Psychiatrists in Shelburne, VT

Photo of Cynthia S. Frimpong - Survival Telepsychiatry Services- STPS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Survival Telepsychiatry Services- STPS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
I am Cynthia Frimpong, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I hold a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree and am licensed in Vermont, New Hampshire & Massachusetts. I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and brief therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I am also a Board Certified Telemental Health provider (BC-TMH) with years of experience working in inpatient psychiatry, jail, and school settings.
I am Cynthia Frimpong, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I hold a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree and am licensed in Vermont, New Hampshire & Massachusetts. I provide psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and brief therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I am also a Board Certified Telemental Health provider (BC-TMH) with years of experience working in inpatient psychiatry, jail, and school settings.
(802) 200-2492 View (802) 200-2492
Photo of Suzan White, Psychiatrist, DO
Suzan White
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Shelburne, VT 05482
My clients are adults motivated to be free of emotional pain and to overcome blockages from past trauma. They are ready to achieve greater ease, resilience and balance through a professional partnership that will help them to discover the root cause of their pain and provide the tools to shift it. They are open to an approach that calls upon the best of Western medicine, functional medicine, holistic practices and ancient wisdom. They are looking for someone smart, down-to-earth and experienced to help them achieve their treatment goals. They understand true healing must consider the needs of mind, body, and heart /soul/spirit.
My clients are adults motivated to be free of emotional pain and to overcome blockages from past trauma. They are ready to achieve greater ease, resilience and balance through a professional partnership that will help them to discover the root cause of their pain and provide the tools to shift it. They are open to an approach that calls upon the best of Western medicine, functional medicine, holistic practices and ancient wisdom. They are looking for someone smart, down-to-earth and experienced to help them achieve their treatment goals. They understand true healing must consider the needs of mind, body, and heart /soul/spirit.
(802) 494-4869 View (802) 494-4869
Photo of Joseph Lasek, Psychiatrist, MD
Joseph Lasek
Psychiatrist, MD
Shelburne, VT 05482
I offer holistic, person-centered psychiatric care to anyone 18 or older. I work well with those who are motivated for change and willing to explore a variety of methods to help them in their recovery. The foundation of my treatment philosophy is an individualized approach to each patient with a focus on them as a whole person. This involves getting to know each person in all areas of their life & then co-creating a comprehensive approach to not just treating the presenting challenges but also focusing on improving & enhancing overall wellness & resilience.
I offer holistic, person-centered psychiatric care to anyone 18 or older. I work well with those who are motivated for change and willing to explore a variety of methods to help them in their recovery. The foundation of my treatment philosophy is an individualized approach to each patient with a focus on them as a whole person. This involves getting to know each person in all areas of their life & then co-creating a comprehensive approach to not just treating the presenting challenges but also focusing on improving & enhancing overall wellness & resilience.
(802) 694-6501 View (802) 694-6501
Photo of Erin McCarthy Shaw, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erin McCarthy Shaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
ADHD? Autism? Giftedness? Dyslexia? Twice-Exceptional? If you're tired of guessing, you're in the right place. Whether you (or your child) have always felt a little different—creative, insightful, out-of-the-box—but also overwhelmed by routines, deadlines, or social situations that seem effortless for others, you’re not alone. Your brain is working overtime just to keep up. Now, you’re finally ready for real answers and I’m here to help!
ADHD? Autism? Giftedness? Dyslexia? Twice-Exceptional? If you're tired of guessing, you're in the right place. Whether you (or your child) have always felt a little different—creative, insightful, out-of-the-box—but also overwhelmed by routines, deadlines, or social situations that seem effortless for others, you’re not alone. Your brain is working overtime just to keep up. Now, you’re finally ready for real answers and I’m here to help!
(518) 662-7001 View (518) 662-7001
Photo of Jeffrey M Brown, Psychiatrist, DO
Jeffrey M Brown
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
I offer in-person consultations, individual psychotherapy, couples therapy, and medication treatments to adults and adolescents. I take pride in bringing compassion, patience, and transparency to every encounter. I believe each individual is unique and complex, and should play an active role in making decisions related to their health and well-being. I commonly work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, grief, relationships, life transitions, existential angst, sleep or sex dysfunction, and/or those who simply seek to know themselves and improve their health on a more holistic level.
I offer in-person consultations, individual psychotherapy, couples therapy, and medication treatments to adults and adolescents. I take pride in bringing compassion, patience, and transparency to every encounter. I believe each individual is unique and complex, and should play an active role in making decisions related to their health and well-being. I commonly work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, grief, relationships, life transitions, existential angst, sleep or sex dysfunction, and/or those who simply seek to know themselves and improve their health on a more holistic level.
(802) 255-9157 View (802) 255-9157

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Beth Wood, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sarah Beth Wood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Colchester, VT 05446
As a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to promoting mental wellness and healing for adults. I strive to provide comprehensive and compassionate care by integrating psychotherapy and medication management services, fostering a holistic approach to mental health. Using a person-centered approach, I ensure that each patient's needs, goals, and values are at the forefront of their care.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to promoting mental wellness and healing for adults. I strive to provide comprehensive and compassionate care by integrating psychotherapy and medication management services, fostering a holistic approach to mental health. Using a person-centered approach, I ensure that each patient's needs, goals, and values are at the forefront of their care.
(802) 520-1226 View (802) 520-1226
Photo of Chukwuka Onubogu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chukwuka Onubogu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I diagnose and treat Depression, Schizoaffective Disorders, Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorders, ADHD, Sleep disorder, PTSD, and Anxiety disorder OCD, and also offer laboratory investigations to aid in diagnosis. I am currently accepting new patients from Vermont and my appointments are within 24 to 48 hours. There is no waitlist.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I diagnose and treat Depression, Schizoaffective Disorders, Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorders, ADHD, Sleep disorder, PTSD, and Anxiety disorder OCD, and also offer laboratory investigations to aid in diagnosis. I am currently accepting new patients from Vermont and my appointments are within 24 to 48 hours. There is no waitlist.
(802) 402-4692 View (802) 402-4692
Photo of Dr. Nicole Brynes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Nicole Brynes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Nicole Brynes, DNP, PMHNP-BC, provides psychiatric medication management, consultation & diagnostic evaluations for children, adolescents & adults to help you achieve your highest potential. Perhaps you are interested in learning what medications might be options for you or your loved one, want a second opinion, or are ready to start regular medication management with an experienced provider. Please note that in accordance with the Ryan-Haight Act, she does not prescribe controlled substances (including stimulants or benzodiazepines) to those outside of Pennsylvania or Maine. She is licensed currently in PA, MD, RI, VT, and ME.
Dr. Nicole Brynes, DNP, PMHNP-BC, provides psychiatric medication management, consultation & diagnostic evaluations for children, adolescents & adults to help you achieve your highest potential. Perhaps you are interested in learning what medications might be options for you or your loved one, want a second opinion, or are ready to start regular medication management with an experienced provider. Please note that in accordance with the Ryan-Haight Act, she does not prescribe controlled substances (including stimulants or benzodiazepines) to those outside of Pennsylvania or Maine. She is licensed currently in PA, MD, RI, VT, and ME.
(412) 838-3773 View (412) 838-3773
Photo of Johanna Golston, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Johanna Golston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Hinesburg, VT 05461
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Johanna possesses an indomitable passion for mental health and is always striving to expand her knowledge of the most up-to-date, evidenced-based psychiatric treatments and innovations. She provides compassionate, holistic, and individualized care. She prides herself on being transparent and respectful. She is nonjudgemental and meets the client where they are at on their mental health journey, which she is honored to be a part of. She practices with the understanding that mind, body, and environment operate as a whole and should be considered in the treatment planning process.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Johanna possesses an indomitable passion for mental health and is always striving to expand her knowledge of the most up-to-date, evidenced-based psychiatric treatments and innovations. She provides compassionate, holistic, and individualized care. She prides herself on being transparent and respectful. She is nonjudgemental and meets the client where they are at on their mental health journey, which she is honored to be a part of. She practices with the understanding that mind, body, and environment operate as a whole and should be considered in the treatment planning process.
(802) 725-2141 View (802) 725-2141
Photo of John R De Oca, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
John R De Oca
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
Online Only
I aspire to help those that are struggling navigating the complexity of their relationships or for those that feel relationships are challenging and difficult. Whether it is navigating the modern dating world, dealing with a long-term partner, recovering from a friendship breakup, feeling lonely with your current friends, or not getting a long with a boss or colleague, relationships are at the essence of our every day lives. So it is my aim to help you connect better all around.
I aspire to help those that are struggling navigating the complexity of their relationships or for those that feel relationships are challenging and difficult. Whether it is navigating the modern dating world, dealing with a long-term partner, recovering from a friendship breakup, feeling lonely with your current friends, or not getting a long with a boss or colleague, relationships are at the essence of our every day lives. So it is my aim to help you connect better all around.
(908) 747-1471 View (908) 747-1471
Photo of Lauren Bierman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Lauren Bierman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Middlebury, VT 05753
I’m a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with an additional board certification in adult-geriatric primary care. While working in primary care, I found that there was a vast need for mental health services in our community. I realized that I could help fill that need, so I went back to school to study psychiatry. Now, I’m honored to be able to serve our community by providing holistic mental health care and education across the lifespan. My practice incorporates mindfulness, yoga, and Ayurveda because I believe true mental health care focuses on the whole person, and not just the mind or the med.
I’m a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with an additional board certification in adult-geriatric primary care. While working in primary care, I found that there was a vast need for mental health services in our community. I realized that I could help fill that need, so I went back to school to study psychiatry. Now, I’m honored to be able to serve our community by providing holistic mental health care and education across the lifespan. My practice incorporates mindfulness, yoga, and Ayurveda because I believe true mental health care focuses on the whole person, and not just the mind or the med.
(802) 577-2631 View (802) 577-2631
Photo of Elizabeth May, Psychiatrist, MD
Elizabeth May
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401
Not accepting new clients
In my work as a psychiatrist and therapist, I am committed to supporting people struggling with mood symptoms such as anxiety and depression, navigating grief, major life transitions, relationship difficulty, or who seek a deeper understanding of patterned ways of thinking and behaving. My therapeutic perspective is primarily psychodynamic - meaning a focus on how past experiences influence the present, and an exploration of aspects of yourself that function out of conscious awareness to limit joy, connection, and personal growth. I also have advanced training in a variety of cognitive/behavioral approaches, including ACT, CBT, DBT.
In my work as a psychiatrist and therapist, I am committed to supporting people struggling with mood symptoms such as anxiety and depression, navigating grief, major life transitions, relationship difficulty, or who seek a deeper understanding of patterned ways of thinking and behaving. My therapeutic perspective is primarily psychodynamic - meaning a focus on how past experiences influence the present, and an exploration of aspects of yourself that function out of conscious awareness to limit joy, connection, and personal growth. I also have advanced training in a variety of cognitive/behavioral approaches, including ACT, CBT, DBT.
(802) 755-3036 View (802) 755-3036
Photo of Chukwuka Sopulu Onubogu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Chukwuka Sopulu Onubogu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, schizoaffective disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, ADHD, sleep disorders, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and OCD. My practice also offers laboratory investigations to support accurate diagnosis. If you're based in Vermont, I am currently accepting new patients and can schedule appointments within 24 to 48 hours without any waitlist.
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, schizoaffective disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, ADHD, sleep disorders, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and OCD. My practice also offers laboratory investigations to support accurate diagnosis. If you're based in Vermont, I am currently accepting new patients and can schedule appointments within 24 to 48 hours without any waitlist.
(802) 659-0233 View (802) 659-0233
Photo of Dr. Urmene Pierre - Good Shepherd Psychiatric Consultant, INC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, AAPRN, BC
Good Shepherd Psychiatric Consultant, INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, AAPRN, BC
Serves Area
Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health care to individuals suffering from mental illness. Treatments include diagnostic evaluations, medication management, integrative interventions and genetic testing.
Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health care to individuals suffering from mental illness. Treatments include diagnostic evaluations, medication management, integrative interventions and genetic testing.
(754) 714-7912 View (754) 714-7912
Photo of Dr. Robbie Westerman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Robbie Westerman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Robbie is a proud doctoral graduate of the top-ten-ranked University of Arizona, where he refined his skills and expertise in mental health. He specializes in treating depression, ADHD, anxiety, substance use disorders, and other mood challenges, working with patients of all ages, from children to adults. Dr. Robbie takes a thoughtful and personalized approach to medication management, tailoring care to meet each person’s unique needs. He enjoys sharing these evolving approaches as an adjunct professor. Book Now nextsteprecoveryaz. com click on the orange Request Appointment Link
Dr. Robbie is a proud doctoral graduate of the top-ten-ranked University of Arizona, where he refined his skills and expertise in mental health. He specializes in treating depression, ADHD, anxiety, substance use disorders, and other mood challenges, working with patients of all ages, from children to adults. Dr. Robbie takes a thoughtful and personalized approach to medication management, tailoring care to meet each person’s unique needs. He enjoys sharing these evolving approaches as an adjunct professor. Book Now nextsteprecoveryaz. com click on the orange Request Appointment Link
(623) 432-7368 View (623) 432-7368
Photo of Dr. Sarah McNair, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sarah McNair
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm an integrative psychiatrist who believes that mental health is not achieved with medication or talk therapy alone, and that lasting wellness requires deep exploration of the whole person. I seek to provide a truly integrated experience, one that blends the science of medicine with the art of healing, while honoring the power of intuition, spirit and human connection. I spend time exploring things that many psychiatrists don't have time for, like getting to know your life story, values, goals, and challenges to create a plan for healing. I also help you develop skills and resilience to meet life with confidence and balance.
I'm an integrative psychiatrist who believes that mental health is not achieved with medication or talk therapy alone, and that lasting wellness requires deep exploration of the whole person. I seek to provide a truly integrated experience, one that blends the science of medicine with the art of healing, while honoring the power of intuition, spirit and human connection. I spend time exploring things that many psychiatrists don't have time for, like getting to know your life story, values, goals, and challenges to create a plan for healing. I also help you develop skills and resilience to meet life with confidence and balance.
View
Photo of Darcy Faibish, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Darcy Faibish
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am currently accepting new patients—with no waitlist—for telehealth therapy and/or medication management for children and adults in Vermont, combining clinical expertise with compassion, patience, and transparency. I view each individual as inherently unique and believe in a collaborative approach to care, empowering clients to take an active role in decisions about their health and well-being. My practice often supports those navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, life transitions, or sleep difficulties, as well as individuals seeking deeper self-understanding and a more holistic path to wellness.
I am currently accepting new patients—with no waitlist—for telehealth therapy and/or medication management for children and adults in Vermont, combining clinical expertise with compassion, patience, and transparency. I view each individual as inherently unique and believe in a collaborative approach to care, empowering clients to take an active role in decisions about their health and well-being. My practice often supports those navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, life transitions, or sleep difficulties, as well as individuals seeking deeper self-understanding and a more holistic path to wellness.
(802) 392-0825 View (802) 392-0825
Photo of Dr. Andrés Abreu, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrés Abreu
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
The focus of my practice is on establishing meaningful and longitudinal therapeutic relationships with patients seeking to explore their problems in living. Through a relational and integrative approach, I focus on the thoughts and feelings that emerge in the therapeutic relationship to elucidate and interpret the challenges patients face in the wider world.
The focus of my practice is on establishing meaningful and longitudinal therapeutic relationships with patients seeking to explore their problems in living. Through a relational and integrative approach, I focus on the thoughts and feelings that emerge in the therapeutic relationship to elucidate and interpret the challenges patients face in the wider world.
View
Photo of Dr. Alisson Richards, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Alisson Richards
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Currently accepting new patients through request on my website Cash only practice
Currently accepting new patients through request on my website Cash only practice
(802) 659-0065 View (802) 659-0065
Photo of Rebecca Frost, Psychiatrist, MD
Rebecca Frost
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
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 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

See more therapy options for Shelburne

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Shelburne, VT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Shelburne, VT who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
80% Depression
60% Addiction
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
60% Trauma and PTSD
60% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Shelburne, VT see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Shelburne?

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.