Psychiatrists in Lincoln, MA

I bring a psychoanalytically-informed approach to helping individuals with symptom relief, emotional pain, and interpersonal growth. This involves a focus on the role of emotions in a person's mental life, consideration of how psychological defenses may complicate greater personal fulfillment, and exploration of how the relationship between me and the patient may shed light on problematic interpersonal patterns. I integrate psychiatric medications in the therapeutic work whenever appropriate to reduce emotional suffering, enhance the capacity for reflection on painful experiences, and to facilitate relational understanding.
I bring a psychoanalytically-informed approach to helping individuals with symptom relief, emotional pain, and interpersonal growth. This involves a focus on the role of emotions in a person's mental life, consideration of how psychological defenses may complicate greater personal fulfillment, and exploration of how the relationship between me and the patient may shed light on problematic interpersonal patterns. I integrate psychiatric medications in the therapeutic work whenever appropriate to reduce emotional suffering, enhance the capacity for reflection on painful experiences, and to facilitate relational understanding.

I want to work with clients who are active partners rather than recipients. I view providing care as a partnership. My ideal patient is seeking care because they want to feel better and improve their life. An ideal patient makes their needs and goals known as we work together. I admire my patients who have an open mind to suggestions for interventions that may improve how they feel. I believe this flexibility can open up new possibilities for well-being.
I want to work with clients who are active partners rather than recipients. I view providing care as a partnership. My ideal patient is seeking care because they want to feel better and improve their life. An ideal patient makes their needs and goals known as we work together. I admire my patients who have an open mind to suggestions for interventions that may improve how they feel. I believe this flexibility can open up new possibilities for well-being.

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.

I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.

Margaret Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients! Margaret Hughes, PMHNP, is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with degrees from Yale and Northeastern University. With a blend of clinical expertise and compassion, she specializes in providing comprehensive medication management, supportive therapy and genetic testing to individuals across the lifespan. She has a particular interest in college students and young adults and understands the unique challenges faced by these individuals, including academic pressure, identity formation, and the transition to independence.
Accepting new clients! Margaret Hughes, PMHNP, is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with degrees from Yale and Northeastern University. With a blend of clinical expertise and compassion, she specializes in providing comprehensive medication management, supportive therapy and genetic testing to individuals across the lifespan. She has a particular interest in college students and young adults and understands the unique challenges faced by these individuals, including academic pressure, identity formation, and the transition to independence.

Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.

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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Amanda Lyn Sheehan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Lexington, MA 02421
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health NP trained at Johns Hopkins University, providing holistic, value-aligned medication management & psychotherapeutic care. I am accepting new patients at this time with mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, & OCD spectrum, as well as the mental health effects of learning differences, endocrine conditions (like diabetes, PCOS, thyroid, hypoglycemia), & connective tissue disorders. I am invested in establishing meaningful connections to individuals coping with these conditions & am keenly sensitive to the stress additional health conditions confer upon wellbeing.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health NP trained at Johns Hopkins University, providing holistic, value-aligned medication management & psychotherapeutic care. I am accepting new patients at this time with mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, & OCD spectrum, as well as the mental health effects of learning differences, endocrine conditions (like diabetes, PCOS, thyroid, hypoglycemia), & connective tissue disorders. I am invested in establishing meaningful connections to individuals coping with these conditions & am keenly sensitive to the stress additional health conditions confer upon wellbeing.

I have extensive experience in treating Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety, ADHD and relational problems for more than 20 years. I have dual Board Certification in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. I am very careful in treating my patients with medications and my goal is to find the lowest effective dose and avoid multiple medication use when possible. I think therapy is as important as medications and I offer both, at times together, when necessary. For self pay patients cost for initial 60 min evaluation is $500, 15 min fallow up is $150, 30 min fallow up is $275 and 45min fallow up is $400.
I have extensive experience in treating Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety, ADHD and relational problems for more than 20 years. I have dual Board Certification in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. I am very careful in treating my patients with medications and my goal is to find the lowest effective dose and avoid multiple medication use when possible. I think therapy is as important as medications and I offer both, at times together, when necessary. For self pay patients cost for initial 60 min evaluation is $500, 15 min fallow up is $150, 30 min fallow up is $275 and 45min fallow up is $400.

If you are on Psychology Today, you are most likely going through some difficult stuff and life is not as you want it to be. I am sorry that you are struggling. But, I want you to know that with some good steps forward, solid guidance and support, things can get a whole let better. This can happen sooner than you think too! Currently accepting clients in MA, NH, and NY for Medication Management. Not taking therapy only clients at this time. More information on my website. Link below.
If you are on Psychology Today, you are most likely going through some difficult stuff and life is not as you want it to be. I am sorry that you are struggling. But, I want you to know that with some good steps forward, solid guidance and support, things can get a whole let better. This can happen sooner than you think too! Currently accepting clients in MA, NH, and NY for Medication Management. Not taking therapy only clients at this time. More information on my website. Link below.

Meet Sarah, a dedicated Certified Physician Assistant (PA) who has found her passion in the field of Psychiatry and Mental Health. Graduating from MCPHS University in 2019, Sarah's journey is marked by her unwavering commitment to fostering a therapeutic alliance with her patients and closely monitoring their mental health progress. With her unique combination of compassion, positivity, and experience, Sarah strives to provide the best possible care to all those she serves.
Meet Sarah, a dedicated Certified Physician Assistant (PA) who has found her passion in the field of Psychiatry and Mental Health. Graduating from MCPHS University in 2019, Sarah's journey is marked by her unwavering commitment to fostering a therapeutic alliance with her patients and closely monitoring their mental health progress. With her unique combination of compassion, positivity, and experience, Sarah strives to provide the best possible care to all those she serves.

Meet Tianna, a dedicated and compassionate Physician Assistant (PA) with a focus on psychiatric care. Her journey into the field of mental health and patient care began with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Determined to make a meaningful impact on her patients' lives, she pursued further education, earning a Master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies at MCPHS University.
Meet Tianna, a dedicated and compassionate Physician Assistant (PA) with a focus on psychiatric care. Her journey into the field of mental health and patient care began with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Determined to make a meaningful impact on her patients' lives, she pursued further education, earning a Master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies at MCPHS University.

Meet Lindsey, a dedicated and compassionate Physician Assistant (PA) who prioritizes comprehensive care and mental health in her practice. With a commitment to addressing the root causes of her patients' concerns, Lindsey brings a unique perspective to the field of healthcare. Her expertise, combined with her passion for overall well-being, makes her a valuable asset in the pursuit of mental health. Lindsey's journey in healthcare is marked by excellence, having graduated with honors from her Master of Physician Assistant program in Boston, MA.
Meet Lindsey, a dedicated and compassionate Physician Assistant (PA) who prioritizes comprehensive care and mental health in her practice. With a commitment to addressing the root causes of her patients' concerns, Lindsey brings a unique perspective to the field of healthcare. Her expertise, combined with her passion for overall well-being, makes her a valuable asset in the pursuit of mental health. Lindsey's journey in healthcare is marked by excellence, having graduated with honors from her Master of Physician Assistant program in Boston, MA.

Since PMHNPs are specialized nurse practitioners, my client should know about me. Like mental health experts, PMHNPs diagnose, treat, and assess patients' mental health issues. They see mental and physical health as interconnected and provide holistic care. PMHNPs work alone and in teams to provide top-notch psychiatric care to all patients. PMHNPs can use empathy in healthcare. Communication skills, cultural competency, and kindness can help PMHNPs empathize with and build trust with patients. This provider can attract clients by creating a professional practice website that contains services, locations, and contact information.
Since PMHNPs are specialized nurse practitioners, my client should know about me. Like mental health experts, PMHNPs diagnose, treat, and assess patients' mental health issues. They see mental and physical health as interconnected and provide holistic care. PMHNPs work alone and in teams to provide top-notch psychiatric care to all patients. PMHNPs can use empathy in healthcare. Communication skills, cultural competency, and kindness can help PMHNPs empathize with and build trust with patients. This provider can attract clients by creating a professional practice website that contains services, locations, and contact information.

A person seeking compassionate psychiatric care who is experiencing anxiety, depression, or mood disorders is Dr Boham's ideal client. This individual appreciates a comprehensive strategy that blends medicine and therapy to create a unique, efficient treatment plan. This individual's ultimate goals are to achieve mental well-being and lead a balanced, meaningful life.
A person seeking compassionate psychiatric care who is experiencing anxiety, depression, or mood disorders is Dr Boham's ideal client. This individual appreciates a comprehensive strategy that blends medicine and therapy to create a unique, efficient treatment plan. This individual's ultimate goals are to achieve mental well-being and lead a balanced, meaningful life.

Claire Wakulyaka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Marlborough, MA 01752
I am accepting new patients. My name is Claire Wakulyaka. I want to help you work through your mental health challenges. The goal is to build a therapeutic relationship that will lead to better outcomes. You can expect a compassionate, empathetic, engaging, and safe environment where you are respected and listened to. The treatment plan may include medication management and/or brief therapy.
I am accepting new patients. My name is Claire Wakulyaka. I want to help you work through your mental health challenges. The goal is to build a therapeutic relationship that will lead to better outcomes. You can expect a compassionate, empathetic, engaging, and safe environment where you are respected and listened to. The treatment plan may include medication management and/or brief therapy.

You have reasons to seek out mental health treatment. You may feel nervous about this, having doubts and suspicions concerning treatment. Past experiences may have left you feeling frustrated, but you now have found the courage to try treatment again. I am here to listen to your story and help you. My 18 years of professional medical experience include outpatient care and inpatient care; including both general hospital and mental health facilities. Having been trained and employed by McLean Hospital, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, I learned a great deal about a wide variety of mental health conditions.
You have reasons to seek out mental health treatment. You may feel nervous about this, having doubts and suspicions concerning treatment. Past experiences may have left you feeling frustrated, but you now have found the courage to try treatment again. I am here to listen to your story and help you. My 18 years of professional medical experience include outpatient care and inpatient care; including both general hospital and mental health facilities. Having been trained and employed by McLean Hospital, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, I learned a great deal about a wide variety of mental health conditions.

My practice, Bountiful Mental Health, provides a boutique psychiatric experience for families, children, adolescents, and adults, with timely appointment availability and individualized care. Our two-hour evaluation session allows time to establish the initial correct diagnosis. Through our work together, I get a full picture of your life and how best to help you and your family achieve your goals. Non-medication approaches are emphasized as the most sustainable path to life-long health, though medications may be prescribed with careful attention to preventing or eliminating side effects while obtaining full benefits.
My practice, Bountiful Mental Health, provides a boutique psychiatric experience for families, children, adolescents, and adults, with timely appointment availability and individualized care. Our two-hour evaluation session allows time to establish the initial correct diagnosis. Through our work together, I get a full picture of your life and how best to help you and your family achieve your goals. Non-medication approaches are emphasized as the most sustainable path to life-long health, though medications may be prescribed with careful attention to preventing or eliminating side effects while obtaining full benefits.

Illumina Behavioral Medicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hingham, MA 02043
“Each patient present with unique nuances as to how a problem behaviorally reveals itself in his or her life”. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and as such, I can prescribe medication, if necessary, as an adjunct to psychotherapy. I worked in various healthcare including inpatient and outpatient settings providing both psychiatric and medical care. I use integrated approach to care with aims to empower individual’s authenticity to make proactive decisions and enhance his or hers ability to effectively cope with the full variety of life’s circumstances.
“Each patient present with unique nuances as to how a problem behaviorally reveals itself in his or her life”. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and as such, I can prescribe medication, if necessary, as an adjunct to psychotherapy. I worked in various healthcare including inpatient and outpatient settings providing both psychiatric and medical care. I use integrated approach to care with aims to empower individual’s authenticity to make proactive decisions and enhance his or hers ability to effectively cope with the full variety of life’s circumstances.

Global Behavioral Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Samson Osebor, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, prioritizes holistic healing and individualized care. With over 15 years of healthcare experience, he empowers patients by integrating education, advocacy, and precise medication management. Specializing in various psychiatric disorders, Samson Osebor fosters resilience and guides patients towards sustainable recovery. His compassionate approach creates a safe space for patients to address mental health challenges openly and confidently.
Samson Osebor, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, prioritizes holistic healing and individualized care. With over 15 years of healthcare experience, he empowers patients by integrating education, advocacy, and precise medication management. Specializing in various psychiatric disorders, Samson Osebor fosters resilience and guides patients towards sustainable recovery. His compassionate approach creates a safe space for patients to address mental health challenges openly and confidently.
See more therapy options for Lincoln
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lincoln, MA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lincoln, MA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
86% | Trauma and PTSD |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | ADHD |
71% | Self Esteem |
57% | Family Conflict |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Harvard Pilgrim |
How Psychiatrists in Lincoln, MA see their clients
86% | In Person and Online | |
14% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lincoln?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.