Psychiatrists in Plymouth County, MA

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.

Hello and welcome! Over the past decade I have worked in various psychiatric settings including inpatient, outpatient and substance use disorder clinics. I received my doctorate in psychiatric nursing from University of Massachusetts Dartmouth with my research centering around trauma informed care. I have experience with psychiatric illness across the lifespan, including substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. I have a passion for working with patients to help you reach your mental health goals.
Hello and welcome! Over the past decade I have worked in various psychiatric settings including inpatient, outpatient and substance use disorder clinics. I received my doctorate in psychiatric nursing from University of Massachusetts Dartmouth with my research centering around trauma informed care. I have experience with psychiatric illness across the lifespan, including substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. I have a passion for working with patients to help you reach your mental health goals.

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.
Ayodeji E Okorafor is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He graduated with honors from Regis College in Weston, Massachusetts; he has had 0ver 10 years of mental health experience. The word Capilona connotes the idea of the community as family, and our practice is focused on the collaboration of care and communication with all the care providers working with our patients.
Ayodeji E Okorafor is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He graduated with honors from Regis College in Weston, Massachusetts; he has had 0ver 10 years of mental health experience. The word Capilona connotes the idea of the community as family, and our practice is focused on the collaboration of care and communication with all the care providers working with our patients.

South of Boston Psychiatric & Emotional Support
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwell, MA 02061
Welcome! My name is Linda Sheppard-Reece, and I am board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Currently, I choose to work with young adults through retirement-aged adults. I take a holistic approach to helping individuals manage mental illness through psychopharmacological, psychotherapeutic and lifestyle interventions.
Welcome! My name is Linda Sheppard-Reece, and I am board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Currently, I choose to work with young adults through retirement-aged adults. I take a holistic approach to helping individuals manage mental illness through psychopharmacological, psychotherapeutic and lifestyle interventions.

Rhema Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed is a common struggle in today's fast-paced world. Charity Iriowen is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to meeting patients where they are. She specializes in the treatment of Mood disorders like Depression and Anxiety, Alcohol Addiction Treatment, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Bipolar, Trauma & PTSD. She has worked in various community behavioral health centers, and her therapeutic modalities encompass patient-centered and Holistic approaches, each carefully selected to suit individual needs. At Rhema Psychiatric Services, you get talk therapy and medication management all in one visit.
Feeling overwhelmed is a common struggle in today's fast-paced world. Charity Iriowen is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to meeting patients where they are. She specializes in the treatment of Mood disorders like Depression and Anxiety, Alcohol Addiction Treatment, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Bipolar, Trauma & PTSD. She has worked in various community behavioral health centers, and her therapeutic modalities encompass patient-centered and Holistic approaches, each carefully selected to suit individual needs. At Rhema Psychiatric Services, you get talk therapy and medication management all in one visit.

My ideal client would be someone who wants to take the journey with me to improve their overall wellbeing and set a path to achieve their personal goals. Let us explore the root causes of your mental health needs to identify if psychiatric medications or natural supplements could be of benefit. Medication may be part of your needs as well as holistic treatment including activity level, nutrition, relationships and health issues. All which help one to achieve a more content life.
My ideal client would be someone who wants to take the journey with me to improve their overall wellbeing and set a path to achieve their personal goals. Let us explore the root causes of your mental health needs to identify if psychiatric medications or natural supplements could be of benefit. Medication may be part of your needs as well as holistic treatment including activity level, nutrition, relationships and health issues. All which help one to achieve a more content life.

I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with many areas of interest including medication management and therapy for those suffering from postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, perinatal mental health, women's mental health, and general psychiatry such as Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, and Substance Use Disorders.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with many areas of interest including medication management and therapy for those suffering from postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, perinatal mental health, women's mental health, and general psychiatry such as Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, and Substance Use Disorders.

My name is Malia Weber-Parker. I am a Double Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner with a passion for psychiatry and overall wellness. I received my degrees in family and psychiatric nursing at Rivier University. I have experience in working in both medical and psychiatric specialties and believe a person should be treated in a way that encompasses all aspects of health: mind, body and spirit. My approach to care takes into consideration not only mental health; it considers the physiological being and co-occurring diseases as all are all intertwined and contribute to our current state of being.
My name is Malia Weber-Parker. I am a Double Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner with a passion for psychiatry and overall wellness. I received my degrees in family and psychiatric nursing at Rivier University. I have experience in working in both medical and psychiatric specialties and believe a person should be treated in a way that encompasses all aspects of health: mind, body and spirit. My approach to care takes into consideration not only mental health; it considers the physiological being and co-occurring diseases as all are all intertwined and contribute to our current state of being.

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.
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.
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As a healthcare provider with over 25 years of experience, I am dedicated to helping my clients become the best versions of themselves possible. By working together to overcome any of mental health issues that are present, we can start moving towards a brighter future and a better you.
As a healthcare provider with over 25 years of experience, I am dedicated to helping my clients become the best versions of themselves possible. By working together to overcome any of mental health issues that are present, we can start moving towards a brighter future and a better you.

Orobosa Chiedu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02302
Ms. Orobosa Chiedu's ideal client is someone seeking a holistic approach to mental health, aiming for a blend of physical and emotional support. These individuals are driven by a desire for stability, effective coping strategies, and lasting recovery. They are motivated to regain control and achieve a sense of fulfillment and wholeness beyond their challenges. With a focus on empowerment and comprehensive care, Ms. Chiedu helps clients embark on a transformative journey toward lasting well-being.
Ms. Orobosa Chiedu's ideal client is someone seeking a holistic approach to mental health, aiming for a blend of physical and emotional support. These individuals are driven by a desire for stability, effective coping strategies, and lasting recovery. They are motivated to regain control and achieve a sense of fulfillment and wholeness beyond their challenges. With a focus on empowerment and comprehensive care, Ms. Chiedu helps clients embark on a transformative journey toward lasting well-being.

Kemi Shodunke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorders. With 18 years of experience in nursing, I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health assessments and personalized treatment plans. My approach combines evidence-based practices with a deep commitment to understanding each individual's unique needs. Whether you're struggling with depressive symptoms, navigating anxiety, PTSD, managing ADHD challenges, or seeking support for bipolar disorder, I am here to help. I believe in fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust, empathy
Welcome! I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorders. With 18 years of experience in nursing, I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health assessments and personalized treatment plans. My approach combines evidence-based practices with a deep commitment to understanding each individual's unique needs. Whether you're struggling with depressive symptoms, navigating anxiety, PTSD, managing ADHD challenges, or seeking support for bipolar disorder, I am here to help. I believe in fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust, empathy

Hilda Awuah-Antwi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MS, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hingham, MA 02043
Currently accepting new patients ! At CPB-Heath, we believe that healing is a deeply personal journey—one that requires trust, understanding, and a compassionate partnership. If you are struggling with psychiatric or substance abuse challenges, we want you to know that you are not alone. We are here to help you every step of the way. Our approach is rooted in respect for your unique experiences and your individual path to recovery. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, or any other mental health issue, we are committed to providing the care and support that you need to move forward in your life.
Currently accepting new patients ! At CPB-Heath, we believe that healing is a deeply personal journey—one that requires trust, understanding, and a compassionate partnership. If you are struggling with psychiatric or substance abuse challenges, we want you to know that you are not alone. We are here to help you every step of the way. Our approach is rooted in respect for your unique experiences and your individual path to recovery. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, or any other mental health issue, we are committed to providing the care and support that you need to move forward in your life.
Starr Psychiatric Center, Inc.
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301
We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust our sails. Starr Psychiatric Center is a dynamic, private, multi-disciplinary group practice offering day, night and weekend appointments to accommodate our patients needs. We aim to provide high-quality mental health care by using the concept of differential therapeutics and a collaborative approach using the medical model with various types of psychotherapy in addition to medication management services. Differential therapeutics is simply a concept in which a patient is first correctly diagnosed and then the appropriate psychiatric modality or combination of modalities is utilized.
We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust our sails. Starr Psychiatric Center is a dynamic, private, multi-disciplinary group practice offering day, night and weekend appointments to accommodate our patients needs. We aim to provide high-quality mental health care by using the concept of differential therapeutics and a collaborative approach using the medical model with various types of psychotherapy in addition to medication management services. Differential therapeutics is simply a concept in which a patient is first correctly diagnosed and then the appropriate psychiatric modality or combination of modalities is utilized.

Hello, I am a Family Nurse practitioner with 20 years experience in psychiatric nursing including inpatient, detox and duel diagnosis units. I prescribe psychotropic medications for a variety of mental health issues. I believe the goal of treating mental health disorders is to support my clients journey towards mental wellness. Every client is different and have their own special needs. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health issues including psychotropic medications, diet, exercise, therapy and supplement. Self referrals, MD, therapists, PA, NP, and psychologists welcome.
Hello, I am a Family Nurse practitioner with 20 years experience in psychiatric nursing including inpatient, detox and duel diagnosis units. I prescribe psychotropic medications for a variety of mental health issues. I believe the goal of treating mental health disorders is to support my clients journey towards mental wellness. Every client is different and have their own special needs. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health issues including psychotropic medications, diet, exercise, therapy and supplement. Self referrals, MD, therapists, PA, NP, and psychologists welcome.

Jess is the director of PHHC, a holistic mental health clinic that offers psychiatric, therapeutic, and wellness services. She is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, a certified yoga instructor, and has been working in mental health for over 15 years. She was educated at Brandeis University and Boston College. Jess also practices integrated psychiatry and functional medicine, having completed her fellowship in this specialty through Dr. Greenblatt's program.
Jess is the director of PHHC, a holistic mental health clinic that offers psychiatric, therapeutic, and wellness services. She is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, a certified yoga instructor, and has been working in mental health for over 15 years. She was educated at Brandeis University and Boston College. Jess also practices integrated psychiatry and functional medicine, having completed her fellowship in this specialty through Dr. Greenblatt's program.

God's Own Holistic Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brockton, MA 02301
At God’s Own Holistic Behavioral Health Services, we believe in a compassionate and holistic approach to mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. My name is Dorcas Adeniyi, and I founded this practice with a singular mission: to help individuals heal, grow, and thrive by addressing the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. As a Doctor of Nursing degree in psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring years of experience and a deep understanding of people's unique challenges on their journeys to mental wellness. What truly drives my practice is my belief that healing is about empowering individuals to achieve worth.
At God’s Own Holistic Behavioral Health Services, we believe in a compassionate and holistic approach to mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. My name is Dorcas Adeniyi, and I founded this practice with a singular mission: to help individuals heal, grow, and thrive by addressing the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. As a Doctor of Nursing degree in psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring years of experience and a deep understanding of people's unique challenges on their journeys to mental wellness. What truly drives my practice is my belief that healing is about empowering individuals to achieve worth.

Carroll Psychpharmacology, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C, MS, APRN, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
Mind, Body and Goals! I bring a unique perspective to weight management and psychiatry. Recognized by The Obesity Medicine Assoc. with a Certificate of Advanced Education in Obesity Medicine, plus primary care and psychiatric mental health training, allows me to truly treat the whole person, With 12+ years of experience allows me to see every client as an individual! I use my training and experience to help clients explore their needs, identify areas where we can provide treatment, and let the client move forward in life!
Mind, Body and Goals! I bring a unique perspective to weight management and psychiatry. Recognized by The Obesity Medicine Assoc. with a Certificate of Advanced Education in Obesity Medicine, plus primary care and psychiatric mental health training, allows me to truly treat the whole person, With 12+ years of experience allows me to see every client as an individual! I use my training and experience to help clients explore their needs, identify areas where we can provide treatment, and let the client move forward in life!
See more therapy options for Plymouth County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Plymouth County, MA
100+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Plymouth County, MA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
79% | ADHD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Medication Management |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
80% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Plymouth County, MA see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Plymouth 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.