Psychiatrists in Bristol County, MA

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Photo of Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Carol Smith
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02747
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
Self-discovery and implementation of new habits and skills can be uncomfortable. My ideal client is someone who is ready to be uncomfortable and one who is dedicated to making an investment in their mental health. Having someone who is consistent with their care and transparent about their feelings and symptoms will lead to an efficient resolution of concerns and achieving goals.
(508) 590-9521 View (508) 590-9521
Photo of Cameron Schidlmeier, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cameron Schidlmeier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Attleboro, MA 02703  (Online Only)
Cameron Schidlmeier is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has over 15 years of experience working with adults and seniors. She manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma-related disorders. She is passionate about providing the highest quality behavioral and medical care. Cameron approaches each patient as an individual, meeting them where they are while educating, supporting, and guiding them to reach their highest potential through therapy and medication management.
Cameron Schidlmeier is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has over 15 years of experience working with adults and seniors. She manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma-related disorders. She is passionate about providing the highest quality behavioral and medical care. Cameron approaches each patient as an individual, meeting them where they are while educating, supporting, and guiding them to reach their highest potential through therapy and medication management.
(508) 422-5190 View (508) 422-5190
Photo of Lisa M Anderson, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa M Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Swansea, MA 02777  (Online Only)
Individuals seeking mental health care, regardless of age, may be grappling with a range of issues such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, eating and mood disorders, PTSD, or OCD. These conditions can significantly impact their daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being. Their needs revolve around finding effective treatment and support tailored to their unique circumstances and preferences. Their ultimate goal is to alleviate symptoms, improve coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of stability and fulfillment in their lives. They seek understanding, empathy, and guidance on their journey towards mental wellness.
Individuals seeking mental health care, regardless of age, may be grappling with a range of issues such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, eating and mood disorders, PTSD, or OCD. These conditions can significantly impact their daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being. Their needs revolve around finding effective treatment and support tailored to their unique circumstances and preferences. Their ultimate goal is to alleviate symptoms, improve coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of stability and fulfillment in their lives. They seek understanding, empathy, and guidance on their journey towards mental wellness.
(508) 538-3748 View (508) 538-3748
RayMex Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Attleboro, MA 02703  (Online Only)
Welcome to RayMex Wellness, where your mental health is our priority. Our team of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) is dedicated to supporting your journey to wellness with compassion and expertise.At RayMex Wellness, we offer personalized psychopharmacological treatment, tailoring medication plans to meet your unique needs. Our PMHNPs excel in diagnosing mental health conditions, creating individualized treatment plans, and closely monitoring progress for the best outcomes.
Welcome to RayMex Wellness, where your mental health is our priority. Our team of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) is dedicated to supporting your journey to wellness with compassion and expertise.At RayMex Wellness, we offer personalized psychopharmacological treatment, tailoring medication plans to meet your unique needs. Our PMHNPs excel in diagnosing mental health conditions, creating individualized treatment plans, and closely monitoring progress for the best outcomes.
(508) 978-3481 View (508) 978-3481
DLH Consulting & Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LMHC, LICSW, LCSW, PMH-NP, MD
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02747
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating.
(508) 306-8336 View (508) 306-8336
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(508) 206-9726 View (508) 206-9726
Photo of Karen L Cadwalader - C & C Psychiatry, MS, APRN-, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
C & C Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN-, CNS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fall River, MA 02724
I am a board certified Clinical Nurse Specialist, licensed in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, who received my training at Boston College in both Nursing and Developmental/Educational Psychology. I am currently accepting most major commercial Health Insurances, Medicare and Wellsense. My clinical expertise has been developed over 20 years of working in community mental health , private practice, and residential treatment programs for adolescents.
I am a board certified Clinical Nurse Specialist, licensed in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, who received my training at Boston College in both Nursing and Developmental/Educational Psychology. I am currently accepting most major commercial Health Insurances, Medicare and Wellsense. My clinical expertise has been developed over 20 years of working in community mental health , private practice, and residential treatment programs for adolescents.
(774) 292-4914 View (774) 292-4914
Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
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.
(508) 456-9472 View (508) 456-9472
Photo of Wendy Marie Carlson - Wendy M Carlson Psychiatric Care LLC, MSCJ, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wendy M Carlson Psychiatric Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSCJ, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Berkley, MA 02779
Welcome! I AM accepting new patients for medication management. I am a Board Certified PMHNP with 22 years nursing experience. My nursing philosophy hasn't changed in 22 years. My aim is to deliver the same level of care equal which is expected for members of my family. Treatment efforts should be comprehensive and collaborative with the treatment team and the client's family.
Welcome! I AM accepting new patients for medication management. I am a Board Certified PMHNP with 22 years nursing experience. My nursing philosophy hasn't changed in 22 years. My aim is to deliver the same level of care equal which is expected for members of my family. Treatment efforts should be comprehensive and collaborative with the treatment team and the client's family.
(508) 403-0192 View (508) 403-0192
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Mansfield, MA 02048
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(508) 719-7713 View (508) 719-7713
Sheryl P Goodall
Psychiatric Nurse, NP, CNS
Verified Verified
Mansfield, MA 02048
I use medications and counseling to help with mood related disorders that may include symptoms associated with anxiety, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, ADD. My focus is to help you achieve your goals.
I use medications and counseling to help with mood related disorders that may include symptoms associated with anxiety, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, ADD. My focus is to help you achieve your goals.
(508) 690-4603 View (508) 690-4603
Photo of Elena Cetola - Good Hope Wellness, Inc, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, LICSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Good Hope Wellness, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somerset, MA 02726
Currently accepting with NO WAIT time! We are a group private practice with different providers, which allows you to find the connection that is necessary for you to work on your symptoms. At the moment, we are open to treat individuals age 14+, but will soon be opening slots for children.
Currently accepting with NO WAIT time! We are a group private practice with different providers, which allows you to find the connection that is necessary for you to work on your symptoms. At the moment, we are open to treat individuals age 14+, but will soon be opening slots for children.
(508) 281-1064 View (508) 281-1064
Photo of Teshera Tull-Yearwood - Rise Above Wellness Health Services, LLC, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rise Above Wellness Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Attleboro, MA 02703  (Online Only)
Treating Patients aged 12-65! As board-certified mental health professionals, we understand that recovery is non-linear. We offer flexibility and support as we work with you through your trials. We strive to help you restore and maintain your mental health through medication management and the promotion of healthy habits. We treat the whole person using evidence-based practices to induce the best patient outcomes.
Treating Patients aged 12-65! As board-certified mental health professionals, we understand that recovery is non-linear. We offer flexibility and support as we work with you through your trials. We strive to help you restore and maintain your mental health through medication management and the promotion of healthy habits. We treat the whole person using evidence-based practices to induce the best patient outcomes.
(508) 348-7255 View (508) 348-7255
Photo of Barbara Roderick, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Barbara Roderick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, MA 02747  (Online Only)
Barbara is an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that specializes in working with dual diagnosis.
Barbara is an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that specializes in working with dual diagnosis.
(508) 978-5031 View (508) 978-5031
Photo of Danielle Lasden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Lasden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Attleboro, MA 02703
Dedicated to compassionate, patient-focused care, Danielle Lasden brings over 7 years of hands-on experience to Emory Recovery Center. As a board-certified Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner with a specialty in addiction medicine, Danielle possesses an unwavering commitment to the holistic treatment of individuals grappling with substance use disorders. Having served at renowned institutions like Brigham and Women's Hospital, Danielle has demonstrated expertise in integrating addiction medicine into primary care, ensuring comprehensive and seamless care for her patients.
Dedicated to compassionate, patient-focused care, Danielle Lasden brings over 7 years of hands-on experience to Emory Recovery Center. As a board-certified Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner with a specialty in addiction medicine, Danielle possesses an unwavering commitment to the holistic treatment of individuals grappling with substance use disorders. Having served at renowned institutions like Brigham and Women's Hospital, Danielle has demonstrated expertise in integrating addiction medicine into primary care, ensuring comprehensive and seamless care for her patients.
(508) 978-4966 View (508) 978-4966
Photo of Lynetta Loveland, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lynetta Loveland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Raynham, MA 02767  (Online Only)
My model of mental health care puts patients in the middle. First and foremost, I believe in listening to the patient. So much can be learned by listening, watching, and truly hearing what a patient tells me is happening with them and their body. I conduct psychiatric assessments and make recommendations for treatment with psychiatric medications.
My model of mental health care puts patients in the middle. First and foremost, I believe in listening to the patient. So much can be learned by listening, watching, and truly hearing what a patient tells me is happening with them and their body. I conduct psychiatric assessments and make recommendations for treatment with psychiatric medications.
(508) 252-8342 View (508) 252-8342
Photo of Sabrina Ritchie - Thoughtful Therapies, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thoughtful Therapies, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Raynham, MA 02767  (Online Only)
Seeking support for your mental health should be straightforward, which is why I offer accessible telehealth services that make getting help easier. At Thoughtful Therapies, you’ll have a safe, judgment-free space to discuss whatever’s on your mind—whether you're struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, overwhelming emotions, or even sleep disturbances. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. I offer psychotherapy as an adjunct to medication management, so if we decide that both approaches will benefit you, we’ll make sure they work hand-in-hand.
Seeking support for your mental health should be straightforward, which is why I offer accessible telehealth services that make getting help easier. At Thoughtful Therapies, you’ll have a safe, judgment-free space to discuss whatever’s on your mind—whether you're struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, overwhelming emotions, or even sleep disturbances. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. I offer psychotherapy as an adjunct to medication management, so if we decide that both approaches will benefit you, we’ll make sure they work hand-in-hand.
(774) 358-6854 View (774) 358-6854
Photo of Ashton Houde, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashton Houde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, MA 02747
Ashton is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who began her healthcare career in emergency medicine in 2007. After enjoying 10 years as a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department, Ashton identified the need for more compassionate psychiatric providers in our community. Ashton graduated with her BSN from UMASS Dartmouth in 2010 and her MSN with a specialization in psychiatry from Walden University in 2020. Ashton has begun Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) courses and plans to complete that degree in the coming years. She has 2.5 years of experience working with the high acuity of inpatient populations,
Ashton is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who began her healthcare career in emergency medicine in 2007. After enjoying 10 years as a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department, Ashton identified the need for more compassionate psychiatric providers in our community. Ashton graduated with her BSN from UMASS Dartmouth in 2010 and her MSN with a specialization in psychiatry from Walden University in 2020. Ashton has begun Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) courses and plans to complete that degree in the coming years. She has 2.5 years of experience working with the high acuity of inpatient populations,
(508) 978-7618 View (508) 978-7618
Photo of Dr. Valerie Seney, PhD,  MA, LMHC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Valerie Seney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MA, LMHC, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fall River, MA 02720
Waitlist for new clients
As a dedicated & board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to fostering a therapeutic partnership with each client. I believe in creating a safe & non-stigmatized environment where trust can flourish, forming the foundation for effective & personalized treatment. I specialize in addressing a spectrum of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and insomnia. My practice extends beyond conventional psychiatric care, to include treating Substance Use Disorder. Additionally, my services encompass psychotherapy & medication management to ensure holistic & effective treatment.
As a dedicated & board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to fostering a therapeutic partnership with each client. I believe in creating a safe & non-stigmatized environment where trust can flourish, forming the foundation for effective & personalized treatment. I specialize in addressing a spectrum of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and insomnia. My practice extends beyond conventional psychiatric care, to include treating Substance Use Disorder. Additionally, my services encompass psychotherapy & medication management to ensure holistic & effective treatment.
(774) 458-9613 x1 View (774) 458-9613 x1
Photo of Melissa Gregory, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Gregory
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Easton, MA 02356  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Melissa. As a Lifespan Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to offering individualized, holistic, and comprehensive mental health treatment to each patient. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders. I understand that mental health is multifaceted and deeply interconnected with various aspects of an individual's life, including physical health, relationships, and lifestyle factors. Therefore, my approach to treatment is tailored to address the unique needs and circumstances of each person.
Welcome! My name is Melissa. As a Lifespan Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to offering individualized, holistic, and comprehensive mental health treatment to each patient. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders. I understand that mental health is multifaceted and deeply interconnected with various aspects of an individual's life, including physical health, relationships, and lifestyle factors. Therefore, my approach to treatment is tailored to address the unique needs and circumstances of each person.
(774) 545-8675 View (774) 545-8675
1

See more therapy options for Bristol County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bristol County, MA

100+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in Bristol County, MA who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
81% Bipolar Disorder
77% ADHD
76% Trauma and PTSD
73% Medication Management
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

99% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
86% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Bristol County, MA see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bristol County?

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.