How to find a psychiatrist (and how that's different from a therapist)
Who this is for: Anyone who thinks they might need medication, or isn't sure whether they need a therapist, a psychiatrist, or both.
Therapist vs. psychiatrist — the plain version
Therapist (talk therapy)
A counselor you talk with to work through thoughts, feelings, and problems. Includes LCSWs, LCMHCs, LMFTs, and psychologists.
Most cannot prescribe medication. You see them weekly or every couple of weeks.
Psychiatrist (medication)
A medical doctor (MD/DO) who can diagnose and prescribe medication for mental health conditions.
You usually see them less often — a longer first visit, then shorter "med check" visits every 1–3 months.
Many people see both
A common setup is a therapist for the talking and a prescriber for the medication. They can work as a team. You don't have to choose one or the other.
You may not need a psychiatrist at all
Two things are worth knowing before you start hunting for a psychiatrist, because they can get you help much sooner:
- Your primary care doctor can prescribe many mental health medications — like antidepressants. If you have a regular doctor, asking them is often the fastest path.
- Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (APRNs) and PAs also prescribe. They do the same medication work as psychiatrists, and there are more of them, so wait times are often shorter. When you search, look for "psychiatric APRN" or "PMHNP," not just "psychiatrist."
Step by step: getting a prescriber
- 1
Start with your CMHC if you have limited or no insurance
New Hampshire's 10 Community Mental Health Centers have prescribers on staff and serve everyone in their area, including people on Medicaid or with no insurance. Find yours on the catchment map. This is often the most reliable way to get medication care.
- 2
Ask your primary care doctor
If you already have a doctor, tell them what you're experiencing. They can start treatment or refer you to a specialist. A referral from them can also move you up some waitlists.
- 3
Search for prescribers (include APRNs)
Use Find a therapist or service and look for psychiatrists andpsychiatric nurse practitioners. Call your insurance's member line (number on your card) and ask for in-network prescribers near you.
- 4
Ask to be on a cancellation list
When you book, ask: "Can you put me on your cancellation or waitlist?" Openings happen, and people who ask get called first. Say yes to earlier slots even if they're by video.
- 5
Bridge the wait
If the wait is long, you don't have to just sit with it. Start therapy in the meantime, lean on your primary care doctor, and know that for any urgent worsening you can reach NH Rapid Response at 833-710-6477, 24/7.
Why the wait can be long — and what helps
New Hampshire has a real shortage of psychiatric prescribers, especially in rural areas. Waits of weeks to months are common. What actually shortens the wait:
- Being flexible about telehealth (video visits open up many more prescribers).
- Considering a psychiatric APRN, not only an MD psychiatrist.
- Getting on multiple waitlists and cancellation lists at once.
- Having your primary care doctor start or continue medication in the meantime.
- Going through your CMHC, which is set up to serve you regardless of the wait.
Talk to a person who can help you search
Need help right now?
Call or text 988(Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), or reach NH Rapid Response 24/7 at 833-710-6477. For any emergency, call 911.