Psychiatrists in Reading, MA

I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate behavioral mental health services to individuals of all ages and stages of life. My focus is creating a safe and supportive environment that leads you to feel seen, heard, and valued in your journey toward mental health.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate behavioral mental health services to individuals of all ages and stages of life. My focus is creating a safe and supportive environment that leads you to feel seen, heard, and valued in your journey toward mental health.

I work with clients of all ages struggling with symptoms of stress such as low mood, anxiety, exhaustion, brain fog, overwhelm, and poor sleep. They may have tried traditional medications with limited success and are open to exploring root causes like gut health, thyroid, or adrenal imbalances. My ideal client is invested in their health and open to lifestyle changes, and willing to try natural solutions. While I prescribe medication, when necessary, this is secondary in my practice. My approach includes a full medical review, specialized lab testing, and care team coordination to support emotional healing and lasting wellness.
I work with clients of all ages struggling with symptoms of stress such as low mood, anxiety, exhaustion, brain fog, overwhelm, and poor sleep. They may have tried traditional medications with limited success and are open to exploring root causes like gut health, thyroid, or adrenal imbalances. My ideal client is invested in their health and open to lifestyle changes, and willing to try natural solutions. While I prescribe medication, when necessary, this is secondary in my practice. My approach includes a full medical review, specialized lab testing, and care team coordination to support emotional healing and lasting wellness.

DJS Psychiatry is a licensed treatment center which offers a scope of services in the behavioral health field. Our organization staff are comprised of psychiatric medication provider, social workers, counselors and psychiatric nurse practitioners. We offer services for children, adults, couples and families and provide medication management, TMS treatments and psychotherapy. Telemedicine services are also available.
DJS Psychiatry is a licensed treatment center which offers a scope of services in the behavioral health field. Our organization staff are comprised of psychiatric medication provider, social workers, counselors and psychiatric nurse practitioners. We offer services for children, adults, couples and families and provide medication management, TMS treatments and psychotherapy. Telemedicine services are also available.

I am Natacha, a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner (FNP and PMHNP), with near two decades of experience in various healthcare settings. I am someone who understands the often-overlooked struggle of individuals who are dealing with anxiety, depression, and burnout, especially when society places high expectations of perfection upon them. My approach to care focus on helping my patients navigate these challenges while providing compassionate and holistic treatment.
I am Natacha, a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner (FNP and PMHNP), with near two decades of experience in various healthcare settings. I am someone who understands the often-overlooked struggle of individuals who are dealing with anxiety, depression, and burnout, especially when society places high expectations of perfection upon them. My approach to care focus on helping my patients navigate these challenges while providing compassionate and holistic treatment.

We at DJS Psychiatry provide our services across New Hampshire and Massachusetts.My name is Silvia Pisano. We treat a wide range of patients with mental health issues such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. The majority of our clients deal with problems including social isolation, stress, chronic illness, and trouble focusing. We offer a judgment-free, secure environment for emotional expression. We offer psychotherapy and medication management services to people of all ages. Other providers Amber, Amanda, Amelia, Edith, and Susan are available to assist you. Call today! (978)384-6546
We at DJS Psychiatry provide our services across New Hampshire and Massachusetts.My name is Silvia Pisano. We treat a wide range of patients with mental health issues such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. The majority of our clients deal with problems including social isolation, stress, chronic illness, and trouble focusing. We offer a judgment-free, secure environment for emotional expression. We offer psychotherapy and medication management services to people of all ages. Other providers Amber, Amanda, Amelia, Edith, and Susan are available to assist you. Call today! (978)384-6546

Welcome to DJS Psychiatry and Services team that cares. My name is Susan Njuguna. I am a psychiatric medication provider located in 34 Salem Street Ste 201Reading MA 01867. At DJS Psychiatry, we have a team of Psychiatric medication providers and Psychotherapist. We welcome clients seeking support for mental health such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and Trauma. Our ideal client aims to manage symptoms, improve relationships, and regain control over their life through compassionate, evidence-based care, including therapy, medication management, and innovative treatments like TMS.
Welcome to DJS Psychiatry and Services team that cares. My name is Susan Njuguna. I am a psychiatric medication provider located in 34 Salem Street Ste 201Reading MA 01867. At DJS Psychiatry, we have a team of Psychiatric medication providers and Psychotherapist. We welcome clients seeking support for mental health such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and Trauma. Our ideal client aims to manage symptoms, improve relationships, and regain control over their life through compassionate, evidence-based care, including therapy, medication management, and innovative treatments like TMS.

Executive Home Detox is a national Private Duty Registered Nurse program for the client who wants private, competent & convenient treatment in the comfort of their home. Our focus is on safety & comfort. An RN, expert in detox, travels to the client & remains with the client in their home for the duration of the medical detox. The RN monitors the client's vital signs & hydration, manages physician prescribed medication, and assesses the medication efficacy. The RN begins a process of recovery coaching & suggests ongoing continued care options to sustain recovery. This is a self-pay program geared to the high net worth individual.
Executive Home Detox is a national Private Duty Registered Nurse program for the client who wants private, competent & convenient treatment in the comfort of their home. Our focus is on safety & comfort. An RN, expert in detox, travels to the client & remains with the client in their home for the duration of the medical detox. The RN monitors the client's vital signs & hydration, manages physician prescribed medication, and assesses the medication efficacy. The RN begins a process of recovery coaching & suggests ongoing continued care options to sustain recovery. This is a self-pay program geared to the high net worth individual.

I am a multilingual psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked across the lifespan in Massachusetts. I work with clients who are struggling with a myriad of mental health concerns, including substance abuse. My goal is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients to empower them to engage in their treatment to reach their maximum potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have adequate information while being an active participant to make an informed decision about their treatment plan.
I am a multilingual psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked across the lifespan in Massachusetts. I work with clients who are struggling with a myriad of mental health concerns, including substance abuse. My goal is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients to empower them to engage in their treatment to reach their maximum potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have adequate information while being an active participant to make an informed decision about their treatment plan.

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.

Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.

Hello! I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with experience and expertise in psychopharmacology. I earned my undergraduate nursing degree at UMass Boston, my Master’s degree at Boston College and aDoctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from UMass Boston.. I am board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
At this time, I am offering consultation services only, including psychiatric evaluations with recommendations and second opinions. Please note that I am not currently prescribing or managing medications.
Hello! I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with experience and expertise in psychopharmacology. I earned my undergraduate nursing degree at UMass Boston, my Master’s degree at Boston College and aDoctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from UMass Boston.. I am board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
At this time, I am offering consultation services only, including psychiatric evaluations with recommendations and second opinions. Please note that I am not currently prescribing or managing medications.

I am accepting new patients for medication management. Please see the list of insurances I accept below. I help people with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, stress and life transitions. I work together with patients to determine the best approach for them. A personalized treatment plan can include medication, lifestyle recommendations and/or supportive therapy. Do you have questions before making an appointment? Please reach out by phone or email to see if we are a good fit.
I am accepting new patients for medication management. Please see the list of insurances I accept below. I help people with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, stress and life transitions. I work together with patients to determine the best approach for them. A personalized treatment plan can include medication, lifestyle recommendations and/or supportive therapy. Do you have questions before making an appointment? Please reach out by phone or email to see if we are a good fit.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

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.

I am a psychiatrist with an expertise in anxiety. I can be especially helpful if you have been in treatment a while, are tired of coping and managing and would like to be free of these problems. I have expertise in working with anxiety, chronic problems, and stress related physical symptoms and do also have a clinic focused on mothers.
I am a psychiatrist with an expertise in anxiety. I can be especially helpful if you have been in treatment a while, are tired of coping and managing and would like to be free of these problems. I have expertise in working with anxiety, chronic problems, and stress related physical symptoms and do also have a clinic focused on mothers.

Jennifer Lehto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I am a double board-certified Nurse Practitioner who started her journey into the mental health field after obtaining my baccalaureate degree in psychology in 2004. First I became a Family Nurse Practitioner and provided both primary care and mental health services to all ages. During that time, I realized that the true path to Peak Wellness is through promoting inner peace, resilience, and finding joy, not just by managing chronic illnesses after they manifest. So, I went back and earned a post-master’s certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, expanding my expertise as a mental health provider.
I am a double board-certified Nurse Practitioner who started her journey into the mental health field after obtaining my baccalaureate degree in psychology in 2004. First I became a Family Nurse Practitioner and provided both primary care and mental health services to all ages. During that time, I realized that the true path to Peak Wellness is through promoting inner peace, resilience, and finding joy, not just by managing chronic illnesses after they manifest. So, I went back and earned a post-master’s certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, expanding my expertise as a mental health provider.

Elysee Njontu, APRN, PMHNP-BC is an advanced practice nurse who is board certified by the ANCC. He has over 7 years of professional experience working in the psychiatric and mental health field. Elysee received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Chamberlain University in Illinois and his Master of Science in Nursing degree from Regis College in Weston, Mass. At the Bedford VA Hospital where he currently works, Elysee provides mental health assessments, evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy to adults struggling with issues like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder and other mental health issues
Elysee Njontu, APRN, PMHNP-BC is an advanced practice nurse who is board certified by the ANCC. He has over 7 years of professional experience working in the psychiatric and mental health field. Elysee received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Chamberlain University in Illinois and his Master of Science in Nursing degree from Regis College in Weston, Mass. At the Bedford VA Hospital where he currently works, Elysee provides mental health assessments, evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy to adults struggling with issues like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder and other mental health issues

Hey there! My name is Jean-Merimee, a retired U.S. army officer with over 23 years of experience in healthcare, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the field of mental health. With more than 14 years of focused work in mental health, I have developed a deep understanding of the complexities of psychological well-being, particularly in high-stress environments such as military service. I, as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, emphasizes a holistic approach to care that prioritizes the client's overall well-being, taking into consideration not only their mental health but also their physical, emotional, and social needs.
Hey there! My name is Jean-Merimee, a retired U.S. army officer with over 23 years of experience in healthcare, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the field of mental health. With more than 14 years of focused work in mental health, I have developed a deep understanding of the complexities of psychological well-being, particularly in high-stress environments such as military service. I, as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, emphasizes a holistic approach to care that prioritizes the client's overall well-being, taking into consideration not only their mental health but also their physical, emotional, and social needs.
Esketamine/Spravato treatment approved center: For treatment-resistant depression.
At Zuri Psychiatric Health, we strongly believe in establishing therapeutic and individualized mental health care. In a safe, confidential, and comfortable environment.
Our focus is to work with patients to reach their highest potential toward a more positive, functional, and satisfying life.
The bulk of our practice focuses on psychiatric medication management.
Research shows that the combination of psychiatric therapy and medication management is often more effective.
We provide brief therapy sessions and also work collaboratively with other
Esketamine/Spravato treatment approved center: For treatment-resistant depression.
At Zuri Psychiatric Health, we strongly believe in establishing therapeutic and individualized mental health care. In a safe, confidential, and comfortable environment.
Our focus is to work with patients to reach their highest potential toward a more positive, functional, and satisfying life.
The bulk of our practice focuses on psychiatric medication management.
Research shows that the combination of psychiatric therapy and medication management is often more effective.
We provide brief therapy sessions and also work collaboratively with other

Global Behavioral Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MPH , PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Waltham, MA 02451
Global Behavioral Healthcare is committed to empowering individuals on their journey to mental wellness by providing compassionate, judgment-free care. Client need a provider who truly listens, understands, and integrates both evidence-based practices and holistic wellness into their care plan & desire a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space to heal and grow & don’t want to feel alone in their struggles; they need a provider who will walk alongside them with empathy and expertise.
Global Behavioral Healthcare is committed to empowering individuals on their journey to mental wellness by providing compassionate, judgment-free care. Client need a provider who truly listens, understands, and integrates both evidence-based practices and holistic wellness into their care plan & desire a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space to heal and grow & don’t want to feel alone in their struggles; they need a provider who will walk alongside them with empathy and expertise.

Hi everyone! I am currently telehealth-only and offer psychiatric appointments for medication management for adults and teens ages 16–64. I combine empathy with evidence-based treatment to help support lasting change in my patients' lives. Even if you're "feeling mostly okay" but want a steady, supportive provider who really listens, I'm here!
Hi everyone! I am currently telehealth-only and offer psychiatric appointments for medication management for adults and teens ages 16–64. I combine empathy with evidence-based treatment to help support lasting change in my patients' lives. Even if you're "feeling mostly okay" but want a steady, supportive provider who really listens, I'm here!
See more therapy options for Reading
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Reading, MA
10+
Average cost per session
$230
Psychiatrists in Reading, MA who prioritize treating:
83% | Anxiety |
67% | Depression |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Medication Management |
58% | Sleep or Insomnia |
50% | Trauma and PTSD |
50% | Behavioral Issues |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
89% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
89% | Tufts |
How Psychiatrists in Reading, 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 Reading?
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.