Psychiatrists in 02453

Photo of Mohammad Munir, Psychiatrist, MD
Mohammad Munir
Psychiatrist, MD
Waltham, MA 02453
Dr. Mohammad Munir is the President and Chief Medical Officer of Boston Neurobehavioral Associates, a practice he founded in 1998. He is a graduate of Sindh Medical College and completed his residency and fellowship in psychiatry at Boston University Medical Center. Dr. Munir's goal is to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and eliminate barriers to accessing behavioral care on a global scale.
Dr. Mohammad Munir is the President and Chief Medical Officer of Boston Neurobehavioral Associates, a practice he founded in 1998. He is a graduate of Sindh Medical College and completed his residency and fellowship in psychiatry at Boston University Medical Center. Dr. Munir's goal is to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and eliminate barriers to accessing behavioral care on a global scale.
(781) 676-3186 View (781) 676-3186
Photo of Michael Mclaughlin, Physician Assistant, PA
Michael Mclaughlin
Physician Assistant, PA
Waltham, MA 02453
Title: Michael: A Psychiatric PA Dedicated to Mental Health Care Summary: Meet Michael, a highly dedicated and specialized Physician Assistant (PA) with a profound focus on psychiatric care and mental health. His journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University, sparking his passion for the field of psychology and mental well-being. Driven by this passion, Michael pursued further education at MCPHS University in Boston, earning a Bachelor of Science and ultimately a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from MCPHS University in Worcester.
Title: Michael: A Psychiatric PA Dedicated to Mental Health Care Summary: Meet Michael, a highly dedicated and specialized Physician Assistant (PA) with a profound focus on psychiatric care and mental health. His journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University, sparking his passion for the field of psychology and mental well-being. Driven by this passion, Michael pursued further education at MCPHS University in Boston, earning a Bachelor of Science and ultimately a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from MCPHS University in Worcester.
(781) 746-7332 View (781) 746-7332
Photo of Margaret Isang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Margaret Isang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Margaret Isang is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Regis College. With a deep passion for mental health care, she provides individualized, safe, and holistic treatment to her patients. Originally drawn to the field of nursing due to her innate compassion and desire to help others, Margaret has accumulated extensive experience in psychiatric and behavioral health care. As a compassionate provider, Margaret understands, provides support, and empowers her client to prioritize their mental health.
Margaret Isang is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s in Nursing from Regis College. With a deep passion for mental health care, she provides individualized, safe, and holistic treatment to her patients. Originally drawn to the field of nursing due to her innate compassion and desire to help others, Margaret has accumulated extensive experience in psychiatric and behavioral health care. As a compassionate provider, Margaret understands, provides support, and empowers her client to prioritize their mental health.
(781) 650-7915 View (781) 650-7915
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 Heather Wojcik, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPI
Heather Wojcik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPI
Waltham, MA 02453
Heather is board certified in both family health as well as psychiatric mental health. She graduated with honors from the University of Massachusetts Lowell in 2013 with a Masters of Science in Nursing/Family Health NP and obtained her Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health from Liberty University in 2021. Heather has been with Boston Neurobehavioral Associates since 2021 and has transitioned to a well-respected and high-performing clinician. Heather's goal is to continue to practice at a high level while maintaining professionalism and remaining sensitive to the needs of her diverse client population.
Heather is board certified in both family health as well as psychiatric mental health. She graduated with honors from the University of Massachusetts Lowell in 2013 with a Masters of Science in Nursing/Family Health NP and obtained her Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health from Liberty University in 2021. Heather has been with Boston Neurobehavioral Associates since 2021 and has transitioned to a well-respected and high-performing clinician. Heather's goal is to continue to practice at a high level while maintaining professionalism and remaining sensitive to the needs of her diverse client population.
(781) 872-2028 View (781) 872-2028
Photo of Dustin Saccoccio, Physician Assistant, PA
Dustin Saccoccio
Physician Assistant, PA
Waltham, MA 02453
Dustin graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences and a Minor in Chemistry. After discovering his passion for medicine, Dustin pursued his Master of Physician Assistant Studies at MCPHS University, graduating Magna Cum Laude and ranking in the top 10% of his class.
Dustin graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences and a Minor in Chemistry. After discovering his passion for medicine, Dustin pursued his Master of Physician Assistant Studies at MCPHS University, graduating Magna Cum Laude and ranking in the top 10% of his class.
(781) 412-1951 View (781) 412-1951
Photo of Christina Quynh Nguyen, Physician Assistant, PA
Christina Quynh Nguyen
Physician Assistant, PA
Waltham, MA 02453
Christina Nguyen obtained her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a Psychology minor from the University of Massachusetts Lowell before completing her Master’s of Physician Assistant Studies at MCPHS University in 2017. She is fluent in both English and Vietnamese.
Christina Nguyen obtained her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a Psychology minor from the University of Massachusetts Lowell before completing her Master’s of Physician Assistant Studies at MCPHS University in 2017. She is fluent in both English and Vietnamese.
(781) 653-5870 View (781) 653-5870
Photo of Alice Frawley, Physician Assistant, PA
Alice Frawley
Physician Assistant, PA
Waltham, MA 02453
Meet Alice, a compassionate and highly qualified Physician Assistant with a profound focus on mental health support. Alice's journey in healthcare began at Saint Francis University, where she honed her skills and passion for patient care. As an NCCPA certified professional, she is dedicated to working collaboratively with her patients, providing them with the healing and support they need throughout life's various journeys. Alice's primary goal is to promote not only physical but also mental well-being in her patients.
Meet Alice, a compassionate and highly qualified Physician Assistant with a profound focus on mental health support. Alice's journey in healthcare began at Saint Francis University, where she honed her skills and passion for patient care. As an NCCPA certified professional, she is dedicated to working collaboratively with her patients, providing them with the healing and support they need throughout life's various journeys. Alice's primary goal is to promote not only physical but also mental well-being in her patients.
(781) 423-3848 View (781) 423-3848
Photo of Emily Mehta, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPI
Emily Mehta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPI
Waltham, MA 02453
Emily has over 20 years experience in providing medical care. She began her journey as a healthcare professional working as a registered nurse in various clinical settings- including pediatrics, outpatient dialysis, clinical research, medical surgical, vascular, neuro, and stroke. Emily has always enjoyed working with patients to assist them with their mental health needs, as this is a part of overall optimal health. She provides patients with a holistic approach to managing their healthcare needs.
Emily has over 20 years experience in providing medical care. She began her journey as a healthcare professional working as a registered nurse in various clinical settings- including pediatrics, outpatient dialysis, clinical research, medical surgical, vascular, neuro, and stroke. Emily has always enjoyed working with patients to assist them with their mental health needs, as this is a part of overall optimal health. She provides patients with a holistic approach to managing their healthcare needs.
(781) 650-6890 View (781) 650-6890
Photo of Sarlan Bernard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Sarlan Bernard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Waltham, MA 02453
I am a multilingual psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked across the lifespan in Massachusetts. I work with clients who are struggling with a myriad of mental health concerns, including substance abuse. My goal is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients to empower them to engage in their treatment to reach their maximum potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have adequate information while being an active participant in making an informed decision about their treatment plan.
I am a multilingual psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked across the lifespan in Massachusetts. I work with clients who are struggling with a myriad of mental health concerns, including substance abuse. My goal is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients to empower them to engage in their treatment to reach their maximum potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have adequate information while being an active participant in making an informed decision about their treatment plan.
(781) 404-3631 View (781) 404-3631
Photo of Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD, CDS
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD, CDS
Waltham, MA 02453
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 diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient 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 diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(781) 650-8321 View (781) 650-8321
Photo of Veenu Thakur, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPI
Veenu Thakur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPI
Waltham, MA 02453
Veenu Thakur, NP In 2014, I graduated from university of Cincinnati with Master of Science in Nursing and became adult-geri primary care nurse practitioner. Prior to this I was working as an RN in psychiatry. I have also worked with PACE: Program of all inclusive care for the elderly and Medoptions Behavioral Health. I believe in the force of the gravity going downwards. Similarly, what goes on in our minds travels downwards to our body causing multiple illnesses such as headache, insomnia, chronic pain, digestive issues. Hence, it is very important that we first take care of our mental wellbeing.
Veenu Thakur, NP In 2014, I graduated from university of Cincinnati with Master of Science in Nursing and became adult-geri primary care nurse practitioner. Prior to this I was working as an RN in psychiatry. I have also worked with PACE: Program of all inclusive care for the elderly and Medoptions Behavioral Health. I believe in the force of the gravity going downwards. Similarly, what goes on in our minds travels downwards to our body causing multiple illnesses such as headache, insomnia, chronic pain, digestive issues. Hence, it is very important that we first take care of our mental wellbeing.
(781) 460-6973 View (781) 460-6973
Photo of Mary Samborski, Physician Assistant, PA
Mary Samborski
Physician Assistant, PA
Online Only
Mary Beth, an experienced and dedicated Physician Assistant (PA), is on a mission to support her patients in achieving optimal physical and mental health. She brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her practice, making her a valuable asset to the field of healthcare. Mary Beth's educational journey reflects her commitment to providing comprehensive care. She graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Oklahoma Baptist University in 2003, demonstrating her early passion for understanding the intricacies of the human mind.
Mary Beth, an experienced and dedicated Physician Assistant (PA), is on a mission to support her patients in achieving optimal physical and mental health. She brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her practice, making her a valuable asset to the field of healthcare. Mary Beth's educational journey reflects her commitment to providing comprehensive care. She graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Oklahoma Baptist University in 2003, demonstrating her early passion for understanding the intricacies of the human mind.
(617) 229-7244 View (617) 229-7244
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 Lauren Stanley, Physician Assistant, PA
Lauren Stanley
Physician Assistant, PA
Online Only
Meet Lauren, a nationally certified Physician Associate with a specialization in psychiatry, highlighting her commitment to mental health care. Her educational journey, marked by academic excellence, includes both a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from MCPHS University, where she graduated magna cum laude. Lauren's primary goal as a psychiatric PA is to empower her patients to achieve their mental health goals through honest and open communication.
Meet Lauren, a nationally certified Physician Associate with a specialization in psychiatry, highlighting her commitment to mental health care. Her educational journey, marked by academic excellence, includes both a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from MCPHS University, where she graduated magna cum laude. Lauren's primary goal as a psychiatric PA is to empower her patients to achieve their mental health goals through honest and open communication.
(617) 765-1792 View (617) 765-1792
Photo of Dr. Nuzhat Farooqui, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Dr. Nuzhat Farooqui
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Waltham, MA 02453
Graduated from the Gandhi Medical College located at Musheerabad, Secunderabad, India in 1980, specialized in Psychiatry with 40 years of practice. Residency at West Ros Park Mental Health Center. Was a participant in the Medicare Physician Quality Reporting System, Medicare Maintenance of Certification Program,Medicare Electronic Health Record,Medicare Electronic Prescribing.
Graduated from the Gandhi Medical College located at Musheerabad, Secunderabad, India in 1980, specialized in Psychiatry with 40 years of practice. Residency at West Ros Park Mental Health Center. Was a participant in the Medicare Physician Quality Reporting System, Medicare Maintenance of Certification Program,Medicare Electronic Health Record,Medicare Electronic Prescribing.
(774) 228-7563 View (774) 228-7563
Photo of Meher Naeem Ellahi, Physician Assistant, PA
Meher Naeem Ellahi
Physician Assistant, PA
Waltham, MA 02453
Meher Ellahi, PA-C, graduated from Duke University’s Physician Assistant program and earned her undergraduate degree from UCLA, graduating in the top 3% of her class with presidential honors. At BNBA, her goal is to guide patients on their mental health journey, equipping them with tools for a balanced and happier life. A food lover and travel enthusiast, Meher enjoys meeting new people and exploring diverse cuisines.
Meher Ellahi, PA-C, graduated from Duke University’s Physician Assistant program and earned her undergraduate degree from UCLA, graduating in the top 3% of her class with presidential honors. At BNBA, her goal is to guide patients on their mental health journey, equipping them with tools for a balanced and happier life. A food lover and travel enthusiast, Meher enjoys meeting new people and exploring diverse cuisines.
(781) 579-8865 View (781) 579-8865
Photo of Dominque Serio, Physician Assistant, PA
Dominque Serio
Physician Assistant, PA
Waltham, MA 02453
What sets Dominique apart is her specialization in mental health, where she is deeply committed to the emotional and psychological well-being of her patients. Her expertise extends beyond traditional medical care, as she understands the intricate relationship between mental and physical health.
What sets Dominique apart is her specialization in mental health, where she is deeply committed to the emotional and psychological well-being of her patients. Her expertise extends beyond traditional medical care, as she understands the intricate relationship between mental and physical health.
(617) 882-7817 View (617) 882-7817
Photo of Andrea Papa, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrea Papa
Psychiatrist, MD
Waltham, MA 02453
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(781) 818-1726 View (781) 818-1726
Photo of Jacqueline Rutinwa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacqueline Rutinwa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Board-certified Nursing Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialty in Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practice across the lifespan. I exhibit excellent communication skills, enabaling me to critically assess, diagnose, and plan care for patients. I possess strong clinical skills, enhanced by the natural ability to build rapport with patients and families following evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience and personal observation.
I am a Board-certified Nursing Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialty in Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practice across the lifespan. I exhibit excellent communication skills, enabaling me to critically assess, diagnose, and plan care for patients. I possess strong clinical skills, enhanced by the natural ability to build rapport with patients and families following evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience and personal observation.
(857) 524-9916 View (857) 524-9916

See more therapy options for 02453

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 02453

40+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in 02453 who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
77% Bipolar Disorder
77% Behavioral Issues
70% ADHD
58% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
58% Anger Management

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 02453 see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 02453?

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.