Psychiatrists in 02052

Photo of Hala Moustafa, Psychiatrist, MD
Hala Moustafa
Psychiatrist, MD
Medfield, MA 02052
When you are living with a mental or emotional health issue, it can be difficult to participate in daily activities or to enjoy life. Basic needs like eating, sleeping, or spending time with family or friends can feel like a huge burden.
When you are living with a mental or emotional health issue, it can be difficult to participate in daily activities or to enjoy life. Basic needs like eating, sleeping, or spending time with family or friends can feel like a huge burden.
(774) 208-0734 View (774) 208-0734
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Medfield, MA 02052
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions, including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions, including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(508) 529-1418 View (508) 529-1418
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD, CDS
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD, CDS
Medfield, MA 02052
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders, and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders, and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(508) 372-8435 View (508) 372-8435
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa- Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa- Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Medfield, MA 02052
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(508) 546-9417 View (508) 546-9417
Photo of Sarlah Bernard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Sarlah Bernard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Medfield, MA 02052
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 in making 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 in making an informed decision about their treatment plan.
(508) 980-2621 View (508) 980-2621
Photo of Christopher William Driscoll, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Christopher William Driscoll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Wether its the day to day, some life changing event, addictions, or a desire for help in being the best version of you - I am here to help.
Wether its the day to day, some life changing event, addictions, or a desire for help in being the best version of you - I am here to help.
(508) 682-5102 View (508) 682-5102
Photo of Anne-Margaret (Annie) Botelho, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Anne-Margaret (Annie) Botelho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
While I am not personally currently accepting new patients, the providers that work for me are and have immediately availability within 1-2 weeks. Please go to our website www.safeharborwellness.org. Have you been struggling with symptoms that are impacting your ability to move forward? Have you tried medications for these symptoms that haven't been helpful for you? Have you been struggling in relationships, at work, in school or with activities of daily living? I put a focus on symptoms, not just diagnosis, to help you in these areas of your life. GeneSight testing offered, more information available on our website regarding this.
While I am not personally currently accepting new patients, the providers that work for me are and have immediately availability within 1-2 weeks. Please go to our website www.safeharborwellness.org. Have you been struggling with symptoms that are impacting your ability to move forward? Have you tried medications for these symptoms that haven't been helpful for you? Have you been struggling in relationships, at work, in school or with activities of daily living? I put a focus on symptoms, not just diagnosis, to help you in these areas of your life. GeneSight testing offered, more information available on our website regarding this.
(508) 594-3522 View (508) 594-3522
Photo of Pamela Matthews, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Pamela Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
A board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), artist, lifelong learner, and someone deeply passionate about whole-person healing. My journey into mental health care wasn’t a straight line—it was more of a winding, soul-searching path. I started with a Bachelor's degree in Social Work and Sociology from Gordon College, drawn by a desire to understand people and help heal trauma. My creative spirit also led me to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts at the Massachusetts College of Art. I’ve always believed that healing and creativity are deeply intertwined.
A board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), artist, lifelong learner, and someone deeply passionate about whole-person healing. My journey into mental health care wasn’t a straight line—it was more of a winding, soul-searching path. I started with a Bachelor's degree in Social Work and Sociology from Gordon College, drawn by a desire to understand people and help heal trauma. My creative spirit also led me to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts at the Massachusetts College of Art. I’ve always believed that healing and creativity are deeply intertwined.
(774) 228-4336 View (774) 228-4336

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Can Bulucu, Psychiatrist, MD
Can Bulucu
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I have extensive experience in treating Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety, ADHD and relational problems for more than 20 years. I have dual Board Certification in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. I am very careful in treating my patients with medications and my goal is to find the lowest effective dose and avoid multiple medication use when possible. I think therapy is as important as medications and I offer both, at times together, when necessary. For self pay patients cost for initial 60 min evaluation is $500, 15 min fallow up is $150, 30 min fallow up is $275 and 45min fallow up is $400.
I have extensive experience in treating Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety, ADHD and relational problems for more than 20 years. I have dual Board Certification in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. I am very careful in treating my patients with medications and my goal is to find the lowest effective dose and avoid multiple medication use when possible. I think therapy is as important as medications and I offer both, at times together, when necessary. For self pay patients cost for initial 60 min evaluation is $500, 15 min fallow up is $150, 30 min fallow up is $275 and 45min fallow up is $400.
(617) 410-9856 View (617) 410-9856
Photo of Natasa Ristivojevic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Natasa Ristivojevic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
It’s fulfilling to see my clients regain their lives back. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, a low mood, or feelings of anger, it's my belief these things don't have to last forever. Your decision to reach out is essential, as it will initiate the direction you want to take. My goal is to listen carefully and use evidence-based interventions along with judicious use of prescription medications to address your symptoms. It's important to remember, however, that prescribing the right medication regimen is only one part of the treatment that leads to alleviating mental and emotional suffering.
It’s fulfilling to see my clients regain their lives back. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, a low mood, or feelings of anger, it's my belief these things don't have to last forever. Your decision to reach out is essential, as it will initiate the direction you want to take. My goal is to listen carefully and use evidence-based interventions along with judicious use of prescription medications to address your symptoms. It's important to remember, however, that prescribing the right medication regimen is only one part of the treatment that leads to alleviating mental and emotional suffering.
(508) 466-6151 View (508) 466-6151
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Woburn, MA 01801
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(339) 300-8663 View (339) 300-8663
Photo of Jessica Spivey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Jessica Spivey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Jessica is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner currently accepting medication management service referrals. Jessica is passionate about a solid foundation for patient care, residing in evidence-based practices and imparting treatment modalities to optimize care outcomes. Her strong clinical foundation allows her insight into the complexity of behavioral health concerns. This insight fosters meaningful recommendations for pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions tailored to one's individualized needs and preferences.
Jessica is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner currently accepting medication management service referrals. Jessica is passionate about a solid foundation for patient care, residing in evidence-based practices and imparting treatment modalities to optimize care outcomes. Her strong clinical foundation allows her insight into the complexity of behavioral health concerns. This insight fosters meaningful recommendations for pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions tailored to one's individualized needs and preferences.
(508) 501-7832 View (508) 501-7832
Photo of Peter Bertelli - Monomoy Health - We have availability, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Monomoy Health - We have availability
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Watertown, MA 02472
At Monomoy Health, we understand that reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. Our team is here to provide compassionate, thoughtful psychiatric care to guide you through every step of your journey. We specialize in ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, and the unique challenges that come with developmental disabilities. Our clinicians, each with decades of experience, offer both telehealth and some in-person appointments, ensuring that care is accessible and comfortable for you. Whether you're struggling to focus, feeling trapped by cycles of worry, or navigating mood swings that disrupt your days.
At Monomoy Health, we understand that reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. Our team is here to provide compassionate, thoughtful psychiatric care to guide you through every step of your journey. We specialize in ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, and the unique challenges that come with developmental disabilities. Our clinicians, each with decades of experience, offer both telehealth and some in-person appointments, ensuring that care is accessible and comfortable for you. Whether you're struggling to focus, feeling trapped by cycles of worry, or navigating mood swings that disrupt your days.
(617) 812-8976 View (617) 812-8976
Photo of Josephine Thuo - All in One Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
All in One Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Mansfield, MA 02048
Josephine Thuo, CNP, PMHNP is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experience working with patients from all backgrounds. She treats all age groups. Josephine has a master's degree in nursing. Her clinical practice includes a thorough psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and interventions catered to you.
Josephine Thuo, CNP, PMHNP is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experience working with patients from all backgrounds. She treats all age groups. Josephine has a master's degree in nursing. Her clinical practice includes a thorough psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and interventions catered to you.
(774) 772-5154 View (774) 772-5154
Photo of Maria Thompson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Maria Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Boston, MA 02115
Hi there, I'm Maria! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, Insomnia, bipolar disorders, substance abuse, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Schizophrenia/Psychosis, ADHD, and others I'm here to help. One of my passions is creating Healing communities- my nurse residency capstone involved creating the inpatient psychiatric family mental health recovery group; main objective was to provide psychoeducation.
Hi there, I'm Maria! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, Insomnia, bipolar disorders, substance abuse, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Schizophrenia/Psychosis, ADHD, and others I'm here to help. One of my passions is creating Healing communities- my nurse residency capstone involved creating the inpatient psychiatric family mental health recovery group; main objective was to provide psychoeducation.
(617) 397-4895 View (617) 397-4895
Photo of Theresa Webster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Do you feel like you are constantly fighting with your own brain? You try to concentrate on a task but your mind constantly wanders off. Your friends joke that you have no concept of time but you wonder when they will tire of your inconsistency. You struggle in social settings with worry that you are talking too much or lose track of what someone is talking with you about when in conversation. Your finances are a mess or you just can’t seem to hold on to savings. Social media has you thinking you might have ADHD and you are ready to find answers.
Do you feel like you are constantly fighting with your own brain? You try to concentrate on a task but your mind constantly wanders off. Your friends joke that you have no concept of time but you wonder when they will tire of your inconsistency. You struggle in social settings with worry that you are talking too much or lose track of what someone is talking with you about when in conversation. Your finances are a mess or you just can’t seem to hold on to savings. Social media has you thinking you might have ADHD and you are ready to find answers.
(725) 600-0263 View (725) 600-0263
Photo of Wendy Reiser, Psychiatrist, DO
Wendy Reiser
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Reiser (she/her) is a Staff Psychiatrist at Kendall Psychological Associates, where she works with adults of all ages and backgrounds. Her areas of interest include: Depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, college mental health, and those facing challenges with acculturation. Dr. Reiser incorporates a combination of therapeutic modalities when providing psychopharmacological treatment including acceptance, mindfulness and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
Dr. Reiser (she/her) is a Staff Psychiatrist at Kendall Psychological Associates, where she works with adults of all ages and backgrounds. Her areas of interest include: Depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, college mental health, and those facing challenges with acculturation. Dr. Reiser incorporates a combination of therapeutic modalities when providing psychopharmacological treatment including acceptance, mindfulness and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
(617) 915-3367 View (617) 915-3367
Photo of Dr. Meghan Hebishi, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Meghan Hebishi
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Meghan Fahy Hebishi is double-board certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Originally from Delaware, Dr. Hebishi earned her medical degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2017. She also obtained a Master of Science in Biological Sciences from Drexel University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Juniata College. In 2017, Dr. Hebishi moved south and is happy to call North Carolina her home. She completed her internship at Campbell University/Harnett Health in 2018.
Dr. Meghan Fahy Hebishi is double-board certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Originally from Delaware, Dr. Hebishi earned her medical degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2017. She also obtained a Master of Science in Biological Sciences from Drexel University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Juniata College. In 2017, Dr. Hebishi moved south and is happy to call North Carolina her home. She completed her internship at Campbell University/Harnett Health in 2018.
(984) 358-2435 View (984) 358-2435
Photo of Ellis Marie Rich Mace, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Ellis Marie Rich Mace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Now scheduling intake appointments for new clients in Alabama and Massachusetts! At Mace Behavioral Health, I utilize extensive knowledge and experience to provide integrative psychiatry services including psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, complementary alternative medications, and life-style coaching. I apply culturally sensitive care in my evidence-based practice. My treatment approach is warm, inclusive, and non-judgmental.
Now scheduling intake appointments for new clients in Alabama and Massachusetts! At Mace Behavioral Health, I utilize extensive knowledge and experience to provide integrative psychiatry services including psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, complementary alternative medications, and life-style coaching. I apply culturally sensitive care in my evidence-based practice. My treatment approach is warm, inclusive, and non-judgmental.
(256) 637-4552 View (256) 637-4552
Photo of Mustafa Abdulhusein, Psychiatrist, PhD
Mustafa Abdulhusein
Psychiatrist, PhD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist, and I feel privileged to support individuals navigating mental health challenges. I completed my undergraduate degree in Biomedical Biology at Laurentian University, followed by medical training at Ross University School of Medicine. I went on to complete my psychiatry residency at the University of North Dakota in Fargo, where I served as chief resident. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to treat patients in a variety of settings, including outpatient clinics, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, emergency departments, and medical hospitals.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist, and I feel privileged to support individuals navigating mental health challenges. I completed my undergraduate degree in Biomedical Biology at Laurentian University, followed by medical training at Ross University School of Medicine. I went on to complete my psychiatry residency at the University of North Dakota in Fargo, where I served as chief resident. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to treat patients in a variety of settings, including outpatient clinics, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, emergency departments, and medical hospitals.
(781) 679-1172 View (781) 679-1172

See more therapy options for 02052

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 02052

< 10

Psychiatrists in 02052 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
88% ADHD
88% Trauma and PTSD
75% Sleep or Insomnia
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
88% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 02052 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 02052?

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.