Psychiatrists in Boston, MA

Photo of Dr. Marc Whaley, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Marc Whaley
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr Marc Whaley is a Board Certified Psychiatrist in Adult Psychiatry, with extensive clinical experience over the past 50 years, mostly in outpatient treatment, and some in-patient settings, in addition to Forensic (legal) ones. He received his undergraduate degree at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore and his medical degree at Tufts Medical School in Boston, and then went on to train at Tufts New England Medical Center in Boston, for his psychiatry residency.
Dr Marc Whaley is a Board Certified Psychiatrist in Adult Psychiatry, with extensive clinical experience over the past 50 years, mostly in outpatient treatment, and some in-patient settings, in addition to Forensic (legal) ones. He received his undergraduate degree at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore and his medical degree at Tufts Medical School in Boston, and then went on to train at Tufts New England Medical Center in Boston, for his psychiatry residency.
(617) 744-7164 View (617) 744-7164
Photo of Dr. Nathan Lingafelter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Nathan Lingafelter
Psychiatrist, MD
Boston, MA 02116
As a general adult outpatient psychiatrist, I enjoy working with patients who bring a variety of concerns. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Transparency, safety and the quality of therapeutic relationship with a patient are top priorities. My practice specialize in helping folks struggling with anxiety disorders, including OCD, among others.
As a general adult outpatient psychiatrist, I enjoy working with patients who bring a variety of concerns. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Transparency, safety and the quality of therapeutic relationship with a patient are top priorities. My practice specialize in helping folks struggling with anxiety disorders, including OCD, among others.
(857) 392-2992 View (857) 392-2992
Photo of Francis Kangara - Elevate Psychiatry & Wellness, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Elevate Psychiatry & Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I am Francis Kangara, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in supporting those facing anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions. My integrative approach combines pharmacological treatments with evidence-based non-pharmacological techniques, respecting the mind-body connection. Together, we will develop practical strategies to achieve balance and fulfillment. Let’s enhance your well-being and help you thrive on your mental health journey.
Welcome! I am Francis Kangara, a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in supporting those facing anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions. My integrative approach combines pharmacological treatments with evidence-based non-pharmacological techniques, respecting the mind-body connection. Together, we will develop practical strategies to achieve balance and fulfillment. Let’s enhance your well-being and help you thrive on your mental health journey.
(857) 597-2457 View (857) 597-2457
Photo of Christoforos Iraklis Giakoumatos, Psychiatrist, MD
Christoforos Iraklis Giakoumatos
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I treat adults with mental health disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD and PTSD. I also treat adults with substance use disorders and behavioral addictions. I believe in individualizing treatment based on each person's needs. I offer medication management visits, complemented with elements of Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) & psychodymanic psychotherapy. I also offer psychotherapy visits without medication management, if someone is not in need of medications.
I treat adults with mental health disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD and PTSD. I also treat adults with substance use disorders and behavioral addictions. I believe in individualizing treatment based on each person's needs. I offer medication management visits, complemented with elements of Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) & psychodymanic psychotherapy. I also offer psychotherapy visits without medication management, if someone is not in need of medications.
(857) 810-4123 View (857) 810-4123
Photo of Despina Prassas - DP Behavioral Healthcare LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
DP Behavioral Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Online Only
Dr. Despina Prassas, Ph.D., PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with children, adolescents and adults struggling with ADHD, Obsessive-Compulsive disorders, anxiety and depression, and mood disorders. She provides medication management and psychotherapy.
Dr. Despina Prassas, Ph.D., PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with children, adolescents and adults struggling with ADHD, Obsessive-Compulsive disorders, anxiety and depression, and mood disorders. She provides medication management and psychotherapy.
(508) 422-5192 View (508) 422-5192
Photo of Drew Pittman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Drew Pittman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently offering same week telehealth appointments for new patients in Ohio, Florida, Colorado and Massachusetts. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adults suffering as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I specialize in offering individualized, measurement based care to quickly assess and treat your illness. I prescribe psychiatric medications and recommend therapy modalities and natural remedies that are tailored to your symptoms. I take pride in improving your well-being quickly, while minimizing side effects from medications.
Currently offering same week telehealth appointments for new patients in Ohio, Florida, Colorado and Massachusetts. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adults suffering as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I specialize in offering individualized, measurement based care to quickly assess and treat your illness. I prescribe psychiatric medications and recommend therapy modalities and natural remedies that are tailored to your symptoms. I take pride in improving your well-being quickly, while minimizing side effects from medications.
(508) 960-7059 View (508) 960-7059
Photo of Dr. Kenneth Kavanagh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dr. Kenneth Kavanagh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Kenneth Kavanagh is board certified as both a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult Nurse Practitioner. His career has spanned 30 years with the last 17 years devoted exclusively to psychiatry. He integrates his knowledge of psychiatry and primary care into evidence-based medication management strategies. He also possesses a good working knowledge of alternative treatments and integrating alternative treatments into more traditional approaches.
Kenneth Kavanagh is board certified as both a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult Nurse Practitioner. His career has spanned 30 years with the last 17 years devoted exclusively to psychiatry. He integrates his knowledge of psychiatry and primary care into evidence-based medication management strategies. He also possesses a good working knowledge of alternative treatments and integrating alternative treatments into more traditional approaches.
(857) 226-3219 View (857) 226-3219
Photo of Joe Gallego, Psychiatrist, MD
Joe Gallego
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110
Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment requires courage and motivation. As your psychiatrist, I honor your willingness to be vulnerable with me by being transparent with you throughout our work together. My clinical approach balances directness with empathy, shared expectation with flexibility, and professionalism with humor and warmth. I provide psychiatric evaluations, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management to adolescents and adults. I am passionate about caring for LGBTQIA+ people, and I have been researching and teaching about queer issues in health care for the past ten years.
Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment requires courage and motivation. As your psychiatrist, I honor your willingness to be vulnerable with me by being transparent with you throughout our work together. My clinical approach balances directness with empathy, shared expectation with flexibility, and professionalism with humor and warmth. I provide psychiatric evaluations, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management to adolescents and adults. I am passionate about caring for LGBTQIA+ people, and I have been researching and teaching about queer issues in health care for the past ten years.
(508) 374-9271 View (508) 374-9271
Photo of Darya Terekhova, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Darya Terekhova
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a Harvard trained board certified psychiatrist. I practice general adult psychiatry and also specialize in women's mental health and reproductive psychiatry, college student and young adult mental health, and mental health issues in LGBT+ and neurodivergent persons. The issues I help with include but are not limited to depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety and OCD, ADHD, trauma, adjustment to life transitions, relationship issues, and clarifying one's values and goals. I use a combination of medications, lifestyle change recommendations and psychotherapy to alleviate distress and help you live a meaningful and fulfilling life
I'm a Harvard trained board certified psychiatrist. I practice general adult psychiatry and also specialize in women's mental health and reproductive psychiatry, college student and young adult mental health, and mental health issues in LGBT+ and neurodivergent persons. The issues I help with include but are not limited to depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety and OCD, ADHD, trauma, adjustment to life transitions, relationship issues, and clarifying one's values and goals. I use a combination of medications, lifestyle change recommendations and psychotherapy to alleviate distress and help you live a meaningful and fulfilling life
(857) 367-2849 View (857) 367-2849
Photo of Anastasia Burns, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP, APRN
Anastasia Burns
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Anastasia Burns, Board-Certified PMHNP, specializes in medication management for depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Patients seek help when sadness clouds daily tasks or worries make social interactions dreadful—some battle intrusive memories, while others struggle with exhausting mood swings. Many can't focus or initiate tasks, feeling hopeless about responsibilities. As challenges intensify, sleep suffers, relationships strain, and sense of self dims. They seek the care of a psychiatric provider to help them rebuild connections, rediscover joy, and find coping strategies.
Anastasia Burns, Board-Certified PMHNP, specializes in medication management for depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Patients seek help when sadness clouds daily tasks or worries make social interactions dreadful—some battle intrusive memories, while others struggle with exhausting mood swings. Many can't focus or initiate tasks, feeling hopeless about responsibilities. As challenges intensify, sleep suffers, relationships strain, and sense of self dims. They seek the care of a psychiatric provider to help them rebuild connections, rediscover joy, and find coping strategies.
(857) 371-1443 View (857) 371-1443
Photo of Claire Twark, Psychiatrist, MD
Claire Twark
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I am a Harvard-trained, Harvard-affiliated, and board-certified psychiatrist and addiction psychiatrist. I offer convenient Saturday hours in my Back Bay private practice as well as virtual hours on some other days. I offer therapy, medication management, or a combination of the two if needed. I enjoy collaborating with patients to achieve their goals and move forward on their journeys. I have expertise in sports psychiatry, including treating athletes/former athletes and incorporating exercise into treatment. I see patients ages 18+.
I am a Harvard-trained, Harvard-affiliated, and board-certified psychiatrist and addiction psychiatrist. I offer convenient Saturday hours in my Back Bay private practice as well as virtual hours on some other days. I offer therapy, medication management, or a combination of the two if needed. I enjoy collaborating with patients to achieve their goals and move forward on their journeys. I have expertise in sports psychiatry, including treating athletes/former athletes and incorporating exercise into treatment. I see patients ages 18+.
(857) 214-7711 View (857) 214-7711
Photo of Edwin Raffi, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Edwin Raffi
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Edwin Raffi is a board-certified psychiatrist with over a decade of experience. Dr. Raffi provides care for all adults and for all ailments including, but not limited to mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety, OCD, ADD, PTSD, schizophrenia or other disorders with psychosis, substance use disorders, tic disorders, etc. In addition to general adult psychiatry, Dr. Raffi is recognized as a leading psychiatrist subspecialized in Women’s Mental Health, including issues related to menstrual cycle related mood and anxiety disorders (PMS, PMDD), pregnancy and postpartum, menopause related mood and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Edwin Raffi is a board-certified psychiatrist with over a decade of experience. Dr. Raffi provides care for all adults and for all ailments including, but not limited to mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety, OCD, ADD, PTSD, schizophrenia or other disorders with psychosis, substance use disorders, tic disorders, etc. In addition to general adult psychiatry, Dr. Raffi is recognized as a leading psychiatrist subspecialized in Women’s Mental Health, including issues related to menstrual cycle related mood and anxiety disorders (PMS, PMDD), pregnancy and postpartum, menopause related mood and anxiety disorders.
(781) 730-7776 View (781) 730-7776
Photo of Sonal Patel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Sonal Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110
I am dedicated and highly qualified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in critical care nursing, clinical care coordination, and team leadership. She holds certifications from both the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center, reflecting her commitment to excellence in mental health practice.
I am dedicated and highly qualified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in critical care nursing, clinical care coordination, and team leadership. She holds certifications from both the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center, reflecting her commitment to excellence in mental health practice.
(617) 397-5761 View (617) 397-5761
Photo of Dr. Devon Beal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dr. Devon Beal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
With 18 years of adult psychiatry experience, Devon Beal, PMHNP brings 5 core features to her outpatient practice through Talkiatry: Respect, Safety, Active Listening, Collaboration and Partnership with the client. Devon's practice is client-centered, trauma- and LGBTQA+ - informed. Her style is to be authentic, collaborative, direct and compassionate.
With 18 years of adult psychiatry experience, Devon Beal, PMHNP brings 5 core features to her outpatient practice through Talkiatry: Respect, Safety, Active Listening, Collaboration and Partnership with the client. Devon's practice is client-centered, trauma- and LGBTQA+ - informed. Her style is to be authentic, collaborative, direct and compassionate.
(617) 751-6348 View (617) 751-6348
Photo of Robin Shannon - Shannon Psychiatry, LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C , PMHNPBC
Shannon Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C , PMHNPBC
Boston, MA 02109
Hello! I am currently accepting new patients as of 1/14/2022. All visits are through telemedicine, so I can see anyone in the state of Massachusetts. My love for what I do in psychiatry, comes from the joy I get in helping others improve their lives. Most of my patients do not know which direction to go when then come to me, and that is ok. Some people come to me looking for second or third opinions about diagnosis or medications, some people are referred by a therapist to start medication. We can openly discuss decisions and options. This is a judgement free zone. There is no way you can TMI me!
Hello! I am currently accepting new patients as of 1/14/2022. All visits are through telemedicine, so I can see anyone in the state of Massachusetts. My love for what I do in psychiatry, comes from the joy I get in helping others improve their lives. Most of my patients do not know which direction to go when then come to me, and that is ok. Some people come to me looking for second or third opinions about diagnosis or medications, some people are referred by a therapist to start medication. We can openly discuss decisions and options. This is a judgement free zone. There is no way you can TMI me!
(857) 227-9817 View (857) 227-9817
Photo of Kelly Krcmarik, Psychiatrist, MD
Kelly Krcmarik
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Accepting new patients for virtual appointments. - Your and your family’s mental health is a priority, but you haven’t found the help you need. You’re working so hard, but you feel like you're spinning your wheels and you’re exhausted. Or maybe it’s about your child and you can’t help but wonder if the worries, fears, and irritability are affecting their friendships, academics, and goals. You’re ready for a change. You want a doctor who is going to work with you on a personalized plan for your unique needs. You want a doctor who brings a flexible, attentive, and well-rounded approach to treatment. We can help.
Accepting new patients for virtual appointments. - Your and your family’s mental health is a priority, but you haven’t found the help you need. You’re working so hard, but you feel like you're spinning your wheels and you’re exhausted. Or maybe it’s about your child and you can’t help but wonder if the worries, fears, and irritability are affecting their friendships, academics, and goals. You’re ready for a change. You want a doctor who is going to work with you on a personalized plan for your unique needs. You want a doctor who brings a flexible, attentive, and well-rounded approach to treatment. We can help.
(857) 425-1787 View (857) 425-1787
Photo of Dr. Aedome Girma, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Aedome Girma
Psychiatrist, DO
Boston, MA 02110
Investing in your mental health is one of the best things you can do for yourself, both in the short- and long-term. With my help, you can begin to take control of your mental and physical health and achieve a happier, more fulfilling life. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am committed to helping my patients achieve better mental and physical health. With my extensive experience and training in managing a range of conditions, including Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia, I am confident that I can guide you towards a healthier, happier life.
Investing in your mental health is one of the best things you can do for yourself, both in the short- and long-term. With my help, you can begin to take control of your mental and physical health and achieve a happier, more fulfilling life. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am committed to helping my patients achieve better mental and physical health. With my extensive experience and training in managing a range of conditions, including Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia, I am confident that I can guide you towards a healthier, happier life.
(617) 675-5531 View (617) 675-5531
Photo of Dr. Lisa Hagberg, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Lisa Hagberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Lisa Hagberg is a board-certified psychiatrist with 20 years of experience treating patients with a wide range of diagnoses, in particular, depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and PTSD. Dr. Hagberg brings a holistic approach to her practice exploring mental health in a multidimensional way, addressing the causes, not just the symptoms of one's condition. She incorporates supportive and insight-oriented psychotherapy to patient care, although at times she may recommend patients add an individual therapist to the treatment team.
Dr. Lisa Hagberg is a board-certified psychiatrist with 20 years of experience treating patients with a wide range of diagnoses, in particular, depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and PTSD. Dr. Hagberg brings a holistic approach to her practice exploring mental health in a multidimensional way, addressing the causes, not just the symptoms of one's condition. She incorporates supportive and insight-oriented psychotherapy to patient care, although at times she may recommend patients add an individual therapist to the treatment team.
(617) 545-0301 View (617) 545-0301
Photo of Ishnane Guillet, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ishnane Guillet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am looking to help the professional struggling with burnout, the Christian who has always been unsure about psychiatric medication in context with their faith, the individual struggling with trauma, anxiety and depression, all the way to the, "I'm curious about mental health but I'm not sure if it's for me."
I am looking to help the professional struggling with burnout, the Christian who has always been unsure about psychiatric medication in context with their faith, the individual struggling with trauma, anxiety and depression, all the way to the, "I'm curious about mental health but I'm not sure if it's for me."
(857) 240-2847 View (857) 240-2847
Photo of Melanie Daley - Carnegie Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Carnegie Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02136
Currently accepting new patients for medication management. Melanie Daley's professional background as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Massachusetts reflects a comprehensive and dedicated career in mental health care. With over twelve years of experience as a Registered Nurse in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis settings, Melanie possesses a robust skill set to address various mental health issues.
Currently accepting new patients for medication management. Melanie Daley's professional background as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Massachusetts reflects a comprehensive and dedicated career in mental health care. With over twelve years of experience as a Registered Nurse in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis settings, Melanie possesses a robust skill set to address various mental health issues.
(617) 744-7410 View (617) 744-7410

See more therapy options for Boston

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Boston, MA

500+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Boston, MA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
94% Depression
78% Medication Management
74% ADHD
73% Bipolar Disorder
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% BlueCross and BlueShield
85% Aetna
79% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Boston, MA see their clients

52% Online Only
48% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

68% Female
31% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Boston?

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.