Psychiatrists in Belmont, MA

Photo of Angelique Kleer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Angelique Kleer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Belmont, MA 02478
Angel provides comprehensive psychiatric care to children, adolescents, adults, and families in order to help them achieve their mental health goals. She offers assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, including medication management and psychotherapy, for a variety of complex mental health conditions, such as anxiety, panic, mood disorders, ADHD, eating disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Angel has special interest and training in the treatment of OCD and related disorders. She provides psychotherapy with a person-centered approach, specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy (with exposure and response prevention).
Angel provides comprehensive psychiatric care to children, adolescents, adults, and families in order to help them achieve their mental health goals. She offers assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, including medication management and psychotherapy, for a variety of complex mental health conditions, such as anxiety, panic, mood disorders, ADHD, eating disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Angel has special interest and training in the treatment of OCD and related disorders. She provides psychotherapy with a person-centered approach, specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy (with exposure and response prevention).
(857) 367-8170 View (857) 367-8170
Photo of Sarlah Bernard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sarlah Bernard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Belmont, MA 02478
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 to make 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 to make an informed decision about their treatment plan.
(857) 403-8768 View (857) 403-8768
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Belmont, MA 02478
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.
(857) 392-3885 View (857) 392-3885
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Belmont, MA 02478
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(857) 228-3835 View (857) 228-3835
Photo of Judith K Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, FNP, PMHNP
Judith K Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, FNP, PMHNP
Belmont, MA 02478
Hello! I’m Judy Williams, As a passionate and dedicated family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly 15 years of experience, I offer personalized, evidence-based care to help you overcome life’s obstacles and achieve emotional balance. From cognitive behavioral therapy to medication management, my approach is focused on meeting your unique needs and fostering long-term mental wellness in a supportive, collaborative environment. I see individuals aged 12 to 65 and beyond. My practice addresses several challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, traumatic experiences, and other mood disorders.
Hello! I’m Judy Williams, As a passionate and dedicated family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly 15 years of experience, I offer personalized, evidence-based care to help you overcome life’s obstacles and achieve emotional balance. From cognitive behavioral therapy to medication management, my approach is focused on meeting your unique needs and fostering long-term mental wellness in a supportive, collaborative environment. I see individuals aged 12 to 65 and beyond. My practice addresses several challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, traumatic experiences, and other mood disorders.
(857) 578-4998 View (857) 578-4998
Photo of Deborah M Moran, Psychiatrist, MD
Deborah M Moran
Psychiatrist, MD
Belmont, MA 02478
It's hard to see a psychiatrist! I see people in distress due to a crisis,a loss, a trauma or a major life change. This distress manifests as depression,mood swings,anxiety, racing thoughts,paranoia,insomnia etc.People are complicated. I do a comprehensive evaluation listening for various psychological, emotional and biologic "clues". This is an interactive and iterative process. "Our" formulation guides the treatment. I practice both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I often consult for colleagues in psychology and social work regarding the use of medications.I then manage the medications as part of the treatment team.
It's hard to see a psychiatrist! I see people in distress due to a crisis,a loss, a trauma or a major life change. This distress manifests as depression,mood swings,anxiety, racing thoughts,paranoia,insomnia etc.People are complicated. I do a comprehensive evaluation listening for various psychological, emotional and biologic "clues". This is an interactive and iterative process. "Our" formulation guides the treatment. I practice both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I often consult for colleagues in psychology and social work regarding the use of medications.I then manage the medications as part of the treatment team.
(617) 300-0452 View (617) 300-0452
Photo of Geoffrey Z Liu, Psychiatrist, MD
Geoffrey Z Liu
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Belmont, MA 02478
Let’s face it – life is a struggle. Managing the demands of work, our children, our parents, our relationships, all in an imperfect society can exact a heavy emotional toll, which in today’s day and age, we seldom have time to process. As a psychotherapist, I believe that processing emotions can unlock new ways of coping with the stresses of life. To be sure, this process can be hard work, but in my experience, it can be rewarding.
Let’s face it – life is a struggle. Managing the demands of work, our children, our parents, our relationships, all in an imperfect society can exact a heavy emotional toll, which in today’s day and age, we seldom have time to process. As a psychotherapist, I believe that processing emotions can unlock new ways of coping with the stresses of life. To be sure, this process can be hard work, but in my experience, it can be rewarding.
(857) 367-9136 View (857) 367-9136
Photo of Kristin S. Budde, Psychiatrist, MD
Kristin S. Budde
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Belmont, MA 02478
TL;DR: Thoughtful prescribing and sharp psychotherapy for anxious, high-functioning, well-meaning people, usually in midst of upheaval (e.g. college, young adulthood, new parenthood, ailing loved ones, etc.)
TL;DR: Thoughtful prescribing and sharp psychotherapy for anxious, high-functioning, well-meaning people, usually in midst of upheaval (e.g. college, young adulthood, new parenthood, ailing loved ones, etc.)
(857) 990-9844 View (857) 990-9844
Photo of David H. Brendel, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
David H. Brendel
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
1 Endorsed
Belmont, MA 02478
As a psychiatrist, executive coach, and philosophical counselor, I help clients confronting the stress that accompanies life transitions. As a psychiatrist, I diagnose and treat people with anxiety, mood instability, insomnia, and attention deficits. As an executive coach, I help clients manage work stress, overcome burnout, make career transitions, develop leaderships skills, and improve their overall functioning. As a philosophical counselor, I help clients attain deeper insight and fulfillment by engaging in self-reflection. In each role, I help clients handle stress, develop their core strengths, gain self-awareness, and achieve peak performance. This empowers clients to lead more fulfilled, joyful, compassionate, and productive lives.
As a psychiatrist, executive coach, and philosophical counselor, I help clients confronting the stress that accompanies life transitions. As a psychiatrist, I diagnose and treat people with anxiety, mood instability, insomnia, and attention deficits. As an executive coach, I help clients manage work stress, overcome burnout, make career transitions, develop leaderships skills, and improve their overall functioning. As a philosophical counselor, I help clients attain deeper insight and fulfillment by engaging in self-reflection. In each role, I help clients handle stress, develop their core strengths, gain self-awareness, and achieve peak performance. This empowers clients to lead more fulfilled, joyful, compassionate, and productive lives.
(617) 379-1452 View (617) 379-1452
Photo of Byron Garcia, Psychiatrist, MD
Byron Garcia
Psychiatrist, MD
Belmont, MA 02478
I am a psychopharmacology expert with 26 years of experience. I provide psychiatric evaluation and treatment to children, adolescents and adults with a history of ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Attacks, OCD, Depression, lack of motivation and insomnia. I am board certified in general psychiatry and also child and adolescent psychiatry. My full time work is medical director at McLean Hospital (Named America's #1 Hospital for Psychiatry by U.S. News and World Report). I am a clinical instructor in psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.
I am a psychopharmacology expert with 26 years of experience. I provide psychiatric evaluation and treatment to children, adolescents and adults with a history of ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Attacks, OCD, Depression, lack of motivation and insomnia. I am board certified in general psychiatry and also child and adolescent psychiatry. My full time work is medical director at McLean Hospital (Named America's #1 Hospital for Psychiatry by U.S. News and World Report). I am a clinical instructor in psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.
(617) 682-7927 View (617) 682-7927
Photo of Daniel Barron, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Daniel Barron
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Belmont, MA 02478
Are you a busy professional, expectant or new parent, or navigating a life transition? Let's work together to improve your mood, manage stress, and help you "stick the landing." My approach is open-minded, evidence-based, and unafraid to use a little humor. Life can be overwhelming, especially when you're juggling roles or facing changes. We'll work together to create a personalized plan, grounded in the latest research, to help you find balance and regain control. I'm here to support you through whatever challenges you're facing.
Are you a busy professional, expectant or new parent, or navigating a life transition? Let's work together to improve your mood, manage stress, and help you "stick the landing." My approach is open-minded, evidence-based, and unafraid to use a little humor. Life can be overwhelming, especially when you're juggling roles or facing changes. We'll work together to create a personalized plan, grounded in the latest research, to help you find balance and regain control. I'm here to support you through whatever challenges you're facing.
(617) 712-2666 View (617) 712-2666
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Belmont, MA 02478
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(857) 575-1833 View (857) 575-1833
Photo of Tola T'sarumi, Psychiatrist, MD
Tola T'sarumi
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide outpatient TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Services- covered by most insurances) psychiatric services for ages 15 (per insurance coverage) and above for depression, Anxiety, OCD and ADHD. My patients benefit most from the opportunity to express themselves freely to me in a strictly confidential setting where we build a strong and trusting relationship.
I provide outpatient TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Services- covered by most insurances) psychiatric services for ages 15 (per insurance coverage) and above for depression, Anxiety, OCD and ADHD. My patients benefit most from the opportunity to express themselves freely to me in a strictly confidential setting where we build a strong and trusting relationship.
(617) 941-9163 View (617) 941-9163
Photo of Percy Ballard, Psychiatrist, MD
Percy Ballard
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
My joy is in using Internal Family Systems therapy, non-dual meditation, Somatica sex and relationship coaching, and medicine when indicated, to help people discover their true Self and live life from the space of Self acceptance, presence and authenticity. For the most information about who I am and my approach to client care, please visit my personal website, www.percyballardmd.com.
My joy is in using Internal Family Systems therapy, non-dual meditation, Somatica sex and relationship coaching, and medicine when indicated, to help people discover their true Self and live life from the space of Self acceptance, presence and authenticity. For the most information about who I am and my approach to client care, please visit my personal website, www.percyballardmd.com.
(617) 702-2337 View (617) 702-2337
Photo of Nicholas R Barnes, Psychiatrist, MD
Nicholas R Barnes
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Belmont, MA 02478
Dr. Nicholas Barnes is a Harvard-trained, board-certified psychiatrist in the Boston area (Belmont, MA). He provides treatment for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, addiction and chronic pain. As a psychiatrist, psychotherapist and additionally a board-certified pain medicine physician, he is uniquely qualified to bridge the gap between medical and psychological treatments. Dr. Barnes draws on traditional talk therapy, mindfulness and philosophical perspectives, and modern neuroscience to help people develop insight, emotional freedom, self-acceptance, and behavioral change.
Dr. Nicholas Barnes is a Harvard-trained, board-certified psychiatrist in the Boston area (Belmont, MA). He provides treatment for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, addiction and chronic pain. As a psychiatrist, psychotherapist and additionally a board-certified pain medicine physician, he is uniquely qualified to bridge the gap between medical and psychological treatments. Dr. Barnes draws on traditional talk therapy, mindfulness and philosophical perspectives, and modern neuroscience to help people develop insight, emotional freedom, self-acceptance, and behavioral change.
(857) 576-5052 View (857) 576-5052
Photo of Dr. Alex Powers, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Alex Powers
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Belmont, MA 02478
I’m a board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. I see adults 18-65 both in-person and via telehealth for psychotherapy and thoughtful medication management. In my practice, I aim to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where we can explore, understand, and overcome the challenges holding you back.
I’m a board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. I see adults 18-65 both in-person and via telehealth for psychotherapy and thoughtful medication management. In my practice, I aim to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where we can explore, understand, and overcome the challenges holding you back.
(617) 925-9475 View (617) 925-9475
Photo of Harmony Bay, Psychiatrist
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist
Belmont, MA 02478
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) 342-4772 View (857) 342-4772
Photo of Sherri Mello, Psychiatrist, MD
Sherri Mello
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Belmont, MA 02478
People come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Some seek relief from anxiety or depression or support around life transitions or painful life experiences. Some feel dissatisfied or unfulfilled in certain areas of their lives and may feel stuck in unhelpful patterns they wish to change. Some long for more closeness in relationships but find it hard to reveal themselves to others.
People come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Some seek relief from anxiety or depression or support around life transitions or painful life experiences. Some feel dissatisfied or unfulfilled in certain areas of their lives and may feel stuck in unhelpful patterns they wish to change. Some long for more closeness in relationships but find it hard to reveal themselves to others.
(617) 855-6864 View (617) 855-6864
Photo of Elena Mascarenhas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Elena Mascarenhas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Belmont, MA 02478
Elena Mascarenhas has been a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2014. She graduated from Boston College with a Masters in Nursing and from Northeastern University with a Bachelors in Psychology. She has over 13 years of experience working in mental healthcare, including experience in community mental health, residential treatment, partial hospitalization programs and addictions treatment.
Elena Mascarenhas has been a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2014. She graduated from Boston College with a Masters in Nursing and from Northeastern University with a Bachelors in Psychology. She has over 13 years of experience working in mental healthcare, including experience in community mental health, residential treatment, partial hospitalization programs and addictions treatment.
(857) 626-9132 View (857) 626-9132
Photo of Ying A. Cao - Integrative Psychiatry & TMS Dr. Ying A. Cao, Psychiatrist, MD, MEng
Integrative Psychiatry & TMS Dr. Ying A. Cao
Psychiatrist, MD, MEng
1 Endorsed
Belmont, MA 02478
Thriving in an evermore complex world can be overwhelming; mental health is key and self-actualization is a journey best undertaken with good support. Hello! I am a Harvard-affiliated psychiatrist and MIT-trained engineer with additional background in Traditional Chinese Medicine and genetics. I believe in the motto "Mind & Hand" and the transformative power of integrative care that aims to incorporate the full biopsychosocial experience of each patient and actualize lasting growth through facilitating insight, addressing root-causes, shifting paradigms, upgrading coping skills, and implementing measurable improvements.
Thriving in an evermore complex world can be overwhelming; mental health is key and self-actualization is a journey best undertaken with good support. Hello! I am a Harvard-affiliated psychiatrist and MIT-trained engineer with additional background in Traditional Chinese Medicine and genetics. I believe in the motto "Mind & Hand" and the transformative power of integrative care that aims to incorporate the full biopsychosocial experience of each patient and actualize lasting growth through facilitating insight, addressing root-causes, shifting paradigms, upgrading coping skills, and implementing measurable improvements.
(617) 648-9046 View (617) 648-9046

See more therapy options for Belmont

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Belmont, MA

30+

Average cost per session

$375

Psychiatrists in Belmont, MA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
97% Depression
68% ADHD
68% Medication Management
65% Trauma and PTSD
65% Bipolar Disorder
62% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% BlueCross and BlueShield
69% Blue Cross
69% Blue Shield

How Psychiatrists in Belmont, MA see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

57% Female
43% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Belmont?

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.