Psychiatrists in 02115

Photo of Karina Riedel, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP-B, MSN
Karina Riedel
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP-B, MSN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
Taking New Patients. I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, currently practicing recently relocated from Austin, Texas. I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing from Boston College and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. I bring a comprehensive educational background to my role as my clinical experience is extensive.
Taking New Patients. I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, currently practicing recently relocated from Austin, Texas. I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing from Boston College and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. I bring a comprehensive educational background to my role as my clinical experience is extensive.
(617) 380-4472 View (617) 380-4472
Photo of Stephanie Etienne, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP-B, RN
Stephanie Etienne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP-B, RN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
Stephanie is accepting NEW patients. As dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I obtained my BSN at Southern New Hampshire University. My desire to make a difference in the mental health field led me to further my education at Regis College, where I graduated with my master’s in nursing in May 2023, specializing in Psychiatry. As a Psychiatric Mental Health NP, my approach to patient care is deeply rooted in compassion and understanding. I VALUE validation; focus on the present, ensure that her patients feel seen, heard, and supported throughout their healing journey.
Stephanie is accepting NEW patients. As dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I obtained my BSN at Southern New Hampshire University. My desire to make a difference in the mental health field led me to further my education at Regis College, where I graduated with my master’s in nursing in May 2023, specializing in Psychiatry. As a Psychiatric Mental Health NP, my approach to patient care is deeply rooted in compassion and understanding. I VALUE validation; focus on the present, ensure that her patients feel seen, heard, and supported throughout their healing journey.
(617) 766-0774 View (617) 766-0774
Photo of Lauren Costello, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Lauren Costello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 12 years of experience. Particular interests of mine include working with anxiety and mood disorders.  I provide a thoughtful evaluation of your condition and on-going medication management. We will work together to find the lowest dose of effective medications that will reduce your suffering and minimize side effects.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 12 years of experience. Particular interests of mine include working with anxiety and mood disorders.  I provide a thoughtful evaluation of your condition and on-going medication management. We will work together to find the lowest dose of effective medications that will reduce your suffering and minimize side effects.
(857) 380-0135 View (857) 380-0135
Photo of Carly Rando, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Carly Rando
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing for 7 years. I earned my BS in Neuroscience from Trinity College in 2012 after which I went on to graduate from Boston College Connell School of Nursing, earning a Master’s degree in Nursing in 2014. I have broad-ranging experience working in outpatient settings particularly in in private practice. I have worked and continue to work extensively with diverse populations. My expertise includes treating adolescents, adult and geriatric populations; utilizing a combination of psychopharmacology and supportive therapy.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing for 7 years. I earned my BS in Neuroscience from Trinity College in 2012 after which I went on to graduate from Boston College Connell School of Nursing, earning a Master’s degree in Nursing in 2014. I have broad-ranging experience working in outpatient settings particularly in in private practice. I have worked and continue to work extensively with diverse populations. My expertise includes treating adolescents, adult and geriatric populations; utilizing a combination of psychopharmacology and supportive therapy.
(617) 231-9776 View (617) 231-9776
Photo of Julie Bass - Julie Bass, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Julie Bass, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
Julie received her Master of Science in Nursing from Ohio State University and is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has worked in psychiatric nursing since 2016 in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Julie treats a variety of psychiatric conditions using an individualized approach and creates a treatment plan that is tailored to each patient's individual needs, desired outcome, and personal considerations.
Julie received her Master of Science in Nursing from Ohio State University and is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has worked in psychiatric nursing since 2016 in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Julie treats a variety of psychiatric conditions using an individualized approach and creates a treatment plan that is tailored to each patient's individual needs, desired outcome, and personal considerations.
(857) 309-2737 View (857) 309-2737
Photo of Maria Thompson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Maria Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
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 Kelly Hancock - Refresh Psychiatry and Therapy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Refresh Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Our practice is dedicated to providing Person-Centered Care and empowering our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their goals. We aim to deliver high-quality, evidence-based, compassionate care through medication management and customized psychotherapy to help patients and families overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives.
Our practice is dedicated to providing Person-Centered Care and empowering our clients with the knowledge and skills to achieve their goals. We aim to deliver high-quality, evidence-based, compassionate care through medication management and customized psychotherapy to help patients and families overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives.
(857) 754-6367 View (857) 754-6367
Photo of Matthew Joseph Mosquera, Psychiatrist, MD
Matthew Joseph Mosquera
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115
High quality mental healthcare requires an open minded, thoughtful, and dedicated approach. If we work together, I will approach your treatment in this way to evaluate which medications and/or therapy modalities are most appropriate for you. I have a therapeutic team based style to make sure your sessions are worthwhile and engaging. Licensed in MA, NY, and NH
High quality mental healthcare requires an open minded, thoughtful, and dedicated approach. If we work together, I will approach your treatment in this way to evaluate which medications and/or therapy modalities are most appropriate for you. I have a therapeutic team based style to make sure your sessions are worthwhile and engaging. Licensed in MA, NY, and NH
(617) 751-1897 View (617) 751-1897
Photo of Ogo George, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Ogo George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
I am accepting new patients! Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, health and work? Are you unable to belong at all? Feeling overwhelmed with life and its stressors? I help high performers manage anxiety and other mental health challenges. I have held various positions in psychiatric/behavioral health space 15 years. I adopt a holistic, patient-centered approach to providing mental health treatment that is based on evidence-based recommendations. Together, we can identify what is not working and get you back to balance. We will use a completely self-approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit.
I am accepting new patients! Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, health and work? Are you unable to belong at all? Feeling overwhelmed with life and its stressors? I help high performers manage anxiety and other mental health challenges. I have held various positions in psychiatric/behavioral health space 15 years. I adopt a holistic, patient-centered approach to providing mental health treatment that is based on evidence-based recommendations. Together, we can identify what is not working and get you back to balance. We will use a completely self-approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit.
(617) 766-0886 View (617) 766-0886
Photo of Katherine Kosman, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Katherine Kosman
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Offering one-stop high quality care, Dr. Kosman's practice offers therapy as a cornerstone of focus, in addition to medication management if and when needed. She works with individuals who describe themselves as educated, aspiring, and accomplished, but the journey through life may have impacted their stress, mental health or emotional wellbeing. Her clients invest in themselves to break free of patterns and to become the best version of themselves. Dr. Kosman is a Harvard-trained board-certified psychiatrist, holding an MD degree from Dartmouth, an MBA from Dartmouth, and a rich array of professional work experiences.
Offering one-stop high quality care, Dr. Kosman's practice offers therapy as a cornerstone of focus, in addition to medication management if and when needed. She works with individuals who describe themselves as educated, aspiring, and accomplished, but the journey through life may have impacted their stress, mental health or emotional wellbeing. Her clients invest in themselves to break free of patterns and to become the best version of themselves. Dr. Kosman is a Harvard-trained board-certified psychiatrist, holding an MD degree from Dartmouth, an MBA from Dartmouth, and a rich array of professional work experiences.
(508) 475-5915 View (508) 475-5915
Photo of Dr. Tilo Mukherjee, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Tilo Mukherjee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115
I Am Currently Welcoming New Clients. Weekdays Monday to Friday, and Weekend hours offered. I am an experienced board-certified psychiatrist with 1 year detailed Internal Medicine training and a Brown Psychiatry Residency graduate where I chose to include a 1 year in-depth residency training at the Providence VA Medical Center. I work with patients, adults ages 18 and above. All my clients are welcomed to a warm enviornment and safe space, where their problems are discussed with an open mind, kindness, flexibility, and no judgement. I help anyone who is struggling and looking for peace, happiness, and self-empowerment.
I Am Currently Welcoming New Clients. Weekdays Monday to Friday, and Weekend hours offered. I am an experienced board-certified psychiatrist with 1 year detailed Internal Medicine training and a Brown Psychiatry Residency graduate where I chose to include a 1 year in-depth residency training at the Providence VA Medical Center. I work with patients, adults ages 18 and above. All my clients are welcomed to a warm enviornment and safe space, where their problems are discussed with an open mind, kindness, flexibility, and no judgement. I help anyone who is struggling and looking for peace, happiness, and self-empowerment.
(781) 819-5765 View (781) 819-5765
Photo of Dale Buckman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Dale Buckman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115
Welcome! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Primary Care Medicine. My approach is rooted in Functional and Integrative Psychiatry. I am dedicated to helping you achieve mental wellness and a better quality of life. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, sleep issues, ADHD, PTSD, or OCD, I am here to support you. I specialize in medication initiation and management as well as lifestyle and dietary changes. Together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs. Reach out today.
Welcome! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Primary Care Medicine. My approach is rooted in Functional and Integrative Psychiatry. I am dedicated to helping you achieve mental wellness and a better quality of life. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, sleep issues, ADHD, PTSD, or OCD, I am here to support you. I specialize in medication initiation and management as well as lifestyle and dietary changes. Together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs. Reach out today.
(781) 404-3449 View (781) 404-3449
Photo of Danielle Wilson - Resolve Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Resolve Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
We specialize in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, DMDD for children, adolescents/teens, and adults. We treat a small group of clients and focus on personalization of services. Allow us to provide quality care to you or your child.
We specialize in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, DMDD for children, adolescents/teens, and adults. We treat a small group of clients and focus on personalization of services. Allow us to provide quality care to you or your child.
(857) 855-6971 View (857) 855-6971
Photo of Shashi Narayan Uhlmann, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Shashi Narayan Uhlmann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients. I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner - Doctorate in Family Practice from University of Washington, Seattle, and Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health from Northeastern University, Boston. I treat the whole person, addressing mental and medical health in the context of the environment, cultural practices, beliefs and norms.
Accepting new clients. I am a dual-certified nurse practitioner - Doctorate in Family Practice from University of Washington, Seattle, and Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health from Northeastern University, Boston. I treat the whole person, addressing mental and medical health in the context of the environment, cultural practices, beliefs and norms.
(857) 971-7891 View (857) 971-7891
Photo of Joseph Yeretsian, Psychiatrist, MD
Joseph Yeretsian
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
I work closely with individuals coping with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and work-related challenges, and I offer counseling for couples and families.
I work closely with individuals coping with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and work-related challenges, and I offer counseling for couples and families.
(978) 391-6288 View (978) 391-6288
Photo of Chloe Wagen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Chloe Wagen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
I have been working in outpatient private practice for 3 years. I have worked with patients across the lifespan, and I have a particular interest in working with young adults as well as older adults/geriatrics. I am experienced in the evaluation and treatment of many mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders including bipolar spectrum disorders. I prioritize establishing a collaborative relationship with the individuals I work with. I hope to help my patients set their own goals and provide the environment and support they need in order to reach those goals.
I have been working in outpatient private practice for 3 years. I have worked with patients across the lifespan, and I have a particular interest in working with young adults as well as older adults/geriatrics. I am experienced in the evaluation and treatment of many mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders including bipolar spectrum disorders. I prioritize establishing a collaborative relationship with the individuals I work with. I hope to help my patients set their own goals and provide the environment and support they need in order to reach those goals.
(617) 231-9827 View (617) 231-9827
Photo of Rachael Spisak, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Rachael Spisak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have been a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for ten years. My experience includes working in all levels of psychiatric care. I am passionate about helping people struggling with eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, & anxiety. My current clinical focus is female clients aged 15 & up. However, feel free to reach out if you are not in those boxes & think we may be a good fit. My practice philosophy is based on evidence, your autonomy, & shared decision making. Although there will be a therapeutic nature to our sessions, I solely provide medication management. I'm happy to collaborate with your therapist.
I have been a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for ten years. My experience includes working in all levels of psychiatric care. I am passionate about helping people struggling with eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, & anxiety. My current clinical focus is female clients aged 15 & up. However, feel free to reach out if you are not in those boxes & think we may be a good fit. My practice philosophy is based on evidence, your autonomy, & shared decision making. Although there will be a therapeutic nature to our sessions, I solely provide medication management. I'm happy to collaborate with your therapist.
(781) 679-1506 View (781) 679-1506
Photo of Dr. H. Ho, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, DABPN, DABOM, DABPM
Dr. H. Ho
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, DABPN, DABOM, DABPM
Not Verified Not Verified
Boston, MA 02115
I am a Johns-Hopkins trained, award-winning Harvard psychiatrist, affiliated with McLean and Mass General Brigham, quadruple board certified in Addiction Medicine, Obesity Medicine, Adult Psychiatry, and Child Psychiatry. Do you feel no one understands your unspeakable sorrow, helplessness, insecurity, or regret? You don't have to endure alone. I have helped a diverse group: abuse survivors, addiction recoverees, children with anxiety, elders with dementia, missionaries, LGBTQ individuals, physicians, attorneys, administrators, etc. I advocate for using the least amount of medications and non-medication approach whenever possible.
I am a Johns-Hopkins trained, award-winning Harvard psychiatrist, affiliated with McLean and Mass General Brigham, quadruple board certified in Addiction Medicine, Obesity Medicine, Adult Psychiatry, and Child Psychiatry. Do you feel no one understands your unspeakable sorrow, helplessness, insecurity, or regret? You don't have to endure alone. I have helped a diverse group: abuse survivors, addiction recoverees, children with anxiety, elders with dementia, missionaries, LGBTQ individuals, physicians, attorneys, administrators, etc. I advocate for using the least amount of medications and non-medication approach whenever possible.
(781) 786-7351 View (781) 786-7351
Photo of Lisa Marie Shaffer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Lisa Marie Shaffer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm Lisa Shaffer, a board- certified PMHNP providing treatment for psychiatric ailments and disorders across the lifespan.  I have been practicing in a variety of clinical care settings since 2015. Clinical care areas I've worked and trained in include inpatient, outpatient and emergency care (medical and psychiatric). Over the years my practice has evolved to provide a more holistic approach. While I continue to prescribe medication, I strongly believe that finding the root cause of symptoms through a functional medicine approach provides client's with the best outcomes.
I'm Lisa Shaffer, a board- certified PMHNP providing treatment for psychiatric ailments and disorders across the lifespan.  I have been practicing in a variety of clinical care settings since 2015. Clinical care areas I've worked and trained in include inpatient, outpatient and emergency care (medical and psychiatric). Over the years my practice has evolved to provide a more holistic approach. While I continue to prescribe medication, I strongly believe that finding the root cause of symptoms through a functional medicine approach provides client's with the best outcomes.
(617) 855-0075 View (617) 855-0075
Photo of Vanja Pumpalovic - Vanja Pumpalovic, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vanja Pumpalovic, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
Vanja received her Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Tennessee State University and her Masters of Science in psychiatric nursing from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She strives to create a secure and stable environment for her patients in order to facilitate collaboration and the creation of an effective treatment plan.
Vanja received her Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Tennessee State University and her Masters of Science in psychiatric nursing from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She strives to create a secure and stable environment for her patients in order to facilitate collaboration and the creation of an effective treatment plan.
(617) 925-9496 View (617) 925-9496
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See more therapy options for 02115

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 02115

60+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 02115 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
95% Depression
79% Medication Management
73% Trauma and PTSD
71% Bipolar Disorder
68% ADHD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Cigna and Evernorth
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 02115 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
31% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 02115?

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.