Psychiatrists in Ipswich, MA

Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Ipswich, MA 01938
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(978) 321-2944 View (978) 321-2944
Photo of Grace Lilienthal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Grace Lilienthal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I provide care to clients located anywhere in Massachusetts via telehealth. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of Renbrook Center for Mental Health LLC. I am licensed to provide the following services: 1. Psychotherapy (talk therapy); 2. Psychiatric medication prescribing; or 3. Both. I am committed to providing high-quality, individualized mental healthcare to every person I come to know in my practice. To book, visit my website to request an electronic intake form.
I provide care to clients located anywhere in Massachusetts via telehealth. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of Renbrook Center for Mental Health LLC. I am licensed to provide the following services: 1. Psychotherapy (talk therapy); 2. Psychiatric medication prescribing; or 3. Both. I am committed to providing high-quality, individualized mental healthcare to every person I come to know in my practice. To book, visit my website to request an electronic intake form.
(339) 214-9007 View (339) 214-9007
Photo of Sarlah Bernard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, B-C
Sarlah Bernard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, B-C
Ipswich, MA 01938
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 establish therapeutic relationships with my clients, empowering them to actively engage in their treatment and reach their full potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have received adequate information and are an active participant in making an informed decision about their treatment plan.
I am a multilingual psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked across the lifespan in Massachusetts. I work with clients who are struggling with a myriad of mental health concerns, including substance abuse. My goal is to establish therapeutic relationships with my clients, empowering them to actively engage in their treatment and reach their full potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have received adequate information and are an active participant in making an informed decision about their treatment plan.
(978) 723-5667 View (978) 723-5667
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Ipswich, MA 01938
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, 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, 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.
(978) 355-7151 View (978) 355-7151
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Ipswich, MA 01938
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) 306-2750 View (978) 306-2750

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Boston, MA 02114
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.
(617) 616-8424 View (617) 616-8424
Photo of Margaret Ruhiu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, BC
Margaret Ruhiu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help you manage your mental health challenges and build on your strengths so you can live a healthy, authentic life you’re proud of. We do this by working together as a team to consider your full life and prescribe medication where appropriate. As a psychiatric provider, mother and long-time entrepreneur, I know first-hand that life requires different parts of you to succeed. My goal is to help you stay focused on the positive and heal the negative so you can show up the best way you can. Together, we create a plan that supports you and works with your daily life.
I help you manage your mental health challenges and build on your strengths so you can live a healthy, authentic life you’re proud of. We do this by working together as a team to consider your full life and prescribe medication where appropriate. As a psychiatric provider, mother and long-time entrepreneur, I know first-hand that life requires different parts of you to succeed. My goal is to help you stay focused on the positive and heal the negative so you can show up the best way you can. Together, we create a plan that supports you and works with your daily life.
(339) 666-1892 View (339) 666-1892
Photo of Kathryn Nesbitt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Kathryn Nesbitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I love working with clients of all backgrounds, needs, and goals. I meet clients where they are and involve them in every step of the process including decision making, health education, altenative treatments, and how to advocate for their healthcare needs.
I love working with clients of all backgrounds, needs, and goals. I meet clients where they are and involve them in every step of the process including decision making, health education, altenative treatments, and how to advocate for their healthcare needs.
(270) 289-7100 View (270) 289-7100
Photo of Alexis Kate Baird, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Alexis Kate Baird
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02108
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). With a passion for holistic, compassionate care, I offer a unique approach to healthcare by blending my expertise in both family medicine and mental health. With experience as an FNP, I provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages, always with a focus on prevention and overall well-being. As a PMHNP, I specialize in mental health, helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with personalized psychiatric care, whether it’s through therapy, medication management, or lifestyle support.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). With a passion for holistic, compassionate care, I offer a unique approach to healthcare by blending my expertise in both family medicine and mental health. With experience as an FNP, I provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages, always with a focus on prevention and overall well-being. As a PMHNP, I specialize in mental health, helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with personalized psychiatric care, whether it’s through therapy, medication management, or lifestyle support.
(781) 412-7232 View (781) 412-7232
Photo of Corrine Potter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Corrine Potter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years experience in nursing. I believe in providing individualized care specific to each patient and their needs. I utilize medication management and psychotherapy during appointments for optimal patient outcomes. I specialize in Anxiety, Panic disorders, Depression, Bipolar disorders, Insomnia, Adjustment disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Eating disorders, ADHD, ADD, OCD, Stress and Psychotic disorders.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years experience in nursing. I believe in providing individualized care specific to each patient and their needs. I utilize medication management and psychotherapy during appointments for optimal patient outcomes. I specialize in Anxiety, Panic disorders, Depression, Bipolar disorders, Insomnia, Adjustment disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Eating disorders, ADHD, ADD, OCD, Stress and Psychotic disorders.
(508) 691-8197 View (508) 691-8197
Cynthia Telingator
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02139
I am a psychotherapist and psychiatric provider with a deep commitment to supporting resilience and helping people reconnect with their inherent strengths. My approach is rooted in psychodynamic psychotherapy, and I integrate both therapy and medication management to offer thoughtful, individualized care. I believe in meeting each person where they are and working together to understand emotional and experiential patterns that may be interfering with a sense of movement, purpose, or well-being. Curiosity and compassion are important aspects of building a foundation of trust in therapy.
I am a psychotherapist and psychiatric provider with a deep commitment to supporting resilience and helping people reconnect with their inherent strengths. My approach is rooted in psychodynamic psychotherapy, and I integrate both therapy and medication management to offer thoughtful, individualized care. I believe in meeting each person where they are and working together to understand emotional and experiential patterns that may be interfering with a sense of movement, purpose, or well-being. Curiosity and compassion are important aspects of building a foundation of trust in therapy.
(617) 553-9082 View (617) 553-9082
Photo of Sarah Power, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, CNP
Sarah Power
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, CNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Sarah Power is a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who earned her Master of Science in Nursing from the MGH Institute of Health Professions and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Public Health from Tulane University. With experience across ten psychiatric hospitals and practices, Sarah possesses a robust understanding of diagnostic tools and of both medicinal and therapeutic treatment modalities.
Sarah Power is a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who earned her Master of Science in Nursing from the MGH Institute of Health Professions and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Public Health from Tulane University. With experience across ten psychiatric hospitals and practices, Sarah possesses a robust understanding of diagnostic tools and of both medicinal and therapeutic treatment modalities.
(781) 404-3975 View (781) 404-3975
Photo of Dr. Kenneth Kavanagh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dr. Kenneth Kavanagh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Kenneth Kavanagh is board certified as both a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult Nurse Practitioner. His career has spanned 30 years with the last 17 years devoted exclusively to psychiatry. He integrates his knowledge of psychiatry and primary care into evidence-based medication management strategies. He also possesses a good working knowledge of alternative treatments and integrating alternative treatments into more traditional approaches.
Kenneth Kavanagh is board certified as both a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult Nurse Practitioner. His career has spanned 30 years with the last 17 years devoted exclusively to psychiatry. He integrates his knowledge of psychiatry and primary care into evidence-based medication management strategies. He also possesses a good working knowledge of alternative treatments and integrating alternative treatments into more traditional approaches.
(857) 226-3219 View (857) 226-3219
Photo of Dr. Sophia Kogan, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Dr. Sophia Kogan
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I cannot respond to calls. Please reach out via my website sophiakoganmdphd.com. I help women and LGBTQIA+ individuals who experience mood and anxiety disorders related to hormonal changes maintain optimal mental health during family planning, pregnancy, postpartum and parenting years. I provide individualized, comprehensive treatment to parents and professionals struggling with mood and anxiety disorders. I utilize medication, talk therapy and lab testing integrated with natural methods like nutritional medicine and natural supplements to help people live to their full potential.
I cannot respond to calls. Please reach out via my website sophiakoganmdphd.com. I help women and LGBTQIA+ individuals who experience mood and anxiety disorders related to hormonal changes maintain optimal mental health during family planning, pregnancy, postpartum and parenting years. I provide individualized, comprehensive treatment to parents and professionals struggling with mood and anxiety disorders. I utilize medication, talk therapy and lab testing integrated with natural methods like nutritional medicine and natural supplements to help people live to their full potential.
(917) 979-5794 View (917) 979-5794
Photo of Juan C Mateo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Juan C Mateo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Hello, my name is Juan Mateo. I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have close to 10 years of medical experience both in medical and psychiatric settings. I have treated a host of psychiatric disorders including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Personality disorders, and other psychological ailments. I know that life can be unfair, erratic, and unpredictable. Together as a team we can navigate these personal obstacles and volatilities, by enriching your ego, relationship, and career through multiple modalities.
Hello, my name is Juan Mateo. I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have close to 10 years of medical experience both in medical and psychiatric settings. I have treated a host of psychiatric disorders including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Personality disorders, and other psychological ailments. I know that life can be unfair, erratic, and unpredictable. Together as a team we can navigate these personal obstacles and volatilities, by enriching your ego, relationship, and career through multiple modalities.
(207) 656-1844 View (207) 656-1844
Photo of Hillary Woodworth, Psychiatrist, MD
Hillary Woodworth
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, MA 02420
Not accepting new clients
Please note, I will not be accepting new patients until September 2025. I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering both medication and therapy services for a variety of mental health concerns. I completed my residency training at Massachusetts General/McLean Hospital and am currently appointed as an attending psychiatrist and instructor at Harvard Medical School. In addition to treating common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder, I have specialized training in the treatment of borderline personality disorder (BPD), as well as individuals with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms.
Please note, I will not be accepting new patients until September 2025. I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering both medication and therapy services for a variety of mental health concerns. I completed my residency training at Massachusetts General/McLean Hospital and am currently appointed as an attending psychiatrist and instructor at Harvard Medical School. In addition to treating common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder, I have specialized training in the treatment of borderline personality disorder (BPD), as well as individuals with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms.
(617) 798-9619 View (617) 798-9619
Photo of Sean Murphy - Sean Murphy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PhD, PMHNPBC
Sean Murphy, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PhD, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If psychiatric symptoms cause you pain, I want to help. Evidence-based psychiatric medication management can help you improve function and decrease distress. In our sessions, I create an environment of understanding and empathy. My goal is to empower you by offering compassionate, affirming, and personalized care tailored to your unique experiences and aspirations.
If psychiatric symptoms cause you pain, I want to help. Evidence-based psychiatric medication management can help you improve function and decrease distress. In our sessions, I create an environment of understanding and empathy. My goal is to empower you by offering compassionate, affirming, and personalized care tailored to your unique experiences and aspirations.
(857) 376-3320 View (857) 376-3320
Photo of Oxana Coroliuc, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Oxana Coroliuc
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a certified physician assistant and qualified mental healthcare provider with over eight years of experience specializing in psychiatry. I graduated from Keiser University’s Physician Assistant program in 2016 and currently practice at SNBCare in North Smithfield, Rhode Island. I’m also affiliated with the West Palm Beach Veterans Affairs Medical Center. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individualized treatment plans for adult patients. I work closely with an interdisciplinary team to deliver high-quality, patient-centered mental health care in outpatient settings.
I am a certified physician assistant and qualified mental healthcare provider with over eight years of experience specializing in psychiatry. I graduated from Keiser University’s Physician Assistant program in 2016 and currently practice at SNBCare in North Smithfield, Rhode Island. I’m also affiliated with the West Palm Beach Veterans Affairs Medical Center. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individualized treatment plans for adult patients. I work closely with an interdisciplinary team to deliver high-quality, patient-centered mental health care in outpatient settings.
(401) 293-8881 View (401) 293-8881
Photo of Gretchen Woodward, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Gretchen Woodward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Gretchen collaborates with clients to find the treatments that meet their individual needs. She has completed training in many therapy modalities. She brings her training blended with clinical experience and intuition to provide personalized care. Treating conditions that include ADHD, stress related and mood related disorders. Experienced in trauma based care.
Gretchen collaborates with clients to find the treatments that meet their individual needs. She has completed training in many therapy modalities. She brings her training blended with clinical experience and intuition to provide personalized care. Treating conditions that include ADHD, stress related and mood related disorders. Experienced in trauma based care.
(339) 232-7990 View (339) 232-7990
Photo of Dongjin Kim - Dongjin Kim NP in Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, BC
Dongjin Kim NP in Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, BC
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
Your Well-Being Is My Priority. My passion is helping you achieve wellness, leading to a happier and more fulfilling life. As a board-certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) I provide comprehensive psychiatric care, including medication management and psychotherapy. With over 17 years of experience in psychiatry, I have worked in both acute care hospitals and outpatient clinics. I treat individuals of all ages, from children to seniors over 65, offering compassionate and evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
Your Well-Being Is My Priority. My passion is helping you achieve wellness, leading to a happier and more fulfilling life. As a board-certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) I provide comprehensive psychiatric care, including medication management and psychotherapy. With over 17 years of experience in psychiatry, I have worked in both acute care hospitals and outpatient clinics. I treat individuals of all ages, from children to seniors over 65, offering compassionate and evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
(857) 855-1894 View (857) 855-1894

See more therapy options for Ipswich

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Ipswich, MA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Ipswich, MA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Sleep or Insomnia
83% ADHD
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
83% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Anthem

How Psychiatrists in Ipswich, MA see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Ipswich?

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.