Psychiatrists in Rockport, MA

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More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kimberly Seaward, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Seaward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Gloucester, MA 01930  (Online Only)
***Currently Accepting New Patients*** Coastal Psychiatry provides outpatient mental health and medication management services to adolescents and adults (ages 16 and older) located anywhere in Massachusetts via telehealth. We treat a range of Behavioral Health Disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Adjustments Disorders, Grief and Bereavement, Divorce and Separation, Relationship issues as well as sleep issues.
***Currently Accepting New Patients*** Coastal Psychiatry provides outpatient mental health and medication management services to adolescents and adults (ages 16 and older) located anywhere in Massachusetts via telehealth. We treat a range of Behavioral Health Disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Adjustments Disorders, Grief and Bereavement, Divorce and Separation, Relationship issues as well as sleep issues.
(978) 982-2314 View (978) 982-2314
Photo of Brendan Wynne - Atlantic Telepsychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Atlantic Telepsychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manchester by the Sea, MA 01944  (Online Only)
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** Atlantic Telepsychiatry offers effective medication treatment for a number of mental health issues to adults anywhere in Massachusetts. With Atlantic Telepsychiatry, you will get personalized mental health care and prescription management from a trained, licensed, and experienced psychiatric prescriber. We help individuals access quality medication treatment for their mental health issues without the hassle of insurance coverage, taking time off work to attend appointments, or wasted time sitting in waiting rooms. Meet with your prescriber on Live Video Sessions from your home, office, or anywhere!
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** Atlantic Telepsychiatry offers effective medication treatment for a number of mental health issues to adults anywhere in Massachusetts. With Atlantic Telepsychiatry, you will get personalized mental health care and prescription management from a trained, licensed, and experienced psychiatric prescriber. We help individuals access quality medication treatment for their mental health issues without the hassle of insurance coverage, taking time off work to attend appointments, or wasted time sitting in waiting rooms. Meet with your prescriber on Live Video Sessions from your home, office, or anywhere!
(508) 273-8184 View (508) 273-8184
Photo of Deborah S Mindnich, MS, RN, PCNS, Psychiatric Nurse
Deborah S Mindnich
Psychiatric Nurse, MS, RN, PCNS
Verified Verified
Essex, MA 01929
I partner with my clients to achieve their goals and intentions. I provide individual, couples and family therapy as well as life coaching. I also see clients for medication management.
I partner with my clients to achieve their goals and intentions. I provide individual, couples and family therapy as well as life coaching. I also see clients for medication management.
(978) 678-4112 View (978) 678-4112

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Dr. Kai Camara, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Kai Camara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
If you are someone who is looking for psychiatric care from a whole-person perspective, you've found yourself in the right place. My practice is heavily centered around holding space for your unique lived experience. I see people for care across the lifespan, and though I enjoy working with all of them, I am a particularly practiced provider for BIPOC, queer, and neurodivergent clients. I believe you can be healthy at any size, are inherently worthy of care and consideration, and that you are the most important member of your own care team. I look forward to meeting each of you.
If you are someone who is looking for psychiatric care from a whole-person perspective, you've found yourself in the right place. My practice is heavily centered around holding space for your unique lived experience. I see people for care across the lifespan, and though I enjoy working with all of them, I am a particularly practiced provider for BIPOC, queer, and neurodivergent clients. I believe you can be healthy at any size, are inherently worthy of care and consideration, and that you are the most important member of your own care team. I look forward to meeting each of you.
(857) 688-5604 View (857) 688-5604
Photo of Lauren Buchheim - Empower Psychiatry Solutions , MD, Psychiatrist
Empower Psychiatry Solutions
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westwood, MA 02090  (Online Only)
No matter where you are on your mental health recovery journey, Empower Psychiatry Solutions, PLLC is here for you. Let us help you identify and take steps towards achieving your goals, starting today. Our vision: a world where mental health care is prioritized for all, free from stigma, patient-centered, evidence based, integrative and holistic. Our mission: mental health care that is personalized, empathic, warm, and holds you in the highest and most positive regard at all times, free from judgment.
No matter where you are on your mental health recovery journey, Empower Psychiatry Solutions, PLLC is here for you. Let us help you identify and take steps towards achieving your goals, starting today. Our vision: a world where mental health care is prioritized for all, free from stigma, patient-centered, evidence based, integrative and holistic. Our mission: mental health care that is personalized, empathic, warm, and holds you in the highest and most positive regard at all times, free from judgment.
(207) 483-5162 View (207) 483-5162
Photo of Ryan Henner, Psychiatrist
Ryan Henner
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Sudbury, MA 01776
What is getting in the way of your happiness? Let's find out together. I am a board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist. I run an esketamine clinic at a Boston teaching hospital, and am now accepting patients in my private practice in MetroWest. I offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) for people who have tried initial treatments, and are hoping to deepen their insights and awareness.
What is getting in the way of your happiness? Let's find out together. I am a board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist. I run an esketamine clinic at a Boston teaching hospital, and am now accepting patients in my private practice in MetroWest. I offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) for people who have tried initial treatments, and are hoping to deepen their insights and awareness.
(978) 570-8649 View (978) 570-8649
Photo of Nadia Carter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nadia Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has worked in psychiatry within several capacities since 2009, starting at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. I currently work at Cambridge Health Alliance- A Harvard Affiliated Hospital, where I provide compassionate, patient-centered, and evidence-based care in various clinical environments.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has worked in psychiatry within several capacities since 2009, starting at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. I currently work at Cambridge Health Alliance- A Harvard Affiliated Hospital, where I provide compassionate, patient-centered, and evidence-based care in various clinical environments.
(857) 384-5937 View (857) 384-5937
Photo of Stephen Luippold, MA, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephen Luippold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, APRN
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In my 25 years of practice I have treated those with diverse backgrounds in various healthcare settings. I offer psychiatric care with a focus on psychiatric evaluations and, when indicated, medication management for anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma, and ADHD. I have worked extensively with those experiencing forms of chronic illness and pain syndromes. My approach to treatment encompasses a mind/body/spirit philosophy toward care and wellness. You must be actively engaged in therapy as I view medication as a adjunctive treatment to the work you are currently doing with your therapist with whom I will collaborate with.
In my 25 years of practice I have treated those with diverse backgrounds in various healthcare settings. I offer psychiatric care with a focus on psychiatric evaluations and, when indicated, medication management for anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma, and ADHD. I have worked extensively with those experiencing forms of chronic illness and pain syndromes. My approach to treatment encompasses a mind/body/spirit philosophy toward care and wellness. You must be actively engaged in therapy as I view medication as a adjunctive treatment to the work you are currently doing with your therapist with whom I will collaborate with.
(978) 678-4077 View (978) 678-4077
Photo of Ethel (Re-Re) Marie Dawley - Sweeney Dawley Recovery Center, NP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sweeney Dawley Recovery Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Braintree, MA 02184
I prescribe medication for mental health problems such as anxiety depression and bipolar disorder. I also help patients with substance use disorder with vivitrol. I do not prescribe suboxone or methadone. I believe if you treat the underlying problem recovery will be permanent. Failure to treat the underlying anxiety, depression etc., leads to constant relapse. My goal is to provide nonjudgemental treatment to patients who want to feel better. Congratulations on recognizing the problem! I hope you find a provider that is right for your needs!
I prescribe medication for mental health problems such as anxiety depression and bipolar disorder. I also help patients with substance use disorder with vivitrol. I do not prescribe suboxone or methadone. I believe if you treat the underlying problem recovery will be permanent. Failure to treat the underlying anxiety, depression etc., leads to constant relapse. My goal is to provide nonjudgemental treatment to patients who want to feel better. Congratulations on recognizing the problem! I hope you find a provider that is right for your needs!
(781) 268-2638 x1 View (781) 268-2638 x1
Photo of Joseph Allaire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joseph Allaire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Attleboro, MA 02760
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with multiple years of experience working in Psychiatric and Critical Care Nursing. I have experience treating various Psychiatric disorders and enjoy working with people in all life stages.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with multiple years of experience working in Psychiatric and Critical Care Nursing. I have experience treating various Psychiatric disorders and enjoy working with people in all life stages.
(508) 257-7373 View (508) 257-7373
Photo of Jennifer Samuel, PMHNP , AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Samuel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , AGNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Jennifer and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Jennifer has worked in many diverse settings and has a strong background in cardiology and internal medicine, and is passionate about delivering holistic care. She believes that health encompasses your physical and mental well-being. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
This profile is managed by Cerebral. To get connected with Jennifer and directly schedule, please click the "my website" button! Jennifer has worked in many diverse settings and has a strong background in cardiology and internal medicine, and is passionate about delivering holistic care. She believes that health encompasses your physical and mental well-being. To see if you are eligible for insurance coverage, please use your phone's camera app to scan the QR code below:
(857) 810-5842 View (857) 810-5842
Photo of Sarah Carvalho, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Carvalho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02740  (Online Only)
Sarah Carvalho, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), brings a compassionate and comprehensive approach to her practice, enriching the field of mental health care. With a focus on serving patients across the lifespan, Sarah is dedicated to creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can embark on their mental health journey with comfort and confidence. At the heart of Sarah's professional philosophy is her commitment to a holistic perspective on mental health. She recognizes that true well-being involves addressing the interconnected facets of an individual's life.
Sarah Carvalho, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), brings a compassionate and comprehensive approach to her practice, enriching the field of mental health care. With a focus on serving patients across the lifespan, Sarah is dedicated to creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can embark on their mental health journey with comfort and confidence. At the heart of Sarah's professional philosophy is her commitment to a holistic perspective on mental health. She recognizes that true well-being involves addressing the interconnected facets of an individual's life.
(617) 272-7815 View (617) 272-7815
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02747
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(508) 691-8476 View (508) 691-8476
Photo of Nadine Collier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nadine Collier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Andover, MA 01810  (Online Only)
The decision to seek help for a mental health issue does not always come naturally. Many people endure needless suffering for months or years even, rather than seek help. The reasons why vary. Some are skeptical about the effectiveness of mental health therapy or concerned about the need for medication. Whatever the reason for not seeking help, it is absolutely crucial that you give yourself a break. Remaining in denial, making excuses, or judging yourself harshly probably isn’t the way you would handle a physical health problem.
The decision to seek help for a mental health issue does not always come naturally. Many people endure needless suffering for months or years even, rather than seek help. The reasons why vary. Some are skeptical about the effectiveness of mental health therapy or concerned about the need for medication. Whatever the reason for not seeking help, it is absolutely crucial that you give yourself a break. Remaining in denial, making excuses, or judging yourself harshly probably isn’t the way you would handle a physical health problem.
(617) 616-8828 View (617) 616-8828
Photo of Amina Mbouemboue Fout, PMHNP, CNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amina Mbouemboue Fout
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
An ideal client for Amina Fout seeks help for mental health issues, desiring comprehensive care addressing physical and emotional needs. They aim for stability, coping skills, insight, and long-term recovery. Motivated by a desire for empowerment and fulfillment, they aspire to reclaim agency and experience wholeness beyond their illness.
An ideal client for Amina Fout seeks help for mental health issues, desiring comprehensive care addressing physical and emotional needs. They aim for stability, coping skills, insight, and long-term recovery. Motivated by a desire for empowerment and fulfillment, they aspire to reclaim agency and experience wholeness beyond their illness.
(781) 734-7343 View (781) 734-7343
Photo of Kevin Michael Berney, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kevin Michael Berney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Taunton, MA 02780
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.
(774) 220-1079 View (774) 220-1079
Photo of Geoffrey Whitley, MA, NP-C, NCBTMB, MHC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Geoffrey Whitley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, NP-C, NCBTMB, MHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02129
Hi! I am a family nurse practitioner with a masters degree in mental health counseling and provide therapy/ medications. I use a very client-centered approach. I have a strong belief that the mind and body are highly integrated and that physical and mental treatment are inseparable. For this reason, clients have the option of participating in a new model of treatment. This would include exercising during therapy sessions - brisk or slow walking on treadmills or Stairmaster at the client's comfort level. Of course, regular counseling and/or medication prescriptions are provided for those not interested in combining exercise.
Hi! I am a family nurse practitioner with a masters degree in mental health counseling and provide therapy/ medications. I use a very client-centered approach. I have a strong belief that the mind and body are highly integrated and that physical and mental treatment are inseparable. For this reason, clients have the option of participating in a new model of treatment. This would include exercising during therapy sessions - brisk or slow walking on treadmills or Stairmaster at the client's comfort level. Of course, regular counseling and/or medication prescriptions are provided for those not interested in combining exercise.
Photo of Fauzia Wali-Khan, MD, Psychiatrist
Fauzia Wali-Khan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Framingham, MA 01702  (Online Only)
“The psychiatrist must become a fellow traveler with the patient” -R. D. Laing. My name is Fauzia Wali-Khan and I am first and foremost a firm believer of this phrase. I became a psychiatrist with the intention of helping everyone, as it is my belief that everyone deserves a healthy mental state in which they can prosper and help others around them. My capability to lend an honest ear to my patient’s problems and help guide them through the solution is a quality that makes me an incredibly valuable resource for my patients.
“The psychiatrist must become a fellow traveler with the patient” -R. D. Laing. My name is Fauzia Wali-Khan and I am first and foremost a firm believer of this phrase. I became a psychiatrist with the intention of helping everyone, as it is my belief that everyone deserves a healthy mental state in which they can prosper and help others around them. My capability to lend an honest ear to my patient’s problems and help guide them through the solution is a quality that makes me an incredibly valuable resource for my patients.
(401) 208-0318 View (401) 208-0318
Photo of Alissa English, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alissa English
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Throughout her nursing career, Alissa has worked with a diverse range of patient populations. Alissa has a passion for working with adolescents and young adults, geriatrics, and developmentally disabled populations.
Throughout her nursing career, Alissa has worked with a diverse range of patient populations. Alissa has a passion for working with adolescents and young adults, geriatrics, and developmentally disabled populations.
(508) 625-9236 View (508) 625-9236
Photo of Temitope Obasekola, PMHNP-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Temitope Obasekola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
Welcome! I am currently accepting new patients. As a provider, my approach to care is one of unwavering support for you as the patient. I try my best to provide a thoughtful and individualized approach to psychiatric care. As a clinician who practices in a group setting, I have the opportunity to be part of a practice that consists of multiple psychiatric prescribers and therapists who have extensive training in psychotherapy. Although I am primarily a medication prescriber; and yes, medications can be very helpful, I also believe and insist on providing more than medication. As such, your care will be integrated and unfragmented.
Welcome! I am currently accepting new patients. As a provider, my approach to care is one of unwavering support for you as the patient. I try my best to provide a thoughtful and individualized approach to psychiatric care. As a clinician who practices in a group setting, I have the opportunity to be part of a practice that consists of multiple psychiatric prescribers and therapists who have extensive training in psychotherapy. Although I am primarily a medication prescriber; and yes, medications can be very helpful, I also believe and insist on providing more than medication. As such, your care will be integrated and unfragmented.
(617) 639-9420 View (617) 639-9420

See more therapy options for Rockport

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Rockport, MA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Rockport, MA who prioritize treating:

How Psychiatrists in Rockport, MA see their clients

2% Online Only
1% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Rockport?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.