Psychiatrists in Millbury, MA

Photo of Micayla Bourette, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Micayla Bourette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Millbury, MA 01527
Taking the first step in your mental health journey can be challenging, and I’m so glad you’re here. With an honest, compassionate, and thoughtful approach, I strive to be a trusted partner in your care. By listening to your thoughts and preferences, we can create a treatment plan that supports your well-being and aligns with your goals.
Taking the first step in your mental health journey can be challenging, and I’m so glad you’re here. With an honest, compassionate, and thoughtful approach, I strive to be a trusted partner in your care. By listening to your thoughts and preferences, we can create a treatment plan that supports your well-being and aligns with your goals.
(508) 690-5643 View (508) 690-5643
Photo of Christopher Parmanand, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Christopher Parmanand
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Millbury, MA 01527
Hello, I’m Dr. Christopher Parmanand, DNP, a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to holistic mental health care with over 23 years of experience. I create personalized treatment plans for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, addressing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and more. My experience across inpatient, outpatient, and addiction settings shapes my empathetic approach. As a husband and father, I understand family dynamics in mental health and strive to help each patient build resilience, stability, and thrive.
Hello, I’m Dr. Christopher Parmanand, DNP, a psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to holistic mental health care with over 23 years of experience. I create personalized treatment plans for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, addressing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and more. My experience across inpatient, outpatient, and addiction settings shapes my empathetic approach. As a husband and father, I understand family dynamics in mental health and strive to help each patient build resilience, stability, and thrive.
(508) 426-8326 View (508) 426-8326
Photo of Dr. Momen El Nesr, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Momen El Nesr
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Relationship first and foremost, I believe that a healthy, caring relationship with a doctor who knows you - as a person - is the most important aspect of psychiatric care. As such, I make it a priority to develop a therapeutic relationship with you for your treatment. The second part of my commitment to you is to discuss and offer state-of-the-art treatment. This includes both medication and non-medication treatments. I have extensive experience and expertise treating all age groups and have found that my patients appreciate the consistency and simplicity of the care.
Relationship first and foremost, I believe that a healthy, caring relationship with a doctor who knows you - as a person - is the most important aspect of psychiatric care. As such, I make it a priority to develop a therapeutic relationship with you for your treatment. The second part of my commitment to you is to discuss and offer state-of-the-art treatment. This includes both medication and non-medication treatments. I have extensive experience and expertise treating all age groups and have found that my patients appreciate the consistency and simplicity of the care.
(774) 804-5764 View (774) 804-5764

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Amy Prince, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Amy Prince
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Amy Prince is a board certified adult psychiatrist who graduated from SUNY Downstate Medical Center and completed her residency training at UMass Medical Center, where she served as chief resident during her final year. Dr. Prince has worked with patients in a variety of treatment settings including inpatient, partial hospital programs, community mental health centers and outpatient.
Dr. Amy Prince is a board certified adult psychiatrist who graduated from SUNY Downstate Medical Center and completed her residency training at UMass Medical Center, where she served as chief resident during her final year. Dr. Prince has worked with patients in a variety of treatment settings including inpatient, partial hospital programs, community mental health centers and outpatient.
(617) 410-4510 View (617) 410-4510
Photo of Aimee Brianne Beck - A Healthy State of Mind Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
A Healthy State of Mind Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Fitchburg, MA 01420
I'm Aimee, a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric NP with a passion for mental wellness and a commitment to comprehensive patient care. Graduating with my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from UMass Amherst in 2015, I bring nine years of invaluable experience from primary care and urgent care settings. I believe in a collaborative approach to mental health, tailoring treatment plans to address the unique needs of each individual. Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide compassionate care and expert guidance.
I'm Aimee, a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric NP with a passion for mental wellness and a commitment to comprehensive patient care. Graduating with my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from UMass Amherst in 2015, I bring nine years of invaluable experience from primary care and urgent care settings. I believe in a collaborative approach to mental health, tailoring treatment plans to address the unique needs of each individual. Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide compassionate care and expert guidance.
(978) 378-5779 View (978) 378-5779
Photo of Dr. Zamir Nestelbaum, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Dr. Zamir Nestelbaum
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Online Only
I have been practicing psychiatry since 1985 when I completed my residency at the Mt Sinai Hospital in New York City. I work with adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, addictions and other complex psychiatric conditions. I offer psychiatric evaluation, psychopharmacology and integrative treatment most often in close collaboration with psychotherapists and other providers. I believe in a compassionate and humanistic approach. There are many patients in my practice that I've been working with for 20 - 30 years. I have extensive experience in outpatient, inpatient, consultation and substance use programs, and more.
I have been practicing psychiatry since 1985 when I completed my residency at the Mt Sinai Hospital in New York City. I work with adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, addictions and other complex psychiatric conditions. I offer psychiatric evaluation, psychopharmacology and integrative treatment most often in close collaboration with psychotherapists and other providers. I believe in a compassionate and humanistic approach. There are many patients in my practice that I've been working with for 20 - 30 years. I have extensive experience in outpatient, inpatient, consultation and substance use programs, and more.
(508) 310-6322 x32 View (508) 310-6322 x32
Photo of Oliver Joseph - Integrated Psychiatric Consulting, PC, Psychiatrist, MD
Integrated Psychiatric Consulting, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Integrated Psychiatric Consulting, PC, our providers have a broad background in mental health conditions. We provide medication management for conditions like ADHD, anxiety and mood disorders, impulse control disorders, and neuropsychiatric conditions, such as brain injuries and intellectual/developmental disabilities. We also provide cognitive-behavioral therapy for these conditions as well as coping with phase of life transitions, men's and women's mental health, and relationship and peer difficulties. Please give us a call to see how we can help.
At Integrated Psychiatric Consulting, PC, our providers have a broad background in mental health conditions. We provide medication management for conditions like ADHD, anxiety and mood disorders, impulse control disorders, and neuropsychiatric conditions, such as brain injuries and intellectual/developmental disabilities. We also provide cognitive-behavioral therapy for these conditions as well as coping with phase of life transitions, men's and women's mental health, and relationship and peer difficulties. Please give us a call to see how we can help.
(774) 260-6741 View (774) 260-6741
Photo of Connie Cruz, Psychiatric Nurse, RN, PMHCNS
Connie Cruz
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, PMHCNS
Natick, MA 01760
Are you interested in finding support to help cope with anxiety, low mood, challenging life transitions, work, school, or relationship issues? I offer medication management and psychotherapy in my practice. I believe that with thoughtful intervention, the body and mind will move toward healing. We will work together to identify your strengths as well as develop skills to cope with the challenges. I offer a holistic, strengths-based approach designed to help you achieve your goals and live a more satisfying life.
Are you interested in finding support to help cope with anxiety, low mood, challenging life transitions, work, school, or relationship issues? I offer medication management and psychotherapy in my practice. I believe that with thoughtful intervention, the body and mind will move toward healing. We will work together to identify your strengths as well as develop skills to cope with the challenges. I offer a holistic, strengths-based approach designed to help you achieve your goals and live a more satisfying life.
View
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrea Papa
Psychiatrist, MD
Framingham, MA 01701
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.
(508) 413-6529 View (508) 413-6529
Photo of Amanda Bennett, Psychiatrist, DO
Amanda Bennett
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Amanda Bennett is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry who specializes in medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. She completed medical school at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her adult residency training at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center/Tufts University School of Medicine.Dr. Bennett has worked in a variety of treatment settings, including inpatient and outpatient, as well as community and academic centers.
Dr. Amanda Bennett is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry who specializes in medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. She completed medical school at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her adult residency training at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center/Tufts University School of Medicine.Dr. Bennett has worked in a variety of treatment settings, including inpatient and outpatient, as well as community and academic centers.
(617) 544-2458 View (617) 544-2458
Photo of Stephen Zombil - Mass Behavioral Health Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Mass Behavioral Health Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Worcester, MA 01610
Mass Behavioral Health Center (MBHC) is an outpatient Mental Health Center in Worcester, Massachusetts which provides diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive services related to mental and behavioral disorders. At MBHC, We have certified Professionals with years of experience, and our mission is to find your hidden potential and give you all the necessary tools to develop, grow, and overcome your challenges. Ranked among the leading outpatient mental health providers in Worcester County, the center is a leading mental health service provider that specializes in the treatment of all ages with mental health problems.
Mass Behavioral Health Center (MBHC) is an outpatient Mental Health Center in Worcester, Massachusetts which provides diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive services related to mental and behavioral disorders. At MBHC, We have certified Professionals with years of experience, and our mission is to find your hidden potential and give you all the necessary tools to develop, grow, and overcome your challenges. Ranked among the leading outpatient mental health providers in Worcester County, the center is a leading mental health service provider that specializes in the treatment of all ages with mental health problems.
(508) 803-0358 View (508) 803-0358
Photo of Chidinma Onyegwu - Equilibrium Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , PMHNP-C
Equilibrium Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , PMHNP-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting NEW patients for same day virtual appointments. Have you been experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, mood swings, ADHD, and insomnia? Are these symptoms interfering with your thinking, and making it difficult for you to manage work, relationships, and other responsibilities? Are you looking for a provider that will listen to you and develop a complete plan to assist you in returning to a normal life? If you responded "yes" to any of these questions, you are a candidate for the treatment we offer. Here at Equilibrium Health, we provide supportive, personalize treatment tailored to your to your individual needs.
Accepting NEW patients for same day virtual appointments. Have you been experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, mood swings, ADHD, and insomnia? Are these symptoms interfering with your thinking, and making it difficult for you to manage work, relationships, and other responsibilities? Are you looking for a provider that will listen to you and develop a complete plan to assist you in returning to a normal life? If you responded "yes" to any of these questions, you are a candidate for the treatment we offer. Here at Equilibrium Health, we provide supportive, personalize treatment tailored to your to your individual needs.
(617) 936-0112 View (617) 936-0112
Photo of Sarah Dowd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Sarah Dowd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Brimfield, MA 01010
May 2025 Update for Hometown Mental Health Services, PLLC- We Are Accepting New Clients With Immediate Openings! My name is Sarah and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. We provide outpatient psychiatric medication management for clients 18 years and older in Massachusetts via Telehealth. We would love the opportunity to work with you! At Hometown MHS we treat each patient case using a kind and down to earth approach. We truly believe that developing a therapeutic connection between patient and provider is an essential part of mental health treatment.
May 2025 Update for Hometown Mental Health Services, PLLC- We Are Accepting New Clients With Immediate Openings! My name is Sarah and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. We provide outpatient psychiatric medication management for clients 18 years and older in Massachusetts via Telehealth. We would love the opportunity to work with you! At Hometown MHS we treat each patient case using a kind and down to earth approach. We truly believe that developing a therapeutic connection between patient and provider is an essential part of mental health treatment.
(413) 779-8929 View (413) 779-8929
Photo of Stephanie Weingard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Stephanie Weingard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Online Only
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. I offer Medication Management & Counseling/Supportive Psychotherapy online via Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida, Massachusetts & Arizona. I am an experienced Independently licensed Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Military Service Member. I provide care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 7 and above. I accept most insurance plans including United, Oscar, Oxford, Aetna, Cigna and Florida Blue. I also accept cash pay clients without insurance.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. I offer Medication Management & Counseling/Supportive Psychotherapy online via Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida, Massachusetts & Arizona. I am an experienced Independently licensed Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Military Service Member. I provide care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 7 and above. I accept most insurance plans including United, Oscar, Oxford, Aetna, Cigna and Florida Blue. I also accept cash pay clients without insurance.
(413) 327-9843 View (413) 327-9843
Photo of Tabitha Imondi- Samantha Heim - Partners in Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Partners in Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, RN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting new patients from RI and MA for medication management. We conduct telepsychiatry and some in-office visits. We provide clinical evaluations and medication management for those aged 4-70 years old. We offer expert treatment plans to ease your suffering and emotional pain using the biopsychosocial framework. While we believe psychotropic treatment can be both curative and beneficial for symptom management, we encourage our patients to engage meaningfully in their own treatment by participating in psychotherapy, exercise, mindfulness, and healthy nutrition.
Accepting new patients from RI and MA for medication management. We conduct telepsychiatry and some in-office visits. We provide clinical evaluations and medication management for those aged 4-70 years old. We offer expert treatment plans to ease your suffering and emotional pain using the biopsychosocial framework. While we believe psychotropic treatment can be both curative and beneficial for symptom management, we encourage our patients to engage meaningfully in their own treatment by participating in psychotherapy, exercise, mindfulness, and healthy nutrition.
(774) 541-1310 View (774) 541-1310
Photo of Us For More Information - EleMental Wellness Center , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
EleMental Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Worcester, MA 01605
We are accepting new Clients for In-Person OR Telehealth appointments for adolescents 12 years and older and Adults 18 years and older: Here at EleMental Wellness Center, we provide diagnostic assessment and treatment for broad range of psychiatric illnesses including but not limited to: Mood Disorders [Depression/Bipolar disorder], Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, Alcohol use disorders and Panic disorders.
We are accepting new Clients for In-Person OR Telehealth appointments for adolescents 12 years and older and Adults 18 years and older: Here at EleMental Wellness Center, we provide diagnostic assessment and treatment for broad range of psychiatric illnesses including but not limited to: Mood Disorders [Depression/Bipolar disorder], Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, Alcohol use disorders and Panic disorders.
(508) 213-9438 View (508) 213-9438
Photo of William Z Barnard, Psychiatrist, MD
William Z Barnard
Psychiatrist, MD
Harvard, MA 01451
Whether you are a new mom or dad struggling with the challenges of new parenthood, having difficulty adapting to a new job or role, feeling worried and overwhelmed, or feeling down and withdrawn, I may be able to help you recover and improve your quality of life. Regardless of what challenges you are facing, it is crucial for you to trust your psychiatrist and feel confident that your concerns and needs will be addressed in a sensitive, respectful, and nonjudgmental way. My goal is to consistently provide a safe environment to constructively help you to live as full and robust a life as possible.
Whether you are a new mom or dad struggling with the challenges of new parenthood, having difficulty adapting to a new job or role, feeling worried and overwhelmed, or feeling down and withdrawn, I may be able to help you recover and improve your quality of life. Regardless of what challenges you are facing, it is crucial for you to trust your psychiatrist and feel confident that your concerns and needs will be addressed in a sensitive, respectful, and nonjudgmental way. My goal is to consistently provide a safe environment to constructively help you to live as full and robust a life as possible.
(978) 575-8085 View (978) 575-8085
Photo of Dr. Clara Kim, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Clara Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Clara Kim is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. She received her medical degree from Yale University and completed her residency training at Cambridge Health Alliance – Harvard Medical School. Dr. Kim treats each patient with a holistic, evidence-based approach that incorporates psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic best practices. Her priority is to build a safe and trusting working relationship with each patient. Occasionally, Dr. Kim may recommend that you add a psychotherapist or other provider to your care team as well.
Dr. Clara Kim is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. She received her medical degree from Yale University and completed her residency training at Cambridge Health Alliance – Harvard Medical School. Dr. Kim treats each patient with a holistic, evidence-based approach that incorporates psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic best practices. Her priority is to build a safe and trusting working relationship with each patient. Occasionally, Dr. Kim may recommend that you add a psychotherapist or other provider to your care team as well.
(617) 890-6298 View (617) 890-6298
Photo of Lisa Rosano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lisa Rosano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I provide psychopharmacology treatments for individuals in the state of Massachusetts who are 18+. I have over 10 years of experience working at both the inpatient and outpatient levels of care. I provide diagnostic assessment and medication management to individuals with a variety of conditions including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mood disorders. I have a specialized interest in working with clients who are pregnant or postpartum. I value a holistic approach to patient care including helping patients achieve an overall sense of well-being through psychoeducation, collaboration, and client advocacy.
I provide psychopharmacology treatments for individuals in the state of Massachusetts who are 18+. I have over 10 years of experience working at both the inpatient and outpatient levels of care. I provide diagnostic assessment and medication management to individuals with a variety of conditions including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mood disorders. I have a specialized interest in working with clients who are pregnant or postpartum. I value a holistic approach to patient care including helping patients achieve an overall sense of well-being through psychoeducation, collaboration, and client advocacy.
(508) 691-8997 View (508) 691-8997
Copley Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Milford, MA 01757
At Copley Healthcare, a team of dedicated professionals with multiple years of experience in behavioral health, addiction and internal medicine, provide comprehensive psychiatric services to patients with varied diagnosis, including, but not limited to depression, ADD, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Complete continuum of care allows us to help our patients at different stages of their treatment, and coordinate their care.
At Copley Healthcare, a team of dedicated professionals with multiple years of experience in behavioral health, addiction and internal medicine, provide comprehensive psychiatric services to patients with varied diagnosis, including, but not limited to depression, ADD, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Complete continuum of care allows us to help our patients at different stages of their treatment, and coordinate their care.
(508) 466-5717 View (508) 466-5717

See more therapy options for Millbury

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Millbury, MA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Millbury, MA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
67% Depression
67% Addiction
67% ADHD
67% Eating Disorders
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

24 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Harvard Pilgrim

How Psychiatrists in Millbury, MA see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Millbury?

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.