Psychiatrists in Stoughton, MA

Photo of Dr. Jimmy Pacombe - Day To Day Psychiatric Care & Wellness PLLC, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Day To Day Psychiatric Care & Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Stoughton, MA 02072
Dr. Jimmy Pacombe is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He graduated from Regis College with his Doctoral in Nursing Practice. His goal is to alleviate your suffering and simplify your life through natural empathy, compassion, intuition, and the negotiation of appropriate treatments.
Dr. Jimmy Pacombe is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He graduated from Regis College with his Doctoral in Nursing Practice. His goal is to alleviate your suffering and simplify your life through natural empathy, compassion, intuition, and the negotiation of appropriate treatments.
(781) 462-9642 View (781) 462-9642
Photo of Siera Jennifer Alkee - Sage Psychiatry LLC, CNP, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sage Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stoughton, MA 02072
In envisioning my ideal client, I see someone who is courageous and committed to their journey of self-discovery and healing. They may be grappling with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, but they are determined to confront these challenges head-on. Their needs encompass both emotional support and practical guidance as they navigate their path towards mental wellness. My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding ally who can offer them a safe space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. They crave validation, empathy, and validation.
In envisioning my ideal client, I see someone who is courageous and committed to their journey of self-discovery and healing. They may be grappling with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, but they are determined to confront these challenges head-on. Their needs encompass both emotional support and practical guidance as they navigate their path towards mental wellness. My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding ally who can offer them a safe space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. They crave validation, empathy, and validation.
(781) 208-5880 View (781) 208-5880
Diligence healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Stoughton, MA 02072
DHC is a multidisciplinary group providing a total and comprehensive outpatients behavioral health and psychiatric care to all ages. We recognize and appreciate our patients cultural, religious and social differences . We have a team of experienced staff, (doctors, NP, Therapist, etc) that are professional and sensitive to our patients individual differences, diagnosis and therefore offer care that is individualized using best scientific and evidence based methods that is suitable to every patient accurate diagnosis. we are currently accepting most insurance with no waiting list, and Weekend appointments are available.
DHC is a multidisciplinary group providing a total and comprehensive outpatients behavioral health and psychiatric care to all ages. We recognize and appreciate our patients cultural, religious and social differences . We have a team of experienced staff, (doctors, NP, Therapist, etc) that are professional and sensitive to our patients individual differences, diagnosis and therefore offer care that is individualized using best scientific and evidence based methods that is suitable to every patient accurate diagnosis. we are currently accepting most insurance with no waiting list, and Weekend appointments are available.
(781) 404-3213 View (781) 404-3213
Photo of Irhene Kelvin Osagie - Spring of Hope Health Services Inc , PMHNP, - BC, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Spring of Hope Health Services Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stoughton, MA 02072
At Spring of hope, we are passionate in helping people find healing and fulfillment. We have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health sector. We are board-certified to diagnose various mental health conditions, prescribe medications, manage psychiatric needs, and provide psychotherapy to young and older adults. Our goal as psychiatric providers is to see people live at their full potential. We offer comprehensive assessment and treatment of Depression, anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, insomnia, Schizophrenia and other psychiatric illnesses. Spring forth and start enjoying life at it's best.
At Spring of hope, we are passionate in helping people find healing and fulfillment. We have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health sector. We are board-certified to diagnose various mental health conditions, prescribe medications, manage psychiatric needs, and provide psychotherapy to young and older adults. Our goal as psychiatric providers is to see people live at their full potential. We offer comprehensive assessment and treatment of Depression, anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, insomnia, Schizophrenia and other psychiatric illnesses. Spring forth and start enjoying life at it's best.
(781) 650-5149 View (781) 650-5149
Photo of Gabrielle Abelard - Abelard Psychotherapy Inc, Psychiatric Nurse
Abelard Psychotherapy Inc
Psychiatric Nurse
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Stoughton, MA 02072
"Our focus is the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. We offer therapy and medication management. Specializing in treating disorders of behavior, thinking, and feeling, our team of Associates provide a caring therapeutic environment for clients to work through life's complexities.
"Our focus is the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. We offer therapy and medication management. Specializing in treating disorders of behavior, thinking, and feeling, our team of Associates provide a caring therapeutic environment for clients to work through life's complexities.
(781) 691-5367 View (781) 691-5367
Katie Sharby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have been working in the mental health field for over ten years. I have worked in a variety of settings and started my career as a social worker and currently using my skills as a licensed, board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practioner. What I love most about working in the Mental Health field is learning and listening to others and collaborating on reaching goals that feel right for you. I work with my clients to find skills and medications that support someone in striving for their maximum potential. I do not believe that people are broken or bad, but together we can work together to overcome barriers.
I have been working in the mental health field for over ten years. I have worked in a variety of settings and started my career as a social worker and currently using my skills as a licensed, board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practioner. What I love most about working in the Mental Health field is learning and listening to others and collaborating on reaching goals that feel right for you. I work with my clients to find skills and medications that support someone in striving for their maximum potential. I do not believe that people are broken or bad, but together we can work together to overcome barriers.
View
Photo of Lisa Graff, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa Graff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Stoughton, MA 02072
Hello. Thanks for checking out my profile. Are you struggling? Could you use some extra support? I am so glad you found me. I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, specializing in holistic care for a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, mood spectrum disorders, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD, for ages 18+. I offer medication management and counseling, both in-person and virtually.
Hello. Thanks for checking out my profile. Are you struggling? Could you use some extra support? I am so glad you found me. I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, specializing in holistic care for a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, mood spectrum disorders, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD, for ages 18+. I offer medication management and counseling, both in-person and virtually.
(781) 209-6676 View (781) 209-6676
Photo of Edilia F Gomes, MSW, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edilia F Gomes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Stoughton, MA 02072
Accepting new clients! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Social Worker, I envision my ideal client seeking understanding, validation, and hope amidst mental health challenges. They desire a collaborative partnership, evidence-based interventions tailored to their needs, and a sense of empowerment on their healing journey. I am committed to meeting them with empathy, authenticity, and cultural humility, guiding them toward resilience and wholeness in a journey of self-discovery and growth.
Accepting new clients! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Social Worker, I envision my ideal client seeking understanding, validation, and hope amidst mental health challenges. They desire a collaborative partnership, evidence-based interventions tailored to their needs, and a sense of empowerment on their healing journey. I am committed to meeting them with empathy, authenticity, and cultural humility, guiding them toward resilience and wholeness in a journey of self-discovery and growth.
(339) 330-1121 View (339) 330-1121
Photo of Ogo N George - Unique psych services, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Unique psych services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Unique Psych services comprises of board certified psychiatric /mental health nurse practitioner(s) licensed to prescribe psychiatric medications to individuals across the lifespan. We have expertise in evaluating and treating a wide range of mental health diagnoses, including depression, anxiety and mood disorders, substance use disorders, schizophrenia, ADHD to mention a few. Our providers are widely versed in the psychiatric/behavioral health field. We incorporate a holistic, patient-centered approach, providing treatment that is founded on evidence-based guidelines.
Unique Psych services comprises of board certified psychiatric /mental health nurse practitioner(s) licensed to prescribe psychiatric medications to individuals across the lifespan. We have expertise in evaluating and treating a wide range of mental health diagnoses, including depression, anxiety and mood disorders, substance use disorders, schizophrenia, ADHD to mention a few. Our providers are widely versed in the psychiatric/behavioral health field. We incorporate a holistic, patient-centered approach, providing treatment that is founded on evidence-based guidelines.
(781) 217-3947 View (781) 217-3947
Photo of Allysa Cambra, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Allysa Cambra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to mental health is grounded in holistic care that goes beyond symptom management. I believe true wellness encompasses the mind, body, and spirit, and I am committed to supporting you in achieving a sense of balance and fulfillment in all areas of your life. You are the leader of your own path to mental wellness, but I am here to guide and collaborate with you in developing a treatment plan that aligns with your goals, values, and the realities of your everyday life.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my approach to mental health is grounded in holistic care that goes beyond symptom management. I believe true wellness encompasses the mind, body, and spirit, and I am committed to supporting you in achieving a sense of balance and fulfillment in all areas of your life. You are the leader of your own path to mental wellness, but I am here to guide and collaborate with you in developing a treatment plan that aligns with your goals, values, and the realities of your everyday life.
(781) 512-7537 View (781) 512-7537
Rose Paolini, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP, PCNS
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a psychiatric and adult nurse practitioner who is focused on helping patients feel and do their best. I have extensive experience working with complex patients in an inpatient as well as outpatient setting. I use medications and supportive counseling as methods to help patients achieve relief from symptoms such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, anger outbursts, insomnia and alcohol dependence. I believe my team approach is effective and will help decrease the symptoms that cause pain and interfere with daily living.
I am a psychiatric and adult nurse practitioner who is focused on helping patients feel and do their best. I have extensive experience working with complex patients in an inpatient as well as outpatient setting. I use medications and supportive counseling as methods to help patients achieve relief from symptoms such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, anger outbursts, insomnia and alcohol dependence. I believe my team approach is effective and will help decrease the symptoms that cause pain and interfere with daily living.
(508) 690-9165 View (508) 690-9165
Photo of Shauntelle Wisdom, MSN, PMHNP, CARN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shauntelle Wisdom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CARN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual board certification and over 15 years in healthcare. I specialize in providing care to individuals and families who are struggling with mental health, substance abuse, and relational challenges. My services include comprehensive mental health assessments, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual board certification and over 15 years in healthcare. I specialize in providing care to individuals and families who are struggling with mental health, substance abuse, and relational challenges. My services include comprehensive mental health assessments, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support.
(617) 841-3403 View (617) 841-3403
Photo of Roger J Martinkus - New Healing Pathways, PLLC, PMHNP, MSN, MHSA, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
New Healing Pathways, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MHSA, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
UPDATE - I am open to collaborate with therapists and PCPs to provide medication management and collaboration. My name is Roger Martinkus I'm originally am from and currently live in Massachusetts . After 24 year of service I retired from the US Army as a MSG / E8 in 2013. I completed both by BSN and MSN from Regis College in Weston, MA and am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My hobbies outside of work are watching the Bruins, Red Sox and Patriots and supporting veterans and veterans causes. I look forward to working with you while walking with you in your journey to wellness.
UPDATE - I am open to collaborate with therapists and PCPs to provide medication management and collaboration. My name is Roger Martinkus I'm originally am from and currently live in Massachusetts . After 24 year of service I retired from the US Army as a MSG / E8 in 2013. I completed both by BSN and MSN from Regis College in Weston, MA and am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My hobbies outside of work are watching the Bruins, Red Sox and Patriots and supporting veterans and veterans causes. I look forward to working with you while walking with you in your journey to wellness.
(857) 425-3488 View (857) 425-3488

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Steven Carroll, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Steven Carroll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, licensed to treat patients of all ages. I provide diagnostic and medication management services for children, adolescents, and adults suffering from a wide variety of mental health issues and disorders.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, licensed to treat patients of all ages. I provide diagnostic and medication management services for children, adolescents, and adults suffering from a wide variety of mental health issues and disorders.
(617) 383-7839 View (617) 383-7839
Photo of Victoria Adeleye, DNP, PMHNP, CARN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victoria Adeleye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Needham, MA 02494
Dr. Victoria Adeleye is a doctoral-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of clinical experience providing compassionate care to patients with mental illness. She has honed her skills as an addiction specialist with over seven years of experience in the field, providing non-judgmental treatment to individuals battling the disease of addiction. Victoria has a robust educational background, with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from UMass-Amherst, a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatry/Mental Health from Northeastern University, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from MCPHS University.
Dr. Victoria Adeleye is a doctoral-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of clinical experience providing compassionate care to patients with mental illness. She has honed her skills as an addiction specialist with over seven years of experience in the field, providing non-judgmental treatment to individuals battling the disease of addiction. Victoria has a robust educational background, with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from UMass-Amherst, a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatry/Mental Health from Northeastern University, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from MCPHS University.
(781) 653-7807 View (781) 653-7807
Photo of Nicole Kennedy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Kennedy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
Insurance Covered Psychiatric Medication Management: Personalized, Compassionate, Evidence-Based, Empowering! Greetings! I’m Nicole, and I would be honored to hear from you and care for you in your mental health journey. Send me a message and let me know your needs and how I can help you. Thanks! → Customized Compassionate Care: I individualize my medication treatment plans to your unique experiences, symptoms, narrative, needs, and goals. → Root Cause Approach: I delve deeper than surface symptoms, taking time to understand your history and diagnostic picture (ordering appropriate laboratory tests; optional genetic testing).
Insurance Covered Psychiatric Medication Management: Personalized, Compassionate, Evidence-Based, Empowering! Greetings! I’m Nicole, and I would be honored to hear from you and care for you in your mental health journey. Send me a message and let me know your needs and how I can help you. Thanks! → Customized Compassionate Care: I individualize my medication treatment plans to your unique experiences, symptoms, narrative, needs, and goals. → Root Cause Approach: I delve deeper than surface symptoms, taking time to understand your history and diagnostic picture (ordering appropriate laboratory tests; optional genetic testing).
View
Photo of Jill Forte, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jill Forte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Jill is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 9 years of experience in the nursing field. Jill provides care for adults 18 years and older with a variety of mental and emotional conditions. Her specialties include anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and eating disorders. Jill has a strong interest in the mind-body connection and enjoys providing health and lifestyle education to her patients. She believes in a collaborative and individualized approach to care.
Jill is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 9 years of experience in the nursing field. Jill provides care for adults 18 years and older with a variety of mental and emotional conditions. Her specialties include anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and eating disorders. Jill has a strong interest in the mind-body connection and enjoys providing health and lifestyle education to her patients. She believes in a collaborative and individualized approach to care.
(617) 915-4046 View (617) 915-4046
Photo of Brad Winter, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brad Winter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Brad Winter is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in the state of Massachusetts. Brad’s goal as a psychiatric NP is to empower his clients to achieve their optimal mental wellness and quality of life. He believes in collaborating with his clients and their families to create individualized treatment plans that address their unique needs and preferences.
Brad Winter is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in the state of Massachusetts. Brad’s goal as a psychiatric NP is to empower his clients to achieve their optimal mental wellness and quality of life. He believes in collaborating with his clients and their families to create individualized treatment plans that address their unique needs and preferences.
(617) 410-5268 View (617) 410-5268
Photo of Jessica Crawford-Grey, MA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Crawford-Grey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
For the past 8 years, I have been working as a Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult mental health. I have experience in caring for patients with mood disorders, anxiety, substance abuse issues, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. My objective is to create a partnership with clients and base their care around mutual respect and trust. This allows for a collective effort to help the client obtain what they need to fulfill their goals. Currently taking new clients for medication management with BCBS or Private Pay.
For the past 8 years, I have been working as a Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult mental health. I have experience in caring for patients with mood disorders, anxiety, substance abuse issues, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. My objective is to create a partnership with clients and base their care around mutual respect and trust. This allows for a collective effort to help the client obtain what they need to fulfill their goals. Currently taking new clients for medication management with BCBS or Private Pay.
(508) 231-9443 View (508) 231-9443
Photo of Claudio O. Toppelberg, MD, Psychiatrist
Claudio O. Toppelberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02120
Dr. Toppelberg is an experienced, Harvard-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, usually working with ages 3-30. He evaluates and treats emotional/ behavioral difficulties including ADHD, depression, trauma, stress, anxiety, and selective mutism, and those preventing weight loss. He has focused on issues of performance at work, study and competitive sports. He regularly works with tour-level tennis players and other professional and student athletes. He is an expert in neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as learning and language disabilities. He runs psychiatric services at an excellent school for children/adolescents with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities, the prestigious New England Center for Children.
Dr. Toppelberg is an experienced, Harvard-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, usually working with ages 3-30. He evaluates and treats emotional/ behavioral difficulties including ADHD, depression, trauma, stress, anxiety, and selective mutism, and those preventing weight loss. He has focused on issues of performance at work, study and competitive sports. He regularly works with tour-level tennis players and other professional and student athletes. He is an expert in neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as learning and language disabilities. He runs psychiatric services at an excellent school for children/adolescents with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities, the prestigious New England Center for Children.
(617) 681-7184 View (617) 681-7184

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Stoughton, MA

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Stoughton, MA who prioritize treating:

85% Depression
85% Anxiety
85% Medication Management
77% Trauma and PTSD
77% Bipolar Disorder
69% ADHD
69% Stress

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Harvard Pilgrim
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Stoughton, MA see their clients

93% In Person and Online
7% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Stoughton?

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.