Psychiatrists in Hampshire County, MA

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Photo of Nathan P Somers, Psychiatrist, MD
Nathan P Somers
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Easthampton, MA 01027
Not accepting new clients
NOTE: I am not currently accepting new patients.
NOTE: I am not currently accepting new patients.
(413) 200-2042 View (413) 200-2042
Photo of Nora Schwartz-Martin, Psychiatrist, MD
Nora Schwartz-Martin
Psychiatrist, MD
Amherst, MA 01002
I have worked for 30 plus years as a psychiatrist- mostly with families- and those who have struggled with anxiety/ trauma and mood disorders- as well as adhd. I see people for initial evaluations for what you are struggling with and make recommendations about potential diagnoses and treatment options- I then follow up with you for either medication management or support around your treatment options.
I have worked for 30 plus years as a psychiatrist- mostly with families- and those who have struggled with anxiety/ trauma and mood disorders- as well as adhd. I see people for initial evaluations for what you are struggling with and make recommendations about potential diagnoses and treatment options- I then follow up with you for either medication management or support around your treatment options.
(413) 327-9375 View (413) 327-9375
Photo of Katherine S Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP
Katherine S Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Northampton, MA 01060
Katherine is a double board-certified Nurse Practitioner, which includes Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Geriatric specialties. She received her AGNP at the University of Massachusetts Worcester Medical School, and her PMHNP at Rivier University of Nashua, NH. Katherine speaks fluent Spanish.
Katherine is a double board-certified Nurse Practitioner, which includes Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Geriatric specialties. She received her AGNP at the University of Massachusetts Worcester Medical School, and her PMHNP at Rivier University of Nashua, NH. Katherine speaks fluent Spanish.
(413) 486-5199 View (413) 486-5199
Photo of Kathleen Hawk, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Kathleen Hawk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Northampton, MA 01060
Kathleen “Kate” Hawk is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development & Family Studies from the University of Connecticut and a Master’s Degree in Psychiatric Nursing from Yale University. She has provided psychiatric services in Western Massachusetts since 2013 and feels privileged to reside in our diverse community. She has worked with individuals of all ages and backgrounds in both acute and community outpatient care for Behavioral Health Network Inc. and The Carson Center For Human Services.
Kathleen “Kate” Hawk is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development & Family Studies from the University of Connecticut and a Master’s Degree in Psychiatric Nursing from Yale University. She has provided psychiatric services in Western Massachusetts since 2013 and feels privileged to reside in our diverse community. She has worked with individuals of all ages and backgrounds in both acute and community outpatient care for Behavioral Health Network Inc. and The Carson Center For Human Services.
(413) 269-8537 View (413) 269-8537
Neil King
Psychiatrist, MD203
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. King works with both adults and children. Dr. King is able to connect with clients and help them feel comfortable discussing personal histories and concerns. Dr. King has been working in Pediatrics since 2007 and has worked in the psychiatric field with children and adults since 2012 in a variety of settings including hospitals, medical centers and private practice.
Dr. King works with both adults and children. Dr. King is able to connect with clients and help them feel comfortable discussing personal histories and concerns. Dr. King has been working in Pediatrics since 2007 and has worked in the psychiatric field with children and adults since 2012 in a variety of settings including hospitals, medical centers and private practice.
(413) 225-4247 View (413) 225-4247
Photo of Jennifer Lobik, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS MSN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Jennifer Lobik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS MSN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Easthampton, MA 01027
I’m currently accepting new clients by telehealth or from our Northeast Center for Youth and Families (NCYF) Easthampton office. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. At this time, I treat ages 14 and up from all different backgrounds. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, addictions, concentration and focus issues and personality disorders. I primarily prescribe and manage medications but also recommend therapy modalities and collaborate closely with therapists of all backgrounds.
I’m currently accepting new clients by telehealth or from our Northeast Center for Youth and Families (NCYF) Easthampton office. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. At this time, I treat ages 14 and up from all different backgrounds. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, addictions, concentration and focus issues and personality disorders. I primarily prescribe and manage medications but also recommend therapy modalities and collaborate closely with therapists of all backgrounds.
(413) 675-5214 View (413) 675-5214
Photo of Emily S. Knowles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MA, MAT
Emily S. Knowles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MA, MAT
Northampton, MA 01060
As a Yale trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with a Master's Degree in Psychology, and extensive training in both psychiatry and psychology, I will provide holistic, comprehensive, person-centered care. My commitment to you, is to not only treat the most overt symptoms currently showing up, but explore all contributing factors, and root causes, to develop a deeper understanding of how to best meet your goals. From this full-scope of awareness, and global insight, we will collaboratively work to create an integrative care plan that brings meaningful, sustainable, changes that improve your quality of life, and overall wellbeing.
As a Yale trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with a Master's Degree in Psychology, and extensive training in both psychiatry and psychology, I will provide holistic, comprehensive, person-centered care. My commitment to you, is to not only treat the most overt symptoms currently showing up, but explore all contributing factors, and root causes, to develop a deeper understanding of how to best meet your goals. From this full-scope of awareness, and global insight, we will collaboratively work to create an integrative care plan that brings meaningful, sustainable, changes that improve your quality of life, and overall wellbeing.
(413) 216-4543 View (413) 216-4543
Photo of Alexis Brooks, Psychiatrist, MD
Alexis Brooks
Psychiatrist, MD
Northampton, MA 01060
Not accepting new clients
I am an adult psychiatrist specializing in comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and treatment. I work collaboratively with you, your therapist, and whoever else you wish to be on your team. My approach is holistic, collaborative, compassionate, and supportive. A warm and caring physician, I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve their highest possible level of well-being. I have been in practice for more than 25 years, and have expertise in mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, pain, sleep issues, as well as other conditions. I also treat psychiatric conditions in the peripartum period.
I am an adult psychiatrist specializing in comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and treatment. I work collaboratively with you, your therapist, and whoever else you wish to be on your team. My approach is holistic, collaborative, compassionate, and supportive. A warm and caring physician, I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve their highest possible level of well-being. I have been in practice for more than 25 years, and have expertise in mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, pain, sleep issues, as well as other conditions. I also treat psychiatric conditions in the peripartum period.
(413) 269-8701 View (413) 269-8701
Photo of Kristen Briody, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Kristen Briody
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who helps people across the life span manage their diagnoses and medications. I have worked with people who struggle with various symptoms including but not limited to anxiety, depressive symptoms, insomnia, and attentional issues.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who helps people across the life span manage their diagnoses and medications. I have worked with people who struggle with various symptoms including but not limited to anxiety, depressive symptoms, insomnia, and attentional issues.
(413) 414-5535 View (413) 414-5535
Photo of Donald A. Smith, Psychiatrist, MD
Donald A. Smith
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Yes, I am accepting new patients at the present time. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, empathic listener, and I have 22 years of experience as a physician and 13 years in private practice. I look forward to helping you to feel better. I practice holistic and evidence supported psychiatry. I provide comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic assessment, education, and prescribe medication to treat your symptoms. I do not accept insurance, so I am able to spend more time with you than in-network providers. I have caring administrative support staff. I grew up in Wellesley.
Yes, I am accepting new patients at the present time. I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, empathic listener, and I have 22 years of experience as a physician and 13 years in private practice. I look forward to helping you to feel better. I practice holistic and evidence supported psychiatry. I provide comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic assessment, education, and prescribe medication to treat your symptoms. I do not accept insurance, so I am able to spend more time with you than in-network providers. I have caring administrative support staff. I grew up in Wellesley.
(413) 207-9189 View (413) 207-9189
Shoshana Marchand
Psychiatric Nurse, MA, MSN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner, offering consultation, medication management and therapy in downtown Northampton. I care about what makes us unique, as well as what we have in common. My interests include anxiety disorders like panic and OCD, as well as people on the autism spectrum or with social or learning differences. I'm delighted to work with LGBTQ clients or those in gender transition. I'm a believer in trauma -sensitive care, trained in DBT and in mindfulness. Clients say I'm both communicative and collaborative. Please note that my practice is currently limited to people aged 16 and older.
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner, offering consultation, medication management and therapy in downtown Northampton. I care about what makes us unique, as well as what we have in common. My interests include anxiety disorders like panic and OCD, as well as people on the autism spectrum or with social or learning differences. I'm delighted to work with LGBTQ clients or those in gender transition. I'm a believer in trauma -sensitive care, trained in DBT and in mindfulness. Clients say I'm both communicative and collaborative. Please note that my practice is currently limited to people aged 16 and older.
(413) 650-1402 View (413) 650-1402
Photo of Katherine Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP
Katherine Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP
Amherst, MA 01002
Katherine brings a humanistic approach to her practice. She uses her background in primary care medicine as well as psychiatry to provide compassionate and client-focused care, and to meet the needs of each patient as individuals. Katherine’s clinical experience is broad and includes adult medicine, geriatrics, community health, and college health. Katherine provides medication therapy using evidence-based practice, which include micro-dosing strategies for care tailored to individual needs.
Katherine brings a humanistic approach to her practice. She uses her background in primary care medicine as well as psychiatry to provide compassionate and client-focused care, and to meet the needs of each patient as individuals. Katherine’s clinical experience is broad and includes adult medicine, geriatrics, community health, and college health. Katherine provides medication therapy using evidence-based practice, which include micro-dosing strategies for care tailored to individual needs.
(413) 666-1412 View (413) 666-1412
Photo of Stephen Luippold, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, APRN
Stephen Luippold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, APRN
Online Only
During my 26 years of practice I have treated those with diverse backgrounds in various healthcare settings. I offer psychiatric evaluations and, when indicated, medication management for anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, and ADHD. I have extensive experience treating those with various forms of chronic medical illnessess and pain syndromes. My approach to treatment encompasses a mind/body philosophy toward care and wellness. I will work closely and collaboratively with your therapist in order to achieve the best possible outcome.
During my 26 years of practice I have treated those with diverse backgrounds in various healthcare settings. I offer psychiatric evaluations and, when indicated, medication management for anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, and ADHD. I have extensive experience treating those with various forms of chronic medical illnessess and pain syndromes. My approach to treatment encompasses a mind/body philosophy toward care and wellness. I will work closely and collaboratively with your therapist in order to achieve the best possible outcome.
(978) 678-4077 View (978) 678-4077
Photo of Jain Lattes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM
Jain Lattes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM
Online Only
I work with adolescents and adults who are dealing with mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, depression and bipolar mood disorders, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). My career has been focused primarily on both the reproductive mental health and wellbeing of adolescents and providing psychiatric treatment to individuals during preconception planning, pregnancy and postpartum periods.
I work with adolescents and adults who are dealing with mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, depression and bipolar mood disorders, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). My career has been focused primarily on both the reproductive mental health and wellbeing of adolescents and providing psychiatric treatment to individuals during preconception planning, pregnancy and postpartum periods.
(413) 570-3088 View (413) 570-3088
Photo of Andrew C. Sackett-Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CIPP
Andrew C. Sackett-Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CIPP
Northampton, MA 01062
Are you a helper, healer, or someone with a lot of other people relying on you? Have you historically not been believed during exchanges with healthcare providers? Are you a cis woman or someone assigned female at birth who is navigating perimenopause? If so, you're just the kind of person I want on my panel. As the Founder and sole clinician at Roots & Respite, P-LLC, one of my missions is to work with you as a teammate and co-pilot to listen to what your symptoms are telling us, exploring root causes with the goal of setting you up for ongoing thriving. After all, system wellness relies on caregiver wellness, so come see me!
Are you a helper, healer, or someone with a lot of other people relying on you? Have you historically not been believed during exchanges with healthcare providers? Are you a cis woman or someone assigned female at birth who is navigating perimenopause? If so, you're just the kind of person I want on my panel. As the Founder and sole clinician at Roots & Respite, P-LLC, one of my missions is to work with you as a teammate and co-pilot to listen to what your symptoms are telling us, exploring root causes with the goal of setting you up for ongoing thriving. After all, system wellness relies on caregiver wellness, so come see me!
(413) 899-7160 View (413) 899-7160
Lydia R Elison
Psychiatrist, MD
Hadley, MA 01035
I have just opened a psychiatry practice in Hadley, Massachusetts. I treat adult patients for a range of psychiatric issues and my practice, at this time, is open to new patients. I offer thoughtful medication evaluations and medication management. I also have a strong commitment to holistic treatment and offer psychotherapy, for individuals who have an interest in this. I utilize various tools from psychopharmacology and from the different forms of therapy that I've studied and employed.
I have just opened a psychiatry practice in Hadley, Massachusetts. I treat adult patients for a range of psychiatric issues and my practice, at this time, is open to new patients. I offer thoughtful medication evaluations and medication management. I also have a strong commitment to holistic treatment and offer psychotherapy, for individuals who have an interest in this. I utilize various tools from psychopharmacology and from the different forms of therapy that I've studied and employed.
(413) 369-3793 View (413) 369-3793
Photo of Galen Wetterling, Psychiatrist, DO
Galen Wetterling
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002
I’m a board-certified psychiatrist who works in my own private practice. I am passionate about building relationships and providing individualized care, and promise that I will listen, be curious, and collaborate with you on improving your mental health. I believe that mental health and personal growth are multifaceted, and that medications may be an important part of that journey but are rarely a “fix” in themselves. I want us to talk about how you make sense of your mental health struggles and approach growth from a wholistic perspective so that we can explore medication in a manner that is therapeutically informed.
I’m a board-certified psychiatrist who works in my own private practice. I am passionate about building relationships and providing individualized care, and promise that I will listen, be curious, and collaborate with you on improving your mental health. I believe that mental health and personal growth are multifaceted, and that medications may be an important part of that journey but are rarely a “fix” in themselves. I want us to talk about how you make sense of your mental health struggles and approach growth from a wholistic perspective so that we can explore medication in a manner that is therapeutically informed.
(413) 298-6187 View (413) 298-6187
Photo of Shadi Zaghloul, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Shadi Zaghloul
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Northampton, MA 01060
Dr. Zaghloul is a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Zaghloul has affiliations with Baystate Hospitals, Cooley Dickinson Hospital and Holyoke Medical Center. He has taught medical students, psychiatry residents and child psychiatry fellows. He earned his M.B.A. with a focus on health care from the UMass-Amherst Isenberg School of Management in the spring of 2021.
Dr. Zaghloul is a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Zaghloul has affiliations with Baystate Hospitals, Cooley Dickinson Hospital and Holyoke Medical Center. He has taught medical students, psychiatry residents and child psychiatry fellows. He earned his M.B.A. with a focus on health care from the UMass-Amherst Isenberg School of Management in the spring of 2021.
(413) 251-5046 View (413) 251-5046
Photo of Rachel L Thomas - Rachel Thomas Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHCNS
Rachel Thomas Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHCNS
South Hadley, MA 01075
"Whatever it Takes!!" is my motto. My practice style is highly dynamic, collaborative and is developed for and based on YOU!! I provide insightful evaluation and understanding of your concerns and we work closely together to quickly implement whatever therapeutic modality is needed to help you perform and live to your potential. My patients are gifted, professional and top performers. It is my joy to be included on your journey. :) Ketamine is offered as well.
"Whatever it Takes!!" is my motto. My practice style is highly dynamic, collaborative and is developed for and based on YOU!! I provide insightful evaluation and understanding of your concerns and we work closely together to quickly implement whatever therapeutic modality is needed to help you perform and live to your potential. My patients are gifted, professional and top performers. It is my joy to be included on your journey. :) Ketamine is offered as well.
(413) 339-3604 View (413) 339-3604
Photo of Julia A Root, Psychiatric Nurse, RN, MSN, CS, BC
Julia A Root
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, MSN, CS, BC
Northampton, MA 01060
I offer a safe non judgemental environment for clients to discuss their concerns. I provide medication management and supportive Psychotherapy for adults ages 18 to 99 . I strive to empower patients by open discussion of medication and treatment options available. I strive to assist clients in making informed decisions about there health care.
I offer a safe non judgemental environment for clients to discuss their concerns. I provide medication management and supportive Psychotherapy for adults ages 18 to 99 . I strive to empower patients by open discussion of medication and treatment options available. I strive to assist clients in making informed decisions about there health care.
(413) 287-8368 View (413) 287-8368

See more therapy options for Hampshire County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Hampshire County, MA

40+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Hampshire County, MA who prioritize treating:

87% Depression
85% Anxiety
68% Trauma and PTSD
66% Medication Management
64% Bipolar Disorder
60% ADHD
53% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

19 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% BlueCross and BlueShield
71% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
65% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Hampshire County, MA see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

62% Female
38% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Hampshire 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.