Psychiatrists in Lexington, MA

Photo of Shweta Sidhu, Psychiatrist, MD
Shweta Sidhu
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Lexington, MA 02420
Accepting new patients, I am a double board certified psychiatrist with certifications in adult, child and adolescent psychiatry. I have been on faculty at academic centers and involved in teaching medical students and training psychiatry residents. My diverse and in depth experience has helped me look out for the subtle nuances which often get missed and lead to treatment resistance.
Accepting new patients, I am a double board certified psychiatrist with certifications in adult, child and adolescent psychiatry. I have been on faculty at academic centers and involved in teaching medical students and training psychiatry residents. My diverse and in depth experience has helped me look out for the subtle nuances which often get missed and lead to treatment resistance.
(339) 218-3390 View (339) 218-3390
Photo of Jung Kim, Psychiatrist, MD
Jung Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Lexington, MA 02421
I am a Harvard-trained, double board-certified, child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, providing a high level of expertise and knowledge to my patients. As part of my commitment to delivering comprehensive and specialized care, I have collaborated with two fellow academic psychiatrists to establish a group private practice, ReThink Minds, LLC, which offers a broad spectrum of services to our patients. I believe that every patient is unique and therefore requires a personalized approach to their care. My goal is to provide personalized care that addresses not just symptoms, but also unique circumstances and experiences.
I am a Harvard-trained, double board-certified, child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, providing a high level of expertise and knowledge to my patients. As part of my commitment to delivering comprehensive and specialized care, I have collaborated with two fellow academic psychiatrists to establish a group private practice, ReThink Minds, LLC, which offers a broad spectrum of services to our patients. I believe that every patient is unique and therefore requires a personalized approach to their care. My goal is to provide personalized care that addresses not just symptoms, but also unique circumstances and experiences.
(617) 440-3112 View (617) 440-3112
Photo of Malini Prabhu, Psychiatrist, MD, MRCPsyc
Malini Prabhu
Psychiatrist, MD, MRCPsyc
1 Endorsed
Lexington, MA 02420
Dr. Malini Prabhu is a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist with over 20 years of clinical experience. She provides comprehensive psychiatric assessments and offers evidence-based medication management for a broad spectrum of psychiatric and psychological disorders. Dr. Prabhu brings a wealth of expertise to her practice, having trained and worked across three continents—Asia, Europe, and North America. She completed her psychiatry residency in the United Kingdom in 2005 and is a Member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (MRCPsych), with Fellow of Royal College of Psychiatrists (FRCPsych)since 2010.
Dr. Malini Prabhu is a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist with over 20 years of clinical experience. She provides comprehensive psychiatric assessments and offers evidence-based medication management for a broad spectrum of psychiatric and psychological disorders. Dr. Prabhu brings a wealth of expertise to her practice, having trained and worked across three continents—Asia, Europe, and North America. She completed her psychiatry residency in the United Kingdom in 2005 and is a Member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (MRCPsych), with Fellow of Royal College of Psychiatrists (FRCPsych)since 2010.
(339) 215-1970 View (339) 215-1970
Photo of Emily Flier Matteodo, Psychiatrist, MD
Emily Flier Matteodo
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, MA 02421
People turn to psychotherapy for many reasons. Some are motivated by challenging or unexpected life events, such as a death or loss, a breakup or a divorce. Others struggle with work or relationships, life transition, or a vague feeling of dissatisfaction. Psychotherapy provides an opportunity to explore these experiences in order to understand and resolve them. In today's busy and overstimulating world, it is easy to disregard our needs, which can leave us feeling depleted. There is little time for self-reflection and introspection.
People turn to psychotherapy for many reasons. Some are motivated by challenging or unexpected life events, such as a death or loss, a breakup or a divorce. Others struggle with work or relationships, life transition, or a vague feeling of dissatisfaction. Psychotherapy provides an opportunity to explore these experiences in order to understand and resolve them. In today's busy and overstimulating world, it is easy to disregard our needs, which can leave us feeling depleted. There is little time for self-reflection and introspection.
(781) 676-3463 View (781) 676-3463
Photo of Usman Ghumman, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Usman Ghumman
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Lexington, MA 02420
Navigating life's challenges can be overwhelming, especially with complex mental health concerns. As a double-boarded child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, I understand the unique struggles individuals and families face. My ideal clients seek clarity, support, and effective strategies to manage conditions like ASD, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. They want to feel understood and hopeful about their future, aiming for improved well-being and a more fulfilling life.
Navigating life's challenges can be overwhelming, especially with complex mental health concerns. As a double-boarded child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, I understand the unique struggles individuals and families face. My ideal clients seek clarity, support, and effective strategies to manage conditions like ASD, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. They want to feel understood and hopeful about their future, aiming for improved well-being and a more fulfilling life.
(339) 330-3357 View (339) 330-3357
Photo of Hillary Woodworth, Psychiatrist, MD
Hillary Woodworth
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, MA 02420
Not accepting new clients
Please note, I will not be accepting new patients until September 2025. 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 borderline personality disorder (BPD), as well as individuals with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms.
Please note, I will not be accepting new patients until September 2025. 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 borderline personality disorder (BPD), as well as individuals with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms.
(617) 798-9619 View (617) 798-9619
Photo of Shanel Chandra, Psychiatrist, MD
Shanel Chandra
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, MA 02420
Dr. Shanel Chandra is a board certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience, specializing in both adult and child psychiatry. She is dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care to each patient, ensuring their unique needs are met. Dr. Chandra has worked in various settings, giving her a broad perspective on mental health care.
Dr. Shanel Chandra is a board certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience, specializing in both adult and child psychiatry. She is dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care to each patient, ensuring their unique needs are met. Dr. Chandra has worked in various settings, giving her a broad perspective on mental health care.
(781) 633-7255 View (781) 633-7255
Photo of Alok Kumar, Psychiatrist, MD
Alok Kumar
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Lexington, MA 02420
Dr. Kumar is a highly skilled Adult Psychiatrist with extensive training and experience in the field of mental health. Having completed his Psychiatry Residency at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, Dr. Kumar is well-versed in providing comprehensive psychiatric care to adults.
Dr. Kumar is a highly skilled Adult Psychiatrist with extensive training and experience in the field of mental health. Having completed his Psychiatry Residency at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, Dr. Kumar is well-versed in providing comprehensive psychiatric care to adults.
(339) 331-2440 x1 View (339) 331-2440 x1
Photo of Usamah Simjee, Psychiatrist, MD
Usamah Simjee
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Simjee prioritizes kindness and establishing a therapeutic alliance built on empathy and understanding. He provides an evidenced-based and holistic approach toward healing. His specialties include mood disorders, anxiety, insomnia, Bipolar diosrders ADHD, trauma related disorders, reproductive psychiatry, obsessive compulsive disorders, and psychosis. His experience spans multiple treatment settings including outpatient, inpatient, emergency, and residential.
Dr. Simjee prioritizes kindness and establishing a therapeutic alliance built on empathy and understanding. He provides an evidenced-based and holistic approach toward healing. His specialties include mood disorders, anxiety, insomnia, Bipolar diosrders ADHD, trauma related disorders, reproductive psychiatry, obsessive compulsive disorders, and psychosis. His experience spans multiple treatment settings including outpatient, inpatient, emergency, and residential.
(339) 330-3960 View (339) 330-3960
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, MA 02420
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(339) 900-8497 View (339) 900-8497
Photo of Aderonke Pederson, Psychiatrist, MD
Aderonke Pederson
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Lexington, MA 02421
Accepting new patients. I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering therapy and medication services, with a focus on mood disorders, depression, and anxiety. I am currently an Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School and Attending Psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital. I specialize in addressing mental health with a keen appreciation for my patient's cultural and family contexts. I seek to understand your values and goals. During the initial intake, I conduct a comprehensive evaluation to ensure your specific short and long term mental health goals are addressed.
Accepting new patients. I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering therapy and medication services, with a focus on mood disorders, depression, and anxiety. I am currently an Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School and Attending Psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital. I specialize in addressing mental health with a keen appreciation for my patient's cultural and family contexts. I seek to understand your values and goals. During the initial intake, I conduct a comprehensive evaluation to ensure your specific short and long term mental health goals are addressed.
(781) 562-4375 View (781) 562-4375
Photo of Sarlah Bernard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sarlah Bernard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lexington, MA 02420
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.
(781) 776-5273 View (781) 776-5273
Photo of Kaloyan Tanev, Psychiatrist, MD
Kaloyan Tanev
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Lexington, MA 02420
I help clients resolve psychological or psychiatric problems that keep them from fully experiencing their lives. I also work with people to help them achieve their life goals. Because no two people are the same, treatment for every person should be individually tailored. I do therapy, and use medications when they are needed. Some of the therapies I use are hypnotherapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, couples and family therapy. I help with anxiety, mood problems, habit problems, co-morbid medical and psychiatric problems, relationship and family problems.
I help clients resolve psychological or psychiatric problems that keep them from fully experiencing their lives. I also work with people to help them achieve their life goals. Because no two people are the same, treatment for every person should be individually tailored. I do therapy, and use medications when they are needed. Some of the therapies I use are hypnotherapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, couples and family therapy. I help with anxiety, mood problems, habit problems, co-morbid medical and psychiatric problems, relationship and family problems.
(617) 206-3425 View (617) 206-3425
Photo of Dong Chan Park, Psychiatrist
Dong Chan Park
Psychiatrist
1 Endorsed
Lexington, MA 02421
My clients are suffering from problematic maladaptive behavioral patterns that they recognize as such and feel that they do not have control over them. They realize that it first began as an escape from other underlying problems and they are now ready to face it so that they can grow as a person.
My clients are suffering from problematic maladaptive behavioral patterns that they recognize as such and feel that they do not have control over them. They realize that it first began as an escape from other underlying problems and they are now ready to face it so that they can grow as a person.
(617) 206-1476 View (617) 206-1476
Photo of Mark Strecker, Psychiatrist, MD
Mark Strecker
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, MA 02420
How do we learn to understand and trust what our feelings are saying to us? What makes it possible to change entrenched ways of coping that are not working? My focus in therapy is to help patients deepen their personal relationships and find their work more rewarding; medication can sometimes help alleviate symptoms that interfere with achieving these goals. By providing a safe and supportive environment for the patient's search for self-understanding, and listening closely to what is being said and not said, I collaborate with the patient in finding creative and pragmatic ways to overcome obstacles to change.
How do we learn to understand and trust what our feelings are saying to us? What makes it possible to change entrenched ways of coping that are not working? My focus in therapy is to help patients deepen their personal relationships and find their work more rewarding; medication can sometimes help alleviate symptoms that interfere with achieving these goals. By providing a safe and supportive environment for the patient's search for self-understanding, and listening closely to what is being said and not said, I collaborate with the patient in finding creative and pragmatic ways to overcome obstacles to change.
(781) 996-3478 View (781) 996-3478
Photo of Danial Hayek, Psychiatrist, MD
Danial Hayek
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're struggling with mental health concerns-you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m a psychiatrist who genuinely cares about the people I work with. I specialize in ADHD and anxiety and my approach is collaborative, compassionate, and rooted in real availability: I offer appointments on evenings and weekends to make sure care is accessible when you need it most. I prioritize open communication, flexibility, and a deep commitment to showing up for my patients. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been managing symptoms for years, I’m here to listen, support, and work with you to create meaningful change.
If you're struggling with mental health concerns-you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m a psychiatrist who genuinely cares about the people I work with. I specialize in ADHD and anxiety and my approach is collaborative, compassionate, and rooted in real availability: I offer appointments on evenings and weekends to make sure care is accessible when you need it most. I prioritize open communication, flexibility, and a deep commitment to showing up for my patients. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been managing symptoms for years, I’m here to listen, support, and work with you to create meaningful change.
(339) 330-3155 View (339) 330-3155
Photo of Andrea Soto, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrea Soto
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, MA 02420
I am co-founder and psychiatrist at Nest Psychiatry PLLC, a practice specializing in women facing mental health conditions. I treat women seeking care for general psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar illness, trauma spectrum disorders, and ADHD. I also treat psychiatric concerns related to the reproductive cycle such as symptoms that arise with menstruation, infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause.
I am co-founder and psychiatrist at Nest Psychiatry PLLC, a practice specializing in women facing mental health conditions. I treat women seeking care for general psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar illness, trauma spectrum disorders, and ADHD. I also treat psychiatric concerns related to the reproductive cycle such as symptoms that arise with menstruation, infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause.
(857) 597-2919 View (857) 597-2919
Photo of Karen Aruna Adler, Psychiatrist, MD
Karen Aruna Adler
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, MA 02420
Not accepting new clients
I work with adult men and women to better understand and regulate strong emotions, cope with life stressors, and learn to manage the effects of mental illness and trauma on their daily lives so that they can reach and maintain their full potential and work toward their own personal goals. I am trained in psychopharmacology (medication management) as well as a number of psychotherapies (psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, MBT, staged treatment of trauma, prolonged exposure, and family therapy).
I work with adult men and women to better understand and regulate strong emotions, cope with life stressors, and learn to manage the effects of mental illness and trauma on their daily lives so that they can reach and maintain their full potential and work toward their own personal goals. I am trained in psychopharmacology (medication management) as well as a number of psychotherapies (psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, MBT, staged treatment of trauma, prolonged exposure, and family therapy).
(781) 676-3580 View (781) 676-3580
Photo of Dr. Alyssa Rautenberg, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Alyssa Rautenberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, MA 02421
I believe therapy offers the opportunity to become who you really are. People are often unaware of all of the factors that are keeping them stuck, creating dissatisfaction, or causing distressing symptoms. By developing a deeper understanding of yourself and your relationships through therapy, it becomes possible to experience your life more authentically, feel better in your relationships, and move toward what is enriching or important to you. I provide a reliable and empathic setting where we can carefully understand the difficulties you are experiencing – leading to relief, personal growth and lasting change.
I believe therapy offers the opportunity to become who you really are. People are often unaware of all of the factors that are keeping them stuck, creating dissatisfaction, or causing distressing symptoms. By developing a deeper understanding of yourself and your relationships through therapy, it becomes possible to experience your life more authentically, feel better in your relationships, and move toward what is enriching or important to you. I provide a reliable and empathic setting where we can carefully understand the difficulties you are experiencing – leading to relief, personal growth and lasting change.
(508) 719-6555 View (508) 719-6555
Photo of Theodore P Wasik, Psychiatrist, MD
Theodore P Wasik
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, MA 02420
Good mental health, well-being and a sense we are living the life we want are things many of us strive for but may find it difficult to attain. When it comes to achieving these goals, anxiety, depression, and other psychological woes can often prevent that from happening. These other woes may include a poor sense of what you want, who you are, what you are feeling and thinking, or self-defeating behaviors that you can’t seem to prevent or control. In my practice, we will strive together to overcome these obstacles so we can clear a path to help you discover and better understand the feelings and thoughts that are individually yours.
Good mental health, well-being and a sense we are living the life we want are things many of us strive for but may find it difficult to attain. When it comes to achieving these goals, anxiety, depression, and other psychological woes can often prevent that from happening. These other woes may include a poor sense of what you want, who you are, what you are feeling and thinking, or self-defeating behaviors that you can’t seem to prevent or control. In my practice, we will strive together to overcome these obstacles so we can clear a path to help you discover and better understand the feelings and thoughts that are individually yours.
(508) 905-6564 View (508) 905-6564

See more therapy options for Lexington

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lexington, MA

70+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Lexington, MA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
93% Depression
78% Medication Management
77% Trauma and PTSD
71% ADHD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
70% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
88% Aetna
74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Lexington, MA see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

68% Female
32% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Lexington?

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.