Psychiatrists in Nashua, NH

Photo of Christina Gormly - Vista Family Psychiatry, LLC: Christina Gormly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Vista Family Psychiatry, LLC: Christina Gormly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Online Only
My name is Christina Gormly and I am currently scheduling new clients for telehealth sessions. I take a warm and holistic approach, utilizing CBT and DBT methods to assist you in meeting your goals. I am also certified an as Integrative Psychiatric Practitioner, utilizing a blend of complementary and alternative interventions to reach optimum well-being. I am ANCC certified to treat children, adolescents, and adults. I have extensive experience in treating eating disorders, as well as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, trauma, attention deficit, and mood dysregulation.
My name is Christina Gormly and I am currently scheduling new clients for telehealth sessions. I take a warm and holistic approach, utilizing CBT and DBT methods to assist you in meeting your goals. I am also certified an as Integrative Psychiatric Practitioner, utilizing a blend of complementary and alternative interventions to reach optimum well-being. I am ANCC certified to treat children, adolescents, and adults. I have extensive experience in treating eating disorders, as well as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, trauma, attention deficit, and mood dysregulation.
(603) 420-2529 View (603) 420-2529
Photo of Linda J Schommer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
Linda J Schommer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an additional ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider Certification. I serve patients in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire, treating conditions such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, panic disorder, and other psychiatric issues. I take a comprehensive approach to patient care, where my patients and I work together as a team to develop a treatment plan focused on each individual's personal goals. I look forward to working with you!
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an additional ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider Certification. I serve patients in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire, treating conditions such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, panic disorder, and other psychiatric issues. I take a comprehensive approach to patient care, where my patients and I work together as a team to develop a treatment plan focused on each individual's personal goals. I look forward to working with you!
(603) 932-5418 View (603) 932-5418
Photo of Tonya Watkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Tonya Watkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Current openings! Accepting multiple insurers. I have been a nurse practitioner for over 10 years, helping my clients to become their healthiest and best selves. I practice primarily as a women's health psychiatric nurse practitioner, focusing on treating issues including depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorders, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, women's issues, chronic pain, and eating issues. I particularly enjoy working with older teens and college students, so if you're in that group, please reach out!
Current openings! Accepting multiple insurers. I have been a nurse practitioner for over 10 years, helping my clients to become their healthiest and best selves. I practice primarily as a women's health psychiatric nurse practitioner, focusing on treating issues including depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorders, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, women's issues, chronic pain, and eating issues. I particularly enjoy working with older teens and college students, so if you're in that group, please reach out!
(603) 691-2075 View (603) 691-2075
Photo of Karin Raaberg - Mental Healthcare of New England, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Mental Healthcare of New England
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03062
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who understands the importance of providing healthcare from a holistic perspective, centered on healing the whole person (mind, body, and spirit). I am certified in working with all ages, from children to the elderly. I can help with anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, ASD, and Schizo-affective disorders. My psychiatric experience includes working in acute care psychiatric hospitals as well as private practice outpatient mental health care.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who understands the importance of providing healthcare from a holistic perspective, centered on healing the whole person (mind, body, and spirit). I am certified in working with all ages, from children to the elderly. I can help with anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, ASD, and Schizo-affective disorders. My psychiatric experience includes working in acute care psychiatric hospitals as well as private practice outpatient mental health care.
(603) 200-4021 View (603) 200-4021
Photo of Lisa Ruggiero, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Lisa Ruggiero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
1 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03060
Lisa is dual board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, bringing a unique breadth of expertise to her practice. Holding a doctoral degree in nursing, Lisa stays at the forefront of evidence-based care, seamlessly integrating the latest research into treatment plans that prioritize each patient's journey to wellness. Believing in a holistic mind-body approach, Lisa addresses both physical and mental health to promote lasting well-being.
Lisa is dual board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, bringing a unique breadth of expertise to her practice. Holding a doctoral degree in nursing, Lisa stays at the forefront of evidence-based care, seamlessly integrating the latest research into treatment plans that prioritize each patient's journey to wellness. Believing in a holistic mind-body approach, Lisa addresses both physical and mental health to promote lasting well-being.
(855) 906-5839 View (855) 906-5839
Photo of Sherry Kahn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Sherry Kahn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Nashua, NH 03062
I have been an advanced practice nurse for over 20 years. For much of that time I had the honor to work with veterans in a federal facility, and prior to that I had experience in hospice and home care nursing. I have training and experience with a broad array of mental health conditions in adults age 18 and up. I believe in a compassionate and non-judgmental approach that will lay the groundwork for treatment planning. Your goals and desires for better health and wellness and your best life are central to treatment success.
I have been an advanced practice nurse for over 20 years. For much of that time I had the honor to work with veterans in a federal facility, and prior to that I had experience in hospice and home care nursing. I have training and experience with a broad array of mental health conditions in adults age 18 and up. I believe in a compassionate and non-judgmental approach that will lay the groundwork for treatment planning. Your goals and desires for better health and wellness and your best life are central to treatment success.
(641) 435-3647 View (641) 435-3647
Photo of Lisa Miffitt - Vista Family Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vista Family Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
All services provided via telehealth at this time. Licensed to provide services to clients located in MA or NH. We provide comprehensive outpatient behavioral health services to children, adolescents and adults including: consultation, psychiatric assessments, diagnostic formulation, medication management services, general wellness counseling and education.
All services provided via telehealth at this time. Licensed to provide services to clients located in MA or NH. We provide comprehensive outpatient behavioral health services to children, adolescents and adults including: consultation, psychiatric assessments, diagnostic formulation, medication management services, general wellness counseling and education.
(603) 605-1664 View (603) 605-1664
Photo of Chad Saint-Amant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MDS, MSN, PMHNP
Chad Saint-Amant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MDS, MSN, PMHNP
Nashua, NH 03060
Chad Saint-Amant is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Chad completed his clinical training and obtained his master's degree at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. Chad's clinical interests include dual diagnosis, mood disorders, and incorporating novel treatments into a comprehensive practice. He employs a pragmatic approach to the identification and treatment of psychiatric disorders. Chad intends to help others reach their wellness goals and to overall experience a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Chad Saint-Amant is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Chad completed his clinical training and obtained his master's degree at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. Chad's clinical interests include dual diagnosis, mood disorders, and incorporating novel treatments into a comprehensive practice. He employs a pragmatic approach to the identification and treatment of psychiatric disorders. Chad intends to help others reach their wellness goals and to overall experience a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(603) 691-2410 View (603) 691-2410
Photo of Jennifer Penn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Jennifer Penn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03060
I work with individuals facing mental health challenges ranging from simple to complex. My patients are looking for easy-to-understand medication management plans delivered in a relaxed, accepting environment. I utilize solution-focused techniques in a straightforward treatment style. I can manage existing psychiatric medications as well as initiate treatments in a patient who is new to mental health care.
I work with individuals facing mental health challenges ranging from simple to complex. My patients are looking for easy-to-understand medication management plans delivered in a relaxed, accepting environment. I utilize solution-focused techniques in a straightforward treatment style. I can manage existing psychiatric medications as well as initiate treatments in a patient who is new to mental health care.
(844) 519-0437 View (844) 519-0437
Photo of Almos Nagy, Psychiatrist, MD
Almos Nagy
Psychiatrist, MD
Nashua, NH 03060
As a general and geriatric psychiatrist, Dr. Nagy has experience in diagnosing and providing psychopharmacological treatment to patients with a wide range of mental health conditions, including depressive disorders, trauma related and anxiety conditions, bipolar spectrum disorders, psychotic disorders as well as addiction related conditions. From 2014 to 2020 Dr. Nagy worked at the Bedford, Massachusetts VA Medical Center as the program psychiatrist for the severely mental illness (SMI) program, for which he received the I CARE award of the VA Medical Center.
As a general and geriatric psychiatrist, Dr. Nagy has experience in diagnosing and providing psychopharmacological treatment to patients with a wide range of mental health conditions, including depressive disorders, trauma related and anxiety conditions, bipolar spectrum disorders, psychotic disorders as well as addiction related conditions. From 2014 to 2020 Dr. Nagy worked at the Bedford, Massachusetts VA Medical Center as the program psychiatrist for the severely mental illness (SMI) program, for which he received the I CARE award of the VA Medical Center.
(855) 939-0286 View (855) 939-0286
Photo of Carissa Kajenski - Hopeful Mind Mental Health, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Hopeful Mind Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
11 Endorsed
Online Only
At Hopeful Mind Mental Health, we provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care for individuals navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and related mental health concerns. I am the primary psychiatric provider and have been in practice for over 11 years. Our practice is currently expanding, and we are in the process of hiring additional clinicians to better serve our growing community. I especially enjoy working with women and men of all ages, as well as college students and young adults who are entering new life stages — from starting college or careers to navigating major transitions.
At Hopeful Mind Mental Health, we provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care for individuals navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and related mental health concerns. I am the primary psychiatric provider and have been in practice for over 11 years. Our practice is currently expanding, and we are in the process of hiring additional clinicians to better serve our growing community. I especially enjoy working with women and men of all ages, as well as college students and young adults who are entering new life stages — from starting college or careers to navigating major transitions.
(603) 965-2825 View (603) 965-2825
Dr. Sumeet Singh
Psychiatrist, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Sumeet Singh is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Adult Psychiatry. Most recently, Dr. Singh worked for Life Stance Health, an outpatient telehealth company, where he treated patients between the ages of 18-65 years old with both medication management and therapeutic interventions. Dr. Singh has years of experience treating the following disorders/diagnoses: depression, anxiety and panic attacks, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD.
Dr. Sumeet Singh is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Adult Psychiatry. Most recently, Dr. Singh worked for Life Stance Health, an outpatient telehealth company, where he treated patients between the ages of 18-65 years old with both medication management and therapeutic interventions. Dr. Singh has years of experience treating the following disorders/diagnoses: depression, anxiety and panic attacks, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD.
(603) 272-6079 View (603) 272-6079
Photo of Christine Isabelle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP, MSN/MPH
Christine Isabelle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP, MSN/MPH
Nashua, NH 03063
Currently accepting new adolescent and adult patients! Are you ready to take charge of your mental well-being and embark on a journey towards a happier, healthier you? Struggling with mood changes, anxiety, focus issues, lack of motivation? I can to provide the individualized support you need. There is no one path to wellness, it is a process that is personal and dynamic. Together, we will help you achieve your goals and rediscover the joy in your life.
Currently accepting new adolescent and adult patients! Are you ready to take charge of your mental well-being and embark on a journey towards a happier, healthier you? Struggling with mood changes, anxiety, focus issues, lack of motivation? I can to provide the individualized support you need. There is no one path to wellness, it is a process that is personal and dynamic. Together, we will help you achieve your goals and rediscover the joy in your life.
(603) 722-6361 View (603) 722-6361
Photo of Stephen Ellen, Psychiatrist, MD
Stephen Ellen
Psychiatrist, MD
Nashua, NH 03063
Stephen C. Ellen, MD graduated from The University of Pennsylvania summa cum laude with a BA in the biological basis of behavior and then attended Harvard Medical School, where he received his MD in 1989. He completed his adult psychiatry residency within the Harvard system at The Cambridge Hospital before pursuing a fellowship in psychodynamic psychotherapy at The Austen Riggs Center in Stockbridge, Massachusetts and a fellowship in electroconvulsive therapy at ColumbiaPresbyterian Medical Center in New York City.
Stephen C. Ellen, MD graduated from The University of Pennsylvania summa cum laude with a BA in the biological basis of behavior and then attended Harvard Medical School, where he received his MD in 1989. He completed his adult psychiatry residency within the Harvard system at The Cambridge Hospital before pursuing a fellowship in psychodynamic psychotherapy at The Austen Riggs Center in Stockbridge, Massachusetts and a fellowship in electroconvulsive therapy at ColumbiaPresbyterian Medical Center in New York City.
(833) 612-1003 View (833) 612-1003
Photo of Arun Krishnan, Psychiatrist, MD
Arun Krishnan
Psychiatrist, MD
Nashua, NH 03063
Part of Dr. Krishnan's clinical time is devoted to working with resident physicians from Portsmouth Regional Hospital-HCA Healthcare/Tufts University. Resident physicians are licensed doctors who have completed medical school and are finalizing their specialty training in psychiatry. They are currently completing their 3rd postgraduate year of training at LifeStance Health, Inc. Your initial appointment may either be solely with Dr. Krishnan, or may be with a resident physician with Dr. Krishnan joining towards the end of the appointment to review history, current symptoms, and discuss the plan of care with the resident physician.
Part of Dr. Krishnan's clinical time is devoted to working with resident physicians from Portsmouth Regional Hospital-HCA Healthcare/Tufts University. Resident physicians are licensed doctors who have completed medical school and are finalizing their specialty training in psychiatry. They are currently completing their 3rd postgraduate year of training at LifeStance Health, Inc. Your initial appointment may either be solely with Dr. Krishnan, or may be with a resident physician with Dr. Krishnan joining towards the end of the appointment to review history, current symptoms, and discuss the plan of care with the resident physician.
(855) 953-1672 View (855) 953-1672
Photo of DeAnna Pangione, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
DeAnna Pangione
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03062
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Have you exhausted your usual coping mechanisms? Is everyday life becoming more difficult? While all of us experience difficulties at some point in our life, when feelings of anxiety or sadness become your "normal," I can help.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Have you exhausted your usual coping mechanisms? Is everyday life becoming more difficult? While all of us experience difficulties at some point in our life, when feelings of anxiety or sadness become your "normal," I can help.
(603) 288-1457 View (603) 288-1457
Photo of Dr. Susan G Vonderheide, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PhD
Dr. Susan G Vonderheide
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PhD
1 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03060
I have a private practice consisting of clients seeking psychiatric medication and a small number of adult clients seeking counseling only. I see both children and adults for psychiatric medication. Clients seek services for Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder as well as many other symptoms.
I have a private practice consisting of clients seeking psychiatric medication and a small number of adult clients seeking counseling only. I see both children and adults for psychiatric medication. Clients seek services for Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder as well as many other symptoms.
(603) 891-1152 View (603) 891-1152
Photo of Amanda LeFort - Granite State Family Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Granite State Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03060
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed to diagnose, prescribe, and develop personalized treatment plans for patients in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. I provide comprehensive psychiatric care across the lifespan, serving individuals from age five through adulthood—including adolescents, college students, young professionals, adults, and seniors. My practice is rooted in functional and integrative psychiatry, allowing me to look beyond symptoms to consider lifestyle, nutrition, and underlying health factors in every treatment plan. Accepting NEW TMS therapy patients! Contact me.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed to diagnose, prescribe, and develop personalized treatment plans for patients in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. I provide comprehensive psychiatric care across the lifespan, serving individuals from age five through adulthood—including adolescents, college students, young professionals, adults, and seniors. My practice is rooted in functional and integrative psychiatry, allowing me to look beyond symptoms to consider lifestyle, nutrition, and underlying health factors in every treatment plan. Accepting NEW TMS therapy patients! Contact me.
(603) 827-4866 View (603) 827-4866
Photo of Roselin Raja, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Roselin Raja
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nashua, NH 03063
Roselin Raja is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with over 9 years’ experience in the behavioral health area. She earned both Bachelor’s in Nursing and Master’s in Nursing (Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) from Rivier University. Her experience comes through working in various behavioral health settings such as in-patient, outpatient and community care. She works with clients ages 6 - 64 using both telehealth and in-person visits. Specializes in psychopharmacologic evaluation and medication management.
Roselin Raja is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with over 9 years’ experience in the behavioral health area. She earned both Bachelor’s in Nursing and Master’s in Nursing (Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) from Rivier University. Her experience comes through working in various behavioral health settings such as in-patient, outpatient and community care. She works with clients ages 6 - 64 using both telehealth and in-person visits. Specializes in psychopharmacologic evaluation and medication management.
(888) 491-5017 View (888) 491-5017
Photo of Dr. Peter Truong, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Peter Truong
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Peter Truong is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. He received his medical degree from FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine in Miami, Florida, and completed his residency training at Cambridge Health Alliance – Harvard Medical School. Dr. Truong treats each patient with a holistic, evidence-based approach that incorporates psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic best practices.
Dr. Peter Truong is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. He received his medical degree from FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine in Miami, Florida, and completed his residency training at Cambridge Health Alliance – Harvard Medical School. Dr. Truong treats each patient with a holistic, evidence-based approach that incorporates psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic best practices.
(833) 853-9547 View (833) 853-9547

See more therapy options for Nashua

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Nashua, NH

80+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Nashua, NH who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
95% Depression
86% Bipolar Disorder
86% Medication Management
78% ADHD
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
74% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Cigna and Evernorth
90% Optum
89% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Nashua, NH see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Nashua?

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.