Psychiatrists in Malden, MA

Photo of Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD, CDS
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD, CDS
Malden, MA 02148
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 diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient 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 diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(781) 456-3676 View (781) 456-3676
Photo of Edilia F Gomes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, APRN-BC
Edilia F Gomes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, APRN-BC
5 Endorsed
Malden, MA 02148
Accepting new clients! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Social Worker, I envision my ideal client seeking understanding, validation, and hope amidst mental health challenges. They desire a collaborative partnership, evidence-based interventions tailored to their needs, and a sense of empowerment on their healing journey. I am committed to meeting them with empathy, authenticity, and cultural humility, guiding them toward resilience and wholeness in a journey of self-discovery and growth.
Accepting new clients! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Social Worker, I envision my ideal client seeking understanding, validation, and hope amidst mental health challenges. They desire a collaborative partnership, evidence-based interventions tailored to their needs, and a sense of empowerment on their healing journey. I am committed to meeting them with empathy, authenticity, and cultural humility, guiding them toward resilience and wholeness in a journey of self-discovery and growth.
(339) 330-1121 View (339) 330-1121
Photo of Mariel White - BOS RX, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
BOS RX
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
BOS RX is a fully virtual, HIPAA compliant, secure platform for high quality mental health services. We are currently accepting new patients, ages 10-65 of all genders, orientations, backgrounds, and mental health symptoms. We specialize in treating mild to moderate mood and anxiety disorders.
BOS RX is a fully virtual, HIPAA compliant, secure platform for high quality mental health services. We are currently accepting new patients, ages 10-65 of all genders, orientations, backgrounds, and mental health symptoms. We specialize in treating mild to moderate mood and anxiety disorders.
(617) 631-7039 View (617) 631-7039
Photo of Nancy Kilima, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Nancy Kilima
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specialises in acute and chronic mental health care. My passion lies in providing accessible, evidence-based, and patient-centred mental health support. I believe mental health care should be personalized, collaborative, and easily accessible.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specialises in acute and chronic mental health care. My passion lies in providing accessible, evidence-based, and patient-centred mental health support. I believe mental health care should be personalized, collaborative, and easily accessible.
(781) 333-8953 View (781) 333-8953
Photo of Yangchen Gethoktsang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Yangchen Gethoktsang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC
1 Endorsed
Malden, MA 02148
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, with over five years experience in emergency room settings, psychiatric urgent care, adult inpatient settings and geriatric psychiatry, I am deeply committed to understanding the complexities of the human mind and fostering meaningful, transformative change in the lives of my patients.
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, with over five years experience in emergency room settings, psychiatric urgent care, adult inpatient settings and geriatric psychiatry, I am deeply committed to understanding the complexities of the human mind and fostering meaningful, transformative change in the lives of my patients.
(339) 230-2919 View (339) 230-2919
Photo of Emily Sullivan, Psychiatrist, DO
Emily Sullivan
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Struggling with emotional distress can feel overwhelming and isolating, but you don’t have to face it alone. As a board-certified adult psychiatrist, I specialize in treating a range of conditions, including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD and other trauma-related disorders, anxiety disorders, and more. I take a collaborative approach, working closely with my patients to develop a safe, effective, and well-tolerated medication regimen. My goal is to create a compassionate, supportive environment where individuals from all walks of life feel heard, understood, and empowered in their journey toward healing.
Struggling with emotional distress can feel overwhelming and isolating, but you don’t have to face it alone. As a board-certified adult psychiatrist, I specialize in treating a range of conditions, including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD and other trauma-related disorders, anxiety disorders, and more. I take a collaborative approach, working closely with my patients to develop a safe, effective, and well-tolerated medication regimen. My goal is to create a compassionate, supportive environment where individuals from all walks of life feel heard, understood, and empowered in their journey toward healing.
(781) 773-6109 View (781) 773-6109
Photo of Dorothy Chatelier-Orelus - Virtual Psychiatric Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Virtual Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you looking for a more personal, culturally appropriate, holistic form of psychiatric care? Are you looking for a more natural yet integrative approach to your mental health? Then you come to the right place. My practice is more than a response to mental health symptoms—it's a partnership where we journey through all facets of your well-being. Our conversations will cover not just your mental state, but also your physical health including hormone balance, weight concerns, sexual wellness, environmental influences, and spiritual life. Telehealth Services in MA, DC, CO, MD, MN, WA. We accept most major insurance plans.
Are you looking for a more personal, culturally appropriate, holistic form of psychiatric care? Are you looking for a more natural yet integrative approach to your mental health? Then you come to the right place. My practice is more than a response to mental health symptoms—it's a partnership where we journey through all facets of your well-being. Our conversations will cover not just your mental state, but also your physical health including hormone balance, weight concerns, sexual wellness, environmental influences, and spiritual life. Telehealth Services in MA, DC, CO, MD, MN, WA. We accept most major insurance plans.
(781) 650-7848 View (781) 650-7848
Photo of Sarlah Bernard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Sarlah Bernard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Malden, MA 02148
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 in making 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 in making an informed decision about their treatment plan.
(781) 670-5476 View (781) 670-5476
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Malden, MA 02148
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.
(781) 423-3049 View (781) 423-3049
Photo of Kemealo Moussatcha, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kemealo Moussatcha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Malden, MA 02148
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over nine years of nursing experience in the field of psychiatric nursing, spanning from inpatient care for children and adults to community mental health crisis stabilization, state hospitals, and substance use treatment centers. I graduated from the University of Massachusetts-Boston with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and immediately began working as a psychiatric nurse in an inpatient hospital. I worked as a charge nurse in inpatient state hospitals and substance use treatment centers while completing Graduate School at Regis College.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over nine years of nursing experience in the field of psychiatric nursing, spanning from inpatient care for children and adults to community mental health crisis stabilization, state hospitals, and substance use treatment centers. I graduated from the University of Massachusetts-Boston with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and immediately began working as a psychiatric nurse in an inpatient hospital. I worked as a charge nurse in inpatient state hospitals and substance use treatment centers while completing Graduate School at Regis College.
(781) 808-2686 View (781) 808-2686
Photo of Andrea Papa, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrea Papa
Psychiatrist, MD
Malden, MA 02148
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.
(781) 679-1821 View (781) 679-1821
Photo of Paul K Langat, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, AGNP, PMHNP
Paul K Langat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, AGNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Malden, MA 02148
I am a dual-certified AGNP and PMHNP with over 9 years of diverse healthcare experience. My goals and aims are to establish a therapeutic relationship with my clients and empower them to engage in their individualized treatment, thereby restoring their potential and promoting a maximum state of well-being. I strive to provide my clients with adequate information to enable them to make adequate choices about their treatment.
I am a dual-certified AGNP and PMHNP with over 9 years of diverse healthcare experience. My goals and aims are to establish a therapeutic relationship with my clients and empower them to engage in their individualized treatment, thereby restoring their potential and promoting a maximum state of well-being. I strive to provide my clients with adequate information to enable them to make adequate choices about their treatment.
(781) 773-2791 View (781) 773-2791
Photo of William Chad Garrett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
William Chad Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Malden, MA 02148
When you're struggling, you need support right away, not in a month. If you're dealing with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia that are impacting your life, visit my website and click on the "Request Consultation" button to get started today.
When you're struggling, you need support right away, not in a month. If you're dealing with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia that are impacting your life, visit my website and click on the "Request Consultation" button to get started today.
(781) 390-4882 View (781) 390-4882
Photo of Fauzia Wali Khan - Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care ( SNBCare ), Psychiatrist, MD, PMHNP, LICSW
Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care ( SNBCare )
Psychiatrist, MD, PMHNP, LICSW
Malden, MA 02148
SNBCare is a multidisciplinary group of dedicated professionals, providing the best quality care for a wide range of outpatient mental health services. We have been serving adults, families, and couples for over a decade in a caring, patient-friendly environment. We are offering Telemedicine and Teletherapy through video to all who want to be seen during this time, as well as TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation). We accept almost all insurances. We are currently accepting new patients for telemedicine, teletherapy, and TMS and would be honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
SNBCare is a multidisciplinary group of dedicated professionals, providing the best quality care for a wide range of outpatient mental health services. We have been serving adults, families, and couples for over a decade in a caring, patient-friendly environment. We are offering Telemedicine and Teletherapy through video to all who want to be seen during this time, as well as TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation). We accept almost all insurances. We are currently accepting new patients for telemedicine, teletherapy, and TMS and would be honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
(508) 271-7198 View (508) 271-7198
Photo of Nixon Cornay - Frontline Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-BC
Frontline Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-BC
1 Endorsed
Malden, MA 02148
Managing and maintaining daily life activities can sometimes be very challenging, stressful and a daunting task for some people, especially since and during the pandemic. If you have not been feeling yourself lately, you are not alone. Maybe, you feel stuck or confused in your current situation at work, school, family, career, financial or relationship. Do you feel marginalized, afraid or alienated because of your race, gender, sex orientation and culture? Perhaps you have been experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety that won't go away. Here, your story matters! This is a safe place for you to vent and to find relief.
Managing and maintaining daily life activities can sometimes be very challenging, stressful and a daunting task for some people, especially since and during the pandemic. If you have not been feeling yourself lately, you are not alone. Maybe, you feel stuck or confused in your current situation at work, school, family, career, financial or relationship. Do you feel marginalized, afraid or alienated because of your race, gender, sex orientation and culture? Perhaps you have been experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety that won't go away. Here, your story matters! This is a safe place for you to vent and to find relief.
(781) 905-8543 View (781) 905-8543
Photo of Lillian Matthews, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Lillian Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Online Only
I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I am dedicated to providing high-quality care to adults aged 18-64 who are struggling with mental health challenges. Mental health struggles can feel overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting. Whether you are facing anxiety that makes it difficult to function, mood swings that disrupt your day-to-day life, or the lingering effects of past trauma, I want you to know that you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. Together, we can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. If you're ready to take the first step, I am here to help.
I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I am dedicated to providing high-quality care to adults aged 18-64 who are struggling with mental health challenges. Mental health struggles can feel overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting. Whether you are facing anxiety that makes it difficult to function, mood swings that disrupt your day-to-day life, or the lingering effects of past trauma, I want you to know that you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. Together, we can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. If you're ready to take the first step, I am here to help.
(725) 234-8746 View (725) 234-8746
Photo of Dale Buckman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Dale Buckman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
1 Endorsed
Malden, MA 02148
Welcome! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Primary Care Medicine. My approach is rooted in Functional and Integrative Psychiatry. I am dedicated to helping you achieve mental wellness and a better quality of life. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, sleep issues, ADHD, PTSD, or OCD, I am here to support you. I specialize in medication initiation and management as well as lifestyle and dietary changes. Together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs. Reach out today.
Welcome! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Primary Care Medicine. My approach is rooted in Functional and Integrative Psychiatry. I am dedicated to helping you achieve mental wellness and a better quality of life. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, sleep issues, ADHD, PTSD, or OCD, I am here to support you. I specialize in medication initiation and management as well as lifestyle and dietary changes. Together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs. Reach out today.
(781) 404-3449 View (781) 404-3449
Photo of Yu Wang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Yu Wang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
•• Accepting New Patients •• I received a doctoral degree at Rush University. I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and adult/gerontology primary care. I have worked in hospital settings and out-patient clinics. I specialize in medication management in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, and bipolar; serving populations 10 years and beyond.
•• Accepting New Patients •• I received a doctoral degree at Rush University. I am a dual board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health and adult/gerontology primary care. I have worked in hospital settings and out-patient clinics. I specialize in medication management in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, and bipolar; serving populations 10 years and beyond.
(339) 220-5536 View (339) 220-5536
Photo of Lisa Curtain, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lisa Curtain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome; My name is Lisa Curtain and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) at The Evolving Mind LLC. I prescribe psychiatric medication for mental wellness and stability. I recognize that mental well-being is not merely the absence of illness but a dynamic state of balance, encompassing emotional, psychological, and social dimensions. Central to my approach is the cultivation of self-awareness and self-compassion. I encourage individuals to engage in a journey of introspection, exploring their thoughts, emotions and behaviors while being kind to self
Welcome; My name is Lisa Curtain and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) at The Evolving Mind LLC. I prescribe psychiatric medication for mental wellness and stability. I recognize that mental well-being is not merely the absence of illness but a dynamic state of balance, encompassing emotional, psychological, and social dimensions. Central to my approach is the cultivation of self-awareness and self-compassion. I encourage individuals to engage in a journey of introspection, exploring their thoughts, emotions and behaviors while being kind to self
(781) 650-5423 View (781) 650-5423
Neil King
Psychiatrist, MD203
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. King works with both adults and children. Dr. King is able to connect with clients and help them feel comfortable discussing personal histories and concerns. Dr. King has been working in Pediatrics since 2007 and has worked in the psychiatric field with children and adults since 2012 in a variety of settings including hospitals, medical centers and private practice.
Dr. King works with both adults and children. Dr. King is able to connect with clients and help them feel comfortable discussing personal histories and concerns. Dr. King has been working in Pediatrics since 2007 and has worked in the psychiatric field with children and adults since 2012 in a variety of settings including hospitals, medical centers and private practice.
(781) 396-6530 View (781) 396-6530

See more therapy options for Malden

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Malden, MA

70+

Average cost per session

$165

Psychiatrists in Malden, MA who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
84% Bipolar Disorder
81% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
79% ADHD
74% Trauma and PTSD
71% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
95% Cigna and Evernorth
93% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Malden, MA see their clients

74% Online Only
26% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Malden?

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.