Psychiatrists in Seekonk, MA
![Photo of Renata Sasson - Renata Sasson NP @PVD Ketamine & Wellness, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ba7a232-c528-46ef-bf80-75eb9d1a47aa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Renata Sasson NP @PVD Ketamine & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seekonk, MA 02771
Psychiatric nurse practitioner Renata Sasson is the owner and founder of PVD Ketamine & Wellness. She has been working as a Ketamine Practitioner since 2021 and has successfully treated hundreds of clients with sublingual ketamine. Her vision for PVD Ketamine & Wellness is to offer impactful non-traditional healing modalities, with ketamine being the first. She is a proponent of including meditation and mindfulness as part of a well-rounded therapeutic approach. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Renata is committed to creating an inclusive, empowering, and person-centered healing space.
Psychiatric nurse practitioner Renata Sasson is the owner and founder of PVD Ketamine & Wellness. She has been working as a Ketamine Practitioner since 2021 and has successfully treated hundreds of clients with sublingual ketamine. Her vision for PVD Ketamine & Wellness is to offer impactful non-traditional healing modalities, with ketamine being the first. She is a proponent of including meditation and mindfulness as part of a well-rounded therapeutic approach. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Renata is committed to creating an inclusive, empowering, and person-centered healing space.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e63d629-7066-495b-8935-a018916680c1/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Attleboro, MA 02760
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![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
Attleboro, MA 02703 (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.
![Photo of Gold Okoeka - Goldline Health and Wellness, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28fe7973-9b2b-497d-b0a7-705c720b31fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Goldline Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Attleboro, MA 02703 (Online Only)
Group practice that specializes in medication management. We are accepting new clients in RI, MA & CT. Our practice is a medication management practice that provides med management services to children, adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, thought disorders and other psychiatric conditions. We are a group of 3 nurse practitioners who specialize in psychiatric treatment, we are caring, compassionate and great listeners.
Group practice that specializes in medication management. We are accepting new clients in RI, MA & CT. Our practice is a medication management practice that provides med management services to children, adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, thought disorders and other psychiatric conditions. We are a group of 3 nurse practitioners who specialize in psychiatric treatment, we are caring, compassionate and great listeners.
![Photo of Sandra Sagastume, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a53d46a7-cc83-4019-a5aa-964de24140fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Sagastume
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Attleboro, MA 02703 (Online Only)
Allow me to introduce myself as a dedicated and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, operating in close collaboration with an esteemed board-certified psychiatrist boasting over two decades of clinical mastery. My academic journey led me to achieve a Master of Science in Nursing-PMHNP degree from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences University. Throughout my professional trajectory, I have garnered valuable experience in adult mental health care, where I adopt a comprehensive and holistic approach to treatment utilizing evidence-based methodologies of psychopharmacological medication management.
Allow me to introduce myself as a dedicated and board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, operating in close collaboration with an esteemed board-certified psychiatrist boasting over two decades of clinical mastery. My academic journey led me to achieve a Master of Science in Nursing-PMHNP degree from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences University. Throughout my professional trajectory, I have garnered valuable experience in adult mental health care, where I adopt a comprehensive and holistic approach to treatment utilizing evidence-based methodologies of psychopharmacological medication management.
![Photo of Nora Mellett, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dec87be-65d3-416c-8910-60ef3ecdc3b8/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide psych evaluations and medication management to individuals across the lifespan. I strive to provide client-centered care to every client in a comfortable and friendly environment. I graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Nursing from Regis College, and later received my Masters Degree in Nursing from Regis College. Before I became a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner, I worked as a Registered Nurse on various psychiatric units in hospitals. My experience strengthened my ability to create strong therapeutic relationships with clients.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide psych evaluations and medication management to individuals across the lifespan. I strive to provide client-centered care to every client in a comfortable and friendly environment. I graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Nursing from Regis College, and later received my Masters Degree in Nursing from Regis College. Before I became a Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner, I worked as a Registered Nurse on various psychiatric units in hospitals. My experience strengthened my ability to create strong therapeutic relationships with clients.
![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.
![Photo of Mini Sharma, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/921c3906-a263-4a02-8dd0-feb10fdc8f67/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mini Sharma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
North Attleboro, MA 02760
Hi, I am a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) trained to provide psychiatric assessments, evaluations, medication management, and brief psychotherapy to individuals grappling with a range of mental health conditions. With over 17 years of nursing experience, I have worked with adults in various inpatient and outpatient settings and have extensive experience in psychiatric mental health and substance use and I offer tailored care in a supportive and caring environment. I am multilingual first-generation Asian Indian American. I speak English, Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu and understand similar dialects.
Hi, I am a Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) trained to provide psychiatric assessments, evaluations, medication management, and brief psychotherapy to individuals grappling with a range of mental health conditions. With over 17 years of nursing experience, I have worked with adults in various inpatient and outpatient settings and have extensive experience in psychiatric mental health and substance use and I offer tailored care in a supportive and caring environment. I am multilingual first-generation Asian Indian American. I speak English, Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu and understand similar dialects.
![Photo of Josephine Thuo - All in One Mental Health Services, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52fabcac-5175-4e33-8b20-c20dd73f71f0/2/320x400.png)
All in One Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Attleboro, MA 02703
Josephine Thuo, CNP, PMHNP is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experience working with patients from all backgrounds. She treats all age groups. Josephine has a master's degree in nursing. Her clinical practice includes a thorough psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and interventions catered to you.
Josephine Thuo, CNP, PMHNP is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experience working with patients from all backgrounds. She treats all age groups. Josephine has a master's degree in nursing. Her clinical practice includes a thorough psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and interventions catered to you.
![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 Lisa Joyce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29403adf-b01a-4b74-b52a-264a00e337fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new clients at New England Counseling Center in Mansfield, MA. Lisa is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is a Regis College graduate. She has over 18 years diverse clinical experience in healthcare within the general population in specialty fields such as palliative care, clinical instruction, and transitional care management. Lisa's didactic history includes but is not limited to outpatient counseling centers, crisis centers, and partial hospitalization programs.
Now accepting new clients at New England Counseling Center in Mansfield, MA. Lisa is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is a Regis College graduate. She has over 18 years diverse clinical experience in healthcare within the general population in specialty fields such as palliative care, clinical instruction, and transitional care management. Lisa's didactic history includes but is not limited to outpatient counseling centers, crisis centers, and partial hospitalization programs.
![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 Joseph Allaire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1478ef61-466a-4c1c-b73c-c01fb033e5ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Casey Williams, MSN, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e41605a-ec1d-44b0-b0aa-77f0c46bfa50/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am currently practicing in primary care in Providence, RI with a special interest in addiction medicine, treating opioid and alcohol use disorders. I often utilizes medication assisted treatments in the care of her patient populations. I am well versed in co-occurring psychiatric conditions that contribute to addictive disorders, as well as multi-modal treatment options. I always take an evidenced based approach to helping my patients meet their individual goals.
I am currently practicing in primary care in Providence, RI with a special interest in addiction medicine, treating opioid and alcohol use disorders. I often utilizes medication assisted treatments in the care of her patient populations. I am well versed in co-occurring psychiatric conditions that contribute to addictive disorders, as well as multi-modal treatment options. I always take an evidenced based approach to helping my patients meet their individual goals.
![Photo of Kellie Ferrie, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45097bf8-dad1-4e1e-9c17-8358c6a6938d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kellie Ferrie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
36 Endorsed
Swansea, MA 02777
Having worked across diverse healthcare settings, I have developed a keen understanding of the complexities of mental health, from crisis intervention to long-term management. My collaborative approach, working closely with interdisciplinary teams, has allowed me to foster a holistic environment that addresses the unique needs of each patient.
Having worked across diverse healthcare settings, I have developed a keen understanding of the complexities of mental health, from crisis intervention to long-term management. My collaborative approach, working closely with interdisciplinary teams, has allowed me to foster a holistic environment that addresses the unique needs of each patient.
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb64d5ff-7d7c-4cf3-87f6-8dba56973d05/2/320x400.png)
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
North Attleboro, MA 02760
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Emelda Iwobi, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3875945-b516-4b71-99f5-3600a47436df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emelda Iwobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dighton, MA 02715 (Online Only)
Clients struggling in their mental health journey. I want you to feel empowered and supported throughout our journey together. Trust is not just a word to me-it is the foundation of our meeting. I am fully committed to helping you reach your goals and realize your dreams.
Clients struggling in their mental health journey. I want you to feel empowered and supported throughout our journey together. Trust is not just a word to me-it is the foundation of our meeting. I am fully committed to helping you reach your goals and realize your dreams.
![Photo of Cheryl McGuire, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbaf0595-04d1-4ec8-832b-dd560a8b3adf/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I am offering Telemedicine through video and/or phone, to adults, who need to be seen during this time. I have openings available immediately, and would gladly help and support you with your mental health issues. I provide comprehensive outpatient and Telemedicine behavioral health psychiatric care for adults that includes medication management, depending on your diagnostic evaluation and psychiatric assessment.
Hi, I am offering Telemedicine through video and/or phone, to adults, who need to be seen during this time. I have openings available immediately, and would gladly help and support you with your mental health issues. I provide comprehensive outpatient and Telemedicine behavioral health psychiatric care for adults that includes medication management, depending on your diagnostic evaluation and psychiatric assessment.
![Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc1701ee-ea56-4ef9-bf96-4d35f208517f/2/320x400.png)
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Cameron Schidlmeier, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5712b034-7927-4aae-98ba-98e1d4d1b7ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cameron Schidlmeier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Attleboro, MA 02703 (Online Only)
Cameron Schidlmeier is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has over 15 years of experience working with adults and seniors. She manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma-related disorders. She is passionate about providing the highest quality behavioral and medical care. Cameron approaches each patient as an individual, meeting them where they are while educating, supporting, and guiding them to reach their highest potential through therapy and medication management.
Cameron Schidlmeier is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has over 15 years of experience working with adults and seniors. She manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma-related disorders. She is passionate about providing the highest quality behavioral and medical care. Cameron approaches each patient as an individual, meeting them where they are while educating, supporting, and guiding them to reach their highest potential through therapy and medication management.
See more therapy options for Seekonk
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Seekonk, MA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Seekonk, MA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Seekonk, MA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Seekonk?
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.