Psychiatrists in Norwood, MA

Photo of Hannah Lynch, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Lynch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062
I am passionate about mental health care as well as holistic healing. In addition to medication management, I encourage lifestyle, environmental, and social changes personalized to meet the needs of each individual that I work with. My goal is to work together to help you reach your greatest potential.
I am passionate about mental health care as well as holistic healing. In addition to medication management, I encourage lifestyle, environmental, and social changes personalized to meet the needs of each individual that I work with. My goal is to work together to help you reach your greatest potential.
(617) 958-6036 View (617) 958-6036
Photo of Mary-Ellen Meltzer - Mary-Ellen Meltzer PMHCNS, CST-S, PMHCNS-, BC, CST-, S, Psychiatric Nurse
Mary-Ellen Meltzer PMHCNS, CST-S
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHCNS-, BC, CST-, S
Verified Verified
Norwood, MA 02062
My name is Mary-Ellen Meltzer and I am an AASECT certified sex therapist, sex therapist supervisor, and a psychiatric clinical nurse specialist. I am LGBTQIAA and kink affirming. I work with couples and individuals who struggle with relationship and sexual health issues. I also work with clients who struggle with medical health issues including cancer and menopause. When you are struggling with sexual and /or relationship issues it can be hard to identify a therapist to help you make sense of what you are experiencing. You do not need to struggle alone. All genders, relationships and cultures are welcome.
My name is Mary-Ellen Meltzer and I am an AASECT certified sex therapist, sex therapist supervisor, and a psychiatric clinical nurse specialist. I am LGBTQIAA and kink affirming. I work with couples and individuals who struggle with relationship and sexual health issues. I also work with clients who struggle with medical health issues including cancer and menopause. When you are struggling with sexual and /or relationship issues it can be hard to identify a therapist to help you make sense of what you are experiencing. You do not need to struggle alone. All genders, relationships and cultures are welcome.
(781) 209-5408 x1 View (781) 209-5408 x1
Photo of Matthew R. Howe, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Matthew R. Howe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I believe in an integrated approach to mental health, utilizing medication management alongside the development of healthy and sustainable skills to navigate the struggles we experience moving through life. I provide psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorder, as well as other mental health disorders. I strongly believe in staying current with the latest research and guidelines in psychopharmacology and neuroscience in order to best help my patients.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I believe in an integrated approach to mental health, utilizing medication management alongside the development of healthy and sustainable skills to navigate the struggles we experience moving through life. I provide psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorder, as well as other mental health disorders. I strongly believe in staying current with the latest research and guidelines in psychopharmacology and neuroscience in order to best help my patients.
(413) 300-6178 View (413) 300-6178
Photo of Dr. Joseph S Insler - Atlas Behavioral Health, PC, MD, Psychiatrist
Atlas Behavioral Health, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062
Dr. Insler is a board certified psychiatrist with significant experience treating mood, anxiety disorders, trauma, and substance use disorders. He received his board certification in psychiatry in 2014 and his addiction psychiatry board certification in 2016. His mission is to support you in navigating life’s challenges with a tailored approach that respects your individual needs and goals. He offers a range of services including individual therapy, psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support for various behavioral health concerns.
Dr. Insler is a board certified psychiatrist with significant experience treating mood, anxiety disorders, trauma, and substance use disorders. He received his board certification in psychiatry in 2014 and his addiction psychiatry board certification in 2016. His mission is to support you in navigating life’s challenges with a tailored approach that respects your individual needs and goals. He offers a range of services including individual therapy, psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support for various behavioral health concerns.
(781) 317-6689 View (781) 317-6689
Photo of Comfort Atwereboanah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Comfort Atwereboanah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Norwood, MA 02062
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired, depressed, lack concentration or motivation? Are you having trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you awaken? If any of the above describes you, it takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. We understand the emotional challenges that life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop personalized treatment approach that can help you on your mental health journey. You are not alone.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired, depressed, lack concentration or motivation? Are you having trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you awaken? If any of the above describes you, it takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. We understand the emotional challenges that life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop personalized treatment approach that can help you on your mental health journey. You are not alone.
(781) 394-9685 View (781) 394-9685
Photo of Hannah Lynch - Onward Psychiatry-telehealth & in person openings!, PMHNP, LICSW, LADC1, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Onward Psychiatry-telehealth & in person openings!
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LICSW, LADC1
Verified Verified
Norwood, MA 02062
Immediate openings for therapy and medication management in person or via telehealth! If you have been struggling with symptoms that are keeping you from moving forward, we can help. At Onward Psychiatry we put a focus on symptoms, not just diagnosis, to help you improve areas of your life where you might be having difficulty. We will help you formulate a treatment plan with medications and/or therapy to aid in improving areas of your life that you have been struggling with.
Immediate openings for therapy and medication management in person or via telehealth! If you have been struggling with symptoms that are keeping you from moving forward, we can help. At Onward Psychiatry we put a focus on symptoms, not just diagnosis, to help you improve areas of your life where you might be having difficulty. We will help you formulate a treatment plan with medications and/or therapy to aid in improving areas of your life that you have been struggling with.
(781) 412-7751 View (781) 412-7751
Photo of Usama Feroze, MD, Psychiatrist
Usama Feroze
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrists that specialize in treating Young Professionals, Adolescents and Adults. I specialize in treating ADHD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Disorder. My treatment philosophy is one of "shared decision making" and I take pride in being empathic toward our patients, listening to their needs and making them feel comfortable and in charge of their own mental health journey. In addition to conventional medication management, our pratice is also providing Spravato (S Ketamine) treatment - an FDA approved Fast and Effective treatment for Depression
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrists that specialize in treating Young Professionals, Adolescents and Adults. I specialize in treating ADHD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Disorder. My treatment philosophy is one of "shared decision making" and I take pride in being empathic toward our patients, listening to their needs and making them feel comfortable and in charge of their own mental health journey. In addition to conventional medication management, our pratice is also providing Spravato (S Ketamine) treatment - an FDA approved Fast and Effective treatment for Depression
(781) 557-6253 View (781) 557-6253
Mathews Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062
I am a board certified Psychiatrist who has several years of experience working with patients 17 years and older. We provide compassionate, superior quality, evidence based mental health treatment. My special interest is treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD and ADHD. We offer medication management, Trans-cranial Magnetic Stimulation and Spravato (Intra-nasal Esketamine) treatments for treatment resistant depression.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist who has several years of experience working with patients 17 years and older. We provide compassionate, superior quality, evidence based mental health treatment. My special interest is treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD and ADHD. We offer medication management, Trans-cranial Magnetic Stimulation and Spravato (Intra-nasal Esketamine) treatments for treatment resistant depression.
(781) 713-3132 View (781) 713-3132
Photo of Dahyana (Diana) Schlosser, PMHNP, MEd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dahyana (Diana) Schlosser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MEd
Verified Verified
Norwood, MA 02062
Hi there and welcome! My name is Dahyana and I am an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of Therapy To You! I provide mental health care for children and families right at home, work, or online. Specializing in a holistic approach, our services extend beyond individual and family therapy to include support for schools, ensuring comprehensive care. Whether you are in need of medication management, therapy, or a combination of the two, I am here with you every step of the way. I truly believe that it takes a village and that's how I choose to operate here at Therapy To You! You should never have to feel alone.
Hi there and welcome! My name is Dahyana and I am an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of Therapy To You! I provide mental health care for children and families right at home, work, or online. Specializing in a holistic approach, our services extend beyond individual and family therapy to include support for schools, ensuring comprehensive care. Whether you are in need of medication management, therapy, or a combination of the two, I am here with you every step of the way. I truly believe that it takes a village and that's how I choose to operate here at Therapy To You! You should never have to feel alone.
(617) 463-9301 View (617) 463-9301
Photo of Kristin Feeley, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristin Feeley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Norwood, MA 02062
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions. I have experience in substance use disorders and offers personalized care, including Vivitrol injections, to support patients in their recovery. Drawing on my experience in Intensive Outpatient Programs/Partial Hospitalization Programs, I provide medication management for individuals navigating both mental health and/or substance use challenges.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions. I have experience in substance use disorders and offers personalized care, including Vivitrol injections, to support patients in their recovery. Drawing on my experience in Intensive Outpatient Programs/Partial Hospitalization Programs, I provide medication management for individuals navigating both mental health and/or substance use challenges.
(781) 650-4509 View (781) 650-4509
Photo of Ujala Fawad - Ujala Fawad - Suburban Psychiatric Specialists, MD, Psychiatrist
Ujala Fawad - Suburban Psychiatric Specialists
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist that specialize in treating Young Professionals, Adolescents and Adults. I specialize in treating ADHD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety , Women's Health Issues and Bipolar Disorder. My treatment philosophy is one of "shared decision making" and I take pride in being empathic toward our patients, listening to their needs and making them feel comfortable and in charge of their own mental health journey. In addition to conventional medication management, I am also providing Spravato (S Ketamine) treatment - an FDA approved Fast and Effective treatment for Depression
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist that specialize in treating Young Professionals, Adolescents and Adults. I specialize in treating ADHD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety , Women's Health Issues and Bipolar Disorder. My treatment philosophy is one of "shared decision making" and I take pride in being empathic toward our patients, listening to their needs and making them feel comfortable and in charge of their own mental health journey. In addition to conventional medication management, I am also providing Spravato (S Ketamine) treatment - an FDA approved Fast and Effective treatment for Depression
(781) 230-6340 View (781) 230-6340
Photo of Sarah Silva, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Silva
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Norwood, MA 02062
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner clinically educated in treating patients with mental health diagnoses across the lifespan. I have more than 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. I am passionate about taking a patient-centered care approach, attributing positive outcomes to shared decision making.
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner clinically educated in treating patients with mental health diagnoses across the lifespan. I have more than 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. I am passionate about taking a patient-centered care approach, attributing positive outcomes to shared decision making.
(781) 614-7601 View (781) 614-7601
Photo of Onyebuchi Ogbo - Good Path Health Services, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Good Path Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired, depressed, lack concentration or motivation? Are you having trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you awaken? If any of the above describes you, it takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. We understand the emotional challenges that life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop personalized treatment approach that can help you on your mental health journey. You are not alone.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired, depressed, lack concentration or motivation? Are you having trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you awaken? If any of the above describes you, it takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. We understand the emotional challenges that life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop personalized treatment approach that can help you on your mental health journey. You are not alone.
(339) 234-7059 View (339) 234-7059
Photo of Carly Munzer, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carly Munzer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062
As a board-certified PMHNP, I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for individuals navigating challenges such as anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and mood disorders. My approach integrates therapeutic interventions with medication management, tailored to each person’s unique needs. I am committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their mental health and work toward healing and growth.
As a board-certified PMHNP, I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for individuals navigating challenges such as anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and mood disorders. My approach integrates therapeutic interventions with medication management, tailored to each person’s unique needs. I am committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their mental health and work toward healing and growth.
(781) 549-0781 View (781) 549-0781
Photo of Brenda Vigue, APRN, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brenda Vigue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP
Verified Verified
Norwood, MA 02062
I am currently accepting new patients in Massachusetts and Arizona. Thank you for stopping by my profile. People reach out for a variety of reasons. Many of these are related to change, life transitions, and an inability to function at their fullest potential. You may be going through a major life transition and associated stress, seeking some relief from your psychiatric symptoms. Through taking a thorough history of the patient's symptoms and life situation, we can come up with a plan for medication management and therapy.
I am currently accepting new patients in Massachusetts and Arizona. Thank you for stopping by my profile. People reach out for a variety of reasons. Many of these are related to change, life transitions, and an inability to function at their fullest potential. You may be going through a major life transition and associated stress, seeking some relief from your psychiatric symptoms. Through taking a thorough history of the patient's symptoms and life situation, we can come up with a plan for medication management and therapy.
(339) 331-2336 View (339) 331-2336
Photo of Onyebuchi Ogbo - Good Path Health Services, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Good Path Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired, depressed, lack concentration or motivation? Are you having trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you awaken? If any of the above describes you, it takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. We understand and have experienced the emotional challenges that life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop personalized treatment approach that can help you on your mental health journey. You are not alone.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired, depressed, lack concentration or motivation? Are you having trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you awaken? If any of the above describes you, it takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. We understand and have experienced the emotional challenges that life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop personalized treatment approach that can help you on your mental health journey. You are not alone.
(475) 323-6012 View (475) 323-6012
Photo of Olena Dreyfus, MSH, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olena Dreyfus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSH, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062
Olena Dreyfus, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts, provides compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to adults of all ages. She treats conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, psychotic disorders, and PTSD, combining medication with lifestyle and behavioral strategies. Olena’s holistic approach considers biological, psychological, spiritual, and social factors. Her top priority is creating a safe, non-judgmental space where patients feel heard, valued, and supported on their journey to wellness.
Olena Dreyfus, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts, provides compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to adults of all ages. She treats conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, psychotic disorders, and PTSD, combining medication with lifestyle and behavioral strategies. Olena’s holistic approach considers biological, psychological, spiritual, and social factors. Her top priority is creating a safe, non-judgmental space where patients feel heard, valued, and supported on their journey to wellness.
(508) 257-7424 View (508) 257-7424
Photo of Roseanne Dolan, LICSW, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Roseanne Dolan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LICSW, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Currently accepting new patients. Roseanne, a psychotherapist (LICSW) & nurse practitioner (APRN-BC), values a comprehensive approach to mental health to help individuals realize their positive attributes as they strive for improved health, wellness & healing. While medication is an important component of treatment, she offers both psychotherapy and medication management in a holistic approach to mental health, which includes healthy lifestyle habits such as proper diet and nutrition, helpful sleep habits and exercise.
Currently accepting new patients. Roseanne, a psychotherapist (LICSW) & nurse practitioner (APRN-BC), values a comprehensive approach to mental health to help individuals realize their positive attributes as they strive for improved health, wellness & healing. While medication is an important component of treatment, she offers both psychotherapy and medication management in a holistic approach to mental health, which includes healthy lifestyle habits such as proper diet and nutrition, helpful sleep habits and exercise.
(781) 230-6620 View (781) 230-6620
Photo of Maria Eden Aguilar Gianan, BSN, NP, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse
Maria Eden Aguilar Gianan
Psychiatric Nurse, BSN, NP, CNS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My clients are usually feeling overwhelmed by sudden challenges and transitions which can alter perspective and cause stress, depression, anxiety and trauma. I provide the guidance and positive outlook needed to respond to stressful situations as opportunities to learn and grow. I also have a wide range of experience in crisis stabilization. Crisis strongly impacts day-to-day routines, yet with counseling, clients can move forward with life. Learning how to move forward, although often difficult, can prevent further emotional distress.
My clients are usually feeling overwhelmed by sudden challenges and transitions which can alter perspective and cause stress, depression, anxiety and trauma. I provide the guidance and positive outlook needed to respond to stressful situations as opportunities to learn and grow. I also have a wide range of experience in crisis stabilization. Crisis strongly impacts day-to-day routines, yet with counseling, clients can move forward with life. Learning how to move forward, although often difficult, can prevent further emotional distress.
(781) 787-2485 View (781) 787-2485
Photo of Joe O'Garr, MD, Psychiatrist
Joe O'Garr
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Joe O’Garr is a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has been providing comprehensive psychiatric care in Massachusetts since 2010. He believes in a strength-based collaborative approach in identifying solutions for children, adolescents, and young adults.
Dr. Joe O’Garr is a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has been providing comprehensive psychiatric care in Massachusetts since 2010. He believes in a strength-based collaborative approach in identifying solutions for children, adolescents, and young adults.
(781) 426-3390 View (781) 426-3390
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Norwood, MA

20+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Norwood, MA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
83% Bipolar Disorder
83% Medication Management
76% ADHD
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
62% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
79% Tufts
79% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Norwood, MA see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Norwood?

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.