Psychiatrists in Tewksbury, MA

Photo of Eileen E. Batchelor - Thatcher Behavioral Health LLC, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thatcher Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tewksbury, MA 01876  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My ideal client is someone who is someone who has been diagnosed with a mental illness or suspects they may have one. They are interested in starting medication to manage their condition effectively. This client may be experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, or other challenges that impact their daily life and well-being.
My ideal client is someone who is someone who has been diagnosed with a mental illness or suspects they may have one. They are interested in starting medication to manage their condition effectively. This client may be experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, or other challenges that impact their daily life and well-being.
(978) 291-7739 View (978) 291-7739
Photo of Chloe Cameron, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chloe Cameron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tewksbury, MA 01876
I recently founded North Andover Behavioral Health alongside my colleague Amy Kehoe, LMHC as a collaborative outpatient approach to supporting clients in the community seeking medication management, individual and group therapy. I have treated children as young as 5 years old, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I specialize in evaluating and managing a broad range of psychiatric disorders across the lifespan through medication management.
I recently founded North Andover Behavioral Health alongside my colleague Amy Kehoe, LMHC as a collaborative outpatient approach to supporting clients in the community seeking medication management, individual and group therapy. I have treated children as young as 5 years old, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I specialize in evaluating and managing a broad range of psychiatric disorders across the lifespan through medication management.
(508) 794-8365 View (508) 794-8365
Photo of Nicholas Njoroge - Joyspring Health & Recovery, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joyspring Health & Recovery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tewksbury, MA 01876
If you're struggling with overwhelming anxiety, persistent depression, the challenges of ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, or the grip of addiction, you may be searching for a way to recover, regain control, and find joy in life again. Managing these conditions on your own can feel exhausting and isolating, and you're likely longing for relief and a sense of balance. You want to be heard, understood, and supported by someone who can create a personalized plan to help you heal, recover, and guide you to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
If you're struggling with overwhelming anxiety, persistent depression, the challenges of ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, or the grip of addiction, you may be searching for a way to recover, regain control, and find joy in life again. Managing these conditions on your own can feel exhausting and isolating, and you're likely longing for relief and a sense of balance. You want to be heard, understood, and supported by someone who can create a personalized plan to help you heal, recover, and guide you to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(978) 763-4421 View (978) 763-4421

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Chrissy Mathew, MD, Psychiatrist
Chrissy Mathew
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Woburn, MA 01801  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients. Welcome to Boston Psychiatry and Wellness, where compassionate care and expert knowledge converge to support your mental health needs. Our practice, led by Dr.Mathew, a board-certified psychiatrist, is dedicated to providing personalized and holistic mental health care. At Boston Psychiatry and Wellness ,we prioritize whole-body health and strive to use medications judiciously, tailoring treatment plans to each individual. We believe in collaborative care, working closely with patients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive and effective treatment.
Accepting New Patients. Welcome to Boston Psychiatry and Wellness, where compassionate care and expert knowledge converge to support your mental health needs. Our practice, led by Dr.Mathew, a board-certified psychiatrist, is dedicated to providing personalized and holistic mental health care. At Boston Psychiatry and Wellness ,we prioritize whole-body health and strive to use medications judiciously, tailoring treatment plans to each individual. We believe in collaborative care, working closely with patients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive and effective treatment.
(781) 412-3814 View (781) 412-3814
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Burlington, MA 01803
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.
(339) 229-8654 View (339) 229-8654
Zuri Psychiatric Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chelmsford, MA 01824
At Zuri Psychiatric Health we strongly believe in establishing therapeutic authentic relationships With our patients by providing a safe, confidential, and reliable environment. Maintaining respectful relationships is the foundation for growth. The bulk of our practice is medication management, however, we work collaboratively with other therapists and provide referrals for those without. A combination of individual therapy and medication management often works best for treatment. Our focus is to work with patients to reach their highest potential toward a more positive, functional, and satisfying life.
At Zuri Psychiatric Health we strongly believe in establishing therapeutic authentic relationships With our patients by providing a safe, confidential, and reliable environment. Maintaining respectful relationships is the foundation for growth. The bulk of our practice is medication management, however, we work collaboratively with other therapists and provide referrals for those without. A combination of individual therapy and medication management often works best for treatment. Our focus is to work with patients to reach their highest potential toward a more positive, functional, and satisfying life.
(781) 912-3485 View (781) 912-3485
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Reading, MA 01867
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.
(857) 392-3885 View (857) 392-3885
Photo of Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Coyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woburn, MA 01801
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.
(857) 424-0767 View (857) 424-0767
Photo of Dale Buckman, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dale Buckman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, MA 01803
Welcome! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Primary Care Medicine. My approach is rooted in Functional and Integrative Psychiatry. I am dedicated to helping you achieve mental wellness and a better quality of life. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, sleep issues, ADHD, PTSD, or OCD, I am here to support you. I specialize in medication initiation and management as well as lifestyle and dietary changes. Together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs. Reach out today. www.DrDale.com
Welcome! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Primary Care Medicine. My approach is rooted in Functional and Integrative Psychiatry. I am dedicated to helping you achieve mental wellness and a better quality of life. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, sleep issues, ADHD, PTSD, or OCD, I am here to support you. I specialize in medication initiation and management as well as lifestyle and dietary changes. Together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs. Reach out today. www.DrDale.com
(781) 404-3449 View (781) 404-3449
Photo of Janice H. Goodman, PhD, PMHNP, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janice H. Goodman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Wakefield, MA 01880
I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of clinical experience. I specialize in women’s mental health and provide psychotherapy and/or medication management with special attention to the specific needs of women of all ages, including pregnant and postpartum women. I utilize a relationship-based, collaborative, and holistic approach to empower women through knowledge, self-awareness, and self-care. The therapy I provide is grounded in psychodynamic, supportive, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness-based theories and approaches.
I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of clinical experience. I specialize in women’s mental health and provide psychotherapy and/or medication management with special attention to the specific needs of women of all ages, including pregnant and postpartum women. I utilize a relationship-based, collaborative, and holistic approach to empower women through knowledge, self-awareness, and self-care. The therapy I provide is grounded in psychodynamic, supportive, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness-based theories and approaches.
(781) 775-4963 View (781) 775-4963
Photo of Dustin Saccoccio, PA, Physician Assistant
Dustin Saccoccio
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Lowell, MA 01852
Dustin graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences and a Minor in Chemistry. After discovering his passion for medicine, Dustin pursued his Master of Physician Assistant Studies at MCPHS University, graduating Magna Cum Laude and ranking in the top 10% of his class.
Dustin graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences and a Minor in Chemistry. After discovering his passion for medicine, Dustin pursued his Master of Physician Assistant Studies at MCPHS University, graduating Magna Cum Laude and ranking in the top 10% of his class.
(781) 412-1951 View (781) 412-1951
Photo of Dr. Susan G Vonderheide, APRN, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Susan G Vonderheide
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chelmsford, MA 01824
I have a private practice consisting of clients seeking psychiatric medication and a small number of adult clients seeking counseling only. I see both children and adults for psychiatric medication. Clients seek services for Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder as well as many other symptoms.
I have a private practice consisting of clients seeking psychiatric medication and a small number of adult clients seeking counseling only. I see both children and adults for psychiatric medication. Clients seek services for Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder as well as many other symptoms.
(603) 891-1152 View (603) 891-1152
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 Amber Bentley, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Amber Bentley
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woburn, MA 01808
Her goal is to help patients attain their well-being and long-term health. I am looking to partner with each patient and help them draw their roadmap to optimal wellness whether that be through lifestyle changes, therapy or when needed medications.
Her goal is to help patients attain their well-being and long-term health. I am looking to partner with each patient and help them draw their roadmap to optimal wellness whether that be through lifestyle changes, therapy or when needed medications.
(857) 578-3976 View (857) 578-3976
Photo of Chelsia Brown, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chelsia Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burlington, MA 01803  (Online Only)
Hi! I am a multi-state licensed, Master's degree prepared, and experienced Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) across the lifespan.
Hi! I am a multi-state licensed, Master's degree prepared, and experienced Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) across the lifespan.
(857) 290-5281 View (857) 290-5281
Photo of Emily Flier Matteodo, MD, Psychiatrist
Emily Flier Matteodo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bedford, MA 01730
People turn to psychotherapy for many reasons. Some are motivated by challenging or unexpected life events, such as a death or loss, a breakup or a divorce. Others struggle with work or relationships, life transition, or a vague feeling of dissatisfaction. Psychotherapy provides an opportunity to explore these experiences in order to understand and resolve them. In today's busy and overstimulating world, it is easy to disregard our needs, which can leave us feeling depleted. There is little time for self-reflection and introspection.
People turn to psychotherapy for many reasons. Some are motivated by challenging or unexpected life events, such as a death or loss, a breakup or a divorce. Others struggle with work or relationships, life transition, or a vague feeling of dissatisfaction. Psychotherapy provides an opportunity to explore these experiences in order to understand and resolve them. In today's busy and overstimulating world, it is easy to disregard our needs, which can leave us feeling depleted. There is little time for self-reflection and introspection.
(781) 676-3463 View (781) 676-3463
Photo of Stella Macharia, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stella Macharia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Chelmsford, MA 01824  (Online Only)
I am a dually certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner and I have extensive psychiatric nursing experience having worked in inpatient, homecare and outpatient settings. I have experience in Anxiety disorders, Bipolar disorders, Mood disorders, Psychotic disorders and other mental illness. I work with 13+ and I take pride in providing high-quality patient care.
I am a dually certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner and I have extensive psychiatric nursing experience having worked in inpatient, homecare and outpatient settings. I have experience in Anxiety disorders, Bipolar disorders, Mood disorders, Psychotic disorders and other mental illness. I work with 13+ and I take pride in providing high-quality patient care.
(508) 978-6074 View (508) 978-6074
Photo of Cynthia Beam - Mulberry Tree Integrative Mental Health, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, DC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mulberry Tree Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, DC
Verified Verified
Burlington, MA 01803  (Online Only)
A board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is an advanced practice nurse with the primary role of assessing, diagnosing and treating the mental health needs of patients. PMHNPs prescribe medications and provide support for patients with mental health disorders. Our integrated approach addresses the underlying cause of disease using a patient-centered approach encompassing the whole person, rather than the traditional disease-centered approach of an isolated set of symptoms.
A board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is an advanced practice nurse with the primary role of assessing, diagnosing and treating the mental health needs of patients. PMHNPs prescribe medications and provide support for patients with mental health disorders. Our integrated approach addresses the underlying cause of disease using a patient-centered approach encompassing the whole person, rather than the traditional disease-centered approach of an isolated set of symptoms.
(719) 824-2387 View (719) 824-2387
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Woburn, MA 01801
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.
(857) 575-1833 View (857) 575-1833
Photo of Mercy K Micheni, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mercy K Micheni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lowell, MA 01852  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients, struggling to manage their symptoms and want expert guidance and support in their treatment. Those looking for a compassionate and understanding healthcare provider who can help them navigate their mental health challenges. Their needs may include a comprehensive psychiatric assessment, medication management, psychotherapy, and support in developing coping skills and strategies to manage their symptoms. Benefit from education about their diagnosis, treatment options, and self-care practices with primary goal to achieve a sense of well-being, stability and live a meaningful life.
I am currently accepting new clients, struggling to manage their symptoms and want expert guidance and support in their treatment. Those looking for a compassionate and understanding healthcare provider who can help them navigate their mental health challenges. Their needs may include a comprehensive psychiatric assessment, medication management, psychotherapy, and support in developing coping skills and strategies to manage their symptoms. Benefit from education about their diagnosis, treatment options, and self-care practices with primary goal to achieve a sense of well-being, stability and live a meaningful life.
(781) 805-3480 View (781) 805-3480

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Tewksbury, MA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Tewksbury, MA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
67% Addiction
67% ADHD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Harvard Pilgrim
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Tewksbury, MA see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Tewksbury?

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.