Psychiatrists in Franconia, NH
Navigating our way toward mental wellness is not always straightforward or without roadblocks. At New England Psychiatry and Wellness, we aim to navigate life with you, exploring roadblocks and finding solutions that work for you. Mental health treatment is not a one-size-fits-all, which is why we take an individualized approach to care, making sure we meet you where you are at, to ensure the best outcomes.
Navigating our way toward mental wellness is not always straightforward or without roadblocks. At New England Psychiatry and Wellness, we aim to navigate life with you, exploring roadblocks and finding solutions that work for you. Mental health treatment is not a one-size-fits-all, which is why we take an individualized approach to care, making sure we meet you where you are at, to ensure the best outcomes.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in treating mood disorders, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, sleep disorders, schizophrenia, dementia, and other psychotic illnesses. I am a PMHNP who firmly believes that health is a multifaceted concept with aspects pertaining to the physical, psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. I appreciate working cooperatively with my patients to develop a comprehensive, customized treatment plan that effectively addresses their unique needs and objectives.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in treating mood disorders, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, sleep disorders, schizophrenia, dementia, and other psychotic illnesses. I am a PMHNP who firmly believes that health is a multifaceted concept with aspects pertaining to the physical, psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual domains. I appreciate working cooperatively with my patients to develop a comprehensive, customized treatment plan that effectively addresses their unique needs and objectives.
Wendy Bayless
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, NH 03561
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I provide both non-medication and medication strategies in order to find the right fit for your needs.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I provide both non-medication and medication strategies in order to find the right fit for your needs.
Online Psychiatrists
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.
Restorative Wellness and Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raymond, NH 03077
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.
Clear View Psychiatric Services - Kathleen Czarnec
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03104
“I’m accepting new patients in the office or telehealth.” I'm a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner. I'm here to help with your mental health goals, and any pharmacological needs. I want us to work together as a team on these goals to come up with a plan that works best for you. I like to take a ‘holistic” approach to caring for my clients by also addressing their physical, emotional and spiritual health along with their mental health.
“I’m accepting new patients in the office or telehealth.” I'm a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner. I'm here to help with your mental health goals, and any pharmacological needs. I want us to work together as a team on these goals to come up with a plan that works best for you. I like to take a ‘holistic” approach to caring for my clients by also addressing their physical, emotional and spiritual health along with their mental health.
Cymande is a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner in practice since 2004. Her general psychiatry practice is informed by multiple disciplines beyond biochemistry and neurology including developmental psychology, depth psychology, and existential psychology. In addition to psychiatric evaluation and medication management across the lifespan, she offers psychedelic integration and harm reduction care for adults. Cymande trained initially at the MGH Institute of Health Professions with additional training at Florida State University, the California Institute of Integral Studies and the University of Vermont.
Cymande is a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner in practice since 2004. Her general psychiatry practice is informed by multiple disciplines beyond biochemistry and neurology including developmental psychology, depth psychology, and existential psychology. In addition to psychiatric evaluation and medication management across the lifespan, she offers psychedelic integration and harm reduction care for adults. Cymande trained initially at the MGH Institute of Health Professions with additional training at Florida State University, the California Institute of Integral Studies and the University of Vermont.
Jason A Bennett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hancock, NH 03449
I believe in providing holistic care that is evidenced based and effective. A person isn't defined by a diagnosis and you deserve to be able to feel your best through effective treatment; where we address diet, emotional resilience, exercise, sleep and medication. We will not retread the same old same old. I've had the opportunity to work in many different areas of healthcare over the last 20+ years. The one thing I've seen in each of them is people aren't getting the personalized care they are entitled to; you matter and you count! I provide client centered care in a comfortable ...
I believe in providing holistic care that is evidenced based and effective. A person isn't defined by a diagnosis and you deserve to be able to feel your best through effective treatment; where we address diet, emotional resilience, exercise, sleep and medication. We will not retread the same old same old. I've had the opportunity to work in many different areas of healthcare over the last 20+ years. The one thing I've seen in each of them is people aren't getting the personalized care they are entitled to; you matter and you count! I provide client centered care in a comfortable ...
Part of Dr. Katragadda's clinical time is devoted to working with resident physicians from Portsmouth Regional Hospital-HCA Healthcare/Tufts University. Resident physicians are licensed doctors who have completed medical school and are finalizing their specialty training in psychiatry. They are currently completing their 3rd postgraduate year of training at LifeStance Health, Inc.Your initial appointment may either be solely with Dr. Katragadda, or may be with a resident physician with Dr. Katragadda joining towards the end of the appointment to review history, current symptoms, and discuss the plan of care with resident physician.
Part of Dr. Katragadda's clinical time is devoted to working with resident physicians from Portsmouth Regional Hospital-HCA Healthcare/Tufts University. Resident physicians are licensed doctors who have completed medical school and are finalizing their specialty training in psychiatry. They are currently completing their 3rd postgraduate year of training at LifeStance Health, Inc.Your initial appointment may either be solely with Dr. Katragadda, or may be with a resident physician with Dr. Katragadda joining towards the end of the appointment to review history, current symptoms, and discuss the plan of care with resident physician.
Rebecca Ferra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Londonderry, NH 03053
Not being able to trust your own perception of reality can be terrifying, confusing, and debilitating. It disrupts relationships, careers, families, and sense of self. You can feel hopeless – as though nobody in your life understands what you are going through. With decades of experience supporting others like yourself, Rebecca is here to help. Her support of her clientele and commitment to excellence in mental health treatment is unwavering. Rebecca is ready to offer you experienced and empathetic care during every step of your journey toward optimum health.
Not being able to trust your own perception of reality can be terrifying, confusing, and debilitating. It disrupts relationships, careers, families, and sense of self. You can feel hopeless – as though nobody in your life understands what you are going through. With decades of experience supporting others like yourself, Rebecca is here to help. Her support of her clientele and commitment to excellence in mental health treatment is unwavering. Rebecca is ready to offer you experienced and empathetic care during every step of your journey toward optimum health.
Aspire Ketamine & Wellness Institute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03301
I am a triple-board certified psychiatric, family, and addictions nurse practitioner with over a decade of diverse healthcare experience. In my clinical practice, I follow an integrative approach to care, focusing on functional psychiatry to identify and address the root causes of mental health conditions rather than just managing symptoms. Areas of clinical focus are ketamine infusion therapy, functional psychiatry, pharmacogenetic testing, bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, medical weight loss and anti-aging medicine. I am committed to helping my patients achieve optimal mental and physical well-being.
I am a triple-board certified psychiatric, family, and addictions nurse practitioner with over a decade of diverse healthcare experience. In my clinical practice, I follow an integrative approach to care, focusing on functional psychiatry to identify and address the root causes of mental health conditions rather than just managing symptoms. Areas of clinical focus are ketamine infusion therapy, functional psychiatry, pharmacogenetic testing, bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, medical weight loss and anti-aging medicine. I am committed to helping my patients achieve optimal mental and physical well-being.
Dr. Schmidt specializes in a collaborative approach to psychiatric medication management of the major psychiatric disorders and is not doing general counseling at this time. He also offers transcranial magnetic stimulation for resistant depression. See brainsway.com for details of this therapy.
Dr. Schmidt specializes in a collaborative approach to psychiatric medication management of the major psychiatric disorders and is not doing general counseling at this time. He also offers transcranial magnetic stimulation for resistant depression. See brainsway.com for details of this therapy.
Part of Dr. Albert's clinical time is devoted to working with resident physicians from Portsmouth Regional Hospital-HCA Healthcare/Tufts University. Resident physicians are licensed doctors who have completed medical school and are finalizing their specialty training in psychiatry. They are currently completing their 3rd postgraduate year of training at LifeStance Health, Inc. Your initial appointment may either be solely with Dr. Albert, or may be with a resident physician with Dr. Albert joining towards the end of the appointment to review history, current symptoms, and discuss the plan of care with the resident physician. Y
Part of Dr. Albert's clinical time is devoted to working with resident physicians from Portsmouth Regional Hospital-HCA Healthcare/Tufts University. Resident physicians are licensed doctors who have completed medical school and are finalizing their specialty training in psychiatry. They are currently completing their 3rd postgraduate year of training at LifeStance Health, Inc. Your initial appointment may either be solely with Dr. Albert, or may be with a resident physician with Dr. Albert joining towards the end of the appointment to review history, current symptoms, and discuss the plan of care with the resident physician. Y
I want to be a resource for my community, forging connections to make the Upper Valley a healthier place. The goal is to provide a space where you can experience healing mentally, and emotionally. I believe that the first step is for you to feel safe and supported.
I want to be a resource for my community, forging connections to make the Upper Valley a healthier place. The goal is to provide a space where you can experience healing mentally, and emotionally. I believe that the first step is for you to feel safe and supported.
Craig Iannotti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Chester, NH 03036 (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients in NH and now Maine. My name is Craig Iannotti, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC. I have been in the mental health field for over 30 years. I have worked in various positions and roles throughout my career. Ten years as an RN and over the last six years as an APRN in community mental health. This has provided me with the experience to integrate evidence based practice and incorporate medicine as part of the overall recovery. I treat patients who experience symptoms of bipolar, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD and Intellectual Developmental Disabilities. Connect with me at InquireWithinBH.com.
I am currently accepting new clients in NH and now Maine. My name is Craig Iannotti, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC. I have been in the mental health field for over 30 years. I have worked in various positions and roles throughout my career. Ten years as an RN and over the last six years as an APRN in community mental health. This has provided me with the experience to integrate evidence based practice and incorporate medicine as part of the overall recovery. I treat patients who experience symptoms of bipolar, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD and Intellectual Developmental Disabilities. Connect with me at InquireWithinBH.com.
Practicing psychopharmacology for 30 years, work with all diagnoses which medication could be beneficial.
Practicing psychopharmacology for 30 years, work with all diagnoses which medication could be beneficial.
Theresa Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lebanon, NH 03766 (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are constantly fighting with your own brain? You try to concentrate on a task but your mind constantly wanders off. Your friends joke that you have no concept of time but you wonder when they will tire of your inconsistency. You struggle in social settings with worry that you are talking too much or lose track of what someone is talking with you about when in conversation. Your finances are a mess or you just can’t seem to hold on to savings. Social media has you thinking you might have ADHD and you are ready to find answers.
Do you feel like you are constantly fighting with your own brain? You try to concentrate on a task but your mind constantly wanders off. Your friends joke that you have no concept of time but you wonder when they will tire of your inconsistency. You struggle in social settings with worry that you are talking too much or lose track of what someone is talking with you about when in conversation. Your finances are a mess or you just can’t seem to hold on to savings. Social media has you thinking you might have ADHD and you are ready to find answers.
James Quackenbush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bedford, NH 03110
Please note: At this time, I am primarily virtual but offer intermittent in-person appointments. I am based in Southern NH and Greater Boston, MA. I received my nurse practitioner education at Rivier University and completed clinical training at McLean Hospital, in Belmont, MA. My personal and professional goals include bridging the gaps that exist in our healthcare system to ensure everyone has adequate access and good mental health care, reducing stigma so that people are more inclined to ask for help, and providing a treatment plan where both you and I work together to ensure your needs are met.
Please note: At this time, I am primarily virtual but offer intermittent in-person appointments. I am based in Southern NH and Greater Boston, MA. I received my nurse practitioner education at Rivier University and completed clinical training at McLean Hospital, in Belmont, MA. My personal and professional goals include bridging the gaps that exist in our healthcare system to ensure everyone has adequate access and good mental health care, reducing stigma so that people are more inclined to ask for help, and providing a treatment plan where both you and I work together to ensure your needs are met.
Natasa Ristivojevic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, NH 03110 (Online Only)
It’s fulfilling to see my clients regain their lives back. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, a low mood, or feelings of anger, it's my belief these things don't have to last forever. Your decision to reach out is essential, as it will initiate the direction you want to take. My goal is to listen carefully and use evidence-based interventions along with judicious use of prescription medications to address your symptoms. It's important to remember, however, that prescribing the right medication regimen is only one part of the treatment that leads to alleviating mental and emotional suffering.
It’s fulfilling to see my clients regain their lives back. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, a low mood, or feelings of anger, it's my belief these things don't have to last forever. Your decision to reach out is essential, as it will initiate the direction you want to take. My goal is to listen carefully and use evidence-based interventions along with judicious use of prescription medications to address your symptoms. It's important to remember, however, that prescribing the right medication regimen is only one part of the treatment that leads to alleviating mental and emotional suffering.
Victoria Gorveatt is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2000. She earned a Bachelor of Science Nursing, a Master's of Science Nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner and a Post-Master's Certificate-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Regis College. With more than 20 years of experience as a family nurse practitioner before she became a psychiatric nurse practitioner, Victoria was lucky to help many clients who were older adults and found a niche in caring for this vulnerable population.
Victoria Gorveatt is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2000. She earned a Bachelor of Science Nursing, a Master's of Science Nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner and a Post-Master's Certificate-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Regis College. With more than 20 years of experience as a family nurse practitioner before she became a psychiatric nurse practitioner, Victoria was lucky to help many clients who were older adults and found a niche in caring for this vulnerable population.
See more therapy options for Franconia
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Franconia, NH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Franconia, NH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
1 Year
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Franconia, NH see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Franconia?
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.