Psychiatrists in 02108

Photo of Ronald T Lee, Psychiatrist, MD, MS, BS
Ronald T Lee
Psychiatrist, MD, MS, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, despite trying everything but medication? If you're at a crossroads, struggling with emotions or impulses, know that seeking help is a sign of strength. I'm here to support and guide you towards your best self, offering a journey of transformation. Together, we can navigate this path, ensuring you don't have to face these challenges alone. I'm a Boston Psychiatrist who is currently serving all residents of MA via virtual psychiatry; please call for more information or a free 10 minute phone consultation!
Feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, despite trying everything but medication? If you're at a crossroads, struggling with emotions or impulses, know that seeking help is a sign of strength. I'm here to support and guide you towards your best self, offering a journey of transformation. Together, we can navigate this path, ensuring you don't have to face these challenges alone. I'm a Boston Psychiatrist who is currently serving all residents of MA via virtual psychiatry; please call for more information or a free 10 minute phone consultation!
(617) 295-7380 View (617) 295-7380
Photo of Greg Hard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MHS
Greg Hard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MHS
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients! Are you struggling with ADHD, OCD, depression or anxiety? Have you tried numerous treatments with limited success, or felt unheard by previous prescribers? Taking a patient-centered approach, I believe in utilizing all of the tools available to help my patients achieve optimal results, including evidence-based medication management, therapy, and emerging and holistic treatments. I completed my clinical training at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where I gained extensive experience working with adult and adolescent patients, as well as my Master of Health Science degree at Johns Hopkins University.
Accepting new patients! Are you struggling with ADHD, OCD, depression or anxiety? Have you tried numerous treatments with limited success, or felt unheard by previous prescribers? Taking a patient-centered approach, I believe in utilizing all of the tools available to help my patients achieve optimal results, including evidence-based medication management, therapy, and emerging and holistic treatments. I completed my clinical training at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where I gained extensive experience working with adult and adolescent patients, as well as my Master of Health Science degree at Johns Hopkins University.
(781) 614-7115 View (781) 614-7115
Photo of Terri Marie Clack, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, AGNP-C
Terri Marie Clack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! Feeling burned out, unmotivated, and unfocused is a common struggle for many adults today. Balancing the relentless demands of work and personal life can be overwhelming. You're not alone in this journey, and I'm here to help you find your way back to a place of balance and well-being. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach is all about understanding your unique needs and crafting a tailored treatment plan. I firmly believe in a holistic perspective that takes into account both your physical and mental well-being.
Hello! Feeling burned out, unmotivated, and unfocused is a common struggle for many adults today. Balancing the relentless demands of work and personal life can be overwhelming. You're not alone in this journey, and I'm here to help you find your way back to a place of balance and well-being. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach is all about understanding your unique needs and crafting a tailored treatment plan. I firmly believe in a holistic perspective that takes into account both your physical and mental well-being.
(781) 208-5887 View (781) 208-5887
Photo of Christina Vaughn - Sunny Day Mental Health, pllc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sunny Day Mental Health, pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Struggling to adjust to this ever changing world? Tired, overwhelmed, saddened, anxious, isolated? Having difficulty with focusing? Struggling with PTSD? I am here for you! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been working in mental health for 18 years. I provide individualized, empathetic care incorporating therapy with medication management. I specialize in treatment resistant depression, treatment resistant anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD while building self-worth and empowerment. Therapy services offered include talk therapy, EMDR, CBT. I am licensed in Ohio, WV, OR, MA, WA, CO, NV. I accept many health plans and cash pay.
Struggling to adjust to this ever changing world? Tired, overwhelmed, saddened, anxious, isolated? Having difficulty with focusing? Struggling with PTSD? I am here for you! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been working in mental health for 18 years. I provide individualized, empathetic care incorporating therapy with medication management. I specialize in treatment resistant depression, treatment resistant anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD while building self-worth and empowerment. Therapy services offered include talk therapy, EMDR, CBT. I am licensed in Ohio, WV, OR, MA, WA, CO, NV. I accept many health plans and cash pay.
(720) 637-4506 View (720) 637-4506
Photo of Francis Kangara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Francis Kangara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I am Francis Kangara, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in supporting those facing anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions. My integrative approach combines pharmacological treatments with evidence-based non-pharmacological techniques, respecting the mind-body connection. Together, we will develop practical strategies to achieve balance and fulfillment. Let’s enhance your well-being and help you thrive on your mental health journey.
Welcome! I am Francis Kangara, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in supporting those facing anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions. My integrative approach combines pharmacological treatments with evidence-based non-pharmacological techniques, respecting the mind-body connection. Together, we will develop practical strategies to achieve balance and fulfillment. Let’s enhance your well-being and help you thrive on your mental health journey.
(857) 597-2457 View (857) 597-2457
Photo of Ian Matthews, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Ian Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Same week appointments currently available! Ian Matthews created Up Psychiatry with the mission of providing the highest quality psychiatric care that is personalized to each individual. An important foundation of successful psychiatric treatment lies in establishing a strong therapeutic relationship between the patient and healthcare provider. With this, Ian provides special attention to detail throughout the entire treatment journey. He aims to understand each patient's unique story which allows for the application of an individualized treatment approach through evidenced-based medication management and psychotherapy.
Same week appointments currently available! Ian Matthews created Up Psychiatry with the mission of providing the highest quality psychiatric care that is personalized to each individual. An important foundation of successful psychiatric treatment lies in establishing a strong therapeutic relationship between the patient and healthcare provider. With this, Ian provides special attention to detail throughout the entire treatment journey. He aims to understand each patient's unique story which allows for the application of an individualized treatment approach through evidenced-based medication management and psychotherapy.
(857) 314-2338 View (857) 314-2338
Photo of Dr. Natacha Nortelus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Natacha Nortelus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Natacha, a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner (FNP and PMHNP), with near two decades of experience in various healthcare settings. I am someone who understands the often-overlooked struggle of individuals who are dealing with anxiety, depression, and burnout, especially when society places high expectations of perfection upon them. My approach to care focus on helping them navigate these challenges while providing compassionate and holistic treatment.
I am Natacha, a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner (FNP and PMHNP), with near two decades of experience in various healthcare settings. I am someone who understands the often-overlooked struggle of individuals who are dealing with anxiety, depression, and burnout, especially when society places high expectations of perfection upon them. My approach to care focus on helping them navigate these challenges while providing compassionate and holistic treatment.
(781) 384-6576 View (781) 384-6576
Photo of Sonia Jasmine Bonsu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Sonia Jasmine Bonsu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping clients navigate challenges such as depression, anxiety, adolescent/teen issues, substance use, and cancer-related mental health issues, among others. My experience working with diverse groups—from new mothers and young professionals to those in high-pressure careers or coping with life-changing diagnoses—has deepened my commitment to providing personalized, compassionate care. I believe every client deserves to be treated with respect and attention, steering away from the rushed, impersonal care that can often be the norm. I focus on fostering a safe, inclusive, and collaborative space where we work together
I specialize in helping clients navigate challenges such as depression, anxiety, adolescent/teen issues, substance use, and cancer-related mental health issues, among others. My experience working with diverse groups—from new mothers and young professionals to those in high-pressure careers or coping with life-changing diagnoses—has deepened my commitment to providing personalized, compassionate care. I believe every client deserves to be treated with respect and attention, steering away from the rushed, impersonal care that can often be the norm. I focus on fostering a safe, inclusive, and collaborative space where we work together
(929) 249-5111 View (929) 249-5111
Photo of Kimberly Monestime, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Kimberly Monestime
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Patients at TeleNP Health! 8 years of diverse experience. Holistically and comprehensively treating an array of psychiatric conditions (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, etc). We are patient-centered, no one knows you better than you. Let's work together to identify & conquer the hurdles that stand in your way to a happy, fulfilled, & purposeful life. Visit our website to access an appointment. Currently offering telepsychiatry services for Adolescents, College Mental Health, & Adults.
Accepting New Patients at TeleNP Health! 8 years of diverse experience. Holistically and comprehensively treating an array of psychiatric conditions (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, etc). We are patient-centered, no one knows you better than you. Let's work together to identify & conquer the hurdles that stand in your way to a happy, fulfilled, & purposeful life. Visit our website to access an appointment. Currently offering telepsychiatry services for Adolescents, College Mental Health, & Adults.
(973) 434-5030 View (973) 434-5030
Photo of Alexis Kate Baird, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Alexis Kate Baird
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). With a passion for holistic, compassionate care, I offer a unique approach to healthcare by blending my expertise in both family medicine and mental health. With experience as an FNP, I provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages, always with a focus on prevention and overall well-being. As a PMHNP, I specialize in mental health, helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with personalized psychiatric care, whether it’s through therapy, medication management, or lifestyle support.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). With a passion for holistic, compassionate care, I offer a unique approach to healthcare by blending my expertise in both family medicine and mental health. With experience as an FNP, I provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages, always with a focus on prevention and overall well-being. As a PMHNP, I specialize in mental health, helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with personalized psychiatric care, whether it’s through therapy, medication management, or lifestyle support.
(781) 412-7232 View (781) 412-7232
Photo of Stephanie Weingard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stephanie Weingard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Stephanie L. Weingard graduated from Florida International University, achieving a post-masters certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in inpatient, outpatient and intensive outpatient settings over the past 8 years. She is also a United States Air Force Reservist and works providing mental health care to both active duty and reserve members.
Stephanie L. Weingard graduated from Florida International University, achieving a post-masters certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in inpatient, outpatient and intensive outpatient settings over the past 8 years. She is also a United States Air Force Reservist and works providing mental health care to both active duty and reserve members.
(413) 269-8388 View (413) 269-8388
Photo of Mercy K Micheni, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Mercy K Micheni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am currently accepting new clients, struggling to manage their symptoms and want expert guidance and support in their treatment. Those looking for a compassionate and understanding healthcare provider who can help them navigate their mental health challenges. Their needs may include a comprehensive psychiatric assessment, medication management, psychotherapy, and support in developing coping skills and strategies to manage their symptoms. Benefit from education about their diagnosis, treatment options, and self-care practices with primary goal to achieve a sense of well-being, stability and live a meaningful life.
I am currently accepting new clients, struggling to manage their symptoms and want expert guidance and support in their treatment. Those looking for a compassionate and understanding healthcare provider who can help them navigate their mental health challenges. Their needs may include a comprehensive psychiatric assessment, medication management, psychotherapy, and support in developing coping skills and strategies to manage their symptoms. Benefit from education about their diagnosis, treatment options, and self-care practices with primary goal to achieve a sense of well-being, stability and live a meaningful life.
(781) 805-3480 View (781) 805-3480
Photo of Angela Dawkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Angela Dawkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Angela is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. Angela has over 30 years of extensive nursing experience and has worked in a variety of settings including cardiac, acute/clinical dialysis, intensive care, home healthcare-case management services, med-surgical care, oncology care, geriatric long term care services, outpatient surgery, anesthesia assessment clinic, emergency medicine, pain management clinic, inpatient/outpatient psychiatric services, residential mental health care services, crisis stabilization community based care, and substance abuse and mental health.
Angela is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. Angela has over 30 years of extensive nursing experience and has worked in a variety of settings including cardiac, acute/clinical dialysis, intensive care, home healthcare-case management services, med-surgical care, oncology care, geriatric long term care services, outpatient surgery, anesthesia assessment clinic, emergency medicine, pain management clinic, inpatient/outpatient psychiatric services, residential mental health care services, crisis stabilization community based care, and substance abuse and mental health.
(720) 637-5908 View (720) 637-5908
Photo of Maria C Waterbury, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Maria C Waterbury
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
About me, For YOU! “Book with me now by clicking on my website” I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Board certified Family Nurse Practitioner. My current specialty is treating patients with anxiety, depression and PTSD. As a provider I like to collaborate with my patients as to their desires and the direction they want to take on their journey to wellness. I like to take a conservative approach. In addition to any medications that may be prescribed, therapy is encouraged to all patients. I believe in mindfulness, exercise, and behavioral therapies. You are a whole person and I will treat you as such.
About me, For YOU! “Book with me now by clicking on my website” I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Board certified Family Nurse Practitioner. My current specialty is treating patients with anxiety, depression and PTSD. As a provider I like to collaborate with my patients as to their desires and the direction they want to take on their journey to wellness. I like to take a conservative approach. In addition to any medications that may be prescribed, therapy is encouraged to all patients. I believe in mindfulness, exercise, and behavioral therapies. You are a whole person and I will treat you as such.
(617) 812-0982 View (617) 812-0982
Photo of Can Bulucu, Psychiatrist, MD
Can Bulucu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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.
(781) 786-1739 View (781) 786-1739
Photo of Kathryn Nesbitt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Kathryn Nesbitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I make sure to individualize care to best fit a patient's needs, while adhering to a holistic approach so they can achieve their best self physically, mentally, and spiritually.
I make sure to individualize care to best fit a patient's needs, while adhering to a holistic approach so they can achieve their best self physically, mentally, and spiritually.
(270) 289-7100 View (270) 289-7100
Photo of Kavitha Kolappa - Being Health | Dr. Kavitha Kolappa, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist, MD
Being Health | Dr. Kavitha Kolappa, MD, MPH
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I believe in an integrated, whole-person approach to mental health, which means that in our work together we can use multiple tools (including psychotherapy, mindfulness, emphasizing the brain/body connection, and when needed, medications). I have worked in a wide variety of mental health care settings, and as such have experience managing common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, as well as relationship issues, burnout, stress and trauma-related conditions. I also have experience working in brain/body medicine addressing the mental health of people with physical health conditions.
I believe in an integrated, whole-person approach to mental health, which means that in our work together we can use multiple tools (including psychotherapy, mindfulness, emphasizing the brain/body connection, and when needed, medications). I have worked in a wide variety of mental health care settings, and as such have experience managing common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, as well as relationship issues, burnout, stress and trauma-related conditions. I also have experience working in brain/body medicine addressing the mental health of people with physical health conditions.
(646) 212-3718 View (646) 212-3718
Photo of Stellah Kulabako, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Stellah Kulabako
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board-certified Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in Massachusetts, California and Texas. Our practice is currently accepting new patients across the life span
I am a Board-certified Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in Massachusetts, California and Texas. Our practice is currently accepting new patients across the life span
(978) 561-2790 View (978) 561-2790
Photo of Lovester Duncan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Lovester Duncan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my profile! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC, DNP) with over 10 years of experience in the psychiatric field. My expertise spans both inpatient and outpatient settings, where I have provided compassionate and personalized care to individuals facing acute mental health challenges and substance use disorders. If you or a loved one are looking for a knowledgeable and committed provider, I would be honored to support you on your journey to better mental health. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my profile! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC, DNP) with over 10 years of experience in the psychiatric field. My expertise spans both inpatient and outpatient settings, where I have provided compassionate and personalized care to individuals facing acute mental health challenges and substance use disorders. If you or a loved one are looking for a knowledgeable and committed provider, I would be honored to support you on your journey to better mental health. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.
(781) 650-4557 View (781) 650-4557
Photo of Comfort Sowale - Light & Mind Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP, CNP
Light & Mind Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome. My name is Comfort Sowale, and I specialize in treating individuals with mood disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and substance use disorders. My passion lies in supporting individuals as they work toward healing and recovery, and I am committed to providing care that addresses both the physical and mental aspects of health. With over 10 years of clinical experience, I’ve gained insight into the profound impact of holistic care and evidence-based treatments.
Welcome. My name is Comfort Sowale, and I specialize in treating individuals with mood disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and substance use disorders. My passion lies in supporting individuals as they work toward healing and recovery, and I am committed to providing care that addresses both the physical and mental aspects of health. With over 10 years of clinical experience, I’ve gained insight into the profound impact of holistic care and evidence-based treatments.
(339) 244-2948 View (339) 244-2948
1

See more therapy options for 02108

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 02108

20+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 02108 who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
96% Anxiety
89% Bipolar Disorder
79% Medication Management
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% ADHD
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
80% BlueCross and BlueShield
76% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 02108 see their clients

75% Online Only
25% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 02108?

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.