Psychiatrists in Laconia, NH

Photo of Sadie Irving, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sadie Irving
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laconia, NH 03246
Waitlist for new clients
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to help individuals achieve their optimum mental and emotional wellness. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, symptoms of trauma, or other mental health symptoms, please contact me for a consultation. As many of us know and experience, our minds and bodies work together, and when one is not at its ideal level of functioning, the other often follows. Let me help you achieve your goals. I provide both therapeutic and medication management services, as well as comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and evaluations for bariatric surgery.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to help individuals achieve their optimum mental and emotional wellness. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, symptoms of trauma, or other mental health symptoms, please contact me for a consultation. As many of us know and experience, our minds and bodies work together, and when one is not at its ideal level of functioning, the other often follows. Let me help you achieve your goals. I provide both therapeutic and medication management services, as well as comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and evaluations for bariatric surgery.
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Photo of Richard Nasstrom - Premier Health LLC, DO, Psychiatrist
Premier Health LLC
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laconia, NH 03246
Dr. Nasstrom specializes in pharmacology and psychiatry. He incorporates kindness and compassion to give his patients a sense of calm and security during sessions. He offers an individualized treatment approach to each patient to achieve the best outcome.
Dr. Nasstrom specializes in pharmacology and psychiatry. He incorporates kindness and compassion to give his patients a sense of calm and security during sessions. He offers an individualized treatment approach to each patient to achieve the best outcome.
(603) 847-7635 View (603) 847-7635
Photo of Kate Folkins, MS, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kate Folkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Laconia, NH 03246
I believe mental health care is a collaborative process and everyone deserves the opportunity to live their own best life. Whether you have a new mental health concern, or are seeking a new perspective, there are powerful tools available through psychiatric assessment, medication management, therapeutic interventions, and behavioral changes.
I believe mental health care is a collaborative process and everyone deserves the opportunity to live their own best life. Whether you have a new mental health concern, or are seeking a new perspective, there are powerful tools available through psychiatric assessment, medication management, therapeutic interventions, and behavioral changes.
(844) 771-9012 View (844) 771-9012
Photo of Allison Sikorsky - At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laconia, NH 03246
No need to call; SCHEDULE ONLINE by going to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com Telepsychiatry for South Dakota with medications sent right to your local pharmacy. This telepsychiatry practice focuses on caring for you from your home or office, with visits from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. With over ten years of psychiatry experience, I care for people remotely with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar 1 and 2, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, agoraphobia, and various conditions. For more information, see our FAQ's section on the website
No need to call; SCHEDULE ONLINE by going to AtYourServicePsychiatry.com Telepsychiatry for South Dakota with medications sent right to your local pharmacy. This telepsychiatry practice focuses on caring for you from your home or office, with visits from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. With over ten years of psychiatry experience, I care for people remotely with ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar 1 and 2, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, agoraphobia, and various conditions. For more information, see our FAQ's section on the website
Photo of Christine Hawkins, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse
Christine Hawkins
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Laconia, NH 03246
Hello, I am Christine, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing medicine since 1994 and have focused on psychiatry for the past 17 years. After many years of treating individuals with psychiatric and substance use disorders, I decided to make it official and obtained my master's in nursing from Rivier University in 2021. I love treating both mental health and substance use disorders. I have worked in both inpatient hospital settings and outpatient facilities. I focus my practice on being empathetic, an active listener, and thorough to provide the most accurate diagnosis.
Hello, I am Christine, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing medicine since 1994 and have focused on psychiatry for the past 17 years. After many years of treating individuals with psychiatric and substance use disorders, I decided to make it official and obtained my master's in nursing from Rivier University in 2021. I love treating both mental health and substance use disorders. I have worked in both inpatient hospital settings and outpatient facilities. I focus my practice on being empathetic, an active listener, and thorough to provide the most accurate diagnosis.
(603) 606-9357 View (603) 606-9357

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Mazzola - Big Lake Behavioral, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Big Lake Behavioral, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Gilford, NH 03249
Sarah Mazzola, PMHNP-BC works with a wide range of patient profiles: Adults and adolescents, mental heath and recovery/addiction. As a passionate provider of behavioral services, she leads with empathy and humility. Sarah believes in the mutual responsibility of a healthy provider patient relationship and works with each client to develop an individualized treatment plan. Lets work together to improve your life! Feel free to call or 844-4-BIG-LAKE with questions or to make an appointment.
Sarah Mazzola, PMHNP-BC works with a wide range of patient profiles: Adults and adolescents, mental heath and recovery/addiction. As a passionate provider of behavioral services, she leads with empathy and humility. Sarah believes in the mutual responsibility of a healthy provider patient relationship and works with each client to develop an individualized treatment plan. Lets work together to improve your life! Feel free to call or 844-4-BIG-LAKE with questions or to make an appointment.
(844) 424-4525 View (844) 424-4525
Photo of Janine Panker, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janine Panker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Meredith, NH 03253  (Online Only)
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming and cause you to feel like you’re failing. These things should not define you. You are not failing and you are not alone. You deserve to feel joy and excitement again from life’s moments, both big and small, and we can work together to make that happen. There is hope! Please reach out to us through our website and we will contact you. We are currently scheduling in January 2025: www.staterabehavioralhealth.com/request-an-appointment
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming and cause you to feel like you’re failing. These things should not define you. You are not failing and you are not alone. You deserve to feel joy and excitement again from life’s moments, both big and small, and we can work together to make that happen. There is hope! Please reach out to us through our website and we will contact you. We are currently scheduling in January 2025: www.staterabehavioralhealth.com/request-an-appointment
(603) 393-3233 View (603) 393-3233

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Rebecca Frost, MD, Psychiatrist
Rebecca Frost
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Hanover, NH 03755  (Online Only)
I am an adult psychiatrist who provides care via telepsychiatry to patients who are located in New Hampshire, Vermont, Indiana, South Carolina, and Texas. I believe that enduring change occurs through a caring therapeutic relationship. I listen carefully to understand the difficulties that bring you to treatment and collaborate to develop shared goals. I strive for patients to feel heard, understood, and supported. I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy and use evidenced-based medication treatment.
I am an adult psychiatrist who provides care via telepsychiatry to patients who are located in New Hampshire, Vermont, Indiana, South Carolina, and Texas. I believe that enduring change occurs through a caring therapeutic relationship. I listen carefully to understand the difficulties that bring you to treatment and collaborate to develop shared goals. I strive for patients to feel heard, understood, and supported. I emphasize psychodynamic psychotherapy and use evidenced-based medication treatment.
(603) 931-3465 View (603) 931-3465
Photo of Elizabeth Downs, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Downs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions. My goal is to truly listen to your concerns and needs and treat you as a whole person. I run a telemedicine only independent practice serving patients throughout New Hampshire. I accept several insurances and private pay. I am able to provide patients with a Super Bill for out of network reimbursement by request.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions. My goal is to truly listen to your concerns and needs and treat you as a whole person. I run a telemedicine only independent practice serving patients throughout New Hampshire. I accept several insurances and private pay. I am able to provide patients with a Super Bill for out of network reimbursement by request.
(603) 825-4696 View (603) 825-4696
Photo of April Levesque, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
April Levesque
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Merrimack, NH 03054
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner credentialed with the American Nurses Credentialing Center currently licensed in New Hampshire. I received my Masters of Science in Nursing from Rivier University in 2022 specializing in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing. Prior to this, I was a psychiatric and mental health registered nurse for 9 years on a locked acute inpatient behavioral and mental health unit. I found my passion for those who suffer from mental health while serving 9 years in the United States Navy. I am compassionate and caring and use a direct approach in caring for my patients.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner credentialed with the American Nurses Credentialing Center currently licensed in New Hampshire. I received my Masters of Science in Nursing from Rivier University in 2022 specializing in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing. Prior to this, I was a psychiatric and mental health registered nurse for 9 years on a locked acute inpatient behavioral and mental health unit. I found my passion for those who suffer from mental health while serving 9 years in the United States Navy. I am compassionate and caring and use a direct approach in caring for my patients.
(857) 382-3209 View (857) 382-3209
Photo of Carolyn Mallon, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carolyn Mallon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Concord, NH 03301
My practice is grounded in collaboration with clients to build comfort and trust. It is my goal to create a safe and inclusive environment where we will work together toward achieving your goals. I provide psychiatric evaluations and prescription medication management with special attention to each of my clients' individual needs and concerns.
My practice is grounded in collaboration with clients to build comfort and trust. It is my goal to create a safe and inclusive environment where we will work together toward achieving your goals. I provide psychiatric evaluations and prescription medication management with special attention to each of my clients' individual needs and concerns.
(603) 932-5528 View (603) 932-5528
Photo of John Donovan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John Donovan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, NH 03079
You deserve a life where you wake up happy and go to bed at peace. I'm here to help you achieve that. I promise to listen and support you through whatever challenges you’re facing right now. I appreciate clients who are motivated and open to change. I know that taking the first step toward seeking help can be intimidating, but I'm here for you! Together, we will create a personalized treatment plan that may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Whether you have a long history of mental health struggles or are reaching out for the first time, I am here to support and guide you.
You deserve a life where you wake up happy and go to bed at peace. I'm here to help you achieve that. I promise to listen and support you through whatever challenges you’re facing right now. I appreciate clients who are motivated and open to change. I know that taking the first step toward seeking help can be intimidating, but I'm here for you! Together, we will create a personalized treatment plan that may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Whether you have a long history of mental health struggles or are reaching out for the first time, I am here to support and guide you.
(781) 562-4672 View (781) 562-4672
Photo of Cynthia Cahoon, DNP,  NP, Psychiatric Nurse
Cynthia Cahoon
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, NP
Verified Verified
Peterborough, NH 03458
Cynthia believes in a collaborative approach, working along with patients to help them achieve an optimal level of emotional wellness. Her main areas of focus are assessment and medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. She works with patients from age 18 to older adults. In her spare time, Cynthia enjoys reading, kayaking, and spending time at her seasonal family home in CT. She is a former college nursing professor and owner of an Assisted Living home and she continues to have professional interests in those areas.
Cynthia believes in a collaborative approach, working along with patients to help them achieve an optimal level of emotional wellness. Her main areas of focus are assessment and medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. She works with patients from age 18 to older adults. In her spare time, Cynthia enjoys reading, kayaking, and spending time at her seasonal family home in CT. She is a former college nursing professor and owner of an Assisted Living home and she continues to have professional interests in those areas.
(888) 686-5385 View (888) 686-5385
Photo of Jennifer Limongiello, PhD, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Limongiello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Derry, NH 03038  (Online Only)
Great to meet you! My name is Jennifer Limongiello and I am dual board certified Psychiatric and Family NP. I also have a PhD in Public Health. I've been in the nursing field since 1988 and have worked in a variety of settings. I have a passion of helping people and getting them back to a better quality of life. I hope to meet with you and find out what your issues and goals are.
Great to meet you! My name is Jennifer Limongiello and I am dual board certified Psychiatric and Family NP. I also have a PhD in Public Health. I've been in the nursing field since 1988 and have worked in a variety of settings. I have a passion of helping people and getting them back to a better quality of life. I hope to meet with you and find out what your issues and goals are.
(413) 423-0221 View (413) 423-0221
Photo of Alysha Cutts, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alysha Cutts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Londonderry, NH 03053
I am currently accepting new patients. I am licensed in NH and MA. My ideal patients are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, unstable mood, and people who just feel like there must be more to life than what is in front of them. Sometimes we just don't know what's wrong or how to explain it-I am happy to talk to you and help you figure out what's going on and treating it with medication if applicable.
I am currently accepting new patients. I am licensed in NH and MA. My ideal patients are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, unstable mood, and people who just feel like there must be more to life than what is in front of them. Sometimes we just don't know what's wrong or how to explain it-I am happy to talk to you and help you figure out what's going on and treating it with medication if applicable.
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Photo of Wendy Bayless, PMHNP-B, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wendy Bayless
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, NH 03264
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I provide both non-medication and medication strategies in order to find the right fit for your needs.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I provide both non-medication and medication strategies in order to find the right fit for your needs.
(603) 207-3247 View (603) 207-3247
Photo of Julius Abam, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julius Abam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Lisbon, NH 03585  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in treating mood disorders, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, sleep disorders, schizophrenia, dementia, and other psychotic illnesses. I am a PMHNP who firmly believes that health is a multifaceted concept with aspects pertaining to the physical, psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. I appreciate working cooperatively with my patients to develop a comprehensive, customized treatment plan that effectively addresses their unique needs and objectives.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in treating mood disorders, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, sleep disorders, schizophrenia, dementia, and other psychotic illnesses. I am a PMHNP who firmly believes that health is a multifaceted concept with aspects pertaining to the physical, psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. I appreciate working cooperatively with my patients to develop a comprehensive, customized treatment plan that effectively addresses their unique needs and objectives.
(866) 835-0957 View (866) 835-0957
Photo of Steven K Elrod, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Steven K Elrod
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Hi! Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Anger, PTSD? A complete psychiatric evaluation and research-backed treatment could put you back on the right path.
Hi! Do you or your family need Medication or Therapy for Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Anger, PTSD? A complete psychiatric evaluation and research-backed treatment could put you back on the right path.
(603) 803-6476 View (603) 803-6476
Photo of Cecily Allen - Holistic Well, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Well
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Nashua, NH 03060
Great to meet you! Working in Psychiatric mental health since 2016, I help children and adults throughout the lifespan. I have an MSN from Regis College. Neurodivergent individuals and those with special needs are very welcome to my practice. I provide LGBTQAI+ affirming care. I offer no-rush care and supportive therapy for a range of issues. Your goals are my goals. Satisfaction and life-fulfillment are on the horizon and I can help you on this journey.
Great to meet you! Working in Psychiatric mental health since 2016, I help children and adults throughout the lifespan. I have an MSN from Regis College. Neurodivergent individuals and those with special needs are very welcome to my practice. I provide LGBTQAI+ affirming care. I offer no-rush care and supportive therapy for a range of issues. Your goals are my goals. Satisfaction and life-fulfillment are on the horizon and I can help you on this journey.
(978) 231-9501 View (978) 231-9501
Photo of Jennifer Sims, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Derry, NH 03038  (Online Only)
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(866) 792-2871 View (866) 792-2871

See more therapy options for Laconia

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Laconia, NH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Laconia, NH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
80% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Harvard Pilgrim

How Psychiatrists in Laconia, NH see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Laconia?

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.