Psychiatrists in Bradford, MA
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![Photo of Allison Kilcoyne, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cc35d48-a040-4212-83cb-d37bc552e74e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have a passion for caring for adolescents as this is a time of growth, learning and change. I have spent the past 25 years as an NP in school based health centers and have joined many youth in their journey through calm waters, and some hurricanes! I also know how challenging it is for parenting this age and can offer support and education for parents and guardians. I care for individuals throughout the lifespan, and offer medication management, psychoeducation, supportive and solution focused psychotherapy, and parenting educational groups.
I have a passion for caring for adolescents as this is a time of growth, learning and change. I have spent the past 25 years as an NP in school based health centers and have joined many youth in their journey through calm waters, and some hurricanes! I also know how challenging it is for parenting this age and can offer support and education for parents and guardians. I care for individuals throughout the lifespan, and offer medication management, psychoeducation, supportive and solution focused psychotherapy, and parenting educational groups.
![Photo of Liza Hunter, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d825ee99-6d81-4ede-8f6d-0f7828a2e17c/1/320x400.png)
Liza Hunter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
North Andover, MA 01845
I want to work with clients who are active partners rather than recipients. I view providing care as a partnership. My ideal patient is seeking care because they want to feel better and improve their life. An ideal patient makes their needs and goals known as we work together. I admire my patients who have an open mind to suggestions for interventions that may improve how they feel. I believe this flexibility can open up new possibilities for well-being.
I want to work with clients who are active partners rather than recipients. I view providing care as a partnership. My ideal patient is seeking care because they want to feel better and improve their life. An ideal patient makes their needs and goals known as we work together. I admire my patients who have an open mind to suggestions for interventions that may improve how they feel. I believe this flexibility can open up new possibilities for well-being.
![Photo of Henry Kengong Ntoro, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1b8c69e-e953-42f9-bea8-86f5c1298227/5/320x400.jpeg)
I am an adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a unique experience in psychopharmacology focusing on mechanism of action for psychotropic medications. Please go to my website yourplaceofcare.com, fill a referral form and send to me via email or fax. I am also offering pharmacogenetic testing as need arises. It's all about you!
I am an adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a unique experience in psychopharmacology focusing on mechanism of action for psychotropic medications. Please go to my website yourplaceofcare.com, fill a referral form and send to me via email or fax. I am also offering pharmacogenetic testing as need arises. It's all about you!
![Photo of Christine M Bourgeois, MSN, PMHNP, CPNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/400accfa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christine M Bourgeois
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Andover, MA 01810
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner working in the Andover, MA area. I have been a Nurse Practitioner for 22 years initially starting out with a specialty in primary care pediatrics and then specializing in psychiatry in 2012. My practice is primarily pediatric focused, seeing children from age 7-25. With a background in primary care, I believe in doing a comprehensive medical review while considering the appropriate treatment to meet an individual's psychiatric needs.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner working in the Andover, MA area. I have been a Nurse Practitioner for 22 years initially starting out with a specialty in primary care pediatrics and then specializing in psychiatry in 2012. My practice is primarily pediatric focused, seeing children from age 7-25. With a background in primary care, I believe in doing a comprehensive medical review while considering the appropriate treatment to meet an individual's psychiatric needs.
Zuri Psychiatric Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ACNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Andover, MA 01810
At Zuri Psychiatric Health we strongly believe in establishing therapeutic authentic relationships With our patients by providing a safe, confidential, and reliable environment. Maintaining respectful relationships is the foundation for growth. The bulk of our practice is medication management, however, we work collaboratively with other therapists and provide referrals for those without. A combination of individual therapy and medication management often works best for treatment. Our focus is to work with patients to reach their highest potential toward a more positive, functional, and satisfying life.
At Zuri Psychiatric Health we strongly believe in establishing therapeutic authentic relationships With our patients by providing a safe, confidential, and reliable environment. Maintaining respectful relationships is the foundation for growth. The bulk of our practice is medication management, however, we work collaboratively with other therapists and provide referrals for those without. A combination of individual therapy and medication management often works best for treatment. Our focus is to work with patients to reach their highest potential toward a more positive, functional, and satisfying life.
![Photo of Gregory Marcellin, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a367a002-09b7-49d0-907c-8b09a29fc6b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is geared towards establishing an environment centered on trust and meaning for all patients from all backgrounds. As a lead nurse practitioner during the pandemic times of isolation, quarantine, and minimal social events, I observed and treated the immediate, short-term impacts of COVID-19 and grew an interest in understanding the long-term mental health impacts of the pandemic, especially among marginalized groups of people.
My goal is geared towards establishing an environment centered on trust and meaning for all patients from all backgrounds. As a lead nurse practitioner during the pandemic times of isolation, quarantine, and minimal social events, I observed and treated the immediate, short-term impacts of COVID-19 and grew an interest in understanding the long-term mental health impacts of the pandemic, especially among marginalized groups of people.
![Photo of Chime Ajiere - Zoelife psychiatric services, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e732855f-83f1-4145-94f9-523af0e2f970/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zoelife psychiatric services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Andover, MA 01899
We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders.
We endeavor to partner with our patients, approaching their care from a holistic and integrative standpoint. We listen to and get to know our patients, addressing their needs from a medical, mental, and social health perspective. We provide medication management, supportive therapy, and several other services. Our clinic specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other mood and personality disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Abila Primus Benazea, DNP, APRN, AGNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce8df3d0-e3ca-4330-ab9b-30f9517c8ea3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Abila Primus Benazea
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APRN, AGNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Georgetown, MA 01833
In-person and telehealth Practice for Mental and psychiatric issues. In-person only for Addiction Management. Technology has provided means to obtain confidential and affordable treatment in the comfort of your home through Vista Healthcare solution Mental health and general psychiatry. I am a board-certified, doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Adult and gerontology Nurse Practitioner. My specialization permits me to understand the physical, biological, and psychological factors of human emotions. At Vista Healthcare we provide psychotherapeutic and psychiatric medication interventions.
In-person and telehealth Practice for Mental and psychiatric issues. In-person only for Addiction Management. Technology has provided means to obtain confidential and affordable treatment in the comfort of your home through Vista Healthcare solution Mental health and general psychiatry. I am a board-certified, doctoral-prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Adult and gerontology Nurse Practitioner. My specialization permits me to understand the physical, biological, and psychological factors of human emotions. At Vista Healthcare we provide psychotherapeutic and psychiatric medication interventions.
![Photo of Michael Gibbons - Michael Gibbons- Virtue Psychiatry, PLLC, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07f83d0a-9c5f-4612-9896-166d16b4f798/1/320x400.png)
Michael Gibbons- Virtue Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Andover, MA 01845
Are you struggling to accomplish things that you know you can do? Do you want more for yourself but lack confidence or motivation? Do you feel like you get in your own way? Do your relationships leave you feeling unfulfilled or taken advantage of? In addition to diagnosed conditions like anxiety and depression, there are many reasons to seek support.
Are you struggling to accomplish things that you know you can do? Do you want more for yourself but lack confidence or motivation? Do you feel like you get in your own way? Do your relationships leave you feeling unfulfilled or taken advantage of? In addition to diagnosed conditions like anxiety and depression, there are many reasons to seek support.
![Photo of Margery Walentuk, MSN, FMHNP, -BC, CARN-NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45ce24db-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Margery Walentuk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FMHNP, -BC, CARN-NP
Verified Verified
Amesbury, MA 01913
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with the unique combination of 14 years as a School Nurse as well as 20 years with a variety of inpatient and outpatient community based Mental Health clinics. This background allows me to support the child as well as the family and offer clients the opportunity for medication management in conjunction with psychiatric evaluations, collaboration with school personnel and psychotherapists, and appropriate referrals. This comprehensive approach delivers the opportunity to achieve the optimum health in all areas for children age 6 and older, adolescents and adults.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with the unique combination of 14 years as a School Nurse as well as 20 years with a variety of inpatient and outpatient community based Mental Health clinics. This background allows me to support the child as well as the family and offer clients the opportunity for medication management in conjunction with psychiatric evaluations, collaboration with school personnel and psychotherapists, and appropriate referrals. This comprehensive approach delivers the opportunity to achieve the optimum health in all areas for children age 6 and older, adolescents and adults.
![Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0664ed6-c409-4cf1-9468-391376925e45/2/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
I am a board certified Psychiatric- Mental Health as well as Family Nurse Practitioner. After working in several outpatient and inpatient facilities for almost two decades, I’ve developed a holistic approach in managing clients. I offer mental health management for individuals across the lifespan. These services include initial psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, second-opinions, and medication management for disorders including anxiety, trauma, mood and psychotic disorders. I look forward to collaborating with you (and/or your child) in achieving your mental health goals.
I am a board certified Psychiatric- Mental Health as well as Family Nurse Practitioner. After working in several outpatient and inpatient facilities for almost two decades, I’ve developed a holistic approach in managing clients. I offer mental health management for individuals across the lifespan. These services include initial psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, second-opinions, and medication management for disorders including anxiety, trauma, mood and psychotic disorders. I look forward to collaborating with you (and/or your child) in achieving your mental health goals.
![Photo of Ann W Wanderi - Emotional Step Up LLC., FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42a033e8-13a8-4782-b8d8-8f331e22cd2b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emotional Step Up LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Lawrence, MA 01840
Life is full of unexpected transitions that can sometimes destabilize ones equilibrium causing anxiety, stress,depression,distraught and imbalance. Life challenges are not uncommon and may impact ones outlook causing emotional instability.I specialize in anxiety,self esteem/image issues,depression, ADHD, Mood disorders, psychosis, among other various emotional and psychological challenges.My greatest priority and mission is to serve those who are suffering from any psychiatric illness and help them step up their emotional well being.
Life is full of unexpected transitions that can sometimes destabilize ones equilibrium causing anxiety, stress,depression,distraught and imbalance. Life challenges are not uncommon and may impact ones outlook causing emotional instability.I specialize in anxiety,self esteem/image issues,depression, ADHD, Mood disorders, psychosis, among other various emotional and psychological challenges.My greatest priority and mission is to serve those who are suffering from any psychiatric illness and help them step up their emotional well being.
![Photo of Joseph Allaire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1976c9b8-6cc3-4719-8812-c0cd39a87b08/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with multiple years of experience working in Psychiatric and Critical Care Nursing. I have experience treating various Psychiatric disorders and enjoy working with people in all life stages.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with multiple years of experience working in Psychiatric and Critical Care Nursing. I have experience treating various Psychiatric disorders and enjoy working with people in all life stages.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae657df2-f96c-4854-8d8c-e258d8e19c62/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of Michael Robustelli - Mood Clinic, PLLC, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c383b68c-5f9c-4012-b5ef-676a502c6f16/1/320x400.png)
Mood Clinic, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Andover, MA 01845 (Online Only)
Tired of mental illness pushing you around? Ready to win the struggle with anxiety, mood swings, depression? Starting today, we can help you take the first step toward transformation. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health - over 50% of adults with mental illness went untreated last year, but there's no need for that to be you. Starting today you can take the first step toward transformation. At Mood Clinic, we believe in treating you as whole person. Our integrated approach, combines both medications and talk therapy in session- ensuring you receive personalized treatment designed for you and delivered with care.
Tired of mental illness pushing you around? Ready to win the struggle with anxiety, mood swings, depression? Starting today, we can help you take the first step toward transformation. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health - over 50% of adults with mental illness went untreated last year, but there's no need for that to be you. Starting today you can take the first step toward transformation. At Mood Clinic, we believe in treating you as whole person. Our integrated approach, combines both medications and talk therapy in session- ensuring you receive personalized treatment designed for you and delivered with care.
![Photo of Shirley Kelly LaBrecque - Arches Psychiatric Services, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, MSW, LICSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acc28a49-26ba-4af8-bc9c-2303e0d7edab/3/320x400.jpeg)
Arches Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Haverhill, MA 01830
I look forward to meeting you and developing a plan to assist you in moving forward in your journey toward hope and healing. I believe that developing a therapeutic alliance with my client is the most important part of my treatment.
I look forward to meeting you and developing a plan to assist you in moving forward in your journey toward hope and healing. I believe that developing a therapeutic alliance with my client is the most important part of my treatment.
![Photo of Massiel Reyes, PMHNP , FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/359a168f-ea2f-4296-8b73-ac71718a0664/1/320x400.jpeg)
Massiel Reyes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lawrence, MA 01840 (Online Only)
Hi I'm thrilled to be your guide on the path to improved mental health here at Healing Through Psychiatry. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and I'm passionate about providing holistic care that addresses both the mind and body for teens and adults. My approach combines evidence-based practices, therapeutic techniques, and an understanding of cultural nuances to meet your unique needs, whether you're a teen navigating the challenges of adolescence or an adult seeking balance. Embark on a transformative journey with me, from the comfort of your home. Mental wellbeing matters, and I'm here to support you.
Hi I'm thrilled to be your guide on the path to improved mental health here at Healing Through Psychiatry. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and I'm passionate about providing holistic care that addresses both the mind and body for teens and adults. My approach combines evidence-based practices, therapeutic techniques, and an understanding of cultural nuances to meet your unique needs, whether you're a teen navigating the challenges of adolescence or an adult seeking balance. Embark on a transformative journey with me, from the comfort of your home. Mental wellbeing matters, and I'm here to support you.
![Photo of Priscilla Sinclair, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7049bd5-bbc7-4cc9-9df3-296c74083707/2/320x400.jpeg)
Priscilla Sinclair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Andover, MA 01810 (Online Only)
I am dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based care to support the mental well-being of my patients. I believe in working with my clients through active listening to foster a trusting therapeutic environment where individuals can explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences to determine goals and medication management. My goal is to collaborate with each patient to personalize treatment plans that empower them to navigate life's challenges, cultivate resilience, and achieve their fullest potential. I've worked with a wide variety of clientele but specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I am dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based care to support the mental well-being of my patients. I believe in working with my clients through active listening to foster a trusting therapeutic environment where individuals can explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences to determine goals and medication management. My goal is to collaborate with each patient to personalize treatment plans that empower them to navigate life's challenges, cultivate resilience, and achieve their fullest potential. I've worked with a wide variety of clientele but specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma.
![Photo of Jennifer Boisture, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3aef79-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with people who want to get more enjoyment from their busy lives and relationships. Juggling career and personal life is stressful and over time, can have a big physical and emotional impact.
I help clients examine the patterns in their lives that may keep them from feeling their best. This can involve treatment with medication for depression, anxiety, ADD, insomnia or other conditions, and psychotherapy for those without need or desire for medications.
I work with people who want to get more enjoyment from their busy lives and relationships. Juggling career and personal life is stressful and over time, can have a big physical and emotional impact.
I help clients examine the patterns in their lives that may keep them from feeling their best. This can involve treatment with medication for depression, anxiety, ADD, insomnia or other conditions, and psychotherapy for those without need or desire for medications.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bradford, MA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Bradford, MA who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Bradford, MA see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bradford?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.