Psychiatrists in Lakeville, MA

Photo of Sharonda Bagwell - Mind Over Matters Therapeutic & Wellness Services, APRN, PMHNP, CNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind Over Matters Therapeutic & Wellness Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CNP, MSN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakeville, MA 02347
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders? We know how challenging it can be to manage these feelings on your own, and we're here to support you. Our caring team offers personalized treatment plans designed to address your unique needs. We focus on effective strategies to help you manage symptoms, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of balance in your life. Ready to take a positive step toward better mental health? Reach out today—we’re here to guide you on your journey to a brighter, more fulfilling future. Join us to reclaim the vibrant life you deserve—embrace wellness! Now! Call Today!
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders? We know how challenging it can be to manage these feelings on your own, and we're here to support you. Our caring team offers personalized treatment plans designed to address your unique needs. We focus on effective strategies to help you manage symptoms, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of balance in your life. Ready to take a positive step toward better mental health? Reach out today—we’re here to guide you on your journey to a brighter, more fulfilling future. Join us to reclaim the vibrant life you deserve—embrace wellness! Now! Call Today!
(774) 224-8483 View (774) 224-8483
Photo of Renee M Garbitt, MSN, C-NP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Renee M Garbitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, C-NP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Grounded Interventions Psychiatric Services we offer treatment grounded in empirically supported strategies to address a dynamic set of behavioral health needs. Our approach is compassionate, individually tailored and aimed at reducing distressing symptoms while improving overall quality of life.​
At Grounded Interventions Psychiatric Services we offer treatment grounded in empirically supported strategies to address a dynamic set of behavioral health needs. Our approach is compassionate, individually tailored and aimed at reducing distressing symptoms while improving overall quality of life.​
(508) 886-3921 View (508) 886-3921
Photo of Jessica Spivey, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Spivey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Jessica is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner currently accepting medication management service referrals. Jessica is passionate about a solid foundation for patient care, residing in evidence-based practices and imparting treatment modalities to optimize care outcomes. Her strong clinical foundation allows her insight into the complexity of behavioral health concerns. This insight fosters meaningful recommendations for pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions tailored to one's individualized needs and preferences.
Jessica is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner currently accepting medication management service referrals. Jessica is passionate about a solid foundation for patient care, residing in evidence-based practices and imparting treatment modalities to optimize care outcomes. Her strong clinical foundation allows her insight into the complexity of behavioral health concerns. This insight fosters meaningful recommendations for pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions tailored to one's individualized needs and preferences.
(508) 501-7832 View (508) 501-7832
Photo of Nadine Anew Life Llc Rousseau - Nadine Rousseau, MSN, CNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nadine Rousseau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed in times of distress is common, but remember, there's always hope. If you're in pain or facing a crisis, I truly understand. As a Nurse Practitioner, I'm here to help with comprehensive psychiatric services tailored just for you. Your emotional well-being is my top priority. Whether you need an evaluation, medication review, or therapy, I ensure personalized care. Battling addiction? I'm here to guide you on every step, providing specialized treatments. Evenings and Saturdays, I'm here for you. Let's find your strength together and start your healing journey now.
Feeling overwhelmed in times of distress is common, but remember, there's always hope. If you're in pain or facing a crisis, I truly understand. As a Nurse Practitioner, I'm here to help with comprehensive psychiatric services tailored just for you. Your emotional well-being is my top priority. Whether you need an evaluation, medication review, or therapy, I ensure personalized care. Battling addiction? I'm here to guide you on every step, providing specialized treatments. Evenings and Saturdays, I'm here for you. Let's find your strength together and start your healing journey now.
(508) 257-7479 View (508) 257-7479

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Christopher Parmanand, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christopher Parmanand
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301
Hello, I’m Dr. Christopher Parmanand, DNP, a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to holistic mental health care with over 23 years of experience. I create personalized treatment plans for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, addressing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and more. My experience across inpatient, outpatient, and addiction settings shapes my empathetic approach. As a husband and father, I understand family dynamics in mental health and strive to help each patient build resilience, stability, and thrive.
Hello, I’m Dr. Christopher Parmanand, DNP, a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to holistic mental health care with over 23 years of experience. I create personalized treatment plans for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, addressing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and more. My experience across inpatient, outpatient, and addiction settings shapes my empathetic approach. As a husband and father, I understand family dynamics in mental health and strive to help each patient build resilience, stability, and thrive.
(508) 426-8326 View (508) 426-8326
Photo of Natasha Fevry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natasha Fevry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate from Duke University, I am dedicated to providing holistic, patient-centered care that integrates faith-based principles and trauma-informed practices. My approach honors the intricate web of physical, emotional, and spiritual factors influencing mental health and well-being. I believe that every individual deserves compassionate, non-judgmental care that addresses their unique experiences, perspectives, and strengths. Grounded in my faith, I strive to provide care that is empathetic, hopeful, and empowering.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate from Duke University, I am dedicated to providing holistic, patient-centered care that integrates faith-based principles and trauma-informed practices. My approach honors the intricate web of physical, emotional, and spiritual factors influencing mental health and well-being. I believe that every individual deserves compassionate, non-judgmental care that addresses their unique experiences, perspectives, and strengths. Grounded in my faith, I strive to provide care that is empathetic, hopeful, and empowering.
(508) 593-9392 View (508) 593-9392
Photo of Joyce Kinyua, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joyce Kinyua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Joyce, I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for providing comprehensive psychiatric care that addresses the mind, body and spirit. My compassionate approach: I utilize integrative therapies such as medication management, mindfulness, nutrition and lifestyle coaching to personalize care plans that empower every individual to take control of their mental and emotional wellbeing. I believe in the power of teamwork, preventative care and the importance of progressively heal the whole person to achieve sustainable long-term mental health.
Hi there, I'm Joyce, I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for providing comprehensive psychiatric care that addresses the mind, body and spirit. My compassionate approach: I utilize integrative therapies such as medication management, mindfulness, nutrition and lifestyle coaching to personalize care plans that empower every individual to take control of their mental and emotional wellbeing. I believe in the power of teamwork, preventative care and the importance of progressively heal the whole person to achieve sustainable long-term mental health.
(508) 619-1252 View (508) 619-1252
Jennifer Finnerty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with five years of experience in medically managing children, adolescents, adults, and elderly individuals with mental health diagnoses. I have special clinical interests in anxiety, depression and mood disorders with special interest in life changes, healthy lifestyle models and navigating grief and trauma.
I am a board-certified licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with five years of experience in medically managing children, adolescents, adults, and elderly individuals with mental health diagnoses. I have special clinical interests in anxiety, depression and mood disorders with special interest in life changes, healthy lifestyle models and navigating grief and trauma.
(339) 329-7323 View (339) 329-7323
Photo of Wayne Ethier, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wayne Ethier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carver, MA 02330
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, or insomnia. They seek relief, understanding, and practical tools to manage their emotions and behaviors. Their goal is to find balance, improve relationships, and achieve mental and emotional well-being.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, or insomnia. They seek relief, understanding, and practical tools to manage their emotions and behaviors. Their goal is to find balance, improve relationships, and achieve mental and emotional well-being.
(617) 580-0502 View (617) 580-0502
Photo of Jamie Rhynd, PMHNP, CPNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jamie Rhynd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
Hingham, MA 02043
Dual-certified Nurse Practioner: certified in Psychiatry and Pediatrics accepting new patients for adolescent psychopharmacology!
Dual-certified Nurse Practioner: certified in Psychiatry and Pediatrics accepting new patients for adolescent psychopharmacology!
(339) 500-6576 View (339) 500-6576
Photo of Meghan Molnar - Coastal Integrative Mental Health Inc , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Coastal Integrative Mental Health Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hanover, MA 02339
How can I help you? I am committed to providing integrative care, centered around you. With a deep understanding of the connection between mind and body, I strive to create a holistic approach tailored to your needs. You are the authority on your body. If you are interested in knowing more about the issues that are affecting you, interested in determining root causes, in enhancing your mental health by achieving balance through a holistic approach- reach out today.
How can I help you? I am committed to providing integrative care, centered around you. With a deep understanding of the connection between mind and body, I strive to create a holistic approach tailored to your needs. You are the authority on your body. If you are interested in knowing more about the issues that are affecting you, interested in determining root causes, in enhancing your mental health by achieving balance through a holistic approach- reach out today.
(339) 338-6846 View (339) 338-6846
Photo of Sabina Tavares - Illumina Behavioral Medicine, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Illumina Behavioral Medicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hingham, MA 02043
“Each patient present with unique nuances as to how a problem behaviorally reveals itself in his or her life”. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and as such, I can prescribe medication, if necessary, as an adjunct to psychotherapy. I worked in various healthcare including inpatient and outpatient settings providing both psychiatric and medical care. I use integrated approach to care with aims to empower individual’s authenticity to make proactive decisions and enhance his or hers ability to effectively cope with the full variety of life’s circumstances.
“Each patient present with unique nuances as to how a problem behaviorally reveals itself in his or her life”. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and as such, I can prescribe medication, if necessary, as an adjunct to psychotherapy. I worked in various healthcare including inpatient and outpatient settings providing both psychiatric and medical care. I use integrated approach to care with aims to empower individual’s authenticity to make proactive decisions and enhance his or hers ability to effectively cope with the full variety of life’s circumstances.
(339) 217-8672 View (339) 217-8672
Photo of Francisca Ojei, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Francisca Ojei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301
As a keen practitioner, my journey to helping humanity began 11 years ago after graduating with my Bachelors in Nursing, I dedicated 5 years in serving underserved communities in urban and rural areas, worked in a pediatric facility and top Major Hospitals in Boston. Then I decided to complete my Masters in Nursing at Regis College 5 years ago focusing in internal medication. Mental health medicine caught my attention after working in a methadone and suboxone clinic. I further pursed my interest by working at SouthBay for over 2 years, now at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates for almost 2 years.
As a keen practitioner, my journey to helping humanity began 11 years ago after graduating with my Bachelors in Nursing, I dedicated 5 years in serving underserved communities in urban and rural areas, worked in a pediatric facility and top Major Hospitals in Boston. Then I decided to complete my Masters in Nursing at Regis College 5 years ago focusing in internal medication. Mental health medicine caught my attention after working in a methadone and suboxone clinic. I further pursed my interest by working at SouthBay for over 2 years, now at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates for almost 2 years.
(774) 332-5563 View (774) 332-5563
Photo of Jessica Power - Power Behavioral Health, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Power Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hanover, MA 02339
Power Behavioral Health is a small private practice located on the South Shore offering medication management for clients who are currently undergoing therapy but feel they need further treatment. We treat a wide range of mental health conditions. We accept most commercial insurance plans as well as self pay. Please visit www.powerbehavioralhealth.com for more details or to book an appointment online.
Power Behavioral Health is a small private practice located on the South Shore offering medication management for clients who are currently undergoing therapy but feel they need further treatment. We treat a wide range of mental health conditions. We accept most commercial insurance plans as well as self pay. Please visit www.powerbehavioralhealth.com for more details or to book an appointment online.
(781) 924-1325 View (781) 924-1325
Photo of Rita Asiegbunam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rita Asiegbunam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Taunton, MA 02780
Rita is a psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner who has worked in the behavioral health field for over 15 years using professional skills to evaluate and offer excellent patient care using evidence-based practice.
Rita is a psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner who has worked in the behavioral health field for over 15 years using professional skills to evaluate and offer excellent patient care using evidence-based practice.
(774) 214-2798 View (774) 214-2798
Photo of Nancy Perroni, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nancy Perroni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Marion, MA 02738
Welcome! I am accepting new adult clients! I look forward to meeting with you to gain an understanding of your individual mental health needs with either in-person or telehealth visits. Together, we can explore what treatments were or were not effective in the past, and work together to make a plan to meet your goals. I offer Genesight cheek swab testing which analyzes individual client’s gene/drug metabolism which can guide treatment when other options have failed. Spravato for treatment resistant depression is also available in the office. I specialize in psychopharmacology for those who have a variety of mental health conditions.
Welcome! I am accepting new adult clients! I look forward to meeting with you to gain an understanding of your individual mental health needs with either in-person or telehealth visits. Together, we can explore what treatments were or were not effective in the past, and work together to make a plan to meet your goals. I offer Genesight cheek swab testing which analyzes individual client’s gene/drug metabolism which can guide treatment when other options have failed. Spravato for treatment resistant depression is also available in the office. I specialize in psychopharmacology for those who have a variety of mental health conditions.
(508) 715-9404 View (508) 715-9404
Photo of Lori Taylor, MSN, RN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lori Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My patients are adolescents, adults, and elders with a variety of challenges. Our shared goals are to find the combination of therapies that will allow them to live their best lives, no matter their circumstances.
My patients are adolescents, adults, and elders with a variety of challenges. Our shared goals are to find the combination of therapies that will allow them to live their best lives, no matter their circumstances.
(508) 731-3799 View (508) 731-3799
Photo of Zakisha Godfrey, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zakisha Godfrey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner whose mission is to positively impact the lives of others by guiding them through the challenges of mental health and substance use. An inclusive patient-centered approach focusing on the mind, body, and spirit through evidenced-based diagnostic evaluation and assessment, Medication management and lifestyle modification.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner whose mission is to positively impact the lives of others by guiding them through the challenges of mental health and substance use. An inclusive patient-centered approach focusing on the mind, body, and spirit through evidenced-based diagnostic evaluation and assessment, Medication management and lifestyle modification.
(508) 409-2582 View (508) 409-2582
Photo of Elizabeth Sarah Waithira - TETRA Behavioral Services, PMHNP, C, AGNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
TETRA Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, C, AGNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you constantly feeling overwhelmed, having difficulty concentrating on tasks, and having sleep problems? Mental illness can affect every aspect of your life. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who strives to meet every individual's unique physical and mental health, and wellness needs no matter what situation life brings to them. It is always a challenge for clients going through a divorce, losing a relative or job, having a terminal illness, adjusting to a new school or location, retiring, and taking care of elderly –ill parents.
Are you constantly feeling overwhelmed, having difficulty concentrating on tasks, and having sleep problems? Mental illness can affect every aspect of your life. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who strives to meet every individual's unique physical and mental health, and wellness needs no matter what situation life brings to them. It is always a challenge for clients going through a divorce, losing a relative or job, having a terminal illness, adjusting to a new school or location, retiring, and taking care of elderly –ill parents.
(339) 900-8747 View (339) 900-8747
Photo of Liudmila F Cardoso, MSN, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Liudmila F Cardoso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in working with individuals facing complex mental health challenges, including schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I am dedicated to creating a warm, supportive environment where my clients feel safe to share their struggles. With a focus on honesty and clear communication, I actively engage with my clients to provide evidence-based guidance tailored to their needs. My goal is to empower individuals to achieve symptom relief, develop effective coping strategies, and make meaningful, positive changes in their lives.
I specialize in working with individuals facing complex mental health challenges, including schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I am dedicated to creating a warm, supportive environment where my clients feel safe to share their struggles. With a focus on honesty and clear communication, I actively engage with my clients to provide evidence-based guidance tailored to their needs. My goal is to empower individuals to achieve symptom relief, develop effective coping strategies, and make meaningful, positive changes in their lives.
(774) 344-5914 View (774) 344-5914

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lakeville, MA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Lakeville, MA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
75% Addiction
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Substance Use

Average years in practice

2 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Optum
50% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Lakeville, MA see their clients

75% Online Only
25% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Lakeville?

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.