Psychiatrists in Hancock, NH
![Photo of Jason A Bennett, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2cf79b9-7abd-4805-a453-16870bd9223b/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 ...
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Cynthia Cahoon, DNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23b366e8-05b1-432c-9210-47b586d7cf19/1/320x400.png)
Cynthia believes in a collaborative approach, working along with patients to help them achieve an optimal level of emotional wellness. Her main areas of focus are assessment and medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. She works with patients from age 18 to older adults. In her spare time, Cynthia enjoys reading, kayaking, and spending time at her seasonal family home in CT. She is a former college nursing professor and owner of an Assisted Living home and she continues to have professional interests in those areas.
Cynthia believes in a collaborative approach, working along with patients to help them achieve an optimal level of emotional wellness. Her main areas of focus are assessment and medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. She works with patients from age 18 to older adults. In her spare time, Cynthia enjoys reading, kayaking, and spending time at her seasonal family home in CT. She is a former college nursing professor and owner of an Assisted Living home and she continues to have professional interests in those areas.
![Photo of Teresa Cadorette, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67159dc3-9cdf-45c4-a759-b8b532e07156/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cadorette uses a bio /psycho /social /spiritual model of care, integrating psychopharmacology, counseling, lifestyle changes and integrative approaches as appropriate, to assist individuals in achieving their goals for optimizing their physical and emotional well-being. In her spare time, Dr. Cadorette enjoys quilting, knitting and crocheting ... "anything with fiber and color ".
Dr. Cadorette uses a bio /psycho /social /spiritual model of care, integrating psychopharmacology, counseling, lifestyle changes and integrative approaches as appropriate, to assist individuals in achieving their goals for optimizing their physical and emotional well-being. In her spare time, Dr. Cadorette enjoys quilting, knitting and crocheting ... "anything with fiber and color ".
![Photo of Dr. Brandy McKinney - Cross My Heart Wellness Behavioral Health Services, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f2d1a5-a7bf-4b91-bd07-a7a832d54b5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cross My Heart Wellness Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Peterborough, NH 03458 (Online Only)
Accepting new Patients! Copy and paste this link to schedule your appointment today! crossmyheartwellnessllc.clientsecure.me Dr. Brandy McKinney is now welcoming New Clients for video appointments. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in multiple states, her goal is to establish therapeutic relationships with her clients to ensure they are comfortable and feel free of judgment. She specializes in ADHD diagnostic testing, providing psychiatric diagnostic assessments and treatment for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and ADD/ADHD.
Accepting new Patients! Copy and paste this link to schedule your appointment today! crossmyheartwellnessllc.clientsecure.me Dr. Brandy McKinney is now welcoming New Clients for video appointments. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in multiple states, her goal is to establish therapeutic relationships with her clients to ensure they are comfortable and feel free of judgment. She specializes in ADHD diagnostic testing, providing psychiatric diagnostic assessments and treatment for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and ADD/ADHD.
![Photo of Margaret M. Dorson Abbott - Comprehensive Collaborative Care PLLC, PharmD, BCPP, RPH, APRN, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2372e9c-a596-4dfe-92cf-e2e3799fd9c8/1/320x400.png)
Comprehensive Collaborative Care PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PharmD, BCPP, RPH, APRN, PhD
Verified Verified
Peterborough, NH 03458
Comprehensive Collaborative Care is dedicated to enhancing community mental health. We focus on collaborative care, whether patients are transitioning or newly diagnosed. Our mission is clear: resolve struggles, actively listen, and involve patients in decisions. Our approach empowers individuals in shaping their mental health journey. Committed to client empowerment, our team fosters resilience, self-awareness, and effective coping strategies in a compassionate, safe environment. Through active engagement and evidence-based practices, we guide individuals towards emotional well-being. Join us on this transformative journey.
Comprehensive Collaborative Care is dedicated to enhancing community mental health. We focus on collaborative care, whether patients are transitioning or newly diagnosed. Our mission is clear: resolve struggles, actively listen, and involve patients in decisions. Our approach empowers individuals in shaping their mental health journey. Committed to client empowerment, our team fosters resilience, self-awareness, and effective coping strategies in a compassionate, safe environment. Through active engagement and evidence-based practices, we guide individuals towards emotional well-being. Join us on this transformative journey.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Misty Stafford, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a947a4e5-1882-4f71-90ab-542016d53572/1/320x400.png)
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services via telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe it reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services via telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe it reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
![Photo of Brianna Boulanger, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afbc8864-14cd-4d31-85f7-6eabe45d6433/2/320x400.png)
There is so much more to mental health than just medication. It requires thorough background information to be gathered, physical ailments to be addressed, and the assistance of the right form of therapy in order to see marked improvement in symptoms. With Bri, you will be able to feel as though you are part of the decision making process and a partner in working towards a decrease in symptoms and an improvement to daily life. With a biopsychosocial model approach and a strong belief in neuroplasticity, Bri can assist in helping you find more stability and happiness. (Intakes 1.5 hours, Follow ups 25 mins)
There is so much more to mental health than just medication. It requires thorough background information to be gathered, physical ailments to be addressed, and the assistance of the right form of therapy in order to see marked improvement in symptoms. With Bri, you will be able to feel as though you are part of the decision making process and a partner in working towards a decrease in symptoms and an improvement to daily life. With a biopsychosocial model approach and a strong belief in neuroplasticity, Bri can assist in helping you find more stability and happiness. (Intakes 1.5 hours, Follow ups 25 mins)
![Photo of Adam Gilman, MSN, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ceaa586d-e7b7-4cb9-9f95-e424f05a61aa/1/320x400.png)
My mission is to provide the highest quality, most evidenced based, modern, and efficient psychiatric care to you. I believe that every person has the right to dignity and compassionate psychiatric care in an environment free of prejudice. My vision is to become your top choice for receiving care for mental health conditions, along with your family and friends. I will actively strive to enhance to enhance my services to enhance client communication to meet your needs. I utilize the latest evidenced based practice care and most efficient technologies, such as a paperless system and self-scheduling to improve your treatment.
My mission is to provide the highest quality, most evidenced based, modern, and efficient psychiatric care to you. I believe that every person has the right to dignity and compassionate psychiatric care in an environment free of prejudice. My vision is to become your top choice for receiving care for mental health conditions, along with your family and friends. I will actively strive to enhance to enhance my services to enhance client communication to meet your needs. I utilize the latest evidenced based practice care and most efficient technologies, such as a paperless system and self-scheduling to improve your treatment.
![Photo of Chad Saint-Amant, MDS, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4092b91-4a76-427d-900f-67a609305e3e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chad Saint-Amant is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Chad completed his clinical training and obtained his master's degree at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. Chad's clinical interests include dual diagnosis, mood disorders, and incorporating novel treatments into a comprehensive practice. He employs a pragmatic approach to the identification and treatment of psychiatric disorders. Chad intends to help others reach their wellness goals and to overall experience a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Chad Saint-Amant is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Chad completed his clinical training and obtained his master's degree at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. Chad's clinical interests include dual diagnosis, mood disorders, and incorporating novel treatments into a comprehensive practice. He employs a pragmatic approach to the identification and treatment of psychiatric disorders. Chad intends to help others reach their wellness goals and to overall experience a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
![Photo of James M Kennedy, APRN, PMHNP, ADHD-CC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04224b6d-b134-4952-8cda-6992334f706e/6/320x400.jpeg)
James M Kennedy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
As a Boston College graduate with extensive experience at Harvard-teaching hospitals, including McLean Hospital, MGH and BIDMC, my commitment to your well-being is deeply ingrained and well-informed. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to establishing genuine connections with individuals through medication management, accurate diagnostics and authentic, patient-centered care. The care I provide is rooted in authenticity, empathy, and pragmatism.
As a Boston College graduate with extensive experience at Harvard-teaching hospitals, including McLean Hospital, MGH and BIDMC, my commitment to your well-being is deeply ingrained and well-informed. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to establishing genuine connections with individuals through medication management, accurate diagnostics and authentic, patient-centered care. The care I provide is rooted in authenticity, empathy, and pragmatism.
![Photo of Jennifer Stevens, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f8db508-a377-4518-9576-dc352c596843/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and medication prescriber with immediate availability for care. I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and other mood disorders. Medication can be valuable to lift, calm, and stabilize, and I strive to empower each individual to make positive lifestyle changes that promote optimal health, well-being, and resilience. I value fostering a trusting relationship and creating a safe and supportive space where each can openly share their thoughts and feelings.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and medication prescriber with immediate availability for care. I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and other mood disorders. Medication can be valuable to lift, calm, and stabilize, and I strive to empower each individual to make positive lifestyle changes that promote optimal health, well-being, and resilience. I value fostering a trusting relationship and creating a safe and supportive space where each can openly share their thoughts and feelings.
![Photo of Dr. Susan G Vonderheide, APRN, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca4bde2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Susan G Vonderheide
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03060
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.
![Photo of Tuyet Nguyen, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51701d50-62f0-4669-aaf3-dee3fb47fc7a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tuyet Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrimack, NH 03054
Tuyet is familiar with treating a variety of disorders including schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, grief, and adjustment disorders (to name a few). Tuyet is also a certified Buprenorphine prescriber.
Tuyet is familiar with treating a variety of disorders including schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, grief, and adjustment disorders (to name a few). Tuyet is also a certified Buprenorphine prescriber.
![Photo of David Jacob Schopick - David Schopick MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50a9c0af-6170-42ea-8fc1-7a1f08b8e55a/3/320x400.jpeg)
The goal of my practice is helping people get their lives back. Restoring mental health can be a tricky road to navigate, but with perseverance and treatment, change is possible. I enjoy working with people, and from long years of experience, have a good sense of what it takes to help my patients return to productive, healthy lives. I am Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry. Dr. David Schopick primarily serves New Hampshire, southern Maine and northern Massachusetts, but is also available for telemedicine appointments.
The goal of my practice is helping people get their lives back. Restoring mental health can be a tricky road to navigate, but with perseverance and treatment, change is possible. I enjoy working with people, and from long years of experience, have a good sense of what it takes to help my patients return to productive, healthy lives. I am Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry. Dr. David Schopick primarily serves New Hampshire, southern Maine and northern Massachusetts, but is also available for telemedicine appointments.
![Photo of Breanna Millsap, MSN, APRN , PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e833eeb-a000-465b-a5f1-b814302ed696/1/320x400.jpeg)
Breanna Millsap
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03103
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your consultation today.
Breanna Millsap (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 20 years of experience in healthcare. Same-day appointments are often available, and patients report that they're glad she prioritizes availability. Patients who have worked with her say she's relatable, easy to talk to, and sincere. She believes in treating the whole person and recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Initial visits typically last 1 hour, and follow-ups are generally 20-30 minutes. Book directly at Helloalma.com. Search for a psychiatrist. Type in Breanna Millsap. Schedule your consultation today.
![Photo of Tuyet Nguyen - Zen Behavioral Health Clinic , DNP, APRN, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d29af9b0-2868-4fe6-be10-5c8dd1031b6b/4/320x400.png)
Zen Behavioral Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Merrimack, NH 03054
Zen Behavioral Health Clinic offers assessment, diagnosing and treatment for people struggling with various mental health illnesses. Our clinicians are highly educated and have years of training and experience helping individuals and families cope with mental health issues. We strive to provide a comprehensive and patient centered treatments that are trailered to an individual's and family's needs. The focus at Zen is too educate, empower and encourage individual struggling with mental illness to feel better and to succeed. We understand each person is unique and we respect every diversity and differences among our patients.
Zen Behavioral Health Clinic offers assessment, diagnosing and treatment for people struggling with various mental health illnesses. Our clinicians are highly educated and have years of training and experience helping individuals and families cope with mental health issues. We strive to provide a comprehensive and patient centered treatments that are trailered to an individual's and family's needs. The focus at Zen is too educate, empower and encourage individual struggling with mental illness to feel better and to succeed. We understand each person is unique and we respect every diversity and differences among our patients.
![Photo of Dr. Carol L. Milliken, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, CFTP, CCRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/919bf84b-f0f3-4cba-b9cd-80ce2b09598e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Carol L. Milliken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, CFTP, CCRN
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Milford, NH 03055 (Online Only)
At Mae Mental Wellness, my goal is to work collaboratively with my patients to develop a treatment plan that will result in improved mental wellness. I am a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with diverse expertise. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and am board certified in psychiatric mental health advanced practice nursing, family trauma therapy, emergency, and critical care nursing. I am also a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt who stands at the forefront of advanced nursing practice and quality improvement in mental health care.
At Mae Mental Wellness, my goal is to work collaboratively with my patients to develop a treatment plan that will result in improved mental wellness. I am a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with diverse expertise. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and am board certified in psychiatric mental health advanced practice nursing, family trauma therapy, emergency, and critical care nursing. I am also a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt who stands at the forefront of advanced nursing practice and quality improvement in mental health care.
![Photo of Corneliu Stanciu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8b3bb79-8fa0-42a0-acfb-4de77023d576/1/320x400.png)
Anthem Cigna Community Health Options ComPsych Humana Commercial MediNcrease Multiplan Tricare/Humana Military Tufts USFamily
Anthem Cigna Community Health Options ComPsych Humana Commercial MediNcrease Multiplan Tricare/Humana Military Tufts USFamily
![Photo of Christina Gormly - Vista Family Psychiatry, LLC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf6e611a-15cb-48bf-8ffb-f060153fb7cd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vista Family Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Nashua, NH 03062 (Online Only)
My name is Christina Gormly and I am currently scheduling new clients for telehealth sessions. I specialize in caring for children, adolescents, and young adults. I take a warm and holistic approach, utilizing CBT and DBT methods to assist you in meeting your goals. I enjoy working with families with complex needs. I am certified by the ANCC to treat mental health conditions across the lifespan. I have extensive experience in treating eating disorders, as well as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, trauma, attention deficit, and mood dysregulation.
My name is Christina Gormly and I am currently scheduling new clients for telehealth sessions. I specialize in caring for children, adolescents, and young adults. I take a warm and holistic approach, utilizing CBT and DBT methods to assist you in meeting your goals. I enjoy working with families with complex needs. I am certified by the ANCC to treat mental health conditions across the lifespan. I have extensive experience in treating eating disorders, as well as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, trauma, attention deficit, and mood dysregulation.
![Photo of Dr. Alicia Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91684b39-2eec-4bac-9b20-dc0eb56dc002/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Johnson. I am a double-board certified psychiatric provider. I love to help people dealing with real-life issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and those struggling with self-defeating behaviors. Delivering a safe, comfortable, non-judgmental environment and making a difference is what it is all about. My passion is assisting others in their journey, will prescribe medication, if needed, as I can make a difference. I am here to help.
My name is Dr. Johnson. I am a double-board certified psychiatric provider. I love to help people dealing with real-life issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and those struggling with self-defeating behaviors. Delivering a safe, comfortable, non-judgmental environment and making a difference is what it is all about. My passion is assisting others in their journey, will prescribe medication, if needed, as I can make a difference. I am here to help.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Hancock, NH
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hancock, NH who prioritize treating:
100% | Addiction |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Alcohol Use |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Veterans |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Hancock, NH see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hancock?
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.