Berney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Georgetown, MA 01833
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience working within the mental health field. Prior to becoming a PMHNP through MGH Institute of Health Professions, I earned a master’s degree in social work from Boston University. After recognizing the needs of the community and my patients, I decided to expand my scope of practice. I am currently employed at Community Empowerment Services, where our mission is to empower individuals and families to reach their full potential.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience working within the mental health field. Prior to becoming a PMHNP through MGH Institute of Health Professions, I earned a master’s degree in social work from Boston University. After recognizing the needs of the community and my patients, I decided to expand my scope of practice. I am currently employed at Community Empowerment Services, where our mission is to empower individuals and families to reach their full potential.
(774) 220-1079 View (774) 220-1079
Photo of Helen Macharia, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Helen Macharia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgetown, MA 01833
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Cristin O'Connell, PMHNP, -BC, MSN, APRN, MEd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cristin O'Connell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, MSN, APRN, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Amesbury, MA 01913
I'm Cristin O'Connell, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to offer a safe space for adults to explore medication management. I take an integrative approach to mental health treatment through medication management, genetic testing/labwork, and supplements. Are you feeling overwhelmed and wondering if medication could be a way to support your healing? Medication along with integrative therapies are often tools to support your healing journey. Please know that you are welcome in this space.
I'm Cristin O'Connell, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to offer a safe space for adults to explore medication management. I take an integrative approach to mental health treatment through medication management, genetic testing/labwork, and supplements. Are you feeling overwhelmed and wondering if medication could be a way to support your healing? Medication along with integrative therapies are often tools to support your healing journey. Please know that you are welcome in this space.
(617) 405-8173 View (617) 405-8173
Photo of Liza Hunter, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Liza Hunter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
North Andover, MA 01845
I want to work with clients who are active partners rather than recipients. I view providing care as a partnership. My ideal patient is seeking care because they want to feel better and improve their life. An ideal patient makes their needs and goals known as we work together. I admire my patients who have an open mind to suggestions for interventions that may improve how they feel. I believe this flexibility can open up new possibilities for well-being.
I want to work with clients who are active partners rather than recipients. I view providing care as a partnership. My ideal patient is seeking care because they want to feel better and improve their life. An ideal patient makes their needs and goals known as we work together. I admire my patients who have an open mind to suggestions for interventions that may improve how they feel. I believe this flexibility can open up new possibilities for well-being.
(508) 501-3629 View (508) 501-3629
Photo of Paul F Belliveau - Paul F. Belliveau, M.D. & Ms. Tasha Humphreys PNP, MD, Psychiatrist
Paul F. Belliveau, M.D. & Ms. Tasha Humphreys PNP
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newburyport, MA 01950
We offer traditional adult psychiatry treatment as well as newer interventional psychiatry treatments. We will work in collaboration with your current treatment team or if you do not have a provider you can begin care here. Interventional psychiatry is a branch of psychiatry that specializes in providing r-TMS or Spravato/Ketamine treatment. These are two treatment options for people who still suffer from depression despite past trials of antidepressants and psychotherapy.
We offer traditional adult psychiatry treatment as well as newer interventional psychiatry treatments. We will work in collaboration with your current treatment team or if you do not have a provider you can begin care here. Interventional psychiatry is a branch of psychiatry that specializes in providing r-TMS or Spravato/Ketamine treatment. These are two treatment options for people who still suffer from depression despite past trials of antidepressants and psychotherapy.
(603) 606-9452 View (603) 606-9452
Photo of Emily Gorsuch, RN, Psychiatric Nurse
Emily Gorsuch
Psychiatric Nurse, RN
Verified Verified
Amesbury, MA 01913  (Online Only)
Like water we flow through the rocks in life's river. You will re-discover the strength and capacity you already have.
Like water we flow through the rocks in life's river. You will re-discover the strength and capacity you already have.
(978) 506-9807 View (978) 506-9807
Photo of Mariam Ssozi, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mariam Ssozi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Haverhill, MA 01832
MA & NH Accepting New Patients Across Life Span. I am a board-certified nurse practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of my practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, substance abuse, and Insomnia
MA & NH Accepting New Patients Across Life Span. I am a board-certified nurse practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of my practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, substance abuse, and Insomnia
(978) 693-3557 View (978) 693-3557
Photo of Jennifer MacNeil, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer MacNeil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newburyport, MA 01950
Are you happy and grateful but feel like you struggle emotionally in your personal or professional life? Do you suffer from mental illness? You are not alone. Remaining present in your daily life and keeping up with the everyday demands of work, family and friends can be difficult. I can help you trust yourself, reframe negative thoughts, identify unhealthy behaviors/relationships, and help you find answers within yourself to meet your needs and goals. I offer both medications, and therapy to build a treatment plan that works for you and your personal goals.
Are you happy and grateful but feel like you struggle emotionally in your personal or professional life? Do you suffer from mental illness? You are not alone. Remaining present in your daily life and keeping up with the everyday demands of work, family and friends can be difficult. I can help you trust yourself, reframe negative thoughts, identify unhealthy behaviors/relationships, and help you find answers within yourself to meet your needs and goals. I offer both medications, and therapy to build a treatment plan that works for you and your personal goals.
(978) 344-6844 View (978) 344-6844
Photo of Meredith Morrison, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Meredith Morrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newburyport, MA 01950
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients with mental health issues across the lifespan. My clinical career has taken me on a journey through the healthcare system, from inpatient to outpatient settings. My clinical practice focuses on assessing, diagnosing, treatment planning and care coordination for those struggling with a wide range of mental health issues. I specialize in psychopharmacology and provide diagnostic evaluations, assessments and ongoing treatment via medication management for my clients, tailored to their individual needs’.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients with mental health issues across the lifespan. My clinical career has taken me on a journey through the healthcare system, from inpatient to outpatient settings. My clinical practice focuses on assessing, diagnosing, treatment planning and care coordination for those struggling with a wide range of mental health issues. I specialize in psychopharmacology and provide diagnostic evaluations, assessments and ongoing treatment via medication management for my clients, tailored to their individual needs’.
(781) 222-9383 View (781) 222-9383
Photo of Harmony Bay, Psychiatrist
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
North Andover, MA 01845
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(508) 682-4405 View (508) 682-4405
Photo of Allison Kilcoyne, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Allison Kilcoyne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Andover, MA 01810
I have a passion for caring for adolescents as this is a time of growth, learning and change. I have spent the past 25 years as an NP in school based health centers and have joined many youth in their journey through calm waters, and some hurricanes! I also know how challenging it is for parenting this age and can offer support and education for parents and guardians. I care for individuals throughout the lifespan, and offer medication management, psychoeducation, supportive and solution focused psychotherapy, and parenting educational groups.
I have a passion for caring for adolescents as this is a time of growth, learning and change. I have spent the past 25 years as an NP in school based health centers and have joined many youth in their journey through calm waters, and some hurricanes! I also know how challenging it is for parenting this age and can offer support and education for parents and guardians. I care for individuals throughout the lifespan, and offer medication management, psychoeducation, supportive and solution focused psychotherapy, and parenting educational groups.
(508) 978-2727 View (508) 978-2727
Photo of Christine M Bourgeois, MSN, PMHNP, CPNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christine M Bourgeois
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Andover, MA 01845
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner working in the Andover, MA area. I have been a Nurse Practitioner for 22 years initially starting out with a specialty in primary care pediatrics and then specializing in psychiatry in 2012. My practice is primarily pediatric focused, seeing children from age 7-25. With a background in primary care, I believe in doing a comprehensive medical review while considering the appropriate treatment to meet an individual's psychiatric needs.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner working in the Andover, MA area. I have been a Nurse Practitioner for 22 years initially starting out with a specialty in primary care pediatrics and then specializing in psychiatry in 2012. My practice is primarily pediatric focused, seeing children from age 7-25. With a background in primary care, I believe in doing a comprehensive medical review while considering the appropriate treatment to meet an individual's psychiatric needs.
(781) 996-0746 View (781) 996-0746
Photo of Joseph McKee, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joseph McKee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amesbury, MA 01913
All ages are welcome! No waitlist at this time. Serving NH (in-person or telehealth) and MA (telehealth). Let's work together to find the best treatment plan for you!
All ages are welcome! No waitlist at this time. Serving NH (in-person or telehealth) and MA (telehealth). Let's work together to find the best treatment plan for you!
(833) 520-1354 View (833) 520-1354
Photo of Brianna Kamruzzaman, MSN, RN, CDDN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brianna Kamruzzaman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, CDDN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Boxford, MA 01921  (Online Only)
Just trying to help one person one day at a time.
Just trying to help one person one day at a time.
View
Photo of Michele Adam, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michele Adam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wenham, MA 01984
Not accepting new clients
MENTAL HEALTH CARE FOR WOMEN. I am not accepting new clients at this time. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, specializing in women's mental health throughout the life span, as well as the treatment of postpartum emotional complications. Parenting is a tough job, even under the best of circumstances. Are you struggling with depression or anxiety that seems unmanageable? Are you having trouble sleeping or finding it hard to concentrate? Don't wait to ask for help! I have helped many women struggling with these same issues and perhaps I can help you. Call now to see if I am the right fit for you.
MENTAL HEALTH CARE FOR WOMEN. I am not accepting new clients at this time. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, specializing in women's mental health throughout the life span, as well as the treatment of postpartum emotional complications. Parenting is a tough job, even under the best of circumstances. Are you struggling with depression or anxiety that seems unmanageable? Are you having trouble sleeping or finding it hard to concentrate? Don't wait to ask for help! I have helped many women struggling with these same issues and perhaps I can help you. Call now to see if I am the right fit for you.
(978) 451-4981 View (978) 451-4981
Photo of Carly Ramos, MSN, RN, PMNHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carly Ramos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMNHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newbury, MA 01951
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner clinically educated in treating patients with mental health diagnoses across the lifespan. I obtained my master's degree in Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nursing from Northeastern University in Boston, MA. Prior to becoming an advanced practice nurse I was the Nursing Director at the Ivy Street School in Brookline- a residential and day school specializing in treatment for adolescents aged 12-22 struggling with chronic mental health issues, behavioral dysregulation, Autism, ADHD, intellectual disabilities and traumatic brain injuries.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner clinically educated in treating patients with mental health diagnoses across the lifespan. I obtained my master's degree in Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nursing from Northeastern University in Boston, MA. Prior to becoming an advanced practice nurse I was the Nursing Director at the Ivy Street School in Brookline- a residential and day school specializing in treatment for adolescents aged 12-22 struggling with chronic mental health issues, behavioral dysregulation, Autism, ADHD, intellectual disabilities and traumatic brain injuries.
(978) 295-2974 View (978) 295-2974
Photo of Patti Jacques, MSN, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patti Jacques
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP-C
Verified Verified
North Andover, MA 01845
Providing medication management for mental health struggles, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, ADHD, and menopause. Blue Cross Blue Shield Accepted. No Insurance? Reach out and schedule a 15-minute complimentary consultation to discuss a cash payment option. Visit ariahealthcare.com for more information.
Providing medication management for mental health struggles, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, ADHD, and menopause. Blue Cross Blue Shield Accepted. No Insurance? Reach out and schedule a 15-minute complimentary consultation to discuss a cash payment option. Visit ariahealthcare.com for more information.
(508) 715-6858 View (508) 715-6858
Photo of Dr. Mary Elizabeth Keyes, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Mary Elizabeth Keyes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Amesbury, MA 01913
Waitlist for new clients
Now accepting patients ages 5-18 who reside in MA and NH for medication management. For more information or to schedule a consultation call please visit www.keyesbehavioralhealth.com. I am a doctorally prepared board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I became passionate about child and adolescent mental health while treating families at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. I enjoy working with children and their families affected by ADHD, autism, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and psychotic disorders.
Now accepting patients ages 5-18 who reside in MA and NH for medication management. For more information or to schedule a consultation call please visit www.keyesbehavioralhealth.com. I am a doctorally prepared board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I became passionate about child and adolescent mental health while treating families at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. I enjoy working with children and their families affected by ADHD, autism, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and psychotic disorders.
(978) 696-8578 View (978) 696-8578
Shine Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Methuen, MA 01844
I am a board certified Psychiatric- Mental Health as well as Family Nurse Practitioner. After working in several outpatient and inpatient facilities for almost two decades, I’ve developed a holistic approach in managing clients. I offer mental health management for individuals across the lifespan. These services include initial psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, second-opinions, and medication management for disorders including anxiety, trauma, mood and psychotic disorders. I look forward to collaborating with you (and/or your child) in achieving your mental health goals.
I am a board certified Psychiatric- Mental Health as well as Family Nurse Practitioner. After working in several outpatient and inpatient facilities for almost two decades, I’ve developed a holistic approach in managing clients. I offer mental health management for individuals across the lifespan. These services include initial psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, second-opinions, and medication management for disorders including anxiety, trauma, mood and psychotic disorders. I look forward to collaborating with you (and/or your child) in achieving your mental health goals.
(978) 819-7848 View (978) 819-7848
Photo of Annette Okereke - Chinne Health Systems LLC, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chinne Health Systems LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrence, MA 01840
Some challenges and transitions people encounter each day can change outlook, cause stress, bring difficulties, sadness, panic, depression, anxiety and emotional shock. These situations may leave clients confused, distraught and overwhelmed. Focus is to help clients deal with these presenting issues. Working through stressful times and helping clients to attain their optimal level of functioning is a priority. Medication management is big in this practice; however different treatment methods are used and tailored to fit each individual client need.
Some challenges and transitions people encounter each day can change outlook, cause stress, bring difficulties, sadness, panic, depression, anxiety and emotional shock. These situations may leave clients confused, distraught and overwhelmed. Focus is to help clients deal with these presenting issues. Working through stressful times and helping clients to attain their optimal level of functioning is a priority. Medication management is big in this practice; however different treatment methods are used and tailored to fit each individual client need.
(774) 314-4153 View (774) 314-4153

See more therapy options for Georgetown

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Georgetown, MA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Georgetown, MA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Spirituality
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Anger Management
100% Bipolar Disorder

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Georgetown, MA see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Georgetown?

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.