Psychiatrists in Dartmouth, MA
![Photo of Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69d83020-cb36-4620-bec2-4f5ae5437de4/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53672750-5f58-4de0-af05-0e3ed9e169f6/2/320x400.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 Carla Niro, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31c2308e-b92c-4386-8ef9-1b025adb423d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carla Niro
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02747
Waitlist for new clients
Currently providing psychotropic medication management to residents of MA and RI online via a secure telepsychiatry platform. We are also offering appointments utilizing an integrative approach to treat mood, anxiety, and sleep disruption.
Currently providing psychotropic medication management to residents of MA and RI online via a secure telepsychiatry platform. We are also offering appointments utilizing an integrative approach to treat mood, anxiety, and sleep disruption.
![Photo of Ryan Perry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fce8148-a20e-4394-9a6a-0dd0592e1cd1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Perry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02747
Waitlist for new clients
Ryan Perry, PMHNP-BC is a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric mental health NP with a rich background in emergency medicine. With over two decades of experience as an Emergency Department RN, Ryan has honed his skills in caring for diverse patient populations, particularly those facing health disparities. Ryan's journey in healthcare began in 1999, serving at prestigious institutions such as Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and St. Luke’s Hospital. Throughout his extensive career in emergency medicine, he has worked closely with vulnerable communities, fostering a deep understanding of their unique needs and challenges.
Ryan Perry, PMHNP-BC is a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric mental health NP with a rich background in emergency medicine. With over two decades of experience as an Emergency Department RN, Ryan has honed his skills in caring for diverse patient populations, particularly those facing health disparities. Ryan's journey in healthcare began in 1999, serving at prestigious institutions such as Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and St. Luke’s Hospital. Throughout his extensive career in emergency medicine, he has worked closely with vulnerable communities, fostering a deep understanding of their unique needs and challenges.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd543d47-f4f3-4f65-a57c-20412ab9d7b4/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
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.
![Photo of Barbara Roderick, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d432852-bc5c-4188-a1d2-4942ba26fd5c/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bba48de6-85f6-4cdc-8f9c-ba96503574b6/2/320x400.png)
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Ashton Houde, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1a0047a-8bda-4e0c-b87a-d3a1f9743e3e/1/320x400.png)
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,
![Photo of Kristen Brown, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67acc340-76ff-4902-9e99-00da8a4c6d75/1/320x400.jpeg)
My journey is driven by a profound commitment to making a difference in the lives of those in need. I specialize in medication management and promoting wellness, providing care tailored to each individual's unique needs. My approach is rooted in the belief that effective care is built on collaboration and mutual respect. I prioritize developing strong, trusting relationships with my patients, ensuring they feel heard, valued, and involved.
My journey is driven by a profound commitment to making a difference in the lives of those in need. I specialize in medication management and promoting wellness, providing care tailored to each individual's unique needs. My approach is rooted in the belief that effective care is built on collaboration and mutual respect. I prioritize developing strong, trusting relationships with my patients, ensuring they feel heard, valued, and involved.
![Photo of Rachel Grace Folger, MEd, MSN, CAGS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76b75d12-618f-446b-905e-5cd5cfa3b63e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Grace Folger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MEd, MSN, CAGS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02747
Not accepting new clients
I welcome anyone aged 5 - 40 years old, and those who identify within the LGBTQ spectrum, who seek a provider with no preconceptions about gender or sexual identity, or someone who prefers a provider that is open-minded, empathetic, and nonjudgmental. If you wish to refer your child or a patient that you care for, please use the referral form on my practice website.
I welcome anyone aged 5 - 40 years old, and those who identify within the LGBTQ spectrum, who seek a provider with no preconceptions about gender or sexual identity, or someone who prefers a provider that is open-minded, empathetic, and nonjudgmental. If you wish to refer your child or a patient that you care for, please use the referral form on my practice website.
15 Second Videos
Andrea Papa-Molter
Allen Masry
Michelle McCarthy
![Photo of Eric E Pinho - Sandpiper Wellness, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da88ddbe-9763-4010-8dbd-54c013badf6c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sandpiper Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02747
I am a sole practitioner with my own unique style and specializations. I approach mental health related illness with a comprehensive plan that includes more than prescription medication. I explore metabolic factors within our own natural makeup that are importantly linked to depressive and anxiety syndromes. The best outcomes happen when you combine individual therapy and a complete approach to mental health.
I am a sole practitioner with my own unique style and specializations. I approach mental health related illness with a comprehensive plan that includes more than prescription medication. I explore metabolic factors within our own natural makeup that are importantly linked to depressive and anxiety syndromes. The best outcomes happen when you combine individual therapy and a complete approach to mental health.
![Photo of Enoch O Anyanwu - Brain Dynamic Psychiatry , CNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e41056a1-245a-406b-99b2-e15d5b52e463/4/320x400.jpeg)
Brain Dynamic Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02748 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, as humans, we all have our innate given potentials. My core believe is to help individuals live and attain their maximum potentials irrespective of mental health challenges. My treatment modality is based on collaborative approach that is centered on careful Psychopharmacological management that incorporates Psychotherapy for upmost outcome. My goal is to provide holistic care that is based on evidence-based research. Understanding human brain as a complex structure with an intricate network of neuro-chemical activity is a key to understanding the imbalance in brain activity.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, as humans, we all have our innate given potentials. My core believe is to help individuals live and attain their maximum potentials irrespective of mental health challenges. My treatment modality is based on collaborative approach that is centered on careful Psychopharmacological management that incorporates Psychotherapy for upmost outcome. My goal is to provide holistic care that is based on evidence-based research. Understanding human brain as a complex structure with an intricate network of neuro-chemical activity is a key to understanding the imbalance in brain activity.
![Photo of Christien Tootell-Quevedo, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49a6926b-ae0c-4b98-a674-a777acbcd175/1/320x400.png)
Christien Tootell-Quevedo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02747
I am happy to get set up in my office in Fall River because I believe mental health is health care. With this ideal in mind, throughout my career I have taken pride in normalizing and destigmatizing mental health by educating and supporting the needs of patients and their families on their journeys of health and wellness. I want to make sure I promote well-being in a way that is understandable from kids, to young adults, and to their care givers. I see ages 5 - 25 years old. And after discussing any concerns for problems we may want to address, overall, I hope I can help to be part of your solution.
I am happy to get set up in my office in Fall River because I believe mental health is health care. With this ideal in mind, throughout my career I have taken pride in normalizing and destigmatizing mental health by educating and supporting the needs of patients and their families on their journeys of health and wellness. I want to make sure I promote well-being in a way that is understandable from kids, to young adults, and to their care givers. I see ages 5 - 25 years old. And after discussing any concerns for problems we may want to address, overall, I hope I can help to be part of your solution.
![Photo of Katie Brown, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccf2c458-b47a-4687-bc74-c425b0b3d63b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dartmouth, MA 02747
Hi, welcome to Safe Harbor Wellness! If you are interested in becoming a new client for medication management, please go to www.safeharborwellness.org to self-schedule an intake. I look forward to meeting with you!
Hi, welcome to Safe Harbor Wellness! If you are interested in becoming a new client for medication management, please go to www.safeharborwellness.org to self-schedule an intake. I look forward to meeting with you!
![Photo of Cheryl McGuire, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbaf0595-04d1-4ec8-832b-dd560a8b3adf/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I am offering Telemedicine through video and/or phone, to adults, who need to be seen during this time. I have openings available immediately, and would gladly help and support you with your mental health issues. I provide comprehensive outpatient and Telemedicine behavioral health psychiatric care for adults that includes medication management, depending on your diagnostic evaluation and psychiatric assessment.
Hi, I am offering Telemedicine through video and/or phone, to adults, who need to be seen during this time. I have openings available immediately, and would gladly help and support you with your mental health issues. I provide comprehensive outpatient and Telemedicine behavioral health psychiatric care for adults that includes medication management, depending on your diagnostic evaluation and psychiatric assessment.
![Photo of Anne-Margaret (Annie) Botelho - Safe Harbor Wellness & Psychiatric Services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34b3d5b8-b08c-418c-a3d6-d48b193fb4b7/1/320x400.png)
Safe Harbor Wellness & Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, MA 02747
Immediate openings within 1-2 weeks. Have you been struggling with symptoms that are impacting your ability to move forward? Have you tried medications for these symptoms that haven't been helpful for you? Have you been struggling in relationships, at work, in school or with activities of daily living? At Safe Harbor Wellness & Psychiatric services we put a focus on symptoms, not just diagnosis, to help you in these areas of your life.
Immediate openings within 1-2 weeks. Have you been struggling with symptoms that are impacting your ability to move forward? Have you tried medications for these symptoms that haven't been helpful for you? Have you been struggling in relationships, at work, in school or with activities of daily living? At Safe Harbor Wellness & Psychiatric services we put a focus on symptoms, not just diagnosis, to help you in these areas of your life.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Bruce A Fischer - Bruce A Fischer MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc1049b6-97a1-4351-a192-b5c5ab76ee19/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Board Certified in Psychiatry and certified as a Lifestyle Physician by the American and International Boards of Lifestyle Medicine. I've been providing psychiatric evaluations and treatment for adults in Connecticut and Rhode Island for over 35 years before more recently adding online access for adults in Massachusetts. Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication management, meditation and applications of mindfulness, positive psychology, diet and exercise.
I'm Board Certified in Psychiatry and certified as a Lifestyle Physician by the American and International Boards of Lifestyle Medicine. I've been providing psychiatric evaluations and treatment for adults in Connecticut and Rhode Island for over 35 years before more recently adding online access for adults in Massachusetts. Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication management, meditation and applications of mindfulness, positive psychology, diet and exercise.
![Photo of William Chad Garrett, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caded14c-3027-4757-8af2-816f0fb19e55/1/320x400.jpeg)
William Chad Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02740
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
![Photo of William Chad Garrett, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0eae27b7-10b7-4ddc-b0bb-fe09a82074cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
William Chad Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02745
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
See more therapy options for Dartmouth
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Dartmouth, MA
10+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Dartmouth, MA who prioritize treating:
88% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Medication Management |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
93% | Blue Cross |
93% | Blue Shield |
How Psychiatrists in Dartmouth, MA see their clients
94% | In Person and Online | |
6% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Dartmouth?
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.