Psychiatrists in Salem, NH
![Photo of Vannessa Davis, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89866c33-9be9-4bcf-a330-c6d3563ca2c2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients. Bethany Health Services, LLC offers telehealth psychiatric consultation and chronic disease management. We provide pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy (mental health treatment) for children, adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, Psychotic disorder, Bordering Personality Disorder and much more.
Accepting new patients. Bethany Health Services, LLC offers telehealth psychiatric consultation and chronic disease management. We provide pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy (mental health treatment) for children, adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar, Psychotic disorder, Bordering Personality Disorder and much more.
![Photo of Kimberly Lemkin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e789035-5a71-47d2-8322-f1fc50399378/2/320x400.jpeg)
Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Visit my website lemkinmd.com. I am a Harvard trained, board certified adult psychiatrist with additional training in consultation- liaison psychiatry and psychodynamic therapy. I offer individual therapy, psychiatric assessments, and medication management in my private practice.
Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Visit my website lemkinmd.com. I am a Harvard trained, board certified adult psychiatrist with additional training in consultation- liaison psychiatry and psychodynamic therapy. I offer individual therapy, psychiatric assessments, and medication management in my private practice.
![Photo of Serena Verolla, MS, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e8d269d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Serena Verolla
Psychiatric Nurse, MS, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salem, NH 03079
Accepting New patients. Telehealth/video appointments available. Licensed in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Medication management for adults. Board certified in both psychiatric mental health and family medicine. I do not accept Medicare or Medicaid insurances.
Accepting New patients. Telehealth/video appointments available. Licensed in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Medication management for adults. Board certified in both psychiatric mental health and family medicine. I do not accept Medicare or Medicaid insurances.
![Photo of Lori Eaton, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aace3e11-d8e9-48e7-9074-c06ca2fdecba/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lori Eaton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, NH 03079
Not accepting new clients
Lori Eaton is a Board Certified - Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Salem, New Hampshire. She graduated with honors from University of New Mexico School Of Medicine in 2012. Having more than 11 years of diverse experiences. Crossroads Recovery Center (603-912-4490. I am dedicated to treating the whole person. In-Network with all NH Medicaid providers and most major insurance carriers.
Lori Eaton is a Board Certified - Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Salem, New Hampshire. She graduated with honors from University of New Mexico School Of Medicine in 2012. Having more than 11 years of diverse experiences. Crossroads Recovery Center (603-912-4490. I am dedicated to treating the whole person. In-Network with all NH Medicaid providers and most major insurance carriers.
![Photo of Erika Wilson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09dbf6dd-2be8-4842-b42d-58d1fed66d67/1/320x400.jpeg)
Your initial appointment may either be solely with Dr. Wilson, or may be with a resident physician with Dr. Wilson 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. Wilson would continue to be involved in your care. Residents change each year in July, but Dr.
Your initial appointment may either be solely with Dr. Wilson, or may be with a resident physician with Dr. Wilson 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. Wilson would continue to be involved in your care. Residents change each year in July, but Dr.
![Photo of Alyssa Ryan, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c480c5b-3a0b-432b-b5b7-0155ef5097ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, NH 03079 (Online Only)
I am passionate about enhancing mental health and wellness through a holistic approach. I firmly believe that true well-being encompasses more than just medications—it involves coping strategies, lifestyle modifications, and personalized care. With my understanding of the mind-body connection, I strive to optimize mental health outcomes by integrating the best of both worlds: evidence-based pharmacological interventions and a comprehensive array of holistic practices. Combining the power of medications with coping strategies and lifestyle adjustments, I aim to provide a comprehensive and tailored treatment plan for each individual.
I am passionate about enhancing mental health and wellness through a holistic approach. I firmly believe that true well-being encompasses more than just medications—it involves coping strategies, lifestyle modifications, and personalized care. With my understanding of the mind-body connection, I strive to optimize mental health outcomes by integrating the best of both worlds: evidence-based pharmacological interventions and a comprehensive array of holistic practices. Combining the power of medications with coping strategies and lifestyle adjustments, I aim to provide a comprehensive and tailored treatment plan for each individual.
![Photo of Maryanne Fournier, DNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9971f611-892e-4653-99e6-74c472749b0b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Skills and Specializations: Assessment and diagnosis, medication management, psychotherapy, treatment planning. I began my career in nursing 30 years ago in emergency medicine and critical care. Throughout my career, I have also worked in nursing administration and nursing education. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, having worked as a Nurse manager in an inpatient Behavioral Health Unit, and also as a Nurse Practitioner administering medications as well as other treatments and services as appropriate for the adult outpatient population.
Skills and Specializations: Assessment and diagnosis, medication management, psychotherapy, treatment planning. I began my career in nursing 30 years ago in emergency medicine and critical care. Throughout my career, I have also worked in nursing administration and nursing education. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, having worked as a Nurse manager in an inpatient Behavioral Health Unit, and also as a Nurse Practitioner administering medications as well as other treatments and services as appropriate for the adult outpatient population.
![Photo of Alyssa Ryan, RN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/357819ca-e246-495d-ad7e-61f7bfccb80a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Salem, NH 03079 (Online Only)
I am passionate about enhancing mental health and wellness through a holistic approach. I firmly believe that true well-being encompasses more than just medications—it involves coping strategies, lifestyle modifications, and personalized care. With my understanding of the mind-body connection, I strive to optimize mental health outcomes by integrating the best of both worlds: evidence-based pharmacological interventions and a comprehensive array of holistic practices. Combining the power of medications with coping strategies and lifestyle adjustments, I aim to provide a comprehensive and tailored treatment plan for each individual.
I am passionate about enhancing mental health and wellness through a holistic approach. I firmly believe that true well-being encompasses more than just medications—it involves coping strategies, lifestyle modifications, and personalized care. With my understanding of the mind-body connection, I strive to optimize mental health outcomes by integrating the best of both worlds: evidence-based pharmacological interventions and a comprehensive array of holistic practices. Combining the power of medications with coping strategies and lifestyle adjustments, I aim to provide a comprehensive and tailored treatment plan for each individual.
![Photo of Jennifer Albert, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b0a5d5c-99b8-4721-8a81-c3972fd1d858/1/320x400.png)
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
![Photo of Henry Kengong Ntoro, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1b8c69e-e953-42f9-bea8-86f5c1298227/5/320x400.jpeg)
I am an adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a unique experience in psychopharmacology focusing on mechanism of action for psychotropic medications. Please go to my website yourplaceofcare.com, fill a referral form and send to me via email or fax. I am also offering pharmacogenetic testing as need arises. It's all about you!
I am an adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a unique experience in psychopharmacology focusing on mechanism of action for psychotropic medications. Please go to my website yourplaceofcare.com, fill a referral form and send to me via email or fax. I am also offering pharmacogenetic testing as need arises. It's all about you!
![Photo of Caroline Lee Clark, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4896b993-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Lee Clark
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salem, NH 03079 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of clinical practice across a variety of settings. My approach to mental health and medication management is patient centered. Understandably, many come to new providers feeling nervous or even jaded and unheard by previous experiences in health care. I like to collaborate with my patients to design a treatment plan that feels right. I practice psychiatry and medication management but I can also offer integrative approaches for those who are not interested in meds or would like to augment their treatment plan.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of clinical practice across a variety of settings. My approach to mental health and medication management is patient centered. Understandably, many come to new providers feeling nervous or even jaded and unheard by previous experiences in health care. I like to collaborate with my patients to design a treatment plan that feels right. I practice psychiatry and medication management but I can also offer integrative approaches for those who are not interested in meds or would like to augment their treatment plan.
![Photo of Helen Macharia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/faec6dcb-cb70-4c2b-ad32-b52fc77e036a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you or a loved one navigating mental health challenges and seeking a compassionate and holistic approach to mental health care? Are you in a transitional phase, such as the shift from college to adulthood, worrying about your future success, and looking for personalized support to navigate these changes? Do you value a collaborative and empathetic approach where medication management, therapy, and lifestyle guidance are seamlessly integrated? If any of these questions resonate with you, Helen Macharia at Cagway Health and Wellness is here to support your journey toward stabilization, healing, and an improved quality of life.
Are you or a loved one navigating mental health challenges and seeking a compassionate and holistic approach to mental health care? Are you in a transitional phase, such as the shift from college to adulthood, worrying about your future success, and looking for personalized support to navigate these changes? Do you value a collaborative and empathetic approach where medication management, therapy, and lifestyle guidance are seamlessly integrated? If any of these questions resonate with you, Helen Macharia at Cagway Health and Wellness is here to support your journey toward stabilization, healing, and an improved quality of life.
![Photo of Haulek Tawmging, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31f433e5-7ec3-4ace-a1ee-337253d54335/2/320x400.jpeg)
Haulek Tawmging
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salem, NH 03079 (Online Only)
Traditional psychiatry has its place in helping millions, but what if you're looking for a more nutritional point of view. We are what we eat, and we suffer when if we do not have the essentials for a healthy body. I focus on lifestyle, psychosocial, physical, spiritual, and nutritional perspective. I connect with teens, collegiate, and young professionals to navigate anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, bipolar disorder, PMDD, stressors of career and school transitions, and family life.
Traditional psychiatry has its place in helping millions, but what if you're looking for a more nutritional point of view. We are what we eat, and we suffer when if we do not have the essentials for a healthy body. I focus on lifestyle, psychosocial, physical, spiritual, and nutritional perspective. I connect with teens, collegiate, and young professionals to navigate anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, bipolar disorder, PMDD, stressors of career and school transitions, and family life.
![Photo of John Donovan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/367c5343-64a9-4f64-a04f-63030409eaec/2/320x400.png)
You deserve a life where you wake up happy and go to bed at peace. I'm here to help you achieve that. I promise to listen and support you through whatever challenges you’re facing right now. I appreciate clients who are motivated and open to change. I know that taking the first step toward seeking help can be intimidating, but I'm here for you! Together, we will create a personalized treatment plan that may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Whether you have a long history of mental health struggles or are reaching out for the first time, I am here to support and guide you.
You deserve a life where you wake up happy and go to bed at peace. I'm here to help you achieve that. I promise to listen and support you through whatever challenges you’re facing right now. I appreciate clients who are motivated and open to change. I know that taking the first step toward seeking help can be intimidating, but I'm here for you! Together, we will create a personalized treatment plan that may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Whether you have a long history of mental health struggles or are reaching out for the first time, I am here to support and guide you.
![Photo of Cara-Jean Donaghey, MSN, APRN, ANP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29e71e17-dca5-4509-8a13-51b20f6e043c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cara-Jean Donaghey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, ANP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salem, NH 03079
As a dually board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Nurse Practitioner, with a background in internal medicine, I have extensive experience in treating a wide variety of mental health concerns in the setting of physical health. Comprehensive services include consultation, psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment with particular focus on development of a strong therapeutic partnership. I provide primarily medication management, some psychotherapy and alternative modalities to adolescents and adults, ages 18 and up. Appointments are offered in person or via telehealth.
As a dually board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Nurse Practitioner, with a background in internal medicine, I have extensive experience in treating a wide variety of mental health concerns in the setting of physical health. Comprehensive services include consultation, psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment with particular focus on development of a strong therapeutic partnership. I provide primarily medication management, some psychotherapy and alternative modalities to adolescents and adults, ages 18 and up. Appointments are offered in person or via telehealth.
![Photo of DeAnna Pangione, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fa816bd-f516-42b4-b678-0f37a75a3afa/1/320x400.jpeg)
DeAnna Pangione
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, NH 03079
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Have you exhausted your usual coping mechanisms? Is everyday life becoming more difficult? While all of us experience difficulties at some point in our life, when feelings of anxiety or sadness become your "normal," I can help.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Have you exhausted your usual coping mechanisms? Is everyday life becoming more difficult? While all of us experience difficulties at some point in our life, when feelings of anxiety or sadness become your "normal," I can help.
![Photo of Chloe Griffith, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd2a0113-8423-4591-bdeb-483db1e748e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, NH 03079 (Online Only)
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
![Photo of Adam Horn, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2730983-f1c9-47b2-9ee0-d5519c97eb1f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Horn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, NH 03079 (Online Only)
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Margaret Oliver, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbaff8c3-da03-470c-acaf-e9b67dc38154/1/320x400.png)
Margaret Oliver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Derry, NH 03038 (Online Only)
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities.
![Photo of Jennifer Sims, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/554ad1b1-a173-4870-b356-f85f6bc6c680/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Derry, NH 03038 (Online Only)
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
See more therapy options for Salem
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Salem, NH
10+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Salem, NH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | ADHD |
78% | Medication Management |
61% | Trauma and PTSD |
61% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | Aetna |
75% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Salem, NH see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
88% | Female | |
12% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Salem?
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.