Psychiatrists in 02027

Photo of Hannah Lynch - Onward Psychiatry - immediate openings!, PMHNP, LICSW, LADC1, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Onward Psychiatry - immediate openings!
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LICSW, LADC1
Verified Verified
Dedham, MA 02027
Immediate openings for therapy and medication management in person or via telehealth! If you have been struggling with symptoms that are keeping you from moving forward, we can help. At Onward Psychiatry we put a focus on symptoms, not just diagnosis, to help you improve areas of your life where you might be having difficulty. We will help you formulate a treatment plan with medications and/or therapy to aid in improving areas of your life that you have been struggling with.
Immediate openings for therapy and medication management in person or via telehealth! If you have been struggling with symptoms that are keeping you from moving forward, we can help. At Onward Psychiatry we put a focus on symptoms, not just diagnosis, to help you improve areas of your life where you might be having difficulty. We will help you formulate a treatment plan with medications and/or therapy to aid in improving areas of your life that you have been struggling with.
(781) 412-7751 View (781) 412-7751

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Uzo Onyekwelu, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Uzo Onyekwelu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dedham, MA 02026  (Online Only)
I treat various mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, mood disorder, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar etc. I come from a family of many medical professionals. I will listen to you and come up with a treatment plan to help you get better. We will also focus on other aspects of your life that may impact your mental health. Whatever the situation or circumstances, you should never feel alone. I assist by providing support and promoting healing. I provide med management and supportive therapy. Offering telehealth/video appointments only at this time.
I treat various mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, mood disorder, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar etc. I come from a family of many medical professionals. I will listen to you and come up with a treatment plan to help you get better. We will also focus on other aspects of your life that may impact your mental health. Whatever the situation or circumstances, you should never feel alone. I assist by providing support and promoting healing. I provide med management and supportive therapy. Offering telehealth/video appointments only at this time.
(512) 960-1973 View (512) 960-1973
Photo of Olubunmi Olawale, PMHNPBC, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olubunmi Olawale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Dedham, MA 02026  (Online Only)
Mental health is a priority to you and us at the Heritage Health System. We care for your mental health needs. We're aimed at supporting you to achieve your goal of a good level of functioning. We also prioritize your needs by ensuring an adequate evaluation of your presenting concerns/symptoms and come up with the appropriate diagnosis and treatment as required. I consult with your therapist and other treaters to provide expert medication management across the diagnostic spectrum. We address and manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders, schizophrenia and dual diagnosis.
Mental health is a priority to you and us at the Heritage Health System. We care for your mental health needs. We're aimed at supporting you to achieve your goal of a good level of functioning. We also prioritize your needs by ensuring an adequate evaluation of your presenting concerns/symptoms and come up with the appropriate diagnosis and treatment as required. I consult with your therapist and other treaters to provide expert medication management across the diagnostic spectrum. We address and manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders, schizophrenia and dual diagnosis.
(857) 855-6399 View (857) 855-6399
Photo of Effie Saly, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Effie Saly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Dedham, MA 02026
If you feel overwhelmed, stressed, unable to cope I am here to help. I provide a safe and supportive and judgement free environment ,where you can be heard and be helped toward healing and hope. I am a Board Certified with dual certifications as Family nurse practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice.
If you feel overwhelmed, stressed, unable to cope I am here to help. I provide a safe and supportive and judgement free environment ,where you can be heard and be helped toward healing and hope. I am a Board Certified with dual certifications as Family nurse practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice.
(857) 267-8962 View (857) 267-8962
Photo of Hilda A Epelle - Rising Behavioral Help Center, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rising Behavioral Help Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dedham, MA 02026
With over 10 years of clinical and leadership experience in healthcare, I am deeply committed to developing care plans that optimally balance the application of medications and other therapeutic techniques for behavioral and mental health. As a clinical instructor, I independently train aspiring mental health practitioners, emphasizing a holistic approach and individual patient focus.
With over 10 years of clinical and leadership experience in healthcare, I am deeply committed to developing care plans that optimally balance the application of medications and other therapeutic techniques for behavioral and mental health. As a clinical instructor, I independently train aspiring mental health practitioners, emphasizing a holistic approach and individual patient focus.
(617) 977-6282 View (617) 977-6282
Photo of Melanie Daley - Carnegie Psychiatry, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carnegie Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02136
Currently accepting new patients for medication management. Melanie Daley's professional background as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Massachusetts reflects a comprehensive and dedicated career in mental health care. With over twelve years of experience as a Registered Nurse in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis settings, Melanie possesses a robust skill set to address various mental health issues.
Currently accepting new patients for medication management. Melanie Daley's professional background as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Massachusetts reflects a comprehensive and dedicated career in mental health care. With over twelve years of experience as a Registered Nurse in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis settings, Melanie possesses a robust skill set to address various mental health issues.
(617) 744-7410 View (617) 744-7410
Photo of Maria Eden Aguilar Gianan, BSN, NP, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse
Maria Eden Aguilar Gianan
Psychiatric Nurse, BSN, NP, CNS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dedham, MA 02026
My clients are usually feeling overwhelmed by sudden challenges and transitions which can alter perspective and cause stress, depression, anxiety and trauma. I provide the guidance and positive outlook needed to respond to stressful situations as opportunities to learn and grow. I also have a wide range of experience in crisis stabilization. Crisis strongly impacts day-to-day routines, yet with counseling, clients can move forward with life. Learning how to move forward, although often difficult, can prevent further emotional distress.
My clients are usually feeling overwhelmed by sudden challenges and transitions which can alter perspective and cause stress, depression, anxiety and trauma. I provide the guidance and positive outlook needed to respond to stressful situations as opportunities to learn and grow. I also have a wide range of experience in crisis stabilization. Crisis strongly impacts day-to-day routines, yet with counseling, clients can move forward with life. Learning how to move forward, although often difficult, can prevent further emotional distress.
(781) 787-2485 View (781) 787-2485
Photo of Dr. Joseph S Insler - Atlas Behavioral Health, PC, MD, Psychiatrist
Atlas Behavioral Health, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dedham, MA 02026
Dr. Insler is a board certified psychiatrist with significant experience treating mood, anxiety disorders, trauma, and substance use disorders. He received his board certification in psychiatry in 2014 and his addiction psychiatry board certification in 2016. His mission is to support you in navigating life’s challenges with a tailored approach that respects your individual needs and goals. He offers a range of services including individual therapy, psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support for various behavioral health concerns.
Dr. Insler is a board certified psychiatrist with significant experience treating mood, anxiety disorders, trauma, and substance use disorders. He received his board certification in psychiatry in 2014 and his addiction psychiatry board certification in 2016. His mission is to support you in navigating life’s challenges with a tailored approach that respects your individual needs and goals. He offers a range of services including individual therapy, psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support for various behavioral health concerns.
(781) 317-6689 View (781) 317-6689
Gabriella Marciante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Dedham, MA 02026  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) across the lifespan. Embracing a holistic approach with the belief that mental health is a multidimensional experience, I strive to promote an active partnership with my clients to manage and decrease symptoms of mental illness. I would enjoy collaborating with your therapist or other providers, and believe combining both medication and psychotherapy allows for the best possible outcomes. I enjoy working with patients age 16 and older who present with a diversity of psychiatric needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) across the lifespan. Embracing a holistic approach with the belief that mental health is a multidimensional experience, I strive to promote an active partnership with my clients to manage and decrease symptoms of mental illness. I would enjoy collaborating with your therapist or other providers, and believe combining both medication and psychotherapy allows for the best possible outcomes. I enjoy working with patients age 16 and older who present with a diversity of psychiatric needs.
(781) 613-2513 View (781) 613-2513
Photo of Sarah Silva, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Silva
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Roxbury, MA 02132
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner clinically educated in treating patients with mental health diagnoses across the lifespan. I have more than 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. I am passionate about taking a patient-centered care approach, attributing positive outcomes to shared decision making.
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner clinically educated in treating patients with mental health diagnoses across the lifespan. I have more than 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. I am passionate about taking a patient-centered care approach, attributing positive outcomes to shared decision making.
(781) 614-7601 View (781) 614-7601
Photo of Brenda Vigue, APRN, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brenda Vigue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP
Verified Verified
Dedham, MA 02026
I am currently accepting new patients in Massachusetts and Arizona. Thank you for stopping by my profile. People reach out for a variety of reasons. Many of these are related to change, life transitions, and an inability to function at their fullest potential. You may be going through a major life transition and associated stress, seeking some relief from your psychiatric symptoms. Through taking a thorough history of the patient's symptoms and life situation, we can come up with a plan for medication management and therapy.
I am currently accepting new patients in Massachusetts and Arizona. Thank you for stopping by my profile. People reach out for a variety of reasons. Many of these are related to change, life transitions, and an inability to function at their fullest potential. You may be going through a major life transition and associated stress, seeking some relief from your psychiatric symptoms. Through taking a thorough history of the patient's symptoms and life situation, we can come up with a plan for medication management and therapy.
(339) 331-2336 View (339) 331-2336
Photo of Ineida Barros, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ineida Barros
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dedham, MA 02026
***Now ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS in Massachusetts VIA in-person or online appointments. Ineida Barros is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Licensed in Massachusetts, providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management specializing in a full range of mental health issues for individuals. Client-centered care is my top priority with individualized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.
***Now ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS in Massachusetts VIA in-person or online appointments. Ineida Barros is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Licensed in Massachusetts, providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management specializing in a full range of mental health issues for individuals. Client-centered care is my top priority with individualized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.
(339) 331-1921 View (339) 331-1921
Photo of Rebecca McCloskey - Rebecca McCloskey PLLC, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca McCloskey PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
West Roxbury, MA 02132
Finding high-quality mental health care can seem like an insurmountable challenge at times. It takes motivation and organization to even start a search, only to run into insurance restrictions and provider shortages. My goal is to help simplify that process by providing holistic, evidence-based care in a low-pressure, client-centered way. With over a decade of experience in mental health and a background in nursing, I bring a compassionate and conversational approach to wellness.
Finding high-quality mental health care can seem like an insurmountable challenge at times. It takes motivation and organization to even start a search, only to run into insurance restrictions and provider shortages. My goal is to help simplify that process by providing holistic, evidence-based care in a low-pressure, client-centered way. With over a decade of experience in mental health and a background in nursing, I bring a compassionate and conversational approach to wellness.
(617) 468-3793 View (617) 468-3793
Photo of Charlotte Maguire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Charlotte Maguire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dedham, MA 02026
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and received my training from MGH Institute of Health Professions, which included induction into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and received my training from MGH Institute of Health Professions, which included induction into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
(339) 209-2879 View (339) 209-2879
Photo of Stephanie Doyle Grant, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Doyle Grant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dedham, MA 02026
Hi! My name is Stephanie Doyle Grant and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric care to children, adolescents, and adults. I provide psychopharm evaluation/medication management, while also including diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders and will offer psychotherapy. I have experience in working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD and specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mood and psychotic disorders. I currently work full time as an outpatient provider during the week. Often on the weekends, I work in Acute Care/Psychiatry - with a inpatient hospital.
Hi! My name is Stephanie Doyle Grant and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric care to children, adolescents, and adults. I provide psychopharm evaluation/medication management, while also including diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders and will offer psychotherapy. I have experience in working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD and specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mood and psychotic disorders. I currently work full time as an outpatient provider during the week. Often on the weekends, I work in Acute Care/Psychiatry - with a inpatient hospital.
(781) 837-8833 View (781) 837-8833
Photo of Meaghen Gallucci - Newton Mental Health , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Newton Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Westwood, MA 02090
If you have made it this far, I am proud of you for taking the initiative to get the help you deserve! Your mental health is as important as your physical health. No one should feel alone on this journey and I am here to help support you on the road to become the best version of yourself. I provide caring, compassionate, and comprehensive care to my clients and their loved ones. I understand that there is no one size fits all approach, I take the time to listen to my clients and work with them to find what will work for them from talk therapy to medication management.
If you have made it this far, I am proud of you for taking the initiative to get the help you deserve! Your mental health is as important as your physical health. No one should feel alone on this journey and I am here to help support you on the road to become the best version of yourself. I provide caring, compassionate, and comprehensive care to my clients and their loved ones. I understand that there is no one size fits all approach, I take the time to listen to my clients and work with them to find what will work for them from talk therapy to medication management.
(617) 657-2770 View (617) 657-2770
Photo of Dr. Ellen Elizabeth Sampson, DNP, PMHNP, GNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Ellen Elizabeth Sampson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, GNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Roxbury, MA 02132
I am a Psychiatric and Geriatric Board Certified Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working closely with my patients to help them find ways to understand and improve their quality of life. I believe that everyone has issues which can become problems if not understood and addressed as life is a process with many stages. My job is to help you to find ways to cope and give you hope and good outcomes by the use of counseling, education, medications or other alternatives.
I am a Psychiatric and Geriatric Board Certified Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working closely with my patients to help them find ways to understand and improve their quality of life. I believe that everyone has issues which can become problems if not understood and addressed as life is a process with many stages. My job is to help you to find ways to cope and give you hope and good outcomes by the use of counseling, education, medications or other alternatives.
View
Hannah McKearney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dedham, MA 02026
Hi! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am currently accepting new clients for both in-person and online appointments. I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management to adults and older adults. I have experience working with individuals with a variety of mental health needs. I specialize in treatment-resistant depression and can provide TMS and esketamine (Spravato) treatments in-office. I am currently being trained in neurofeedback and will be able to offer this service in the near future.
Hi! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am currently accepting new clients for both in-person and online appointments. I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management to adults and older adults. I have experience working with individuals with a variety of mental health needs. I specialize in treatment-resistant depression and can provide TMS and esketamine (Spravato) treatments in-office. I am currently being trained in neurofeedback and will be able to offer this service in the near future.
(339) 218-5030 View (339) 218-5030
Photo of Onyinye Osuagwu - Victorious HealthCare Services LLC, BSN , MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victorious HealthCare Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN , MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02136
I am Onyinye Osuagwu, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive experience working as a nurse in multiple settings. I found my passion for mental health early in my nursing career. A few years ago, I made providing mental healthcare one of my life's missions and decided to advance my career by obtaining a master's degree in nursing. My goal is to provide client-centered, conscientious, and holistic care to my patients.
I am Onyinye Osuagwu, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive experience working as a nurse in multiple settings. I found my passion for mental health early in my nursing career. A few years ago, I made providing mental healthcare one of my life's missions and decided to advance my career by obtaining a master's degree in nursing. My goal is to provide client-centered, conscientious, and holistic care to my patients.
(339) 218-3016 View (339) 218-3016
Photo of Amina West, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amina West
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dedham, MA 02026  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Professional Mental Health Practitioner (PMHP) dedicated to helping you navigate through life's challenges. I specialize in offering support and guidance to individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, challenging relationships, and loss of a sense of self, among other issues. Do you find these struggles affecting your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, or your work and career? Do you feel emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, or lost due to the pressures of living up to someone else's standards? Do you question, wonder, or hope that things could be better?
I am a licensed Professional Mental Health Practitioner (PMHP) dedicated to helping you navigate through life's challenges. I specialize in offering support and guidance to individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, challenging relationships, and loss of a sense of self, among other issues. Do you find these struggles affecting your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, or your work and career? Do you feel emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, or lost due to the pressures of living up to someone else's standards? Do you question, wonder, or hope that things could be better?
(339) 329-8951 x102 View (339) 329-8951 x102

See more therapy options for 02027

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 02027

< 10

Psychiatrists in 02027 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Eating Disorders
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Anger Management

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Harvard Pilgrim
100% Tufts

How Psychiatrists in 02027 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 02027?

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.