Psychiatrists in Norton, MA
![Photo of Teshera Tull-Yearwood - Rise Above Wellness Health Services, LLC, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4db78d30-8b7f-4bdb-b555-6a9371479d45/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rise Above Wellness Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norton, MA 02766 (Online Only)
Treating Patients aged 12-65! As board-certified mental health professionals, we understand that recovery is non-linear. We offer flexibility and support as we work with you through your trials. We strive to help you restore and maintain your mental health through medication management and the promotion of healthy habits. We treat the whole person using evidence-based practices to induce the best patient outcomes.
Treating Patients aged 12-65! As board-certified mental health professionals, we understand that recovery is non-linear. We offer flexibility and support as we work with you through your trials. We strive to help you restore and maintain your mental health through medication management and the promotion of healthy habits. We treat the whole person using evidence-based practices to induce the best patient outcomes.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Stacey Dobrowolski, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfc64035-f609-42bf-985c-5670c7c56997/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client is someone who is looking to maintain or regain stability in their health. They are an active partner in their healthcare and open to varied possible treatment modalities: therapy, medication, TMS, meditation, exercise and any other evidenced based treatment. They can advocate or learn to advocate for themselves regarding their needs. They are experts in their own lives and trusting enough to be vulnerable with disclosing their story to their healthcare team with the goal of creating an effective comprehensive treatment plan. They have hope for the future.
My ideal client is someone who is looking to maintain or regain stability in their health. They are an active partner in their healthcare and open to varied possible treatment modalities: therapy, medication, TMS, meditation, exercise and any other evidenced based treatment. They can advocate or learn to advocate for themselves regarding their needs. They are experts in their own lives and trusting enough to be vulnerable with disclosing their story to their healthcare team with the goal of creating an effective comprehensive treatment plan. They have hope for the future.
![Photo of Lauren Wenzl, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ed25a27-bd7f-4a41-a0fe-3a196099a645/1/320x400.png)
My name is Lauren Wenzl, I am a certified Physician Assistant specializing in Psychiatric-Mental Health. In 2016 I achieved a Masters Degree in Physician Assistance from Keiser University and now have 7 years practice experience. I have come to understand that all of us need someone to listen to our concerns. Someone who listens without judging, offers empathy, compassion, and lends an ear to our struggles can make a significant impact in our mental health. My goal is to provide that relief to my patients through talk, recommendations, medications, or therapeutic care guidance.
My name is Lauren Wenzl, I am a certified Physician Assistant specializing in Psychiatric-Mental Health. In 2016 I achieved a Masters Degree in Physician Assistance from Keiser University and now have 7 years practice experience. I have come to understand that all of us need someone to listen to our concerns. Someone who listens without judging, offers empathy, compassion, and lends an ear to our struggles can make a significant impact in our mental health. My goal is to provide that relief to my patients through talk, recommendations, medications, or therapeutic care guidance.
![Photo of Jennifer Chukwudike, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae3ab6b2-1cd6-40fe-9e76-3c649f45115b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Chukwudike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Attleboro, MA 02703 (Online Only)
Dr. Jennifer is a doctorally trained PMHNP licensed in RI, MA and CT to treat psychiatric patients. She is able to diagnose and manage a wide range of psychiatric conditions for patients ages 5 years and above. Dr. Jennifer has a deep passion for helping individuals struggling with various mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, sleep issues, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. With over a decade of experience in medical and mental health settings, she has honed her expertise in managing complex medical and psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Jennifer is a doctorally trained PMHNP licensed in RI, MA and CT to treat psychiatric patients. She is able to diagnose and manage a wide range of psychiatric conditions for patients ages 5 years and above. Dr. Jennifer has a deep passion for helping individuals struggling with various mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, sleep issues, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. With over a decade of experience in medical and mental health settings, she has honed her expertise in managing complex medical and psychiatric conditions.
![Photo of Toyosi Oyebode, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e782d17e-65d1-4088-a4e6-92aff63c665b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Toyosi Oyebode
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mansfield, MA 02048 (Online Only)
Are you struggling to get through each day? Do you feel disconnected from life, family, and friends? Are you easily overwhelmed? Have you stopped enjoying the simple things that once made you happy? Do you cry more often and feel like nothing can be done to fix your life? Do you have trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you wake up? I understand that mental health challenges can be difficult. I offer supportive, empathetic care to clients with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, OCD and insomnia.
Are you struggling to get through each day? Do you feel disconnected from life, family, and friends? Are you easily overwhelmed? Have you stopped enjoying the simple things that once made you happy? Do you cry more often and feel like nothing can be done to fix your life? Do you have trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you wake up? I understand that mental health challenges can be difficult. I offer supportive, empathetic care to clients with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, OCD and insomnia.
![Photo of Francisca Ojei, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19812ffd-38d8-4b04-b383-07f310fe1c03/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a keen practitioner, my journey to helping humanity began 11 years ago after graduating with my Bachelors in Nursing, I dedicated 5 years in serving underserved communities in urban and rural areas, worked in a pediatric facility and top Major Hospitals in Boston. Then I decided to complete my Masters in Nursing at Regis College 5 years ago focusing in internal medication. Mental health medicine caught my attention after working in a methadone and suboxone clinic. I further pursed my interest by working at SouthBay for over 2 years, now at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates for almost 2 years.
As a keen practitioner, my journey to helping humanity began 11 years ago after graduating with my Bachelors in Nursing, I dedicated 5 years in serving underserved communities in urban and rural areas, worked in a pediatric facility and top Major Hospitals in Boston. Then I decided to complete my Masters in Nursing at Regis College 5 years ago focusing in internal medication. Mental health medicine caught my attention after working in a methadone and suboxone clinic. I further pursed my interest by working at SouthBay for over 2 years, now at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates for almost 2 years.
![Photo of Danielle Lasden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a77cdf44-f90b-4dc8-a6a5-214cdf0af114/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dedicated to compassionate, patient-focused care, Danielle Lasden brings over 7 years of hands-on experience to Emory Recovery Center. As a board-certified Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner with a specialty in addiction medicine, Danielle possesses an unwavering commitment to the holistic treatment of individuals grappling with substance use disorders. Having served at renowned institutions like Brigham and Women's Hospital, Danielle has demonstrated expertise in integrating addiction medicine into primary care, ensuring comprehensive and seamless care for her patients.
Dedicated to compassionate, patient-focused care, Danielle Lasden brings over 7 years of hands-on experience to Emory Recovery Center. As a board-certified Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner with a specialty in addiction medicine, Danielle possesses an unwavering commitment to the holistic treatment of individuals grappling with substance use disorders. Having served at renowned institutions like Brigham and Women's Hospital, Danielle has demonstrated expertise in integrating addiction medicine into primary care, ensuring comprehensive and seamless care for her patients.
![Photo of Franklin Quider, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15bae44b-73fc-44eb-a5d8-0b47e642f4a4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Franklin Quider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raynham, MA 02767 (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Franklin, a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Michigan State University. I have experience as a bedside nurse in inpatient and emergency departments, working with pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric mental health patients. My extensive training and background have taught me that every journey to optimal health is unique. I enjoy partnering with clients to understand their needs, highlight their strengths, and use a motivational approach to care.
Hello, I’m Franklin, a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Michigan State University. I have experience as a bedside nurse in inpatient and emergency departments, working with pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric mental health patients. My extensive training and background have taught me that every journey to optimal health is unique. I enjoy partnering with clients to understand their needs, highlight their strengths, and use a motivational approach to care.
![Photo of Yousef Abou Allaban - Neuro Behavioral Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86c188da-2aaf-4a4d-bf1c-7903595a2dc4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Neuro Behavioral Center is a premier outpatient center focused on providing you with the highest quality of mental health services. Our highly qualified team of compassionate and caring professionals are dedicated to providing the most advanced and comprehensive treatment and adult psychiatric and psychology services. Utilizing advanced technology and evidenced-based treatment, we maintain a private and secure communication channel with our patients, while collaborating with other care providers to ensure the success of our therapies.
Neuro Behavioral Center is a premier outpatient center focused on providing you with the highest quality of mental health services. Our highly qualified team of compassionate and caring professionals are dedicated to providing the most advanced and comprehensive treatment and adult psychiatric and psychology services. Utilizing advanced technology and evidenced-based treatment, we maintain a private and secure communication channel with our patients, while collaborating with other care providers to ensure the success of our therapies.
I am a psychiatric and adult nurse practitioner who is focused on helping patients feel and do their best. I have extensive experience working with complex patients in an inpatient as well as outpatient setting. I use medications and supportive counseling as methods to help patients achieve relief from symptoms such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, anger outbursts, insomnia and alcohol dependence. I believe my team approach is effective and will help decrease the symptoms that cause pain and interfere with daily living.
I am a psychiatric and adult nurse practitioner who is focused on helping patients feel and do their best. I have extensive experience working with complex patients in an inpatient as well as outpatient setting. I use medications and supportive counseling as methods to help patients achieve relief from symptoms such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, anger outbursts, insomnia and alcohol dependence. I believe my team approach is effective and will help decrease the symptoms that cause pain and interfere with daily living.
![Photo of Ann Irorere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/673e7d01-9324-495b-b998-9bd0d4205d55/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ann Irorere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301 (Online Only)
I create a calm, listening atmosphere when working with my patients. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including ADD & ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, medication management, mood disorders, panic disorders, and sleep issues. My name is Dr. Ann O. Irorere, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP. I provide psychiatric assessment and medication management for adolescents, adults and seniors. I completed my Psychiatric NP and Adult- Geri NP trainings at Regis college in Massachusetts and my doctoral training at Grand Canyon University in Arizona.
I create a calm, listening atmosphere when working with my patients. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including ADD & ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, medication management, mood disorders, panic disorders, and sleep issues. My name is Dr. Ann O. Irorere, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP. I provide psychiatric assessment and medication management for adolescents, adults and seniors. I completed my Psychiatric NP and Adult- Geri NP trainings at Regis college in Massachusetts and my doctoral training at Grand Canyon University in Arizona.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ca9a620-954c-4918-9ef8-a17ba74546c7/2/320x400.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 Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3390f23b-0fb6-4f81-83f1-5a7889d885d4/2/320x400.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 Carol Smith, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a34733f-7a4d-404b-8009-029b5830ca8d/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 Laura Langevin - Salt & Light Behavioral Health & Wellness, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77b744dc-5124-485d-a4a4-97cae92ccb70/3/320x400.jpeg)
Salt & Light Behavioral Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Attleboro, MA 02703 (Online Only)
Are you looking for more personalized care from your mental health provider? I provide psychiatric med management with an integrative approach that often includes supplementation, genetic testing, spirituality, and bio-psycho-social individualism. I am a small independent practice providing attention and detail to each individual. I work with most mental health conditions, and see clients in RI and MA via telehealth only at this time.
Are you looking for more personalized care from your mental health provider? I provide psychiatric med management with an integrative approach that often includes supplementation, genetic testing, spirituality, and bio-psycho-social individualism. I am a small independent practice providing attention and detail to each individual. I work with most mental health conditions, and see clients in RI and MA via telehealth only at this time.
![Photo of Kevin Michael Berney, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53036044-c4f5-46af-b20c-ab3d361db302/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience working within the mental health field. Prior to becoming a PMHNP through MGH Institute of Health Professions, I earned a master’s degree in social work from Boston University. After recognizing the needs of the community and my patients, I decided to expand my scope of practice. I am currently employed at Community Empowerment Services, where our mission is to empower individuals and families to reach their full potential.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience working within the mental health field. Prior to becoming a PMHNP through MGH Institute of Health Professions, I earned a master’s degree in social work from Boston University. After recognizing the needs of the community and my patients, I decided to expand my scope of practice. I am currently employed at Community Empowerment Services, where our mission is to empower individuals and families to reach their full potential.
![Photo of Lynetta Loveland, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8ce3e20-20f1-4d37-9402-1d6ceec51f0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lynetta Loveland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Raynham, MA 02767 (Online Only)
My model of mental health care puts patients in the middle. First and foremost, I believe in listening to the patient. So much can be learned by listening, watching, and truly hearing what a patient tells me is happening with them and their body. I conduct psychiatric assessments and make recommendations for treatment with psychiatric medications.
My model of mental health care puts patients in the middle. First and foremost, I believe in listening to the patient. So much can be learned by listening, watching, and truly hearing what a patient tells me is happening with them and their body. I conduct psychiatric assessments and make recommendations for treatment with psychiatric medications.
![Photo of Susie Draighan, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfee1dd1-e914-454e-9bfb-bc8bfa8f2499/1/320x400.jpeg)
Susie Draighan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Attleboro, MA 02703
Waitlist for new clients
As a Vanderbilt-educated psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) trained in the integrated model of care and certified in perinatal mental health (PMH-C), I understand that the mind and body are interconnected. I am passionate about helping individuals find peace and balance in their lives through a combination of traditional psychiatric treatments and the integration of mindfulness and movement practices. I prescribe thoughtfully, using the lowest effective doses of medication for the shortest necessary amount of time.
As a Vanderbilt-educated psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) trained in the integrated model of care and certified in perinatal mental health (PMH-C), I understand that the mind and body are interconnected. I am passionate about helping individuals find peace and balance in their lives through a combination of traditional psychiatric treatments and the integration of mindfulness and movement practices. I prescribe thoughtfully, using the lowest effective doses of medication for the shortest necessary amount of time.
![Photo of Cameron Schidlmeier, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eb8657e-750b-4e77-ad65-80a455ceabb5/1/320x400.png)
Cameron Schidlmeier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Attleboro, MA 02703 (Online Only)
Highly skilled PMHNP with nearly 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing. Extensive background working with Active Duty and Veteran populations with expertise in the treatment of trauma and substance use disorders. Most recently worked for the Commonwealth providing acute psychiatric stabilization and medically supervised withdrawal for individuals admitted on involuntary MGL Chapter 123, Section 35 civil commitments. Currently available to see new patients through Thriveworks. Demonstrated passion for providing the highest quality behavioral and medical care. Compassionate and empathetic advocate for patients and families.
Highly skilled PMHNP with nearly 15 years of experience in psychiatric nursing. Extensive background working with Active Duty and Veteran populations with expertise in the treatment of trauma and substance use disorders. Most recently worked for the Commonwealth providing acute psychiatric stabilization and medically supervised withdrawal for individuals admitted on involuntary MGL Chapter 123, Section 35 civil commitments. Currently available to see new patients through Thriveworks. Demonstrated passion for providing the highest quality behavioral and medical care. Compassionate and empathetic advocate for patients and families.
![Photo of Cecily Allen - Holistic Well, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5e48ce5-4607-47f5-ac6f-fb3eecb544a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Great to meet you! Working in Psychiatric mental health since 2016, I help children and adults throughout the lifespan. I have an MSN from Regis College. Neurodivergent individuals and those with special needs are very welcome to my practice. I provide LGBTQAI+ affirming care. I offer no-rush care and supportive therapy for a range of issues. Your goals are my goals. Satisfaction and life-fulfillment are on the horizon and I can help you on this journey.
Great to meet you! Working in Psychiatric mental health since 2016, I help children and adults throughout the lifespan. I have an MSN from Regis College. Neurodivergent individuals and those with special needs are very welcome to my practice. I provide LGBTQAI+ affirming care. I offer no-rush care and supportive therapy for a range of issues. Your goals are my goals. Satisfaction and life-fulfillment are on the horizon and I can help you on this journey.
See more therapy options for Norton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Norton, MA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Norton, MA who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Chronic Pain |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Norton, MA see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Norton?
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.