Psychiatrists in Marion, MA
![Photo of Cynthia Lopes, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc3b7d9b-b1c0-4e10-a700-b195d2f78312/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am passionate about helping people of all ages improve their mental health. Some diagnoses that I commonly treat include: ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders and PTSD. I graduated from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth in 2016 with her Doctorate of Nursing Practice and achieved my Post Graduate Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practice in 2023. I am board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as an adult geriatric primary care NP as well as Psychiatric Mental Health.
Hello, I am passionate about helping people of all ages improve their mental health. Some diagnoses that I commonly treat include: ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders and PTSD. I graduated from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth in 2016 with her Doctorate of Nursing Practice and achieved my Post Graduate Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practice in 2023. I am board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as an adult geriatric primary care NP as well as Psychiatric Mental Health.
![Photo of Nancy Perroni, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb42a0ca-cab8-4ee0-aee4-64422ea85135/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am accepting new adult clients! I look forward to meeting with you to gain an understanding of your individual mental health needs with either in-person or telehealth visits. Together, we can explore what treatments were or were not effective in the past, and work together to make a plan to meet your goals. I offer Genesight cheek swab testing which analyzes individual client’s gene/drug metabolism which can guide treatment when other options have failed. Spravato for treatment resistant depression is also available in the office. I specialize in psychopharmacology for those who have a variety of mental health conditions.
Welcome! I am accepting new adult clients! I look forward to meeting with you to gain an understanding of your individual mental health needs with either in-person or telehealth visits. Together, we can explore what treatments were or were not effective in the past, and work together to make a plan to meet your goals. I offer Genesight cheek swab testing which analyzes individual client’s gene/drug metabolism which can guide treatment when other options have failed. Spravato for treatment resistant depression is also available in the office. I specialize in psychopharmacology for those who have a variety of mental health conditions.
![Photo of Seahorse Behavioral - Seahorse Behavioral, RN, ANP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71a98dfb-b166-4066-b3af-86a359b8dcbb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Seahorse Behavioral
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, ANP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Marion, MA 02738
We manage a variety of conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse disorders, insomnia, etc. We care for patients and their families across the lifespan and offer Genesight testing, the COPE program as well as Spravato Treatments for treatment resistant depression. We also offer Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol in our Middleboro location. To find out more go to www.seahorsebehavioral.com.
We manage a variety of conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse disorders, insomnia, etc. We care for patients and their families across the lifespan and offer Genesight testing, the COPE program as well as Spravato Treatments for treatment resistant depression. We also offer Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol in our Middleboro location. To find out more go to www.seahorsebehavioral.com.
![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
Marion, MA 02738
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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![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
Mattapoisett, MA 02739
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 Michele Graney - A Compassionate Mind And Wellness, LLC, , MSN, FNPBC, PMHNPBC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/393ecb23-f0ac-4e07-9350-427e49f335de/2/320x400.jpeg)
A Compassionate Mind And Wellness, LLC,
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNPBC, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
Bourne, MA 02532 (Online Only)
Hi my name is Michele Graney, NP, and I would welcome the opportunity to help you. I know that reaching out for support can feel awkward & that it can take time to build comfort, trust, and rapport. As a experienced NP, I do not believe in scheduling "speedy appointments" as this compromises quality of care. You will have ample time to share your concerns. I take the time to listen in order to fully understand you. I believe in being open and honest with each patient. I strive to build and maintain a trusting and genuine therapeutic alliance with each patient.
Hi my name is Michele Graney, NP, and I would welcome the opportunity to help you. I know that reaching out for support can feel awkward & that it can take time to build comfort, trust, and rapport. As a experienced NP, I do not believe in scheduling "speedy appointments" as this compromises quality of care. You will have ample time to share your concerns. I take the time to listen in order to fully understand you. I believe in being open and honest with each patient. I strive to build and maintain a trusting and genuine therapeutic alliance with each patient.
![Photo of Kerri Sullivan, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f16a6d6b-6c11-48cf-8056-1efce334829d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kerri Sullivan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mattapoisett, MA 02739
Over the course of the last two decades, I have had the opportunity to work collaboratively with many vulnerable populations with health disparities in the emergency setting. I completed my doctorate of nursing at the University of Massachusetts specializing in psychiatric mental health nursing and my doctoral research centered around improving communication among healthcare workers. I have a passion for perinatal psychiatry and supporting women/mothers.
Over the course of the last two decades, I have had the opportunity to work collaboratively with many vulnerable populations with health disparities in the emergency setting. I completed my doctorate of nursing at the University of Massachusetts specializing in psychiatric mental health nursing and my doctoral research centered around improving communication among healthcare workers. I have a passion for perinatal psychiatry and supporting women/mothers.
![Photo of Adam Ouderkirk, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40ed44b4-8726-4db3-9cc5-2618b5f46743/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Ouderkirk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mattapoisett, MA 02739 (Online Only)
Immediate openings within 1-2 weeks. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a license to practice in Massachusetts. I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 10 years with significant experience treating patients in the acute setting as well as in the community. My passion for mental health was ignited working in the community, as this was the position that allowed me to see the positive impacts of high-quality care and the resulting quality of life improvements of my patients.
Immediate openings within 1-2 weeks. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a license to practice in Massachusetts. I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 10 years with significant experience treating patients in the acute setting as well as in the community. My passion for mental health was ignited working in the community, as this was the position that allowed me to see the positive impacts of high-quality care and the resulting quality of life improvements of my patients.
![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
Bourne, MA 02532
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.
![Photo of Joleen T Connolly, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d97c6801-badb-414a-8d0b-bbde2bde1c7a/4/320x400.jpeg)
Joleen T Connolly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buzzards Bay, MA 02532
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, offering in person and telehealth medication management for various diagnoses including anxiety, depression, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD and more. I work with people all ages and walks of life. I use an evidence based, strength focused, holistic approach to treatment. Complementary and alternative approaches are offered in conjunction with psychopharmacology management. Together we will develop a therapeutic and supportive relationship that allows you live a long, healthy, and happy life :)
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, offering in person and telehealth medication management for various diagnoses including anxiety, depression, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD and more. I work with people all ages and walks of life. I use an evidence based, strength focused, holistic approach to treatment. Complementary and alternative approaches are offered in conjunction with psychopharmacology management. Together we will develop a therapeutic and supportive relationship that allows you live a long, healthy, and happy life :)
![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
Mattapoisett, MA 02739
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 Jennifer Sammarco, PMHNP, LMHC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6baf53da-2fe4-4887-a793-00832f3079b5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Sammarco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mattapoisett, MA 02739 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with many years of experience helping others. I provide psychopharmacological medication management in combination with proven therapy modalities for those that wish to include them. I am currently treating adults 18 and older struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Insomnia, and other mental health concerns.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with many years of experience helping others. I provide psychopharmacological medication management in combination with proven therapy modalities for those that wish to include them. I am currently treating adults 18 and older struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Insomnia, and other mental health concerns.
![Photo of Nicole Bradford, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/358354d6-9b15-47fe-a2c9-c6e2f82848b5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Bradford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wareham, MA 02571 (Online Only)
Are you finding yourself facing the challenges of anxiety and depression, grappling with addiction, or experiencing difficulties with attention and focus? Do you find it challenging to regulate your mood and emotions? If so, know that you're not alone, and seeking support is a courageous and vital step. At the core of my practice is a belief in the power of genuine connections. I prioritize building strong therapeutic relationships with my clients, creating a safe and supportive space for them to express themselves openly. This connection is the foundation which we collaboratively develop and implement personalized treatment plans.
Are you finding yourself facing the challenges of anxiety and depression, grappling with addiction, or experiencing difficulties with attention and focus? Do you find it challenging to regulate your mood and emotions? If so, know that you're not alone, and seeking support is a courageous and vital step. At the core of my practice is a belief in the power of genuine connections. I prioritize building strong therapeutic relationships with my clients, creating a safe and supportive space for them to express themselves openly. This connection is the foundation which we collaboratively develop and implement personalized treatment plans.
![Photo of Donna Marie Feeney, MSN, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13f8821b-23d5-4c93-934d-c7fb9eeab20b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Donna Marie Feeney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Wareham, MA 02538 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients within 1-2 weeks. Welcome. I am a mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner with about 15 years experience dealing with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I focus on the entire patient, not just the diagnosis. I am a Nurse Practitioner who provides a full range of psychiatric services including psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication review and management, and supportive psychotherapy. Services are available for adults.
Accepting new patients within 1-2 weeks. Welcome. I am a mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner with about 15 years experience dealing with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I focus on the entire patient, not just the diagnosis. I am a Nurse Practitioner who provides a full range of psychiatric services including psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication review and management, and supportive psychotherapy. Services are available for adults.
![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 Anne-Margaret (Annie) Botelho, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dddc465-91c9-42e0-aafe-3694da8c3880/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anne-Margaret (Annie) Botelho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mattapoisett, MA 02739
While I am not personally currently accepting new patients, the providers that work for me are and have immediately availability within 1-2 weeks. Please go to our website www.safeharborwellness.org. 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? I put a focus on symptoms, not just diagnosis, to help you in these areas of your life. GeneSight testing offered, more information available on our website regarding this.
While I am not personally currently accepting new patients, the providers that work for me are and have immediately availability within 1-2 weeks. Please go to our website www.safeharborwellness.org. 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? I put a focus on symptoms, not just diagnosis, to help you in these areas of your life. GeneSight testing offered, more information available on our website regarding this.
![Photo of Kathleen Heffernan, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4213895e-75f0-4a63-b536-54c7129df37b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Heffernan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Bourne, MA 02532
I am accepting new patients. I am here to guide you through the complicated mental health system by listening, asking questions, and understanding your emotions. If you are considering medication and/or therapy for your mental health, I am here to discuss the different treatment approaches so that we can make a personalized treatment plan. Every conversation we have will be confidential and handled with care.
I am accepting new patients. I am here to guide you through the complicated mental health system by listening, asking questions, and understanding your emotions. If you are considering medication and/or therapy for your mental health, I am here to discuss the different treatment approaches so that we can make a personalized treatment plan. Every conversation we have will be confidential and handled with care.
![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
Mattapoisett, MA 02739
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.
![Photo of Veronica Lee - Gateway to Wellness, PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3fd95f4-8f1a-48ef-924c-0e0647b484c1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gateway to Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wareham, MA 02571
Central to this practice is a commitment to evidence-based treatments tailored to individual needs. By conducting thorough assessments and collaborating closely with patients, we develop personalized treatment plans that may include antidepressants, mood stabilizers, or antipsychotics, depending on the diagnosis and symptoms presented. In an era marked by rising mental health challenges, we have an ability to blend psychopharmacology with psychotherapy, which offers patients a comprehensive approach to healing, empowering you to navigate life's complexities with resilience and renewed hope.
Central to this practice is a commitment to evidence-based treatments tailored to individual needs. By conducting thorough assessments and collaborating closely with patients, we develop personalized treatment plans that may include antidepressants, mood stabilizers, or antipsychotics, depending on the diagnosis and symptoms presented. In an era marked by rising mental health challenges, we have an ability to blend psychopharmacology with psychotherapy, which offers patients a comprehensive approach to healing, empowering you to navigate life's complexities with resilience and renewed hope.
![Photo of Irhene Kelvin Osagie - Spring of Hope Health Services Inc , PMHNP, - BC, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c577dda-1b65-4196-97ea-b6ef8183327e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Spring of Hope Health Services Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wareham, MA 02571 (Online Only)
At Spring of hope, we are passionate in helping people find healing and fulfillment. We have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health sector. We are board-certified to diagnose various mental health conditions, prescribe medications, manage psychiatric needs, and provide psychotherapy to young and older adults. Our goal as psychiatric providers is to see people live at their full potential. We offer comprehensive assessment and treatment of Depression, anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, insomnia, Schizophrenia and other psychiatric illnesses. Spring forth and start enjoying life at it's best.
At Spring of hope, we are passionate in helping people find healing and fulfillment. We have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health sector. We are board-certified to diagnose various mental health conditions, prescribe medications, manage psychiatric needs, and provide psychotherapy to young and older adults. Our goal as psychiatric providers is to see people live at their full potential. We offer comprehensive assessment and treatment of Depression, anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, insomnia, Schizophrenia and other psychiatric illnesses. Spring forth and start enjoying life at it's best.
See more therapy options for Marion
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Marion, MA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Marion, MA who prioritize treating:
75% | Depression |
75% | Anxiety |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Medication Management |
50% | ADHD |
50% | Geriatric and Seniors |
50% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
75% | Harvard Pilgrim |
75% | Tufts |
How Psychiatrists in Marion, MA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Marion?
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.