Psychiatrists in Natick, MA

Photo of Fauzia Wali Khan - Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care, MD, Psychiatrist
Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760
With over 20 years of experience, Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care is dedicated to providing top-quality mental health care. We've expanded from Massachusetts to meet the growing need for outpatient support across the nation. Our ideal clients seek a comprehensive continuum of care, needing support at various stages of recovery. They want coordinated, patient-friendly services that address their unique mental health challenges, helping them achieve long-term well-being and recovery.
With over 20 years of experience, Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care is dedicated to providing top-quality mental health care. We've expanded from Massachusetts to meet the growing need for outpatient support across the nation. Our ideal clients seek a comprehensive continuum of care, needing support at various stages of recovery. They want coordinated, patient-friendly services that address their unique mental health challenges, helping them achieve long-term well-being and recovery.
(508) 980-2589 View (508) 980-2589
Photo of Craig Surman, MD, Psychiatrist
Craig Surman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
I am able to take self-pay clients. I draw on expertise as a Harvard Medical Professor and Researcher to recommend personalized evidence based care for mood, anxiety, attention and organizational challenges. I am an expert on ADHD, which I research at Massachusetts General Hospital. I draw on training in neuropsychiatry, cognitive behavioral therapy, dynamic psychotherapy, nutraceutical research, and, (more importantly) lessons taught by working with a few thousand clients. If you want perspective on your mental health or ADHD options, or how to develop more of your own personal “user’s guide” for wellbeing, am happy to consult.
I am able to take self-pay clients. I draw on expertise as a Harvard Medical Professor and Researcher to recommend personalized evidence based care for mood, anxiety, attention and organizational challenges. I am an expert on ADHD, which I research at Massachusetts General Hospital. I draw on training in neuropsychiatry, cognitive behavioral therapy, dynamic psychotherapy, nutraceutical research, and, (more importantly) lessons taught by working with a few thousand clients. If you want perspective on your mental health or ADHD options, or how to develop more of your own personal “user’s guide” for wellbeing, am happy to consult.
(617) 765-2424 View (617) 765-2424
Photo of Danielle Kasprzak, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Kasprzak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760
Hello and welcome! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on providing compassionate, holistic care for individuals who would like help with their mental health. I combine my knowledge of whole-body medicine and psychiatric mental health care to provide holistic care. While medication can help, much can be treated by looking at a person's complete health, diet, lifestyle, history, and goals. Maybe you've been struggling for a while, maybe you've tried therapy and meds and need more support. Let's try something more than the standard care!
Hello and welcome! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on providing compassionate, holistic care for individuals who would like help with their mental health. I combine my knowledge of whole-body medicine and psychiatric mental health care to provide holistic care. While medication can help, much can be treated by looking at a person's complete health, diet, lifestyle, history, and goals. Maybe you've been struggling for a while, maybe you've tried therapy and meds and need more support. Let's try something more than the standard care!
(508) 403-9195 View (508) 403-9195
Photo of Connie Cruz, RN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse
Connie Cruz
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
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.
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Photo of Miriam Dellheim, PMHNP, ANP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Miriam Dellheim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Some people are concerned that meds will change them or may have had a bad experience with meds. Some have had great success and want to continue or optimize treatment. With a comprehensive 90-minute eval, I work to understand your concerns and goals. You will not be treated as a label or an algorithm. Together, we create a dynamic plan to help you feel like the best you. When done with care, treatment can help you feel less down, tired or worried and feel more motivated, focused, and well without changing who you are or sedating or numbing you.
Some people are concerned that meds will change them or may have had a bad experience with meds. Some have had great success and want to continue or optimize treatment. With a comprehensive 90-minute eval, I work to understand your concerns and goals. You will not be treated as a label or an algorithm. Together, we create a dynamic plan to help you feel like the best you. When done with care, treatment can help you feel less down, tired or worried and feel more motivated, focused, and well without changing who you are or sedating or numbing you.
(774) 208-0561 View (774) 208-0561
Photo of Kelvin Lewis Miller - Assist Psychiatric Services LLC, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Assist Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
With the goal of assisting you to reach the level of functioning that you desire. Being heard and seen are the major are components of treatment. You are a unique individual and your experience is subjective. Effective open communication leads to the development of a clearer clinical picture and improved treatment outcomes. When indicated, medications can help lighten the load so that issues can become manageable. My goal is to help you be an active participant in your treatment.
With the goal of assisting you to reach the level of functioning that you desire. Being heard and seen are the major are components of treatment. You are a unique individual and your experience is subjective. Effective open communication leads to the development of a clearer clinical picture and improved treatment outcomes. When indicated, medications can help lighten the load so that issues can become manageable. My goal is to help you be an active participant in your treatment.
(508) 960-7069 View (508) 960-7069
Photo of Jamie Simoneau, NP, PMHCNS, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jamie Simoneau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHCNS, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Please note: visiting our website (https://middlesexpsych.com/new-patient/) and filling out the 2 forms is the fastest way to inquire about setting up an appointment. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in providing psychopharmacological medication treatment to adults for conditions including: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Attacks, and PTSD.
Please note: visiting our website (https://middlesexpsych.com/new-patient/) and filling out the 2 forms is the fastest way to inquire about setting up an appointment. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in providing psychopharmacological medication treatment to adults for conditions including: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Attacks, and PTSD.
(508) 507-2497 View (508) 507-2497
Photo of Olga Terechin, MD, Psychiatrist
Olga Terechin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Dr. Terechin is a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering psychiatric medication management services. She completed her residency at Berkshire Medical Center, with a focus on childhood adversity and substance use disorders. Before that, she was a research fellow at Harvard Medical School's Emotional Cognition and Social Neuroscience Lab. She also served as the Medical Director of Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Services at Salem Hospital. Dr. Terechin is now a psychiatrist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, where she is also engaged in research.
Dr. Terechin is a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering psychiatric medication management services. She completed her residency at Berkshire Medical Center, with a focus on childhood adversity and substance use disorders. Before that, she was a research fellow at Harvard Medical School's Emotional Cognition and Social Neuroscience Lab. She also served as the Medical Director of Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Services at Salem Hospital. Dr. Terechin is now a psychiatrist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, where she is also engaged in research.
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Photo of Alissa English, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alissa English
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Throughout her nursing career, Alissa has worked with a diverse range of patient populations. Alissa has a passion for working with adolescents and young adults, geriatrics, and developmentally disabled populations.
Throughout her nursing career, Alissa has worked with a diverse range of patient populations. Alissa has a passion for working with adolescents and young adults, geriatrics, and developmentally disabled populations.
(508) 625-9236 View (508) 625-9236
Photo of Khurshid, MD, Psychiatrist
Khurshid Khurshid
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone struggling with sleep disorders such as insomnia or sleep apnea, which impact their overall health and well-being. They need comprehensive evaluation and effective treatment to improve their sleep quality, enhance daily functioning, and reduce the risk of developing related medical or mental health conditions. Their goal is to achieve better sleep and overall health, which can prevent the onset of depression and other disorders. They seek a deeper understanding of the importance of sleep and personalized care to support their journey toward improved health and well-being.
My ideal client is someone struggling with sleep disorders such as insomnia or sleep apnea, which impact their overall health and well-being. They need comprehensive evaluation and effective treatment to improve their sleep quality, enhance daily functioning, and reduce the risk of developing related medical or mental health conditions. Their goal is to achieve better sleep and overall health, which can prevent the onset of depression and other disorders. They seek a deeper understanding of the importance of sleep and personalized care to support their journey toward improved health and well-being.
(978) 890-2169 x2 View (978) 890-2169 x2
Photo of Badu Adjei, DNP, MS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Badu Adjei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Accepting New Patients! You have taken the right step to seek support today! I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adolescents, young adults, and adults with much interest in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Behavioral Issues, Men's Issues, Mood Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Stress, Schizophrenia, and Sleep Issues or Insomnia. I am a Doctorally-prepared, Board Certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in mental health. I am ready to work with you to provide the best treatment tailored to your needs.
Accepting New Patients! You have taken the right step to seek support today! I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adolescents, young adults, and adults with much interest in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Behavioral Issues, Men's Issues, Mood Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Stress, Schizophrenia, and Sleep Issues or Insomnia. I am a Doctorally-prepared, Board Certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in mental health. I am ready to work with you to provide the best treatment tailored to your needs.
(508) 687-6786 View (508) 687-6786
Photo of Sarah Hoxha, PA, Physician Assistant
Sarah Hoxha
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
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.
(617) 917-2394 View (617) 917-2394
Photo of Flore Pierre, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Flore Pierre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760
Flore Pierre is a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to supporting individuals on their mental health journeys. She has a strong passion for those who suffer from psychiatric and mental health conditions, and she strives to create a safe, nurturing environment where patients can feel empowered to take an active role in their healing. With a holistic approach that emphasizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, Flore believes in treating the whole person and helping each individual achieve balance and well-being.
Flore Pierre is a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to supporting individuals on their mental health journeys. She has a strong passion for those who suffer from psychiatric and mental health conditions, and she strives to create a safe, nurturing environment where patients can feel empowered to take an active role in their healing. With a holistic approach that emphasizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, Flore believes in treating the whole person and helping each individual achieve balance and well-being.
(857) 567-3632 View (857) 567-3632
Photo of Astrid March, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Astrid March
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Astrid is a fully licensed and board certified Nurse Practitioner. She completed her Master of Science in Nursing at Regis College specializing in geriatric care. She is a published author of a chapter in the book Frontiers in Natural Product Chemistry.Astrid is a member of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses. She is fluent in English and Spanish. Astrid enjoys spending time with her family and dog, gardening and being in nature, and playing table tennis.
Astrid is a fully licensed and board certified Nurse Practitioner. She completed her Master of Science in Nursing at Regis College specializing in geriatric care. She is a published author of a chapter in the book Frontiers in Natural Product Chemistry.Astrid is a member of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses. She is fluent in English and Spanish. Astrid enjoys spending time with her family and dog, gardening and being in nature, and playing table tennis.
(508) 761-1756 View (508) 761-1756
Photo of Beatrice Boham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Beatrice Boham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
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.
(781) 630-4772 View (781) 630-4772
Photo of Asifa Noreen, PA, Physician Assistant
Asifa Noreen
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Meet a dedicated Physician Assistant (PA) with over 11 years of valuable experience in the healthcare field. Graduating in 2012 from CUNY College, this PA brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to patient care. A committed and dedicated team member, this PA is known for their ability to work effectively within a healthcare team, contributing to positive clinical outcomes. Their excellence in communication and listening skills allows them to provide compassionate care and establish strong connections with patients.
Meet a dedicated Physician Assistant (PA) with over 11 years of valuable experience in the healthcare field. Graduating in 2012 from CUNY College, this PA brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to patient care. A committed and dedicated team member, this PA is known for their ability to work effectively within a healthcare team, contributing to positive clinical outcomes. Their excellence in communication and listening skills allows them to provide compassionate care and establish strong connections with patients.
(617) 668-1288 View (617) 668-1288
Photo of Israel C Egeruo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Israel C Egeruo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Israel C. Egeruo, PMHNP, brings a wealth of experience and compassion to his practice as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. With a background spanning over a decade in mental health counseling and nursing. Dr. Egeruo is dedicated to providing personalized care to individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. His ideal client is someone seeking empathetic psychiatric care, valuing a holistic approach that integrates therapy and medication for optimal treatment outcomes.
Israel C. Egeruo, PMHNP, brings a wealth of experience and compassion to his practice as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. With a background spanning over a decade in mental health counseling and nursing. Dr. Egeruo is dedicated to providing personalized care to individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. His ideal client is someone seeking empathetic psychiatric care, valuing a holistic approach that integrates therapy and medication for optimal treatment outcomes.
(781) 412-3724 View (781) 412-3724
Photo of Paul Coleman-Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner., PMHNP, BC-APRN, MSN, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Paul Coleman-Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC-APRN, MSN, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760
Paul Coleman is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Coleman Mental Health Associates, PLLC, specializing in the mental health care of the patient. What is important for people to realize is “No two people are the same”, thus each patient will receive a plan of care to help with and partner in the patient's journey. Treatment includes a number of mental health conditions that include depression, bipolar, anxiety, LGBTQI+population, therapy, counseling, and medication management to name a few.  Let's work together. I listen w/ an empathetic ear. Reach out to schedule a free 10-minute phone conversation.
Paul Coleman is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Coleman Mental Health Associates, PLLC, specializing in the mental health care of the patient. What is important for people to realize is “No two people are the same”, thus each patient will receive a plan of care to help with and partner in the patient's journey. Treatment includes a number of mental health conditions that include depression, bipolar, anxiety, LGBTQI+population, therapy, counseling, and medication management to name a few.  Let's work together. I listen w/ an empathetic ear. Reach out to schedule a free 10-minute phone conversation.
(508) 504-9621 View (508) 504-9621
Photo of David Martino - David Martino, PMHNP (Headway), NP, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Martino, PMHNP (Headway)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Congratulations on your first step toward better mental health! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been prescribing medication for persons aged 12 years and up since 2012. My eclectic education (English, systematic theology, biotechnology, nursing) and experience teaching high school have been invaluable for perspective-taking and diagnosis. I have extensive experience managing cases for all levels of complexity in mostly outpatient settings, but that also includes clients who would likely have needed hospitalization if they had not received expert outpatient care. My telehealth practice has been 100% remote since 2020.
Congratulations on your first step toward better mental health! I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and have been prescribing medication for persons aged 12 years and up since 2012. My eclectic education (English, systematic theology, biotechnology, nursing) and experience teaching high school have been invaluable for perspective-taking and diagnosis. I have extensive experience managing cases for all levels of complexity in mostly outpatient settings, but that also includes clients who would likely have needed hospitalization if they had not received expert outpatient care. My telehealth practice has been 100% remote since 2020.
(857) 567-9394 View (857) 567-9394
Copley Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
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
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Natick, MA

20+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Natick, MA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
83% Bipolar Disorder
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Trauma and PTSD
67% Medication Management
63% ADHD

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Cigna and Evernorth
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Natick, MA see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Natick?

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.