Psychiatrists in 01605

Photo of Sarah Hoxha, PA, Physician Assistant
Sarah Hoxha
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
Meet Sarah, a dedicated Certified Physician Assistant (PA) who has found her passion in the field of Psychiatry and Mental Health. Graduating from MCPHS University in 2019, Sarah's journey is marked by her unwavering commitment to fostering a therapeutic alliance with her patients and closely monitoring their mental health progress. With her unique combination of compassion, positivity, and experience, Sarah strives to provide the best possible care to all those she serves.
Meet Sarah, a dedicated Certified Physician Assistant (PA) who has found her passion in the field of Psychiatry and Mental Health. Graduating from MCPHS University in 2019, Sarah's journey is marked by her unwavering commitment to fostering a therapeutic alliance with her patients and closely monitoring their mental health progress. With her unique combination of compassion, positivity, and experience, Sarah strives to provide the best possible care to all those she serves.
(617) 917-2394 View (617) 917-2394
Photo of Stacie Rose, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacie Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Stacie is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, providing diagnostic mental health evaluations, medication, and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of psychosocial and behavioral health concerns. Utilizing an integrative approach, treatment is a collaborative process that may include a combination of psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle/nutritional modifications, and complementary practices.
Stacie is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, providing diagnostic mental health evaluations, medication, and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of psychosocial and behavioral health concerns. Utilizing an integrative approach, treatment is a collaborative process that may include a combination of psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle/nutritional modifications, and complementary practices.
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Photo of Grace Ngumi - Bright Act Behavioral Health Center LLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bright Act Behavioral Health Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
Bright Act Behavioral Center LLC is an outpatient Mental Health Center in Worcester, Massachusetts which provides diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive services related to mental and behavioral disorders. At Bright Act Behavioral Center We've been proudly attending to our patients’ mental health needs and have been working tirelessly to brighten peoples lives coupled with offering proactive quality Mental healthcare in a safe and comfortable environment. We offer services including Medication Management, Counselling, Substance abuse counselling and other related mental health needs. We guarantee to provide quality mental health.
Bright Act Behavioral Center LLC is an outpatient Mental Health Center in Worcester, Massachusetts which provides diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive services related to mental and behavioral disorders. At Bright Act Behavioral Center We've been proudly attending to our patients’ mental health needs and have been working tirelessly to brighten peoples lives coupled with offering proactive quality Mental healthcare in a safe and comfortable environment. We offer services including Medication Management, Counselling, Substance abuse counselling and other related mental health needs. We guarantee to provide quality mental health.
(508) 665-2595 View (508) 665-2595
Photo of Monica Muiruri, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Monica Muiruri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
My ideal client is proactive about their health, seeking personalized care for their specific concerns and goals. They desire comprehensive evaluation and treatment tailored to their needs, with a provider who listens, respects autonomy, and collaborates on a plan aligned with their values. They value education, empowerment, and active participation in decision-making. They aspire to have a fulfilling, vibrant life, free from health limitations, seeking personalized care that respects their uniqueness and honors their preferences.
My ideal client is proactive about their health, seeking personalized care for their specific concerns and goals. They desire comprehensive evaluation and treatment tailored to their needs, with a provider who listens, respects autonomy, and collaborates on a plan aligned with their values. They value education, empowerment, and active participation in decision-making. They aspire to have a fulfilling, vibrant life, free from health limitations, seeking personalized care that respects their uniqueness and honors their preferences.
(508) 286-8818 View (508) 286-8818
Photo of Jillian Bonzani, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jillian Bonzani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression and anxiety. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. My role as a PMHNP is multifaceted and includes being an educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. I completed my Master’s Degree in Nursing at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression and anxiety. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. My role as a PMHNP is multifaceted and includes being an educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. I completed my Master’s Degree in Nursing at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
(774) 772-5525 View (774) 772-5525
Photo of Astrid March, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Astrid March
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
Astrid is a fully licensed and board certified Nurse Practitioner. She completed her Master of Science in Nursing at Regis College specializing in geriatric care. She is a published author of a chapter in the book Frontiers in Natural Product Chemistry.Astrid is a member of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses. She is fluent in English and Spanish. Astrid enjoys spending time with her family and dog, gardening and being in nature, and playing table tennis.
Astrid is a fully licensed and board certified Nurse Practitioner. She completed her Master of Science in Nursing at Regis College specializing in geriatric care. She is a published author of a chapter in the book Frontiers in Natural Product Chemistry.Astrid is a member of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses. She is fluent in English and Spanish. Astrid enjoys spending time with her family and dog, gardening and being in nature, and playing table tennis.
(508) 761-1756 View (508) 761-1756
Photo of Jennifer Caraballo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Caraballo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, school-related issues, sleep/insomnia, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bipolar disorder. I enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, and individuals across the lifespan, providing comprehensive and compassionate care.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, school-related issues, sleep/insomnia, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bipolar disorder. I enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, and individuals across the lifespan, providing comprehensive and compassionate care.
(774) 771-1235 View (774) 771-1235
Sellyview Psychotherapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
Are you weary from trying countless medications without seeing any real change? At Sellyview Psychotherapy, I understand the frustration that comes with battling mental health issues, and I'm here to guide you toward a brighter future. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, my mission is to empower you to break free from the barriers that are holding you back from the life you deserve.
Are you weary from trying countless medications without seeing any real change? At Sellyview Psychotherapy, I understand the frustration that comes with battling mental health issues, and I'm here to guide you toward a brighter future. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, my mission is to empower you to break free from the barriers that are holding you back from the life you deserve.
(508) 719-7863 View (508) 719-7863
Photo of Us For More Information - EleMental Wellness Center , PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
EleMental Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
We are accepting new Clients for In-Person OR Telehealth appointments for adolescents 12 years and older and Adults 18 years and older: Here at EleMental Wellness Center, we provide diagnostic assessment and treatment for broad range of psychiatric illnesses including but not limited to: Mood Disorders [Depression/Bipolar disorder], Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, Alcohol use disorders and Panic disorders.
We are accepting new Clients for In-Person OR Telehealth appointments for adolescents 12 years and older and Adults 18 years and older: Here at EleMental Wellness Center, we provide diagnostic assessment and treatment for broad range of psychiatric illnesses including but not limited to: Mood Disorders [Depression/Bipolar disorder], Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, Alcohol use disorders and Panic disorders.
(508) 213-9438 View (508) 213-9438
Photo of Kerri Ellis - Be Your Best Self Psychiatric Care, DNP, PMHNP, ACNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Be Your Best Self Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ACNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Be Your Best Self Psychiatric Care, I’m dedicated to supporting clients aged 6 and up who are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with focus and motivation, or navigating the ups and downs of mood disorders. As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and more, using a holistic approach that combines medication management and therapy. I am able to provide GeneSight testing and depending on your insurance this will cost you little to no cost out of pocket.
At Be Your Best Self Psychiatric Care, I’m dedicated to supporting clients aged 6 and up who are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with focus and motivation, or navigating the ups and downs of mood disorders. As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and more, using a holistic approach that combines medication management and therapy. I am able to provide GeneSight testing and depending on your insurance this will cost you little to no cost out of pocket.
(508) 731-3951 View (508) 731-3951
Photo of Dr. Steven Alan Adelman, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Steven Alan Adelman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Although successful, you're not as happy as you deserve to be, and you are likely pretty good at hiding your internal distress. You may be dissatisfied with the situation at work, or with the quality of your relationships, or both. This gnaws at you, you want to fix it, and you may be skeptical about the “therapy industrial complex.” Before launching into the fix, you need to clearly understand the problem, and how different approaches may or may not address it. You like the idea of starting with an evaluation by a seasoned expert who gets people like you, and who will tell it like it is with compassion and understanding.
Although successful, you're not as happy as you deserve to be, and you are likely pretty good at hiding your internal distress. You may be dissatisfied with the situation at work, or with the quality of your relationships, or both. This gnaws at you, you want to fix it, and you may be skeptical about the “therapy industrial complex.” Before launching into the fix, you need to clearly understand the problem, and how different approaches may or may not address it. You like the idea of starting with an evaluation by a seasoned expert who gets people like you, and who will tell it like it is with compassion and understanding.
(617) 843-5917 View (617) 843-5917
Photo of Shalina Wray, MSN, PHMNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shalina Wray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PHMNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
***Currently accepting new patients*** Hello, My name is Shalina and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed to see individuals across the life span and have experience working with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics. Look forward to helping you with your psychiatric/mental health needs, supportive therapies, diagnoses, and medication management.
***Currently accepting new patients*** Hello, My name is Shalina and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed to see individuals across the life span and have experience working with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics. Look forward to helping you with your psychiatric/mental health needs, supportive therapies, diagnoses, and medication management.
(413) 300-6823 View (413) 300-6823
Photo of Thanh Tam Huynh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thanh Tam Huynh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients with Immediate availability. Pease email Admin(at sign)PBHealthLLC.com to have an intake form sent to you. With experience in treating both children and adults, We believe mental health is the foundation of an individual's over-all health. We focus on an integrative treatment approach with an emphasis on making life changes in addition to treatment with medication. We work with my clients to develop an understanding of their own unique stressors and pressure of everyday life in order to create a well-rounded treatment plan
Accepting New Patients with Immediate availability. Pease email Admin(at sign)PBHealthLLC.com to have an intake form sent to you. With experience in treating both children and adults, We believe mental health is the foundation of an individual's over-all health. We focus on an integrative treatment approach with an emphasis on making life changes in addition to treatment with medication. We work with my clients to develop an understanding of their own unique stressors and pressure of everyday life in order to create a well-rounded treatment plan
(508) 233-9297 View (508) 233-9297

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Anu Sharma, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anu Sharma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Marlborough, MA 01752
Since PMHNPs are specialized nurse practitioners, my client should know about me. Like mental health experts, PMHNPs diagnose, treat, and assess patients' mental health issues. They see mental and physical health as interconnected and provide holistic care. PMHNPs work alone and in teams to provide top-notch psychiatric care to all patients. PMHNPs can use empathy in healthcare. Communication skills, cultural competency, and kindness can help PMHNPs empathize with and build trust with patients. This provider can attract clients by creating a professional practice website that contains services, locations, and contact information.
Since PMHNPs are specialized nurse practitioners, my client should know about me. Like mental health experts, PMHNPs diagnose, treat, and assess patients' mental health issues. They see mental and physical health as interconnected and provide holistic care. PMHNPs work alone and in teams to provide top-notch psychiatric care to all patients. PMHNPs can use empathy in healthcare. Communication skills, cultural competency, and kindness can help PMHNPs empathize with and build trust with patients. This provider can attract clients by creating a professional practice website that contains services, locations, and contact information.
(774) 238-5992 View (774) 238-5992
Photo of Sarlah Bernard, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarlah Bernard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a multilingual psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked across the lifespan in Massachusetts. I work with clients who are struggling with a myriad of mental health concerns, including substance abuse. My goal is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients to empower them to engage in their treatment to reach their maximum potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have adequate information while being an active participant to make an informed decision about their treatment plan.
I am a multilingual psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked across the lifespan in Massachusetts. I work with clients who are struggling with a myriad of mental health concerns, including substance abuse. My goal is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients to empower them to engage in their treatment to reach their maximum potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have adequate information while being an active participant to make an informed decision about their treatment plan.
(781) 776-5273 View (781) 776-5273
Photo of Meaghan Quist - Valley Wellness Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Valley Wellness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01601
Meaghan Quist, APRN of Valley Wellness is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services to Adult individuals seeking Med management, support and healing. Meaghan offers a personalized approach to mental health, tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each patient.
Meaghan Quist, APRN of Valley Wellness is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services to Adult individuals seeking Med management, support and healing. Meaghan offers a personalized approach to mental health, tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each patient.
(413) 666-1515 View (413) 666-1515
Photo of Katherine Boone, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katherine Boone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wrentham, MA 02093
Hi! So happy you found me! If you're in need of medication management with an optional supportive therapy add on, you're in the right place. I specialize in treating clients form across the lifespan (18+) struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, PTSD, etc. I love a challenge and if you're open and willing to working with me, I promise to get you to where you want to be. Life is hard, we all struggle sometimes, but you don't have to struggle alone. I pride myself on treating the whole picture: medication is a big part but let's also chat about diet, exercise, and sleep! All so important to getting you feeling better
Hi! So happy you found me! If you're in need of medication management with an optional supportive therapy add on, you're in the right place. I specialize in treating clients form across the lifespan (18+) struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, PTSD, etc. I love a challenge and if you're open and willing to working with me, I promise to get you to where you want to be. Life is hard, we all struggle sometimes, but you don't have to struggle alone. I pride myself on treating the whole picture: medication is a big part but let's also chat about diet, exercise, and sleep! All so important to getting you feeling better
(781) 488-5382 View (781) 488-5382
Photo of Francisca Ojei, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Francisca Ojei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
As a keen practitioner, my journey to helping humanity began 11 years ago after graduating with my Bachelors in Nursing, I dedicated 5 years in serving underserved communities in urban and rural areas, worked in a pediatric facility and top Major Hospitals in Boston. Then I decided to complete my Masters in Nursing at Regis College 5 years ago focusing in internal medication. Mental health medicine caught my attention after working in a methadone and suboxone clinic. I further pursed my interest by working at SouthBay for over 2 years, now at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates for almost 2 years.
As a keen practitioner, my journey to helping humanity began 11 years ago after graduating with my Bachelors in Nursing, I dedicated 5 years in serving underserved communities in urban and rural areas, worked in a pediatric facility and top Major Hospitals in Boston. Then I decided to complete my Masters in Nursing at Regis College 5 years ago focusing in internal medication. Mental health medicine caught my attention after working in a methadone and suboxone clinic. I further pursed my interest by working at SouthBay for over 2 years, now at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates for almost 2 years.
(774) 332-5563 View (774) 332-5563
Photo of Michelle Cataldo - Mended Root LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mended Root LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The ideal client might be someone who struggles with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health concerns. They may be seeking help with managing their symptoms, improving their mood and general outlook, and finding meaningful ways to cope with their issues. They likely want a compassionate and supportive environment where they can feel safe and understood. They may also be looking for individualized treatment tailored to their unique needs. Furthermore, they may have goals related to improving their daily functioning, building positive relationships, or pursuing personal growth.
The ideal client might be someone who struggles with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health concerns. They may be seeking help with managing their symptoms, improving their mood and general outlook, and finding meaningful ways to cope with their issues. They likely want a compassionate and supportive environment where they can feel safe and understood. They may also be looking for individualized treatment tailored to their unique needs. Furthermore, they may have goals related to improving their daily functioning, building positive relationships, or pursuing personal growth.
(781) 556-6258 View (781) 556-6258
Photo of Lauren Stanley, PA, Physician Assistant
Lauren Stanley
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Meet Lauren, a nationally certified Physician Associate with a specialization in psychiatry, highlighting her commitment to mental health care. Her educational journey, marked by academic excellence, includes both a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from MCPHS University, where she graduated magna cum laude. Lauren's primary goal as a psychiatric PA is to empower her patients to achieve their mental health goals through honest and open communication.
Meet Lauren, a nationally certified Physician Associate with a specialization in psychiatry, highlighting her commitment to mental health care. Her educational journey, marked by academic excellence, includes both a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from MCPHS University, where she graduated magna cum laude. Lauren's primary goal as a psychiatric PA is to empower her patients to achieve their mental health goals through honest and open communication.
(617) 765-1792 View (617) 765-1792

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 01605

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 01605 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
85% Depression
77% ADHD
77% Medication Management
69% Bipolar Disorder
62% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
62% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Harvard Pilgrim

How Psychiatrists in 01605 see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 01605?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.