Psychiatrists in 02303

Diligence healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serves Area
DHC is a multidisciplinary group providing a total and comprehensive outpatients behavioral health and psychiatric care to all ages. We recognize and appreciate our patients cultural, religious and social differences . We have a team of experienced staff, (doctors, NP, Therapist, etc) that are professional and sensitive to our patients individual differences, diagnosis and therefore offer care that is individualized using best scientific and evidence based methods that is suitable to every patient accurate diagnosis. we are currently accepting most insurance with no waiting list, and Weekend appointments are available.
DHC is a multidisciplinary group providing a total and comprehensive outpatients behavioral health and psychiatric care to all ages. We recognize and appreciate our patients cultural, religious and social differences . We have a team of experienced staff, (doctors, NP, Therapist, etc) that are professional and sensitive to our patients individual differences, diagnosis and therefore offer care that is individualized using best scientific and evidence based methods that is suitable to every patient accurate diagnosis. we are currently accepting most insurance with no waiting list, and Weekend appointments are available.
(781) 404-3213 View (781) 404-3213
Photo of Dr. Chinyere M Ofurum-Ononiwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC
Dr. Chinyere M Ofurum-Ononiwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC
Serves Area
I consider myself lucky to work in the healthcare, and strongly believe that substance abuse and mental health has taken a back stage in America culture. We have to accept that substance abuse and mental health has enrolled into our cultural lives and it has not to be accepted with openness and understanding. As a family nurse practitioner that specializes on substance abuse treatment and mental health, it will be my goal to advocate for patients who struggle with the disease, also to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and with a holistic care.
I consider myself lucky to work in the healthcare, and strongly believe that substance abuse and mental health has taken a back stage in America culture. We have to accept that substance abuse and mental health has enrolled into our cultural lives and it has not to be accepted with openness and understanding. As a family nurse practitioner that specializes on substance abuse treatment and mental health, it will be my goal to advocate for patients who struggle with the disease, also to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and with a holistic care.
(781) 650-7242 View (781) 650-7242
Photo of Dr. Lilian D Silva, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Lilian D Silva
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
I’m Lilian Silva, a multilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate from University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. I specialize in helping individuals navigate challenges related to relationships, mental health, and life transitions. You don't have to face these struggles on your own. I am committed to offering holistic, patient-centered care that blends mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical principles with trauma-informed practices. I understand the deep impact of trauma and prioritize creating a safe and supportive space for healing and recovery.
I’m Lilian Silva, a multilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate from University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. I specialize in helping individuals navigate challenges related to relationships, mental health, and life transitions. You don't have to face these struggles on your own. I am committed to offering holistic, patient-centered care that blends mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical principles with trauma-informed practices. I understand the deep impact of trauma and prioritize creating a safe and supportive space for healing and recovery.
(508) 233-9372 View (508) 233-9372

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Lindsey Stanley, Physician Assistant, PA
Lindsey Stanley
Physician Assistant, PA
Waltham, MA 02453
Meet Lindsey, a dedicated and compassionate Physician Assistant (PA) who prioritizes comprehensive care and mental health in her practice. With a commitment to addressing the root causes of her patients' concerns, Lindsey brings a unique perspective to the field of healthcare. Her expertise, combined with her passion for overall well-being, makes her a valuable asset in the pursuit of mental health. Lindsey's journey in healthcare is marked by excellence, having graduated with honors from her Master of Physician Assistant program in Boston, MA.
Meet Lindsey, a dedicated and compassionate Physician Assistant (PA) who prioritizes comprehensive care and mental health in her practice. With a commitment to addressing the root causes of her patients' concerns, Lindsey brings a unique perspective to the field of healthcare. Her expertise, combined with her passion for overall well-being, makes her a valuable asset in the pursuit of mental health. Lindsey's journey in healthcare is marked by excellence, having graduated with honors from her Master of Physician Assistant program in Boston, MA.
(617) 744-7971 View (617) 744-7971
Photo of Edilia F Gomes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, APRN-BC
Edilia F Gomes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, APRN-BC
5 Endorsed
Malden, MA 02148
Accepting new clients! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Social Worker, I envision my ideal client seeking understanding, validation, and hope amidst mental health challenges. They desire a collaborative partnership, evidence-based interventions tailored to their needs, and a sense of empowerment on their healing journey. I am committed to meeting them with empathy, authenticity, and cultural humility, guiding them toward resilience and wholeness in a journey of self-discovery and growth.
Accepting new clients! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Social Worker, I envision my ideal client seeking understanding, validation, and hope amidst mental health challenges. They desire a collaborative partnership, evidence-based interventions tailored to their needs, and a sense of empowerment on their healing journey. I am committed to meeting them with empathy, authenticity, and cultural humility, guiding them toward resilience and wholeness in a journey of self-discovery and growth.
(339) 330-1121 View (339) 330-1121
Photo of Kenneth Kavanagh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, ANP-C, MSN, MPH
Kenneth Kavanagh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, ANP-C, MSN, MPH
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 Ruth Mackenzie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MA, APN, PMHNP
Ruth Mackenzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MA, APN, PMHNP
Woburn, MA 01801
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
(339) 500-7348 View (339) 500-7348
Photo of Angela Terry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPI
Angela Terry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPI
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 Rhianna Candido, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Rhianna Candido
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02476
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I’m passionate about supporting people on their mental health journey. I focus on supporting older adolescents, young adults/college students and adults. I have a special interest in women’s mental health with additional training in perinatal mental health.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I’m passionate about supporting people on their mental health journey. I focus on supporting older adolescents, young adults/college students and adults. I have a special interest in women’s mental health with additional training in perinatal mental health.
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Photo of Bree Necoletti - Bree-Anna Nicoletti | Spravato TMS Med Management, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bree-Anna Nicoletti | Spravato TMS Med Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brookline, MA 02446
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and provider at Stella Mental Health Boston in Brookline. I am experienced in working with individuals across the lifespan, in both a psychiatric and dual-diagnosis setting. My psychiatric experience is centered around providing innovative treatments, medication management, and psychotherapy for a wide range of mental health conditions including but limited to PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and psychotic disorders. My approach to treatment is patient-centered, providing a collaborative, inclusive, and therapeutic environment.
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and provider at Stella Mental Health Boston in Brookline. I am experienced in working with individuals across the lifespan, in both a psychiatric and dual-diagnosis setting. My psychiatric experience is centered around providing innovative treatments, medication management, and psychotherapy for a wide range of mental health conditions including but limited to PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and psychotic disorders. My approach to treatment is patient-centered, providing a collaborative, inclusive, and therapeutic environment.
(857) 858-4903 View (857) 858-4903
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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.
(508) 321-6395 View (508) 321-6395
Photo of Christina Gormly - Vista Family Psychiatry, LLC: Christina Gormly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Vista Family Psychiatry, LLC: Christina Gormly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Online Only
My name is Christina Gormly and I am currently scheduling new clients for telehealth sessions. I take a warm and holistic approach, utilizing CBT and DBT methods to assist you in meeting your goals. I am also certified an as Integrative Psychiatric Practitioner, utilizing a blend of complementary and alternative interventions to reach optimum well-being. I am ANCC certified to treat children, adolescents, and adults. 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 take a warm and holistic approach, utilizing CBT and DBT methods to assist you in meeting your goals. I am also certified an as Integrative Psychiatric Practitioner, utilizing a blend of complementary and alternative interventions to reach optimum well-being. I am ANCC certified to treat children, adolescents, and adults. 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 Linda Kim, Psychiatrist, MD
Linda Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
My patients often share with me that they look forward to their appointments with me as an opportunity to heal, to learn, and to grow in ways that were surprising to them. I am passionate about offering a holistic and inviting approach to emotional health treatment. I consider myself an integrative psychiatrist, and therefore utilize functional/precision medicine approaches with testing for hormone and stress levels, using HRV and DUTCH tests, to provide a comprehensive plan you. I attended medical school at Tufts University, and completed my adult residency program at Harvard Medical School (MGH/McLean).
My patients often share with me that they look forward to their appointments with me as an opportunity to heal, to learn, and to grow in ways that were surprising to them. I am passionate about offering a holistic and inviting approach to emotional health treatment. I consider myself an integrative psychiatrist, and therefore utilize functional/precision medicine approaches with testing for hormone and stress levels, using HRV and DUTCH tests, to provide a comprehensive plan you. I attended medical school at Tufts University, and completed my adult residency program at Harvard Medical School (MGH/McLean).
(617) 410-4519 View (617) 410-4519
Photo of Jennifer Caraballo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jennifer Caraballo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, school-related issues, sleep/insomnia, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bipolar disorder. I enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, and individuals across the lifespan, providing comprehensive and compassionate care.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, school-related issues, sleep/insomnia, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bipolar disorder. I enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, and individuals across the lifespan, providing comprehensive and compassionate care.
(774) 771-1235 View (774) 771-1235
Photo of Rita Asiegbunam, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rita Asiegbunam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Taunton, MA 02780
Rita is a psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner who has worked in the behavioral health field for over 15 years using professional skills to evaluate and offer excellent patient care using evidence-based practice.
Rita is a psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner who has worked in the behavioral health field for over 15 years using professional skills to evaluate and offer excellent patient care using evidence-based practice.
(774) 214-2798 View (774) 214-2798
Photo of Mini Sharma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Mini Sharma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Mansfield, MA 02048
Feeling overwhelmed? Are you experiencing anxiety, mood disturbance, insomnia, concentration issues, irritability, or going through a life transition? Do you have a history of ADHD, Trauma/PTSD or Mood Disorders? Have you been on psychiatric medications for a while and need reevaluation or medication management? I might be able to help. Call or send an email or go to my website and Schedule a Session. I see clients ages 21 and above via telehealth and in person.
Feeling overwhelmed? Are you experiencing anxiety, mood disturbance, insomnia, concentration issues, irritability, or going through a life transition? Do you have a history of ADHD, Trauma/PTSD or Mood Disorders? Have you been on psychiatric medications for a while and need reevaluation or medication management? I might be able to help. Call or send an email or go to my website and Schedule a Session. I see clients ages 21 and above via telehealth and in person.
(401) 373-3465 View (401) 373-3465
Photo of Brandon A Burr - ADHD Aid Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
ADHD Aid Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Cambridge, MA 02138
Summer is here—and with it comes the freedom to breathe, reset, and refocus. The demands of the school year or the grind of daily life may have left you running on fumes. Now is the perfect time to pause and check in with yourself. If you’ve been powering through brain fog, mood swings, anxiety, or burnout just to make it through the day, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to keep living that way. Whether you're decompressing after finals, balancing career and family, or just tired of feeling off, let this season be your turning point. You deserve clarity, peace, and a plan that works for you.
Summer is here—and with it comes the freedom to breathe, reset, and refocus. The demands of the school year or the grind of daily life may have left you running on fumes. Now is the perfect time to pause and check in with yourself. If you’ve been powering through brain fog, mood swings, anxiety, or burnout just to make it through the day, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to keep living that way. Whether you're decompressing after finals, balancing career and family, or just tired of feeling off, let this season be your turning point. You deserve clarity, peace, and a plan that works for you.
(339) 220-4491 View (339) 220-4491
Photo of Harmony Bay, Psychiatrist
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist
Cambridge, MA 02141
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(857) 887-2930 View (857) 887-2930
Photo of Grace Mbawuike, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Grace Mbawuike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a focus on assessing and treating patients' health concerns, including anxiety and depression. I am passionate about working with patients and creating appropriate multi-modal treatment plans to address various mental health concerns. My goal is to work with you to help you achieve your ultimate level of functioning. Medication management is a vital part of a multi-modal treatment plan. In addition to medication management, I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition.
am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a focus on assessing and treating patients' health concerns, including anxiety and depression. I am passionate about working with patients and creating appropriate multi-modal treatment plans to address various mental health concerns. My goal is to work with you to help you achieve your ultimate level of functioning. Medication management is a vital part of a multi-modal treatment plan. In addition to medication management, I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition.
(857) 340-5610 View (857) 340-5610
Photo of Mikaela Spence, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mikaela Spence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 17 years of experience working in psychiatry, 5 of which are as a medication prescriber. I follow a patient-centered approach where we work together as a team to develop a treatment plan. I do not treat the diagnosis; I treat the patient as a whole, addressing symptoms that help improve quality of life.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 17 years of experience working in psychiatry, 5 of which are as a medication prescriber. I follow a patient-centered approach where we work together as a team to develop a treatment plan. I do not treat the diagnosis; I treat the patient as a whole, addressing symptoms that help improve quality of life.
(508) 501-0324 View (508) 501-0324

See more therapy options for 02303

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 02303

< 10

Psychiatrists in 02303 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Substance Use
100% Alcohol Use
100% Medication Management

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Harvard Pilgrim

How Psychiatrists in 02303 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 02303?

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.