Psychiatrists in Exeter, NH
![Photo of Andrew Kaplan, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66f0730b-0653-4ab6-ab8c-0f8c28a78d97/1/320x400.png)
Your initial appointment may either be solely with Dr. Kaplan, or may be with a resident physician with Dr. Kaplan joining towards the end of the appointment to review history, current symptoms, and discuss the plan of care with the resident physician. You would continue to see your resident physician throughout the year and Dr. Kaplan would continue to be involved in your care. Residents change each year in July, but Dr. Kaplan would stay constant as the supervising psychiatrist.
Your initial appointment may either be solely with Dr. Kaplan, or may be with a resident physician with Dr. Kaplan joining towards the end of the appointment to review history, current symptoms, and discuss the plan of care with the resident physician. You would continue to see your resident physician throughout the year and Dr. Kaplan would continue to be involved in your care. Residents change each year in July, but Dr. Kaplan would stay constant as the supervising psychiatrist.
![Photo of Christina Dagen, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee1a83e4-e2a8-4213-9a70-2f534f6bb4da/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children, adolescents and adults. She treats a variety of mental health disorders, including childhood disorders, anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADHD, and mood disorders. Christina sees patients across the life span but has specialty interest in childhood disorders including ADHD, anxiety disorders, and depression. Christina has worked with children and adolescents in outpatient community mental health, as well as an adolescent residential center.
Christina provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for children, adolescents and adults. She treats a variety of mental health disorders, including childhood disorders, anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADHD, and mood disorders. Christina sees patients across the life span but has specialty interest in childhood disorders including ADHD, anxiety disorders, and depression. Christina has worked with children and adolescents in outpatient community mental health, as well as an adolescent residential center.
![Photo of Lori Eaton, APRN, BC-PMHN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e89deb3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified - Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have worked with PTSD, anxiety disorder, insomnia, depression, psychosis, substance abuse, and bipolar disorder. Over the years I have learned that marijuana is true medication. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner I am able to assist clients to secure a medical marijuana card. As I work in psychiatry I am able certify people who struggle with PTSD and or insomnia in the state of NH. While it's true people can go to MA and Maine for recreational marijuana, a medical card will save you the high taxes imposed on recreational.
I am a Board Certified - Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have worked with PTSD, anxiety disorder, insomnia, depression, psychosis, substance abuse, and bipolar disorder. Over the years I have learned that marijuana is true medication. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner I am able to assist clients to secure a medical marijuana card. As I work in psychiatry I am able certify people who struggle with PTSD and or insomnia in the state of NH. While it's true people can go to MA and Maine for recreational marijuana, a medical card will save you the high taxes imposed on recreational.
![Photo of Paul F Belliveau - Paul F. Belliveau, M.D. & Ms. Tasha Humphreys PNP, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98d8cfb7-982e-4364-a57d-592010c6506f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paul F. Belliveau, M.D. & Ms. Tasha Humphreys PNP
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
We offer traditional adult psychiatry treatment as well as newer interventional psychiatry treatments. We will work in collaboration with your current treatment team or if you do not have a provider you can begin care here. Interventional psychiatry is a branch of psychiatry that specializes in providing r-TMS or Spravato/Ketamine treatment. These are two treatment options for people who still suffer from depression despite past trials of antidepressants and psychotherapy.
We offer traditional adult psychiatry treatment as well as newer interventional psychiatry treatments. We will work in collaboration with your current treatment team or if you do not have a provider you can begin care here. Interventional psychiatry is a branch of psychiatry that specializes in providing r-TMS or Spravato/Ketamine treatment. These are two treatment options for people who still suffer from depression despite past trials of antidepressants and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Donna M Paradise, PCNS, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49d0cb55-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
ANCC Certification in Adolescent Mental Health. Donna is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience providing psychotherapy and psychopharmacology to adolescents, adults and families. She received a Master of Science from Northeastern University. Professional accomplishments include, Clinical Leader for the Department of Psychiatry at Faulkner/ Brigham and Women's Hospital, primary care nurse on the Child and Adolescent Assessment Unit at Cambridge Hospital, and outpatient work on the Adolescent Team at MetroWest Mental Health Association in Framingham, Ma.. She has been in private practice in Exeter, NH, since 2007.
ANCC Certification in Adolescent Mental Health. Donna is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience providing psychotherapy and psychopharmacology to adolescents, adults and families. She received a Master of Science from Northeastern University. Professional accomplishments include, Clinical Leader for the Department of Psychiatry at Faulkner/ Brigham and Women's Hospital, primary care nurse on the Child and Adolescent Assessment Unit at Cambridge Hospital, and outpatient work on the Adolescent Team at MetroWest Mental Health Association in Framingham, Ma.. She has been in private practice in Exeter, NH, since 2007.
![Photo of Colette Dumont, MN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d64ec93b-f919-49f5-9dd1-fef8b03a2b86/1/320x400.png)
Ms. Dumont practices psychiatric nursing with patients aged 18 and older, including the psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic treatment and management of broad spectrum mental health conditions, with specialty interests in depression, anxiety, mood disorders and attention deficits. Ms. Dumont has additional interest in the psychological impact of women’s reproductive events on mental health.
Ms. Dumont practices psychiatric nursing with patients aged 18 and older, including the psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic treatment and management of broad spectrum mental health conditions, with specialty interests in depression, anxiety, mood disorders and attention deficits. Ms. Dumont has additional interest in the psychological impact of women’s reproductive events on mental health.
![Photo of Lili Wierbonics, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f324a082-e889-4609-8719-0bed8488748d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lili Wierbonics is a licensed Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families in the Seacoast area. Lili has an interest in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral issues and eating disorders. In her spare time she loves cooking, gardening, kayaking, camping and hiking with family and friends.
Lili Wierbonics is a licensed Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with over 18 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families in the Seacoast area. Lili has an interest in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral issues and eating disorders. In her spare time she loves cooking, gardening, kayaking, camping and hiking with family and friends.
![Photo of Bryan Fisher, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee3bd72f-d2e8-4a12-a5e6-2bc5500f4e7f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bryan D. Fisher is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2013. Bryan has a calm, professional, and compassionate approach to treating individuals and supporting and educating their families. Outside of work, Bryan enjoys music, local sports, skiing, and enjoying the New England seacoast.
Bryan D. Fisher is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2013. Bryan has a calm, professional, and compassionate approach to treating individuals and supporting and educating their families. Outside of work, Bryan enjoys music, local sports, skiing, and enjoying the New England seacoast.
![Photo of Donna Primera, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6aadd09c-921b-4415-8af9-090bae997aab/1/320x400.png)
Donna Primera is a Nurse Practitioner in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 1995. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing. Donna believes in meeting the client where they are at in regard to what they are trying to achieve from treatment. In her spare time, Donna enjoys coloring, reading, walking her dogs, spending time with her children and husband, and traveling.
Donna Primera is a Nurse Practitioner in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 1995. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing. Donna believes in meeting the client where they are at in regard to what they are trying to achieve from treatment. In her spare time, Donna enjoys coloring, reading, walking her dogs, spending time with her children and husband, and traveling.
![Photo of Steven C Henricks, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cdf2242-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist in private practice in Exeter, New Hampshire. I have a profound interest in and commitment to the vocation of depth psychotherapy. In addition to careful attention to your life history and presenting problems, our work together often involves close examination of unconscious phenomena, including dreams, and nightmares, and sometimes spontaneous art and active imagination (engaging the unconscious while awake). My clients often have a history of trauma, especially childhood trauma. They often have been painfully alienated from others and have a strong connection to the unconscious and to nature.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist in private practice in Exeter, New Hampshire. I have a profound interest in and commitment to the vocation of depth psychotherapy. In addition to careful attention to your life history and presenting problems, our work together often involves close examination of unconscious phenomena, including dreams, and nightmares, and sometimes spontaneous art and active imagination (engaging the unconscious while awake). My clients often have a history of trauma, especially childhood trauma. They often have been painfully alienated from others and have a strong connection to the unconscious and to nature.
![Photo of Jennifer Dowling, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24fabd02-888b-4ccd-95f5-b86e8ec1516e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Dowling is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2024. She graduated from the University of Massachusetts in Lowell with her BSN and a Masters in Nursing from Regis College specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. Jennifer has 29 years of nursing experience, specifically working with children and adolescents. She is interested in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders and other mental health challenges.
Jennifer Dowling is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2024. She graduated from the University of Massachusetts in Lowell with her BSN and a Masters in Nursing from Regis College specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. Jennifer has 29 years of nursing experience, specifically working with children and adolescents. She is interested in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders and other mental health challenges.
![Photo of Holly Lyles, APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c749b7fe-bd2b-4fe9-869c-f911f52286c4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Holly Lyles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter, NH 03833 (Online Only)
Currently I am accepting new clients for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in supportive psychotherapy and medication management. I believe in the power of self-reflection and listening with compassion to determine the best course of action. I also believe in a thorough evaluation to facilitate the most accurate diagnosis and to identify strengths and supports for healing. I have over 20 plus years experience working as a registered nurse in various settings before obtaining my advanced practice registered nurse degree in psychiatry.
Currently I am accepting new clients for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in supportive psychotherapy and medication management. I believe in the power of self-reflection and listening with compassion to determine the best course of action. I also believe in a thorough evaluation to facilitate the most accurate diagnosis and to identify strengths and supports for healing. I have over 20 plus years experience working as a registered nurse in various settings before obtaining my advanced practice registered nurse degree in psychiatry.
![Photo of Temilola Oladotun, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b1bf597-8bdf-43c5-872c-636ccafbd02b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients. With a distinctive dual background as both a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring a unique blend of expertise encompassing general healthcare and specialized psychiatric care. My unwavering dedication to your comprehensive well-being is the driving force behind my patient-centered approach, offering personalized mental health support grounded in robust evidence-based practices.
Accepting New Patients. With a distinctive dual background as both a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I bring a unique blend of expertise encompassing general healthcare and specialized psychiatric care. My unwavering dedication to your comprehensive well-being is the driving force behind my patient-centered approach, offering personalized mental health support grounded in robust evidence-based practices.
![Photo of Hailey Kirchner - Center State Wellness, LLC, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19ba4748-d0a5-45b4-9a60-155a83f0465e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Center State Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter, NH 03833
We are a passionate team of professional psychiatric prescribers dedicated to your well-being. When life becomes challenging or unpredictable, we are here to help. You may be faced with unexpected life events, chronic anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD or substance misuse. Every person’s circumstances are unique; together we will co-create a plan of care that is effective and safe. We offer individualized counseling and medication management within a judgement free environment where you will be treated with dignity and respect.
We are a passionate team of professional psychiatric prescribers dedicated to your well-being. When life becomes challenging or unpredictable, we are here to help. You may be faced with unexpected life events, chronic anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD or substance misuse. Every person’s circumstances are unique; together we will co-create a plan of care that is effective and safe. We offer individualized counseling and medication management within a judgement free environment where you will be treated with dignity and respect.
![Photo of Michael Robustelli - Mood Clinic, PLLC, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/184e4c32-c555-4107-8375-33bdb907db1d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tired of mental illness pushing you around? Ready to win the struggle with anxiety, mood swings, depression? Starting today, we can help you take the first step toward transformation. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health - over 50% of adults with mental illness went untreated last year, but there's no need for that to be you. Starting today you can take the first step toward transformation. At Mood Clinic, we believe in treating you as whole person. Our integrated approach, combines both medications and talk therapy in session- ensuring you receive personalized treatment designed for you and delivered with care.
Tired of mental illness pushing you around? Ready to win the struggle with anxiety, mood swings, depression? Starting today, we can help you take the first step toward transformation. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health - over 50% of adults with mental illness went untreated last year, but there's no need for that to be you. Starting today you can take the first step toward transformation. At Mood Clinic, we believe in treating you as whole person. Our integrated approach, combines both medications and talk therapy in session- ensuring you receive personalized treatment designed for you and delivered with care.
![Photo of Yumei Chen, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8547ec08-5bb3-4fc0-a44c-74bfdbf90b84/4/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am dedicated to fostering holistic well-being through an integrative approach to mental health care. I work alongside therapists specializing in both traditional and alternative modalities. I specialize in medication management for a wide range of mental illnesses and psychiatric disorders, providing compassionate care to individuals aged 17 and older. My philosophy is in treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Our mission goes beyond symptom relief; we aim to help you cultivate resilience, engage in self-discovery, and achieve a deep sense of well-being on your path to wellness.
Hello! I am dedicated to fostering holistic well-being through an integrative approach to mental health care. I work alongside therapists specializing in both traditional and alternative modalities. I specialize in medication management for a wide range of mental illnesses and psychiatric disorders, providing compassionate care to individuals aged 17 and older. My philosophy is in treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Our mission goes beyond symptom relief; we aim to help you cultivate resilience, engage in self-discovery, and achieve a deep sense of well-being on your path to wellness.
![Photo of Oluwatobi Ogunbayo - Restorative Wellness and Psychiatry LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9200247-3257-4420-91f1-fcc0ec63cb80/2/320x400.jpeg)
Restorative Wellness and Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter, NH 03833
I am Tobi, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My proficiency lies in adept diagnosis, treatments, and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety disorders, depression, Bipolar disorders, PTSD, OCD, and Personality disorders. I strive to create a secure, open, and non-judgmental environment for clients to embark on their journey toward self-improvement. I collaborate with the patients to formulate individualized treatment plans using a comprehensive and holistic approach.
I am Tobi, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My proficiency lies in adept diagnosis, treatments, and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety disorders, depression, Bipolar disorders, PTSD, OCD, and Personality disorders. I strive to create a secure, open, and non-judgmental environment for clients to embark on their journey toward self-improvement. I collaborate with the patients to formulate individualized treatment plans using a comprehensive and holistic approach.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Carla Delcambre - Delcambre Mental Health P.L.L.C., MSN, BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49738a44-8b2d-4313-80d5-0f587e4cc13e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Delcambre Mental Health P.L.L.C.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Hampton, NH 03862 (Online Only)
As a highly experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer a comprehensive range of specialized services to individuals seeking support for their mental health and well-being. With 7 years of experience in the field, I have developed a deep understanding of psychiatric disorders, evidence-based treatment modalities, and the unique needs for my patients. My services encompass both medication management and counseling, allowing me to provide holistic care that addresses the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors affecting mental health. My approach is nonjudgmental and collaborative
As a highly experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer a comprehensive range of specialized services to individuals seeking support for their mental health and well-being. With 7 years of experience in the field, I have developed a deep understanding of psychiatric disorders, evidence-based treatment modalities, and the unique needs for my patients. My services encompass both medication management and counseling, allowing me to provide holistic care that addresses the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors affecting mental health. My approach is nonjudgmental and collaborative
![Photo of Jeremy Bookman, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15ea927f-c9ca-4422-b106-c07d3b29333b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jeremy Bookman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seabrook, NH 03874 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Telehealth Practice- We can all face difficult times. Fortunately, there are ways to obtain convenient and confidential treatment in your own home through NorthStar Psychiatric Health online telehealth psychiatry services. I am a Board certified, doctorally prepared, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specialized in understanding both the biological and psychological factors of human emotions. I provide psychotherapeutic interventions and psychiatric medication management for adult patients who decide that psychiatric medications are helpful.
Telehealth Practice- We can all face difficult times. Fortunately, there are ways to obtain convenient and confidential treatment in your own home through NorthStar Psychiatric Health online telehealth psychiatry services. I am a Board certified, doctorally prepared, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specialized in understanding both the biological and psychological factors of human emotions. I provide psychotherapeutic interventions and psychiatric medication management for adult patients who decide that psychiatric medications are helpful.
See more therapy options for Exeter
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Exeter, NH
10+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Exeter, NH who prioritize treating:
88% | Depression |
82% | Anxiety |
82% | Medication Management |
71% | ADHD |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | Bipolar Disorder |
53% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
16 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Exeter, NH see their clients
95% | In Person and Online | |
5% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Exeter?
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.