Psychiatrists in 02109

Photo of Robin Shannon, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Robin Shannon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109
Dual certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner providing tele-psychiatric medication management in Boston and the surrounding areas. Providing mental health services such as conducting assessments, diagnosing, prescribing medication to patients across the lifespan. ***Please contact me by email for prompt response.
Dual certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner providing tele-psychiatric medication management in Boston and the surrounding areas. Providing mental health services such as conducting assessments, diagnosing, prescribing medication to patients across the lifespan. ***Please contact me by email for prompt response.
(857) 314-6752 View (857) 314-6752
Photo of Robin Shannon - Shannon Psychiatry, LLC , FNP-C , PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109
Hello! I am currently accepting new patients as of 1/14/2022. All visits are through telemedicine, so I can see anyone in the state of Massachusetts. My love for what I do in psychiatry, comes from the joy I get in helping others improve their lives. Most of my patients do not know which direction to go when then come to me, and that is ok. Some people come to me looking for second or third opinions about diagnosis or medications, some people are referred by a therapist to start medication. We can openly discuss decisions and options. This is a judgement free zone. There is no way you can TMI me!
Hello! I am currently accepting new patients as of 1/14/2022. All visits are through telemedicine, so I can see anyone in the state of Massachusetts. My love for what I do in psychiatry, comes from the joy I get in helping others improve their lives. Most of my patients do not know which direction to go when then come to me, and that is ok. Some people come to me looking for second or third opinions about diagnosis or medications, some people are referred by a therapist to start medication. We can openly discuss decisions and options. This is a judgement free zone. There is no way you can TMI me!
(857) 227-9817 View (857) 227-9817
Photo of Anastasia Burns, PMHNP, AGNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anastasia Burns
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Anastasia Burns, Board-Certified PMHNP, specializes in medication management for depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Patients seek help when sadness clouds daily tasks or worries make social interactions dreadful—some battle intrusive memories, while others struggle with exhausting mood swings. Many can't focus or initiate tasks, feeling hopeless about responsibilities. As challenges intensify, sleep suffers, relationships strain, and sense of self dims. They seek the care of a psychiatric provider to help them rebuild connections, rediscover joy, and find coping strategies.
Anastasia Burns, Board-Certified PMHNP, specializes in medication management for depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Patients seek help when sadness clouds daily tasks or worries make social interactions dreadful—some battle intrusive memories, while others struggle with exhausting mood swings. Many can't focus or initiate tasks, feeling hopeless about responsibilities. As challenges intensify, sleep suffers, relationships strain, and sense of self dims. They seek the care of a psychiatric provider to help them rebuild connections, rediscover joy, and find coping strategies.
(857) 371-1443 View (857) 371-1443
Photo of Martha Habiyambere, DNP, PMHNP, MS, DVM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Martha Habiyambere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MS, DVM
Verified Verified
Online Only
With over four years of invaluable experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings as well as a profound commitment to enhancing the lives of her clients. Dr. Habiyambere believes that mental health is interconnected with every aspect of our lives and why she takes a holistic approach to treatment, addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying factors contributing to your mental well-being. Dr. Habiyambere works with those facing anxiety, bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Psychotic disorders and many other mental health challenges.
With over four years of invaluable experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings as well as a profound commitment to enhancing the lives of her clients. Dr. Habiyambere believes that mental health is interconnected with every aspect of our lives and why she takes a holistic approach to treatment, addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying factors contributing to your mental well-being. Dr. Habiyambere works with those facing anxiety, bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Psychotic disorders and many other mental health challenges.
(857) 420-4225 View (857) 420-4225
Photo of Robin Shannon - Shannon Psychiatry, LLC , FNP-C , PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C , PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello and welcome to Shannon Psychiatry! I am accepting new patients at this time. My primary specialty is ages 14 years to 30 years. All visits are through telemedicine, so I can see anyone in the state of Massachusetts from the comfort of your home, without having to worry about the commute! If you are a new patient, urgently needing to be seen, I can usually get you in within 2-3 days. My love for what I do in psychiatry, comes from the joy I get in helping others improve their lives. Most of my patients do not know which direction to go when then come to me, and that is ok. We can work on that together!
Hello and welcome to Shannon Psychiatry! I am accepting new patients at this time. My primary specialty is ages 14 years to 30 years. All visits are through telemedicine, so I can see anyone in the state of Massachusetts from the comfort of your home, without having to worry about the commute! If you are a new patient, urgently needing to be seen, I can usually get you in within 2-3 days. My love for what I do in psychiatry, comes from the joy I get in helping others improve their lives. Most of my patients do not know which direction to go when then come to me, and that is ok. We can work on that together!
(857) 887-2397 View (857) 887-2397
Photo of Lauren Linsmeier - Northeast Wellness, PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Northeast Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109
Lauren Linsmeier is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in patient care across the lifespan. With a background in acute settings, including psychiatric hospitals and the emergency department, Lauren has devoted numerous years as a nurse and nurse practitioner to supporting individuals during their most challenging moments. She now enjoys working with patients alongside life’s ups and downs to provide assistance and support.
Lauren Linsmeier is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in patient care across the lifespan. With a background in acute settings, including psychiatric hospitals and the emergency department, Lauren has devoted numerous years as a nurse and nurse practitioner to supporting individuals during their most challenging moments. She now enjoys working with patients alongside life’s ups and downs to provide assistance and support.
(857) 370-4557 View (857) 370-4557
Photo of Sokhira Yang - Northeast Wellness, PLLC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Northeast Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109
Sokhira Yang is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in the mental health field as well as an advocate for mental health and overall wellness. Sokhira’s areas of interest include PTSD, ADHD, and depression. Sokhira began her nursing career as a corrections nurse, and saw the importance of mental health in underserved populations.
Sokhira Yang is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in the mental health field as well as an advocate for mental health and overall wellness. Sokhira’s areas of interest include PTSD, ADHD, and depression. Sokhira began her nursing career as a corrections nurse, and saw the importance of mental health in underserved populations.
(857) 267-9819 View (857) 267-9819
Photo of Samantha Rose Jankowski, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Rose Jankowski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Now Accepting New Patients! Samantha is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. Samantha offers convenient telehealth psychiatric medication management. She specializes in GAD, MDD, ADHD, OCD, and Eating Disorders. Samantha utilizes her therapeutic background to create a trusting and respectful environment for her patients. Samantha is committed to a patient-centered care approach, crediting positive outcomes to shared decision making and the patient-provider alliance.
Now Accepting New Patients! Samantha is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. Samantha offers convenient telehealth psychiatric medication management. She specializes in GAD, MDD, ADHD, OCD, and Eating Disorders. Samantha utilizes her therapeutic background to create a trusting and respectful environment for her patients. Samantha is committed to a patient-centered care approach, crediting positive outcomes to shared decision making and the patient-provider alliance.
(857) 666-9761 View (857) 666-9761
Photo of Wayne Ethier, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wayne Ethier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I'm Wayne Ethier, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). With a strong background in both psychiatry and nursing, my mission is to provide high-quality mental health care to my patients. I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health issues using a compassionate and evidence-based approach. I offer therapeutic interventions such as psychotherapy and counseling and collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care for each patient.
Hello, I'm Wayne Ethier, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). With a strong background in both psychiatry and nursing, my mission is to provide high-quality mental health care to my patients. I specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health issues using a compassionate and evidence-based approach. I offer therapeutic interventions such as psychotherapy and counseling and collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care for each patient.
(857) 578-6598 View (857) 578-6598
Photo of Dr. Tiffani L Bell Washington, MD, MPH, FAPA, DipABOM, DipABLM, Psychiatrist
Dr. Tiffani L Bell Washington
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, FAPA, DipABOM, DipABLM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you have concerns about weight gain from psychiatric medication? Are you a busy professional or parent balancing work, family, and well-being, while struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression? You’re not alone. I’m a quadruple board-certified integrative psychiatrist specializing in integrating traditional psychiatric care with holistic, lifestyle medicine, mindfulness, and nutritional support. I help women and children manage weight issues, body image concerns, anxiety, and depression. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to restore your mental and physical health.
Do you have concerns about weight gain from psychiatric medication? Are you a busy professional or parent balancing work, family, and well-being, while struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression? You’re not alone. I’m a quadruple board-certified integrative psychiatrist specializing in integrating traditional psychiatric care with holistic, lifestyle medicine, mindfulness, and nutritional support. I help women and children manage weight issues, body image concerns, anxiety, and depression. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to restore your mental and physical health.
(857) 832-3570 View (857) 832-3570
Photo of Annie Hollyer, MSN, PMHNP, ANCC-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Annie Hollyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, ANCC-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
South Boston Psychiatry was created with the understanding that mental health can not be “one-size-fits-all”. The telehealth model allows you to seek care when/how it is convenient for you. Board Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner Annie Hollyer, PMHNP-BC, RN, MSN offers psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy treatment, documentation and will be happy to work with you on referrals to the cutting edge medicine that’s changing mental health including Pharmacogenetic testing, Spravato, Suboxone, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
South Boston Psychiatry was created with the understanding that mental health can not be “one-size-fits-all”. The telehealth model allows you to seek care when/how it is convenient for you. Board Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner Annie Hollyer, PMHNP-BC, RN, MSN offers psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy treatment, documentation and will be happy to work with you on referrals to the cutting edge medicine that’s changing mental health including Pharmacogenetic testing, Spravato, Suboxone, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
(857) 475-7839 View (857) 475-7839
Photo of Yixi Dong, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yixi Dong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a college student, you may suddenly have to master every aspect of your life with little guidance in college. Have you wondered why you hold such high expectations for yourself? Why do you constantly worry about how others see you? Why do you prioritize others’ feelings over yours? How can you focus on classes and complete assignments on time? You may feel lost and confused. This can lead to sadness, fatigue, loss of interest in activities, or constant anxiety about things that don’t seem to bother others. You may feel like you’ve lost control of your emotions.
As a college student, you may suddenly have to master every aspect of your life with little guidance in college. Have you wondered why you hold such high expectations for yourself? Why do you constantly worry about how others see you? Why do you prioritize others’ feelings over yours? How can you focus on classes and complete assignments on time? You may feel lost and confused. This can lead to sadness, fatigue, loss of interest in activities, or constant anxiety about things that don’t seem to bother others. You may feel like you’ve lost control of your emotions.
(857) 688-3649 View (857) 688-3649
Photo of Angela Fontenot - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(857) 598-7498 View (857) 598-7498
Photo of George Karanja - Ubora Health and Wellness, PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ubora Health and Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello there! I'm an enthusiastic Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a seasoned healthcare professional with a solid nursing background, all geared towards making mental health better for you. My joy comes from helping people explore creative paths on their mental health journey.
Hello there! I'm an enthusiastic Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a seasoned healthcare professional with a solid nursing background, all geared towards making mental health better for you. My joy comes from helping people explore creative paths on their mental health journey.
(978) 440-1107 View (978) 440-1107
Photo of Musti Patel - Northeast Wellness, PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Northeast Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109
Musti Patel is a devoted Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner passionate about providing high-quality mental health care. Fluent in English and Gujarati, she is proud to offer bilingual support to her patients. With roots in a family and culture unfamiliar with mental health complexities, Musti has embarked on a personal journey to raise awareness. She navigated challenges, learned invaluable lessons, and now advocates for breaking the mental health stigma.
Musti Patel is a devoted Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner passionate about providing high-quality mental health care. Fluent in English and Gujarati, she is proud to offer bilingual support to her patients. With roots in a family and culture unfamiliar with mental health complexities, Musti has embarked on a personal journey to raise awareness. She navigated challenges, learned invaluable lessons, and now advocates for breaking the mental health stigma.
(857) 422-7563 View (857) 422-7563
Photo of John-Paul Cloutier, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
John-Paul Cloutier
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Please visit my website to schedule an appointment. I have a particular interest in working with clients with Depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar. Separately, if you are interested in tapering off psychiatric medications, I would be happy to help.
Please visit my website to schedule an appointment. I have a particular interest in working with clients with Depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar. Separately, if you are interested in tapering off psychiatric medications, I would be happy to help.
(857) 370-4486 View (857) 370-4486
Photo of Kelechi Nwosu, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelechi Nwosu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My passion for mental health motivated me to become a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I aim to help and support my clients find relief from their disorders and ailments. Most often, people have stories to tell. These stories have the potential to impact their lifestyle and mood. Sometimes, people don't get the opportunity to share their stories because no one is willing to listen. Fortunately, I am here for you to share your stories with me and I am eager to collaborate with you to make a positive change by applying comprehensive methods to manage your anxiety, bipolar, depression, and sleep disorders.
My passion for mental health motivated me to become a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I aim to help and support my clients find relief from their disorders and ailments. Most often, people have stories to tell. These stories have the potential to impact their lifestyle and mood. Sometimes, people don't get the opportunity to share their stories because no one is willing to listen. Fortunately, I am here for you to share your stories with me and I am eager to collaborate with you to make a positive change by applying comprehensive methods to manage your anxiety, bipolar, depression, and sleep disorders.
(508) 905-6393 View (508) 905-6393
Photo of Mack Schoenfeld, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mack Schoenfeld
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02109
Medication Management: Personalized, Compassionate, Evidence-Based, Empowering, Insurance Accepted!... Hello! I’m Mack, and I would be honored to hear from you and care for you in your mental health journey. Send me a message and let me know how I can help you. Thanks! → Customized Compassionate Care: I individualize my medication treatment plans to your unique experiences, symptoms, narrative, needs, and goals. → Root Cause Approach: I delve deeper than surface symptoms, taking time to understand your history and diagnostic picture (ordering appropriate laboratory tests; optional genetic testing).
Medication Management: Personalized, Compassionate, Evidence-Based, Empowering, Insurance Accepted!... Hello! I’m Mack, and I would be honored to hear from you and care for you in your mental health journey. Send me a message and let me know how I can help you. Thanks! → Customized Compassionate Care: I individualize my medication treatment plans to your unique experiences, symptoms, narrative, needs, and goals. → Root Cause Approach: I delve deeper than surface symptoms, taking time to understand your history and diagnostic picture (ordering appropriate laboratory tests; optional genetic testing).
View
Photo of Christina Gormly - Vista Family Psychiatry, LLC: Christina Gormly, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vista Family Psychiatry, LLC: Christina Gormly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Christina Gormly and I am currently scheduling new clients for telehealth sessions. I specialize in caring for children, adolescents, and young adults. I take a warm and holistic approach, utilizing CBT and DBT methods to assist you in meeting your goals. I enjoy working with families with complex needs. I am certified by the ANCC to treat mental health conditions across the lifespan. I have extensive experience in treating eating disorders, as well as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, trauma, attention deficit, and mood dysregulation.
My name is Christina Gormly and I am currently scheduling new clients for telehealth sessions. I specialize in caring for children, adolescents, and young adults. I take a warm and holistic approach, utilizing CBT and DBT methods to assist you in meeting your goals. I enjoy working with families with complex needs. I am certified by the ANCC to treat mental health conditions across the lifespan. I have extensive experience in treating eating disorders, as well as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, trauma, attention deficit, and mood dysregulation.
(603) 420-2529 View (603) 420-2529
Photo of Lisa Miffitt - Vista Family Psychiatry, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vista Family Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
All services provided via telehealth at this time. Licensed to provide services to clients located in MA or NH. We provide comprehensive outpatient behavioral health services to children, adolescents and adults including: consultation, psychiatric assessments, diagnostic formulation, medication management services, general wellness counseling and education.
All services provided via telehealth at this time. Licensed to provide services to clients located in MA or NH. We provide comprehensive outpatient behavioral health services to children, adolescents and adults including: consultation, psychiatric assessments, diagnostic formulation, medication management services, general wellness counseling and education.
(603) 605-1664 View (603) 605-1664
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 02109

20+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 02109 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
96% Anxiety
85% ADHD
81% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
81% Bipolar Disorder
77% Medication Management
73% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Cigna and Evernorth
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 02109 see their clients

69% Online Only
31% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

70% Female
26% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 02109?

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.