Psychiatrists in 02216

Photo of Amanda Lyn Sheehan, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Lyn Sheehan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health NP trained at Johns Hopkins University, providing holistic, value-aligned medication management & psychotherapeutic care. I am accepting new patients at this time with mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, & OCD spectrum, as well as the mental health effects of learning differences, endocrine conditions (like diabetes, PCOS, thyroid, hypoglycemia), & connective tissue disorders. I am invested in establishing meaningful connections to individuals coping with these conditions & am keenly sensitive to the stress additional health conditions confer upon wellbeing.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health NP trained at Johns Hopkins University, providing holistic, value-aligned medication management & psychotherapeutic care. I am accepting new patients at this time with mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, & OCD spectrum, as well as the mental health effects of learning differences, endocrine conditions (like diabetes, PCOS, thyroid, hypoglycemia), & connective tissue disorders. I am invested in establishing meaningful connections to individuals coping with these conditions & am keenly sensitive to the stress additional health conditions confer upon wellbeing.
(339) 500-6214 View (339) 500-6214

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Nina Sreshta, MD , Psychiatrist
Nina Sreshta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting patients in California, Massachusetts and Maryland. I believe that everyone is capable of living a life that feels purposeful. Sometimes because of losses, traumas, predispositions to depression or anxiety, or the ways we were taught to think about ourselves, that purposeful life can seem like a distant possibility. I see patients primarily for talk therapy, and if needed, I prescribe medication. To request an intake, message me through Psychology Today or visit my website, www.ninasreshtamd.com. Currently, I am only seeing patients online.
Accepting patients in California, Massachusetts and Maryland. I believe that everyone is capable of living a life that feels purposeful. Sometimes because of losses, traumas, predispositions to depression or anxiety, or the ways we were taught to think about ourselves, that purposeful life can seem like a distant possibility. I see patients primarily for talk therapy, and if needed, I prescribe medication. To request an intake, message me through Psychology Today or visit my website, www.ninasreshtamd.com. Currently, I am only seeing patients online.
(857) 320-3128 View (857) 320-3128
Photo of Lisa Joyce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa Joyce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mansfield, MA 02048
Now accepting new clients at New England Counseling Center in Mansfield, MA. Lisa is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is a Regis College graduate. She has over 18 years diverse clinical experience in healthcare within the general population in specialty fields such as palliative care, clinical instruction, and transitional care management. Lisa's didactic history includes but is not limited to outpatient counseling centers, crisis centers, and partial hospitalization programs.
Now accepting new clients at New England Counseling Center in Mansfield, MA. Lisa is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is a Regis College graduate. She has over 18 years diverse clinical experience in healthcare within the general population in specialty fields such as palliative care, clinical instruction, and transitional care management. Lisa's didactic history includes but is not limited to outpatient counseling centers, crisis centers, and partial hospitalization programs.
(508) 205-8653 View (508) 205-8653
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(617) 917-3392 View (617) 917-3392
Photo of Naila Tariq, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Naila Tariq
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Naila Tariq, APRN, is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Naila worked as a psychiatric nurse for five years before obtaining her Master of Science in Nursing from Regis College and graduated summa cum laude. Naila has experience working in community mental health, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient practice, and consult psychiatry. Naila understands the struggles of finding the right psychiatric provider for her patients and wishes to provide the best evidence-based care. Naila sees patients 18 and older.
Naila Tariq, APRN, is a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Naila worked as a psychiatric nurse for five years before obtaining her Master of Science in Nursing from Regis College and graduated summa cum laude. Naila has experience working in community mental health, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient practice, and consult psychiatry. Naila understands the struggles of finding the right psychiatric provider for her patients and wishes to provide the best evidence-based care. Naila sees patients 18 and older.
(339) 300-4275 View (339) 300-4275
Photo of Joe O'Garr, MD, Psychiatrist
Joe O'Garr
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
Dr. Joe O’Garr is a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has been providing comprehensive psychiatric care in Massachusetts since 2010. He believes in a strength-based collaborative approach in identifying solutions for children, adolescents, and young adults.
Dr. Joe O’Garr is a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has been providing comprehensive psychiatric care in Massachusetts since 2010. He believes in a strength-based collaborative approach in identifying solutions for children, adolescents, and young adults.
(781) 426-3390 View (781) 426-3390
Photo of Dong Chan Park, Psychiatrist
Dong Chan Park
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, MA 02421
My clients are suffering from problematic maladaptive behavioral patterns that they recognize as such and feel that they do not have control over them. They realize that it first began as an escape from other underlying problems and they are now ready to face it so that they can grow as a person.
My clients are suffering from problematic maladaptive behavioral patterns that they recognize as such and feel that they do not have control over them. They realize that it first began as an escape from other underlying problems and they are now ready to face it so that they can grow as a person.
(617) 206-1476 View (617) 206-1476
Photo of Sofia Verdeja Mitchell, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sofia Verdeja Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
•• Accepting New Clients ••: I am a board-certified English/Spanish bilingual psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma and OCD. Skilled in assessment, diagnosis and medication management through evidence-based care for safe and effective outcomes, I build targeted and individualized treatment plans while providing therapeutic support and a willingness to collaborate with therapists for mutual patients. Throughout more than eight years of experience, I have provided patient care across a variety of settings, including emergency care, inpatient psychiatry and outpatient psychiatry.
•• Accepting New Clients ••: I am a board-certified English/Spanish bilingual psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma and OCD. Skilled in assessment, diagnosis and medication management through evidence-based care for safe and effective outcomes, I build targeted and individualized treatment plans while providing therapeutic support and a willingness to collaborate with therapists for mutual patients. Throughout more than eight years of experience, I have provided patient care across a variety of settings, including emergency care, inpatient psychiatry and outpatient psychiatry.
(339) 218-4969 View (339) 218-4969
Photo of Nell Peiken, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse
Nell Peiken
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Middleton, MA 01949
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I work with children, adolescents, and adults; and provide medication evaluations and ongoing medication management. Please go directly to my website (www.nellpeiken.com) for information on scheduling.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I work with children, adolescents, and adults; and provide medication evaluations and ongoing medication management. Please go directly to my website (www.nellpeiken.com) for information on scheduling.
(978) 607-3815 View (978) 607-3815
Photo of Kenneth Kavanagh, PMHNP-C, ANP-C, MSN, MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kenneth Kavanagh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, ANP-C, MSN, MPH
Verified Verified
Online Only
I provide psychiatric care, including diagnosis, medication management, consultations, and supportive counseling. I have enjoyed worked with many diverse groups, including members of the LGBTQ community, college students and professionals on all levels, individuals adjusting to cultural changes, persons in life-stage transitions, and those living with chronic disease. My interaction style ranges from supportive, directive, or challenging depending on the client's needs and goals. I maintain a collaborative and respectful approach, and establish a safe therapeutic environment with compassion, empathy, and significant dose of humor.
I provide psychiatric care, including diagnosis, medication management, consultations, and supportive counseling. I have enjoyed worked with many diverse groups, including members of the LGBTQ community, college students and professionals on all levels, individuals adjusting to cultural changes, persons in life-stage transitions, and those living with chronic disease. My interaction style ranges from supportive, directive, or challenging depending on the client's needs and goals. I maintain a collaborative and respectful approach, and establish a safe therapeutic environment with compassion, empathy, and significant dose of humor.
(508) 714-7428 View (508) 714-7428
Photo of Juliana Pires, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Juliana Pires
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westford, MA 01886
I have helped people who reported anxiety that "comes unannounced from nowhere", or had been feeling low and having difficulty finding motivation, or who were just not feeling like themselves for different reasons including poor sleep, low energy, inability to stop worrying, and inability to concentrate to complete tasks.
I have helped people who reported anxiety that "comes unannounced from nowhere", or had been feeling low and having difficulty finding motivation, or who were just not feeling like themselves for different reasons including poor sleep, low energy, inability to stop worrying, and inability to concentrate to complete tasks.
(603) 782-9572 View (603) 782-9572
Photo of Derick Ngoran, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Derick Ngoran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Derick Ngoran a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner qualified to practice in psychiatry, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for adolescents, adults, and elderly from diverse backgrounds. I have a collaborative approach to treatment which involves partnership with clients, their family and other team members, tailoring treatment to meet the personal needs of everyone using an all-encompassing/integrative, holistic, and evidence-based approach to evaluations, assessment, medication management and psychotherapy.
I am Derick Ngoran a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner qualified to practice in psychiatry, diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for adolescents, adults, and elderly from diverse backgrounds. I have a collaborative approach to treatment which involves partnership with clients, their family and other team members, tailoring treatment to meet the personal needs of everyone using an all-encompassing/integrative, holistic, and evidence-based approach to evaluations, assessment, medication management and psychotherapy.
(508) 501-6777 View (508) 501-6777
Photo of Sara Lozyniak, MD, Psychiatrist
Sara Lozyniak
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist in private practice in Cambridge, MA. Most of my work is currently with undergraduate students, graduate students, and professionals. I see most patients for psychotherapy (talk therapy), and some for a combination of psychotherapy and medication management.
I am a Board-Certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist in private practice in Cambridge, MA. Most of my work is currently with undergraduate students, graduate students, and professionals. I see most patients for psychotherapy (talk therapy), and some for a combination of psychotherapy and medication management.
(617) 299-8967 View (617) 299-8967
Photo of Joan longwell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joan longwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Danvers, MA 01923
Hello, I've been in the behavioral health field since 1987. I have worked with patients with most types of mental health issues, in a variety of settings. I work with ages 16 - 90 years old. I provide compassionate and knowledgeable care. My goal is to assist you to reach your full potential.
Hello, I've been in the behavioral health field since 1987. I have worked with patients with most types of mental health issues, in a variety of settings. I work with ages 16 - 90 years old. I provide compassionate and knowledgeable care. My goal is to assist you to reach your full potential.
(978) 961-6166 View (978) 961-6166
Photo of Angela Terry, NPI, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Terry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPI
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
Angela is a fully licensed and board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She completed her master of science in nursing from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in 2016 where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Angela's goal is to create a trusting relationship with her patients and to deliver high-quality care. Angela has a passion for running and traveling the world! She enjoys spending her free time with her family and dog, George.
Angela is a fully licensed and board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She completed her master of science in nursing from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in 2016 where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Angela's goal is to create a trusting relationship with her patients and to deliver high-quality care. Angela has a passion for running and traveling the world! She enjoys spending her free time with her family and dog, George.
(781) 650-3257 View (781) 650-3257
Photo of Fikreta Cefo, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fikreta Cefo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am driven by a profound passion for mental health care and a commitment to enhancing the well-being of individuals struggling with psychiatric disorders. With a blend of clinical expertise, empathy, and a holistic approach to treatment, I strive to provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient's unique needs. My journey in psychiatric nursing has equipped me with a deep understanding of various mental health conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, post traumatic stress disorders, depressive disorders, psychotic disorders, and substance use disorders.
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am driven by a profound passion for mental health care and a commitment to enhancing the well-being of individuals struggling with psychiatric disorders. With a blend of clinical expertise, empathy, and a holistic approach to treatment, I strive to provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient's unique needs. My journey in psychiatric nursing has equipped me with a deep understanding of various mental health conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, post traumatic stress disorders, depressive disorders, psychotic disorders, and substance use disorders.
(781) 390-9522 View (781) 390-9522
Photo of Ozan Toy, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Ozan Toy
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02118
Ideal client is someone who desires a partner in addressing their mental health. I view the patient-doctor relationship as a shared decision making process that will facilitate an individually tailored approach to achieve optimal mental health. I use a holistic approach and consider biological, psychological, and social aspects of a client's life to determine the best treatment paradigms. Whether you are looking for a skilled talk therapist or need assistance with medications, I am confident that I can help you achieve your goals.
Ideal client is someone who desires a partner in addressing their mental health. I view the patient-doctor relationship as a shared decision making process that will facilitate an individually tailored approach to achieve optimal mental health. I use a holistic approach and consider biological, psychological, and social aspects of a client's life to determine the best treatment paradigms. Whether you are looking for a skilled talk therapist or need assistance with medications, I am confident that I can help you achieve your goals.
(201) 559-8306 View (201) 559-8306
Photo of Pauline T Eteng, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pauline T Eteng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you looking for a qualified, experienced, psychiatric nurse practitioner with a patient-centered, nonjudgmental approach? A provider with clinical skills, who is approachable, empathetic, and goal-oriented? If so, Collegial Psychiatric & Behavioral Medicine (CPBM) is the place for you. At CPBM, we collaborate with clients to build a trust based professional relationship, that allows clients to be active participants in their healing journey. Our major goal is to provide holistic care to a distinct populace, preparing clients towards self-actualization and optimum functioning.
Are you looking for a qualified, experienced, psychiatric nurse practitioner with a patient-centered, nonjudgmental approach? A provider with clinical skills, who is approachable, empathetic, and goal-oriented? If so, Collegial Psychiatric & Behavioral Medicine (CPBM) is the place for you. At CPBM, we collaborate with clients to build a trust based professional relationship, that allows clients to be active participants in their healing journey. Our major goal is to provide holistic care to a distinct populace, preparing clients towards self-actualization and optimum functioning.
(508) 506-8842 View (508) 506-8842
Photo of Shahrzad Sims, DO, Psychiatrist
Shahrzad Sims
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Braintree, MA 02184
Dr. Sims, psychiatrist at Aster Mental Health, specializes in patients looking to treat and manage their ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and schizophrenia. She offers medicine management as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
Dr. Sims, psychiatrist at Aster Mental Health, specializes in patients looking to treat and manage their ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and schizophrenia. She offers medicine management as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
(857) 877-3809 View (857) 877-3809
Photo of Robin Shannon, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Robin Shannon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Not Verified Not 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

See more therapy options for 02216

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 02216

< 10

Psychiatrists in 02216 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Other
100% Education and Learning Disabilities
100% School Issues

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 02216 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 02216?

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.