Psychiatrists in Hyannis, MA
Janette Jennison
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, MSN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hyannis, MA 02601
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with greater than 20 years of nursing experience. I seek to treat disorders of mood, thought and attention. I currently offer medication management and therapy here on the mid to lower cape. Using a strength-based approach, we will work together to develop a plan of care. Your individualized plan may include therapy, therapeutic techniques, and/or medication.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with greater than 20 years of nursing experience. I seek to treat disorders of mood, thought and attention. I currently offer medication management and therapy here on the mid to lower cape. Using a strength-based approach, we will work together to develop a plan of care. Your individualized plan may include therapy, therapeutic techniques, and/or medication.
![Photo of Katie Byrne - Katie @ Beacon Behavioral Health Associates, PLLC, DNP (c), PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/114ed8f4-2583-41a4-a626-40901108bd82/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie @ Beacon Behavioral Health Associates, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP (c), PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Hyannis, MA 02601
NOW OFFERING TMS THERAPY. PLEASE CALL OFFICE INSTEAD OF EMAILING. LEARN MORE ON OUR WEBSITE. Katie & the BBHA staff are passionate about assisting children, adolescents & adults on their path to holistic mental health & wellness. We empower individuals on their journey to wellness by engaging in these important things: listening effectively, empowering patients to visualize their strengths & providing guidance as patients' conceptualize needed change in their lives. Katie works with other independent clinicians at BBHA (& offsite) to support your path to better mental health & wellness.
NOW OFFERING TMS THERAPY. PLEASE CALL OFFICE INSTEAD OF EMAILING. LEARN MORE ON OUR WEBSITE. Katie & the BBHA staff are passionate about assisting children, adolescents & adults on their path to holistic mental health & wellness. We empower individuals on their journey to wellness by engaging in these important things: listening effectively, empowering patients to visualize their strengths & providing guidance as patients' conceptualize needed change in their lives. Katie works with other independent clinicians at BBHA (& offsite) to support your path to better mental health & wellness.
Jennifer Kania
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Hyannis, MA 02601 (Online Only)
Jennifer believes in providing a holistic and individualized care tailored to the specific needs of each patient. She combines psychopharmacology and psychotherapy in each encounter.
Jennifer believes in providing a holistic and individualized care tailored to the specific needs of each patient. She combines psychopharmacology and psychotherapy in each encounter.
![Photo of Justin Marotta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/390cf8bc-9b9f-4e3b-80bb-371fe79877f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Justin Marotta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hyannis, MA 02601 (Online Only)
I am the founder and owner of Boston Psychiatric Services. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I aim to establish individualized and comprehensive care to clients that promotes resilience, growth, and fosters one’s ability to cope and manage with life’s struggles.
I am the founder and owner of Boston Psychiatric Services. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I aim to establish individualized and comprehensive care to clients that promotes resilience, growth, and fosters one’s ability to cope and manage with life’s struggles.
![Photo of David Jacob Schopick - David Schopick MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50a9c0af-6170-42ea-8fc1-7a1f08b8e55a/3/320x400.jpeg)
The goal of my practice is helping people get their lives back. Restoring mental health can be a tricky road to navigate, but with perseverance and treatment, change is possible. I enjoy working with people, and from long years of experience, have a good sense of what it takes to help my patients return to productive, healthy lives. I am Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry. Dr. David Schopick primarily serves New Hampshire, southern Maine and northern Massachusetts, but is also available for telemedicine appointments.
The goal of my practice is helping people get their lives back. Restoring mental health can be a tricky road to navigate, but with perseverance and treatment, change is possible. I enjoy working with people, and from long years of experience, have a good sense of what it takes to help my patients return to productive, healthy lives. I am Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry. Dr. David Schopick primarily serves New Hampshire, southern Maine and northern Massachusetts, but is also available for telemedicine appointments.
![Photo of Richard '''' Orluk - Nantucket Sound Psychiatry PC, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36395ee8-face-47db-9988-f0673aa4d379/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nantucket Sound Psychiatry PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hyannis, MA 02601
July 2024: Accepting new clients. Seeing clients ages 5-18 yrs for in person visits.
July 2024: Accepting new clients. Seeing clients ages 5-18 yrs for in person visits.
![Photo of Lisa M Anderson, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ef41ebb-4e8b-44ab-b2d9-b6d727e0311a/2/320x400.png)
Lisa M Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Hyannis, MA 02601 (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.
![Photo of Badu Adjei, DNP, MS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1315a080-d5b5-4b9d-9ef8-9b9e3843dbeb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! You have taken the right step to seek support today! I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adolescents, young adults, and adults with much interest in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Behavioral Issues, Men's Issues, Mood Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Stress, Schizophrenia, and Sleep Issues or Insomnia. I am a Doctorally-prepared, Board Certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in mental health. I am ready to work with you to provide the best treatment tailored to your needs.
Accepting New Patients! You have taken the right step to seek support today! I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adolescents, young adults, and adults with much interest in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Behavioral Issues, Men's Issues, Mood Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Stress, Schizophrenia, and Sleep Issues or Insomnia. I am a Doctorally-prepared, Board Certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in mental health. I am ready to work with you to provide the best treatment tailored to your needs.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Oshetisi Stanney - Towerlight Health and Wellness , CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b211501e-aaf1-4f08-920d-9674ae2b4939/2/320x400.png)
Towerlight Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yarmouth, MA 02664 (Online Only)
Exciting News! Towerlight Health and Wellness is thrilled to welcome a new, experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner to our team, starting November 14, 2024. With this addition, we’re expanding our hours to better serve you and offer even more appointment availability. We look forward to continuing to support your health and wellness!
Exciting News! Towerlight Health and Wellness is thrilled to welcome a new, experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner to our team, starting November 14, 2024. With this addition, we’re expanding our hours to better serve you and offer even more appointment availability. We look forward to continuing to support your health and wellness!
![Photo of Kathleen Hood, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0dfcb92-a24c-4a3c-9510-b56d8df96c01/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and I provide psychiatric medication management in person or online. I am passionate about helping people of all ages improve their mental health. I see children, adolescents, and adults in my practice. I believe in a holistic approach to healthcare and offer complementary and alternative treatment options in addition to medication management. Some diagnoses I commonly treat include (but not limited to): ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, and postpartum anxiety/depression.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and I provide psychiatric medication management in person or online. I am passionate about helping people of all ages improve their mental health. I see children, adolescents, and adults in my practice. I believe in a holistic approach to healthcare and offer complementary and alternative treatment options in addition to medication management. Some diagnoses I commonly treat include (but not limited to): ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, and postpartum anxiety/depression.
![Photo of Katie Johnson, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/719a3266-195f-49a1-a041-1526c617ee0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dennis, MA 02638 (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years working in the mental health field. I have worked in various settings including inpatient psychiatry, crisis stabilization, emergency room, and home care. I have particular interest in depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, and peri/postpartum care.
Currently accepting new clients! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years working in the mental health field. I have worked in various settings including inpatient psychiatry, crisis stabilization, emergency room, and home care. I have particular interest in depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, and peri/postpartum care.
![Photo of Emelda Iwobi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96276131-5dd0-4496-b93c-96dfa487d5a7/1/320x400.png)
Emelda Iwobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sandwich, MA 02563 (Online Only)
I believe in the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment where patients can openly discuss their challenges and work towards their mental health goals. Utilizing a personalized approach, I tailor treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual, combing medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic strategies.
I believe in the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment where patients can openly discuss their challenges and work towards their mental health goals. Utilizing a personalized approach, I tailor treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual, combing medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic strategies.
![Photo of Melanie Kelley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbf64dd5-c6bb-41a3-8fa3-ae6b864196cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melanie Kelley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Barnstable, MA 02630 (Online Only)
My name is Melanie Kelley, and I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about delivering innovative mental health care, including psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I combine both medication management and psychotherapy modalities to treat children, adolescents, and adults to achieve sustainable and safe outcomes. As many of us know, treatment takes a collaborative and multimodal approach that is unique and individualized based on the patient's desired goals and outcomes.
My name is Melanie Kelley, and I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about delivering innovative mental health care, including psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I combine both medication management and psychotherapy modalities to treat children, adolescents, and adults to achieve sustainable and safe outcomes. As many of us know, treatment takes a collaborative and multimodal approach that is unique and individualized based on the patient's desired goals and outcomes.
![Photo of Kirstin Ritchie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6ce201b-79ce-4dfe-9d43-730fd2cc811e/1/320x400.png)
Kirstin Ritchie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Yarmouth Port, MA 02675 (Online Only)
Harborside Psychiatrics offers medication management to clients of all ages and genders. We are specialized in the treatment of eating disorders and PTSD, with a particular passion for working with athletes. We also have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
Harborside Psychiatrics offers medication management to clients of all ages and genders. We are specialized in the treatment of eating disorders and PTSD, with a particular passion for working with athletes. We also have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
![Photo of Onyebuchi Ogbo - Good Path Health Services, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46dbc135-81b9-4a3f-9815-c404f023ea81/1/320x400.png)
Good Path Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barnstable, MA 02630
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired, depressed, lack concentration or motivation? Are you having trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you awaken? If any of the above describes you, it takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. We understand and have experienced the emotional challenges that life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop personalized treatment approach that can help you on your mental health journey. You are not alone.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired, depressed, lack concentration or motivation? Are you having trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you awaken? If any of the above describes you, it takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. We understand and have experienced the emotional challenges that life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop personalized treatment approach that can help you on your mental health journey. You are not alone.
![Photo of Jean K Boyd - Behavioral Psychiatric & Psychological Associates, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a807e95-766e-4ebc-b308-ffa2d9fb980d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Behavioral Psychiatric & Psychological Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Yarmouth Port, MA 02675
Our team (Donald Lucero, Ed.D., Steven Brown, LICSW, Kristine Costa, LMHC, and Jean K Boyd, MD) treats a spectrum of psychiatric and psychological problems with therapy and medications as needed for each individual. We are a small private practice and see patients by appointment only.
Our team (Donald Lucero, Ed.D., Steven Brown, LICSW, Kristine Costa, LMHC, and Jean K Boyd, MD) treats a spectrum of psychiatric and psychological problems with therapy and medications as needed for each individual. We are a small private practice and see patients by appointment only.
![Photo of Lyudmila Rakita, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e09ad5a-c16a-4dd9-9138-f0f146c78c3b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist with more than 25 years of experience, specializing in care of adults with mood and anxiety disorders. In my private psychiatric practice I provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, consultation for second opinions and offer medication management in conjunction with psychotherapy. i listen to my patients, respect their wishes, together make the best choices for each individual and to do no harm.
I am a psychiatrist with more than 25 years of experience, specializing in care of adults with mood and anxiety disorders. In my private psychiatric practice I provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, consultation for second opinions and offer medication management in conjunction with psychotherapy. i listen to my patients, respect their wishes, together make the best choices for each individual and to do no harm.
![Photo of Maria Eden Aguilar Gianan, BSN, NP, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca54799-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Eden Aguilar Gianan
Psychiatric Nurse, BSN, NP, CNS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barnstable, MA 02630
My clients are usually feeling overwhelmed by sudden challenges and transitions which can alter perspective and cause stress, depression, anxiety and trauma. I provide the guidance and positive outlook needed to respond to stressful situations as opportunities to learn and grow. I also have a wide range of experience in crisis stabilization. Crisis strongly impacts day-to-day routines, yet with counseling, clients can move forward with life. Learning how to move forward, although often difficult, can prevent further emotional distress.
My clients are usually feeling overwhelmed by sudden challenges and transitions which can alter perspective and cause stress, depression, anxiety and trauma. I provide the guidance and positive outlook needed to respond to stressful situations as opportunities to learn and grow. I also have a wide range of experience in crisis stabilization. Crisis strongly impacts day-to-day routines, yet with counseling, clients can move forward with life. Learning how to move forward, although often difficult, can prevent further emotional distress.
![Photo of Jodie Deignan, PMHNPBC, MT-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67f00af3-c64b-4c8c-8005-9b573c61fd8e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jodie Deignan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marstons Mills, MA 02648
Are you or your child currently seeing a therapist you love, but you’ve decided it’s time to think about adding psychiatric medication? Perhaps you’ve been thinking about medication, but you’re worried about having to try several medications before finding one that works? Maybe you're looking for someone who can take the time to listen to your concerns and work with you to find the right medication for you or your child? I bet it's important to you that you don't have to change therapists to add medication, as well.
Are you or your child currently seeing a therapist you love, but you’ve decided it’s time to think about adding psychiatric medication? Perhaps you’ve been thinking about medication, but you’re worried about having to try several medications before finding one that works? Maybe you're looking for someone who can take the time to listen to your concerns and work with you to find the right medication for you or your child? I bet it's important to you that you don't have to change therapists to add medication, as well.
![Photo of Diane Ofria, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75f74a08-b2bc-45c9-9fbf-e42da689b291/2/320x400.jpeg)
Diane Ofria
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Osterville, MA 02655
Not accepting new clients
Especially in recent months, many individuals are struggling to find stability and ways to stay grounded while trying to live their lives. Constant stressors in our work and home environments exacerbate an individual's depression, anxiety and past trauma, which can interfere with our ability to function and enjoy our lives. I believe everyone has a personal vision of what will bring them the happiest and healthiest life. Using a holistic approach, I work to build a partnership with individuals. Together, we can learn to recognize and build innate strengths, and resilience.
Especially in recent months, many individuals are struggling to find stability and ways to stay grounded while trying to live their lives. Constant stressors in our work and home environments exacerbate an individual's depression, anxiety and past trauma, which can interfere with our ability to function and enjoy our lives. I believe everyone has a personal vision of what will bring them the happiest and healthiest life. Using a holistic approach, I work to build a partnership with individuals. Together, we can learn to recognize and build innate strengths, and resilience.
See more therapy options for Hyannis
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hyannis, MA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hyannis, MA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
88% | Anxiety |
88% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
88% | Medication Management |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
20 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Optum |
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Hyannis, MA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
57% | Male | |
43% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hyannis?
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.