Psychiatrists in Hampden County, MA

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Photo of Steven Locke, Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA
Steven Locke
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA
Verified Verified
Online Only
The patients who benefit the most from working with me are usually struggling with feelings of depression and/or anxiety, often associated with problems such as insomnia or recurrent physical symptoms due to stress. They want to understand what is happening to them and which treatment options might help them. Getting balanced information about the risks and benefits of treatment is usually a priority. My patients are often trying to decide whether to use medication to control their symptoms, or psychotherapy, or both. All the care is conveniently accessed via virtual visits using secure, private, easy-to-use video telehealth.
The patients who benefit the most from working with me are usually struggling with feelings of depression and/or anxiety, often associated with problems such as insomnia or recurrent physical symptoms due to stress. They want to understand what is happening to them and which treatment options might help them. Getting balanced information about the risks and benefits of treatment is usually a priority. My patients are often trying to decide whether to use medication to control their symptoms, or psychotherapy, or both. All the care is conveniently accessed via virtual visits using secure, private, easy-to-use video telehealth.
(857) 214-8523 View (857) 214-8523
Photo of Nicole Buri, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMH-NP
Nicole Buri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMH-NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
December 24/Jan 25 Update for Hometown Mental Health Services, PLLC- We Are Accepting New Clients With Immediate Openings! My name is Nicole and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. We provide outpatient psychiatric medication management for clients 18 years and older in Massachusetts via Telehealth. We would love the opportunity to work with you! At Hometown MHS we treat each patient case using a kind and down to earth approach. We truly believe that developing a therapeutic connection between patient and provider is an essential part of mental health treatment.
December 24/Jan 25 Update for Hometown Mental Health Services, PLLC- We Are Accepting New Clients With Immediate Openings! My name is Nicole and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. We provide outpatient psychiatric medication management for clients 18 years and older in Massachusetts via Telehealth. We would love the opportunity to work with you! At Hometown MHS we treat each patient case using a kind and down to earth approach. We truly believe that developing a therapeutic connection between patient and provider is an essential part of mental health treatment.
(413) 735-1693 View (413) 735-1693
Photo of Sarah Slabaugh - HS Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatrist, DO
HS Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Hello and welcome to HS Psychiatry PLLC! We are a married team of board-certified psychiatrists who specialize in offering ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). This treatment is ideal for someone who is in ongoing therapy and is looking to compliment or augment their therapy, has reached a plateau, feels stuck, or is struggling to break through old patterns that are no longer serving them. We hope to coordinate care with your therapist to fully support you during your inner exploration and integration. Please visit call or email us to set up an initial 15-minute phone call to learn more.
Hello and welcome to HS Psychiatry PLLC! We are a married team of board-certified psychiatrists who specialize in offering ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). This treatment is ideal for someone who is in ongoing therapy and is looking to compliment or augment their therapy, has reached a plateau, feels stuck, or is struggling to break through old patterns that are no longer serving them. We hope to coordinate care with your therapist to fully support you during your inner exploration and integration. Please visit call or email us to set up an initial 15-minute phone call to learn more.
(413) 360-7754 View (413) 360-7754
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, P
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, P
Verified Verified
Springfield, MA 01109
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(413) 299-2478 View (413) 299-2478
Photo of Samantha Sacerdote, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Samantha Sacerdote
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) equipped with a Bachelors in Communications, seamlessly blending clinical proficiency with effective interpersonal skills.
Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) equipped with a Bachelors in Communications, seamlessly blending clinical proficiency with effective interpersonal skills.
(413) 359-6412 View (413) 359-6412
Photo of Norma Tejada-Foster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Norma Tejada-Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or grief, I am here to help you navigate your journey to mental wellness. Whether you're exploring medication, counseling, or a combination of both, I offer personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Together, we will work to identify your mental health goals and create a path toward healing and wellness. With 27 years of experience as both a nurse and nurse practitioner, I’ve cared for trauma patients and their families, supported children with HIV, and worked with adults and children facing various mental health challenges.
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or grief, I am here to help you navigate your journey to mental wellness. Whether you're exploring medication, counseling, or a combination of both, I offer personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Together, we will work to identify your mental health goals and create a path toward healing and wellness. With 27 years of experience as both a nurse and nurse practitioner, I’ve cared for trauma patients and their families, supported children with HIV, and worked with adults and children facing various mental health challenges.
(413) 486-5404 x515 View (413) 486-5404 x515
Photo of Shaina LaBonte - Full Bloom Integrative Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Full Bloom Integrative Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Spring 2025 update! Accepting New Patients for Medication Management via Tele-health. At Bloom our goal is to cultivate happy, healthy lives. I am a board certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is committed to guide and assist your growth through evidence informed and patient centered care. My goal is to help you during this journey of growth and transformation so you can reach and sustain a happy and fulfilling life.
Spring 2025 update! Accepting New Patients for Medication Management via Tele-health. At Bloom our goal is to cultivate happy, healthy lives. I am a board certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is committed to guide and assist your growth through evidence informed and patient centered care. My goal is to help you during this journey of growth and transformation so you can reach and sustain a happy and fulfilling life.
(413) 200-2808 View (413) 200-2808
Haley Richard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
January 2025 Update for Hometown Mental Health Services, PLLC-We are accepting new clients with immediate openings! My name is Haley and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. We provide outpatient psychiatric medication management for clients 18 years and older in Massachusetts via Telehealth. We would love the opportunity to work with you! At Hometown MHS we treat each patient case using a kind and down to earth approach. We truly believe that developing a therapeutic connection between patient and provider is an essential part of mental health treatment.
January 2025 Update for Hometown Mental Health Services, PLLC-We are accepting new clients with immediate openings! My name is Haley and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. We provide outpatient psychiatric medication management for clients 18 years and older in Massachusetts via Telehealth. We would love the opportunity to work with you! At Hometown MHS we treat each patient case using a kind and down to earth approach. We truly believe that developing a therapeutic connection between patient and provider is an essential part of mental health treatment.
(413) 305-1314 View (413) 305-1314
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Springfield, MA 01109
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(978) 309-3342 View (978) 309-3342
Photo of Erica Teles - Psychiatry and Primary Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, MSN
Psychiatry and Primary Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Now Accepting New Patients Integrated Psychiatry & Primary Care Clinic We blend expert psychiatry and holistic primary care to empower your mental and physical wellness. Specializing in outpatient psychiatry, we offer personalized medication management (in-person or telehealth) to fit your lifestyle. Collaborate with our compassionate team to address anxiety, depression, ADHD, and chronic health needs—all while maintaining care with your current therapist. Why Choose Us? -Board-certified psychiatric providers - Seamless primary care integration - Flexible telehealth & in-person visits - Evidence-based, patient-centered plans
Now Accepting New Patients Integrated Psychiatry & Primary Care Clinic We blend expert psychiatry and holistic primary care to empower your mental and physical wellness. Specializing in outpatient psychiatry, we offer personalized medication management (in-person or telehealth) to fit your lifestyle. Collaborate with our compassionate team to address anxiety, depression, ADHD, and chronic health needs—all while maintaining care with your current therapist. Why Choose Us? -Board-certified psychiatric providers - Seamless primary care integration - Flexible telehealth & in-person visits - Evidence-based, patient-centered plans
(413) 287-1814 View (413) 287-1814
Photo of Sarlah Bernard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sarlah Bernard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, MA 01109
I am a multilingual psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked across the lifespan in Massachusetts. I work with clients who are struggling with a myriad of mental health concerns, including substance abuse. My goal is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients to empower them to engage in their treatment to reach their maximum potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have adequate information while being an active participant to make an informed decision about their treatment plan.
I am a multilingual psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked across the lifespan in Massachusetts. I work with clients who are struggling with a myriad of mental health concerns, including substance abuse. My goal is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients to empower them to engage in their treatment to reach their maximum potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have adequate information while being an active participant to make an informed decision about their treatment plan.
(413) 614-6027 View (413) 614-6027
Photo of Alisha Canoa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Alisha Canoa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicopee, MA 01020
Helping others successfully manage and discover their path to their best self is my passion. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of healthcare experience. I manage various mental health conditions with compassion and privacy. Providing comprehensive holistic, evidence-based, and patient-centered treatments, psychopharmacology, and therapeutic techniques. I work to establish therapeutic relationships to foster a judgment-free and trustworthy environment. In my practice, individuality, acceptance, and collaboration are valued. Life happens, and change happens!
Helping others successfully manage and discover their path to their best self is my passion. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of healthcare experience. I manage various mental health conditions with compassion and privacy. Providing comprehensive holistic, evidence-based, and patient-centered treatments, psychopharmacology, and therapeutic techniques. I work to establish therapeutic relationships to foster a judgment-free and trustworthy environment. In my practice, individuality, acceptance, and collaboration are valued. Life happens, and change happens!
(413) 848-6859 View (413) 848-6859
Photo of Adair Lynne Deicke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP,
Adair Lynne Deicke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP,
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Adair is accepting new patients she accepts commercial insurance Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, United and Medicare. She is providing Video Conferencing appointments only. in both MA & FL.. She specializes in medication management and provides brief psychotherapy. Adair is Board certified by the ANCC :as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Her goal is providing quality care for you. A highly proficient and dedicated professional with over 20-years of practice in the field of psychiatry and mental health.. Her practice incorporates holistic and complimentary therapies. See m y 5 star reviews: Google: Adair Deicke APRN Healthgrades
Adair is accepting new patients she accepts commercial insurance Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, United and Medicare. She is providing Video Conferencing appointments only. in both MA & FL.. She specializes in medication management and provides brief psychotherapy. Adair is Board certified by the ANCC :as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Her goal is providing quality care for you. A highly proficient and dedicated professional with over 20-years of practice in the field of psychiatry and mental health.. Her practice incorporates holistic and complimentary therapies. See m y 5 star reviews: Google: Adair Deicke APRN Healthgrades
(413) 966-1120 View (413) 966-1120
Photo of Damaris Kongo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Damaris Kongo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have a Masters degree from university of Massachusetts, Amherst. I’m a Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a 2 + experience in a large outpatient clinic. I have worked with different age groups for medication management based on their individual needs. I can help you manage and maintain a healthy mind set based on your individual needs and goals.
I have a Masters degree from university of Massachusetts, Amherst. I’m a Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a 2 + experience in a large outpatient clinic. I have worked with different age groups for medication management based on their individual needs. I can help you manage and maintain a healthy mind set based on your individual needs and goals.
(413) 299-2251 View (413) 299-2251
Photo of Elsie Dieguez-Jackson - Jackson Psychiatric Services, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, PMHNP
Jackson Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, MA 01103
Jackson Psychiatric Services, is a solo-practice, owned/operated by provider, Elsie Dieguez-Jackson, MA, MSN, NP. I am dedicated to providing outstanding mental healthcare, offering personalized treatment options and empathetic care in Spanish and English for ages 4-63. HIPAA compliant Spruce Health is used for texting, faxing, etc. Clients have direct access to me for URGENT needs (refills, etc.). The Osmind Electronic Health Record allows clients to message, upload forms, complete health screens, upload insurance and credit cards, journal, etc. Medication management and psychotherapy available in-person and via telehealth.
Jackson Psychiatric Services, is a solo-practice, owned/operated by provider, Elsie Dieguez-Jackson, MA, MSN, NP. I am dedicated to providing outstanding mental healthcare, offering personalized treatment options and empathetic care in Spanish and English for ages 4-63. HIPAA compliant Spruce Health is used for texting, faxing, etc. Clients have direct access to me for URGENT needs (refills, etc.). The Osmind Electronic Health Record allows clients to message, upload forms, complete health screens, upload insurance and credit cards, journal, etc. Medication management and psychotherapy available in-person and via telehealth.
(413) 265-8714 View (413) 265-8714
Photo of Sharon Sedik, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sharon Sedik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MA 01105
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner an am accepting patients at Mentor South Bay in Springfield, MA. I specialize in adults, pediatrics, substance abuse, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, PTSD, anxiety, medication management, ADHD, adjustment disorder, personality disorders, LGBQ, trauma, bereavement, addiction, and insomnia.
I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner an am accepting patients at Mentor South Bay in Springfield, MA. I specialize in adults, pediatrics, substance abuse, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, PTSD, anxiety, medication management, ADHD, adjustment disorder, personality disorders, LGBQ, trauma, bereavement, addiction, and insomnia.
(413) 288-5928 View (413) 288-5928
Photo of Liza Hunter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B
Liza Hunter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Springfield, MA 01109
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.
(413) 486-5287 View (413) 486-5287
Photo of William Chad Garrett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
William Chad Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Holyoke, MA 01040
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.
(413) 489-5586 View (413) 489-5586
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, MA 01109
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(413) 675-5450 View (413) 675-5450
Photo of John Graziano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
John Graziano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, MA 01085
John Graziano, APRN, PMHNP has a philosophy that care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with John, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfillment. That’s because – with a board certification in psychiatry and experience in a variety of settings such as inpatient, community, and outpatient – John is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
John Graziano, APRN, PMHNP has a philosophy that care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with John, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfillment. That’s because – with a board certification in psychiatry and experience in a variety of settings such as inpatient, community, and outpatient – John is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
(413) 224-6573 View (413) 224-6573
1

See more therapy options for Hampden County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Hampden County, MA

90+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Hampden County, MA who prioritize treating:

84% Depression
84% Anxiety
73% Trauma and PTSD
67% ADHD
66% Bipolar Disorder
62% Medication Management
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Aetna
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Hampden County, MA see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

68% Female
32% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Hampden County?

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.