Psychiatrists in Cohasset, MA

Photo of Rachael A Darian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP, BC
Rachael A Darian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP, BC
Online Only
As a Christian psychiatric nurse practitioner, I believe in treating clients with the dignity and compassion found in my faith while adhering to the highest standards of evidence-based psychiatric care. I provide an open, nonjudgmental, and respectful treatment environment where clients of all backgrounds and faiths can effectively address their mental health challenges. My goal is to work alongside you to find hope, meaning, and healing.
As a Christian psychiatric nurse practitioner, I believe in treating clients with the dignity and compassion found in my faith while adhering to the highest standards of evidence-based psychiatric care. I provide an open, nonjudgmental, and respectful treatment environment where clients of all backgrounds and faiths can effectively address their mental health challenges. My goal is to work alongside you to find hope, meaning, and healing.
(339) 218-3661 View (339) 218-3661
Photo of Jacqueline Ann Owens, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Jacqueline Ann Owens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Cohasset, MA 02025
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner clinically trained in treating patients with mental health diagnoses across the lifespan. I received my Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nursing degree from Walden University, in Minneapolis, MN. Prior to becoming an advanced practice nurse, I worked in Southern California, which was an irreplaceable experience for me, both personally and professionally. Returning home to Boston, I had the opportunity to work for Boston Medical Center, and then South Shore Hospital’s Emergency Department for 15 years, holding certification and accreditation in Case Management.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner clinically trained in treating patients with mental health diagnoses across the lifespan. I received my Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nursing degree from Walden University, in Minneapolis, MN. Prior to becoming an advanced practice nurse, I worked in Southern California, which was an irreplaceable experience for me, both personally and professionally. Returning home to Boston, I had the opportunity to work for Boston Medical Center, and then South Shore Hospital’s Emergency Department for 15 years, holding certification and accreditation in Case Management.
(617) 340-2316 View (617) 340-2316
Photo of Ashley L Baker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Ashley L Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
Cohasset, MA 02025
Ashley Baker, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13+ years of experience. She provides diagnostic evaluations and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions. Ashley earned her BSN from Villanova University (2012) with a minor in Psychology and her MSN from Vanderbilt University (2016), where she graduated top of her class and was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau. Her clinical experience includes Northwestern Medicine, Boston Medical Center, and the Coleman Institute under Dr. Peter Coleman.
Ashley Baker, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 13+ years of experience. She provides diagnostic evaluations and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions. Ashley earned her BSN from Villanova University (2012) with a minor in Psychology and her MSN from Vanderbilt University (2016), where she graduated top of her class and was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau. Her clinical experience includes Northwestern Medicine, Boston Medical Center, and the Coleman Institute under Dr. Peter Coleman.
(339) 675-1718 View (339) 675-1718
Photo of Carolyn Rooney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMH NP
Carolyn Rooney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMH NP
Serves Area
As the saying goes, "it takes a village" and I am grateful to offer my expertise as an additional support in your village. Whether you are an expecting mother, a new mom, or have a child with ADHD, I provide a thorough assessment, specialized treatment plans, and personalized recommendations through a careful, warm, and thoughtful approach.
As the saying goes, "it takes a village" and I am grateful to offer my expertise as an additional support in your village. Whether you are an expecting mother, a new mom, or have a child with ADHD, I provide a thorough assessment, specialized treatment plans, and personalized recommendations through a careful, warm, and thoughtful approach.
(781) 746-8368 View (781) 746-8368
Photo of Ashley Baker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Ashley Baker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ashley Baker, NP is a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings warmth, clinical expertise, and a patient-centered approach to mental health care. Ashley works with adolescents and adults facing a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and life transitions. Her treatment style is rooted in empathy and collaboration, offering a safe, nonjudgmental space for patients to explore their needs and goals. Ashley provides thoughtful medication management and supportive therapeutic guidance, always tailoring care to the individual.
Ashley Baker, NP is a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings warmth, clinical expertise, and a patient-centered approach to mental health care. Ashley works with adolescents and adults facing a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and life transitions. Her treatment style is rooted in empathy and collaboration, offering a safe, nonjudgmental space for patients to explore their needs and goals. Ashley provides thoughtful medication management and supportive therapeutic guidance, always tailoring care to the individual.
(339) 674-4654 View (339) 674-4654

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Craig Surman, Psychiatrist, MD
Craig Surman
Psychiatrist, MD
Natick, MA 01760
I am able to take self-pay clients. I draw on expertise as a Harvard Medical Professor and Researcher to recommend personalized evidence based care for mood, anxiety, attention and organizational challenges. I am an expert on ADHD, which I research at Massachusetts General Hospital. I draw on training in neuropsychiatry, cognitive behavioral therapy, dynamic psychotherapy, nutraceutical research, and, (more importantly) lessons taught by working with a few thousand clients. If you want perspective on your mental health or ADHD options, or how to develop more of your own personal “user’s guide” for wellbeing, am happy to consult.
I am able to take self-pay clients. I draw on expertise as a Harvard Medical Professor and Researcher to recommend personalized evidence based care for mood, anxiety, attention and organizational challenges. I am an expert on ADHD, which I research at Massachusetts General Hospital. I draw on training in neuropsychiatry, cognitive behavioral therapy, dynamic psychotherapy, nutraceutical research, and, (more importantly) lessons taught by working with a few thousand clients. If you want perspective on your mental health or ADHD options, or how to develop more of your own personal “user’s guide” for wellbeing, am happy to consult.
(617) 765-2424 View (617) 765-2424
Photo of Alexandra Himel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Alexandra Himel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Unlike many practitioners who focus solely on medication management, I bring a dual perspective, having been trained in both mental health counseling and psychiatric medications. I hold a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine, as well as a Doctorate in Psychiatric Nurse Practice. I am licensed to practice in both Massachusetts and Colorado and have experience practicing in both states. My clinical training took place in Boston, MA, and I have spent several years supporting clients with ADHD, autism, and comprehensive medication management.
Unlike many practitioners who focus solely on medication management, I bring a dual perspective, having been trained in both mental health counseling and psychiatric medications. I hold a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine, as well as a Doctorate in Psychiatric Nurse Practice. I am licensed to practice in both Massachusetts and Colorado and have experience practicing in both states. My clinical training took place in Boston, MA, and I have spent several years supporting clients with ADHD, autism, and comprehensive medication management.
(833) 854-5736 View (833) 854-5736
Photo of Tanya Gershman - Tanya Gershman at Square Medical Group, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Tanya Gershman at Square Medical Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02458
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, or co-occurring disorders who are looking for compassionate, personalized care. Whether you're seeking answers, stability, or a fresh start, I provide a supportive space where you'll be heard, respected, and empowered to make meaningful progress.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, or co-occurring disorders who are looking for compassionate, personalized care. Whether you're seeking answers, stability, or a fresh start, I provide a supportive space where you'll be heard, respected, and empowered to make meaningful progress.
(339) 331-0938 View (339) 331-0938
Photo of Hillary Woodworth, Psychiatrist, MD
Hillary Woodworth
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, MA 02420
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering both medication and therapy services for a variety of mental health concerns. I completed my residency training at Massachusetts General/McLean Hospital and am currently appointed as an attending psychiatrist and instructor at Harvard Medical School. In addition to treating common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder, I have specialized training in the treatment of personality disorders and mentalization based therapy. Please note the only insurance I accept directly is Aetna and I am otherwise out of network with insurance.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering both medication and therapy services for a variety of mental health concerns. I completed my residency training at Massachusetts General/McLean Hospital and am currently appointed as an attending psychiatrist and instructor at Harvard Medical School. In addition to treating common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder, I have specialized training in the treatment of personality disorders and mentalization based therapy. Please note the only insurance I accept directly is Aetna and I am otherwise out of network with insurance.
(617) 798-9619 View (617) 798-9619
Photo of Dr. Adam Henderson - Dr. Henderson--PTSD and Trauma Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Henderson--PTSD and Trauma Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02459
Welcome! I’m a Harvard-trained, board-certified psychiatrist, but I’m also a real person who understands that life doesn't always follow a script. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like your past is dictating your future, I’m here to help you find a way forward.
Welcome! I’m a Harvard-trained, board-certified psychiatrist, but I’m also a real person who understands that life doesn't always follow a script. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like your past is dictating your future, I’m here to help you find a way forward.
(617) 284-0729 View (617) 284-0729
Photo of Julie Guthrie - Julie Guthrie, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Julie Guthrie, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I work best with adults seeking thoughtful, collaborative mental health care. Many come in feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, mood changes, ADHD, substance use concerns, or life stressors that impact daily functioning. I help by listening closely, clarifying goals, and developing individualized treatment plans that support meaningful, sustainable progress.
I work best with adults seeking thoughtful, collaborative mental health care. Many come in feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, mood changes, ADHD, substance use concerns, or life stressors that impact daily functioning. I help by listening closely, clarifying goals, and developing individualized treatment plans that support meaningful, sustainable progress.
(857) 855-4292 View (857) 855-4292
Photo of Kathleen Comeau - Kathleen Comeau, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kathleen Comeau, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Kathleen is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her nursing education at Simmons University and is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. Her clinical interests include depression, anxiety, ADHD, personality disorders, and women’s mental health.
Kathleen is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her nursing education at Simmons University and is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. Her clinical interests include depression, anxiety, ADHD, personality disorders, and women’s mental health.
(857) 575-2661 View (857) 575-2661
Photo of Siobhan Tilton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Siobhan Tilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
North Easton, MA 02356
Siobhan Cruise is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has been practicing in Massachusetts since 2023. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in Psychiatric-Mental Health from Regis College. With over 13 years of experience in the nursing field, primarily in the Emergency Department, she witnessed the gap between medical and psychiatric care and is dedicated to providing holistic mental health care to individuals across Massachusetts.
Siobhan Cruise is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has been practicing in Massachusetts since 2023. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in Psychiatric-Mental Health from Regis College. With over 13 years of experience in the nursing field, primarily in the Emergency Department, she witnessed the gap between medical and psychiatric care and is dedicated to providing holistic mental health care to individuals across Massachusetts.
(774) 252-7859 View (774) 252-7859
Photo of Nic'cole Lambert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, BSN, MSN, AGPCNP, PMHNP
Nic'cole Lambert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, BSN, MSN, AGPCNP, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for integrative, whole-person care. By blending the principles of integrative psychiatry with a deep understanding of adult medicine, I am committed to treating the mind and body as a unified system. I believe that true wellness requires dedicated attention to both.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion for integrative, whole-person care. By blending the principles of integrative psychiatry with a deep understanding of adult medicine, I am committed to treating the mind and body as a unified system. I believe that true wellness requires dedicated attention to both.
(508) 715-9196 View (508) 715-9196
Photo of Yalun Zhang - Aperture Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD, M.Ed
Aperture Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, M.Ed
Online Only
Welcome to Aperture Psychiatry, I'm Yalun Zhang, MD, M.Ed - and I look forward to meeting you. I completed my residency at Harvard South Shore - VA Boston, where I was the Executive Chief Resident in my final year. I am currently a Fellow of Interventional Neuropsychiatry and Neuromodulation at Mass General Brigham - Harvard Medical School - and I am able to comfortably guide my patients with ECT, TMS, and ketamine treatments. I am especially passionate about trauma-related disorders and mood disorders. I bring a culturally sensitive and integrative approach to care, and treat all patients with unconditional positive regard.
Welcome to Aperture Psychiatry, I'm Yalun Zhang, MD, M.Ed - and I look forward to meeting you. I completed my residency at Harvard South Shore - VA Boston, where I was the Executive Chief Resident in my final year. I am currently a Fellow of Interventional Neuropsychiatry and Neuromodulation at Mass General Brigham - Harvard Medical School - and I am able to comfortably guide my patients with ECT, TMS, and ketamine treatments. I am especially passionate about trauma-related disorders and mood disorders. I bring a culturally sensitive and integrative approach to care, and treat all patients with unconditional positive regard.
(857) 375-7113 View (857) 375-7113
Photo of Sonia Jasmine Bonsu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Sonia Jasmine Bonsu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
9 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m a dual-licensed Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner in New York and Massachusetts. I specialize in medication management and brief psychotherapy for a range of conditions including ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Opioid Addiction, Teen/Young Adult challenges and more. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, respected, and supported. Whether you’re a new mom, student, a busy professional, or navigating a major life shift, my goal is to meet you where you are with care that’s compassionate, collaborative, and personalized. No rushed visits. Just real, focused support that puts you at the center.
I’m a dual-licensed Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner in New York and Massachusetts. I specialize in medication management and brief psychotherapy for a range of conditions including ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Opioid Addiction, Teen/Young Adult challenges and more. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, respected, and supported. Whether you’re a new mom, student, a busy professional, or navigating a major life shift, my goal is to meet you where you are with care that’s compassionate, collaborative, and personalized. No rushed visits. Just real, focused support that puts you at the center.
(929) 249-5111 View (929) 249-5111
Photo of Kerri Ellis - Be Your Best Self Psychiatric Care, Kerri Ellis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ACNP
Be Your Best Self Psychiatric Care, Kerri Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ACNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Be Your Best Self Psychiatric Care, I provide compassionate, personalized mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults ages 6 and older. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and nursing professor at the University of Rhode Island, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders. My approach combines medication management with supportive therapy to help you build resilience, find balance, and achieve your goals in a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment.
At Be Your Best Self Psychiatric Care, I provide compassionate, personalized mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults ages 6 and older. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and nursing professor at the University of Rhode Island, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders. My approach combines medication management with supportive therapy to help you build resilience, find balance, and achieve your goals in a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment.
(508) 731-3951 View (508) 731-3951
Photo of Melanie Kelley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Melanie Kelley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Melanie Kelley, and I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about delivering innovative mental health care, including psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I combine both medication management and psychotherapy modalities to treat children, adolescents, and adults to achieve sustainable and safe outcomes. As many of us know, treatment takes a collaborative and multimodal approach that is unique and individualized based on the patient's desired goals and outcomes.
My name is Melanie Kelley, and I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about delivering innovative mental health care, including psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I combine both medication management and psychotherapy modalities to treat children, adolescents, and adults to achieve sustainable and safe outcomes. As many of us know, treatment takes a collaborative and multimodal approach that is unique and individualized based on the patient's desired goals and outcomes.
(617) 397-5273 View (617) 397-5273
Photo of Daria Cunningham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, RN
Daria Cunningham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, RN
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! This is the first step to a healthier life. I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in a client-first approach as you navigate your journey to healing and wellness. I am dedicated in providing you with the leading standard of care, offering comprehensive and individualized support that is entirely customized to your needs. I use my previous educational background as well as my various clinical setting experiences to bring the highest expertise and support, as we explore your goals together and strive towards a healthy life.
Welcome! This is the first step to a healthier life. I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in a client-first approach as you navigate your journey to healing and wellness. I am dedicated in providing you with the leading standard of care, offering comprehensive and individualized support that is entirely customized to your needs. I use my previous educational background as well as my various clinical setting experiences to bring the highest expertise and support, as we explore your goals together and strive towards a healthy life.
(978) 464-3240 View (978) 464-3240
Photo of Lynn Galvin, Physician Assistant, PA
Lynn Galvin
Physician Assistant, PA
Boston, MA 02129
Meet Lynn, an experienced Physician Assistant (PA) with a robust background in both hospital and outpatient healthcare settings. Lynn's career is marked by her expertise in psychopharmacology, addiction medicine, and exceptional customer service. She holds a master's degree in physician assistant studies from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, graduating in 2015.
Meet Lynn, an experienced Physician Assistant (PA) with a robust background in both hospital and outpatient healthcare settings. Lynn's career is marked by her expertise in psychopharmacology, addiction medicine, and exceptional customer service. She holds a master's degree in physician assistant studies from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, graduating in 2015.
(617) 533-0873 View (617) 533-0873

See more therapy options for Cohasset

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Cohasset, MA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Cohasset, MA who prioritize treating:

100% Medication Management
80% Depression
80% ADHD
80% Anxiety
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
60% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Aetna
60% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Cohasset, MA see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Cohasset?

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.