Psychiatrists in Suffolk County, MA

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Photo of Ogo George, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Ogo George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Boston, MA 02115
I am accepting new patients! Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, health and work? Are you unable to belong at all? Feeling overwhelmed with life and its stressors? I help high performers manage anxiety and other mental health challenges. I have held various positions in psychiatric/behavioral health space 15 years. I adopt a holistic, patient-centered approach to providing mental health treatment that is based on evidence-based recommendations. Together, we can identify what is not working and get you back to balance. We will use a completely self-approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit.
I am accepting new patients! Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, health and work? Are you unable to belong at all? Feeling overwhelmed with life and its stressors? I help high performers manage anxiety and other mental health challenges. I have held various positions in psychiatric/behavioral health space 15 years. I adopt a holistic, patient-centered approach to providing mental health treatment that is based on evidence-based recommendations. Together, we can identify what is not working and get you back to balance. We will use a completely self-approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit.
(617) 766-0886 View (617) 766-0886
Photo of Lily Tung - Lily Tung Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Lily Tung Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Online Only
Flexible evening and weekend hours! Free 15-minute consultation available! I provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel truly heard and understood. Many people struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, panic attacks, and sleep issues, often feeling like no one fully understands their experiences. I take the time to listen without judgment, offering care that is compassionate, patient-centered, and culturally sensitive. Fluent in English and Mandarin Chinese, I understand the unique challenges faced by Asians and people of color, including family expectations, societal pressures, and workplace stress.
Flexible evening and weekend hours! Free 15-minute consultation available! I provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel truly heard and understood. Many people struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, panic attacks, and sleep issues, often feeling like no one fully understands their experiences. I take the time to listen without judgment, offering care that is compassionate, patient-centered, and culturally sensitive. Fluent in English and Mandarin Chinese, I understand the unique challenges faced by Asians and people of color, including family expectations, societal pressures, and workplace stress.
(339) 217-3878 View (339) 217-3878
Photo of Annet Kabuusu - Global Behavioral Healthcare LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MPH
Global Behavioral Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, MPH
Boston, MA 02110
Global Behavioral Healthcare offers comprehensive mental health services in both outpatient and tele-psychiatry formats, catering to individuals residing in the Waltham and Boston regions. The convenience of tele-psychiatry allows you to receive support from the comfort of your home using a computer or phone. We gladly welcome new patients and accommodate those with busy schedules by providing evening and weekend hours. At Global Behavioral Healthcare, you will receive expert care from Annet Kabuusu, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience across various settings, including hospitals.
Global Behavioral Healthcare offers comprehensive mental health services in both outpatient and tele-psychiatry formats, catering to individuals residing in the Waltham and Boston regions. The convenience of tele-psychiatry allows you to receive support from the comfort of your home using a computer or phone. We gladly welcome new patients and accommodate those with busy schedules by providing evening and weekend hours. At Global Behavioral Healthcare, you will receive expert care from Annet Kabuusu, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience across various settings, including hospitals.
(617) 622-5442 View (617) 622-5442
Photo of Dr. Niles Drake, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Niles Drake
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Niles Drake is a board certified psychiatrist skilled in prescribing medications and working in psychotherapy. He combines a warm demeanor with excellent clinical skills, and has over 15 years’ experience working with adult patients of all ages and from many walks of life. He has a special expertise combining medication and psychotherapy to help patients reduce symptoms and grow as individuals. Dr. Drake’s additional training and experience in psychological modes of treatment enhance the quality of care he provides to all his patients, meeting them where they are and prioritizing their individual needs and goals.
Dr. Niles Drake is a board certified psychiatrist skilled in prescribing medications and working in psychotherapy. He combines a warm demeanor with excellent clinical skills, and has over 15 years’ experience working with adult patients of all ages and from many walks of life. He has a special expertise combining medication and psychotherapy to help patients reduce symptoms and grow as individuals. Dr. Drake’s additional training and experience in psychological modes of treatment enhance the quality of care he provides to all his patients, meeting them where they are and prioritizing their individual needs and goals.
(857) 290-7877 View (857) 290-7877
Photo of Can Bulucu, Psychiatrist, MD
Can Bulucu
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I have extensive experience in treating Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety, ADHD and relational problems for more than 20 years. I have dual Board Certification in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. I am very careful in treating my patients with medications and my goal is to find the lowest effective dose and avoid multiple medication use when possible. I think therapy is as important as medications and I offer both, at times together, when necessary. For self pay patients cost for initial 60 min evaluation is $500, 15 min fallow up is $150, 30 min fallow up is $275 and 45min fallow up is $400.
I have extensive experience in treating Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety, ADHD and relational problems for more than 20 years. I have dual Board Certification in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. I am very careful in treating my patients with medications and my goal is to find the lowest effective dose and avoid multiple medication use when possible. I think therapy is as important as medications and I offer both, at times together, when necessary. For self pay patients cost for initial 60 min evaluation is $500, 15 min fallow up is $150, 30 min fallow up is $275 and 45min fallow up is $400.
(781) 786-1739 View (781) 786-1739
Photo of Cecily Allen - Holistic Well, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Holistic Well
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Boston, MA 02114
Great to meet you! Working in Psychiatric mental health since 2016, I help children and adults throughout the lifespan. I have an MSN from Regis College. Neurodivergent individuals and those with special needs are very welcome to my practice. I provide LGBTQAI+ affirming care. I offer no-rush care and supportive therapy for a range of issues. Your goals are my goals. Satisfaction and life-fulfillment are on the horizon and I can help you on this journey.
Great to meet you! Working in Psychiatric mental health since 2016, I help children and adults throughout the lifespan. I have an MSN from Regis College. Neurodivergent individuals and those with special needs are very welcome to my practice. I provide LGBTQAI+ affirming care. I offer no-rush care and supportive therapy for a range of issues. Your goals are my goals. Satisfaction and life-fulfillment are on the horizon and I can help you on this journey.
(978) 231-9501 View (978) 231-9501
Photo of Dr. Nathan Lingafelter, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Nathan Lingafelter
Psychiatrist, MD
Boston, MA 02116
As a general adult outpatient psychiatrist, I enjoy working with patients who bring a variety of concerns. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Transparency, safety and the quality of therapeutic relationship with a patient are top priorities. My practice specialize in helping folks struggling with anxiety disorders, including OCD, among others.
As a general adult outpatient psychiatrist, I enjoy working with patients who bring a variety of concerns. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Transparency, safety and the quality of therapeutic relationship with a patient are top priorities. My practice specialize in helping folks struggling with anxiety disorders, including OCD, among others.
(857) 392-2992 View (857) 392-2992
Photo of Dr. Devin Cromartie-Bodrick, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Devin Cromartie-Bodrick
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Devin Cromartie Bodrick, M.D., M.P.H., is a board-certified adult psychiatrist based in Boston, Massachusetts. Dr. Cromartie Bodrick earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Howard University, graduating summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa. She went on to receive her Doctor of Medicine and Master of Public Health from Harvard University.
Dr. Devin Cromartie Bodrick, M.D., M.P.H., is a board-certified adult psychiatrist based in Boston, Massachusetts. Dr. Cromartie Bodrick earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Howard University, graduating summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa. She went on to receive her Doctor of Medicine and Master of Public Health from Harvard University.
(857) 877-6933 View (857) 877-6933
Photo of Jessica Francois, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Jessica Francois
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jessica and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Life Coaching and Anxiety. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jessica and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Life Coaching and Anxiety. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(617) 675-9458 View (617) 675-9458
Photo of Nadia Carter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nadia Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Boston, MA 02116
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has worked in psychiatry within several capacities since 2009, starting at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. I currently work at Cambridge Health Alliance- A Harvard Affiliated Hospital, where I provide compassionate, patient-centered, and evidence-based care in various clinical environments.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has worked in psychiatry within several capacities since 2009, starting at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. I currently work at Cambridge Health Alliance- A Harvard Affiliated Hospital, where I provide compassionate, patient-centered, and evidence-based care in various clinical environments.
(857) 384-5937 View (857) 384-5937
Photo of Desta Lissanu, Psychiatrist, MD
Desta Lissanu
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114
Dr. Lissanu provides a warm, supportive environment that helps patients identify and meet their treatment goals. She takes an eclectic approach to treatment, which includes such approaches as short and long-term talk therapy, medication management, behavioral therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
Dr. Lissanu provides a warm, supportive environment that helps patients identify and meet their treatment goals. She takes an eclectic approach to treatment, which includes such approaches as short and long-term talk therapy, medication management, behavioral therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
(617) 819-0797 View (617) 819-0797
Photo of Dr. Kevin DiCesare, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Kevin DiCesare
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Note: This provider cannot prescribe controlled substances for NH patients. Dr. Kevin DiCesare is a board-certified psychiatrist, treating adults. He received his undergraduate degree at Harvard University, his medical degree at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, and then went on to train at Maine Medical Center for his psychiatric residency. He has 22 years of expertise in diagnosing and treating psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, Bipolar spectrum disorders, adjustment problems, ADHD and other disorders.
Note: This provider cannot prescribe controlled substances for NH patients. Dr. Kevin DiCesare is a board-certified psychiatrist, treating adults. He received his undergraduate degree at Harvard University, his medical degree at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, and then went on to train at Maine Medical Center for his psychiatric residency. He has 22 years of expertise in diagnosing and treating psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, Bipolar spectrum disorders, adjustment problems, ADHD and other disorders.
(617) 307-1738 View (617) 307-1738
Photo of Pearl Alweny, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AFN, PMHNP
Pearl Alweny
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AFN, PMHNP
Online Only
HydroHeal is a cutting-edge psychiatric practice that offers advanced and integrative psychiatric solutions. Our team is spearheaded by Pearl Alweny, a board-certified psychiatric mental health practitioner. She has been mentored by renowned leaders in the field of psychiatry in the United States, ensuring the highest standards of care. With licensure to treat individuals of all ages, Pearl incorporates psychotherapy and evidence-based treatments into her practice. Board certification is a rigorous process that evaluates and continually reassesses a practitioner's competence, particularly vital in a specialized field like psychiatry
HydroHeal is a cutting-edge psychiatric practice that offers advanced and integrative psychiatric solutions. Our team is spearheaded by Pearl Alweny, a board-certified psychiatric mental health practitioner. She has been mentored by renowned leaders in the field of psychiatry in the United States, ensuring the highest standards of care. With licensure to treat individuals of all ages, Pearl incorporates psychotherapy and evidence-based treatments into her practice. Board certification is a rigorous process that evaluates and continually reassesses a practitioner's competence, particularly vital in a specialized field like psychiatry
(857) 855-0803 View (857) 855-0803
Photo of Toni Parolisi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, RN
Toni Parolisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, RN
Boston, MA 02116
Toni Parolisi is a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with extensive training and expertise in a wide range of mental health issues. She earned her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Chamberlain University School of Nursing, further advancing her comprehensive understanding of patient care. Toni also holds a PMHNP certification from UMass Global and an FNP certification from St. Joseph College of Maine.
Toni Parolisi is a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with extensive training and expertise in a wide range of mental health issues. She earned her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Chamberlain University School of Nursing, further advancing her comprehensive understanding of patient care. Toni also holds a PMHNP certification from UMass Global and an FNP certification from St. Joseph College of Maine.
(857) 675-6759 View (857) 675-6759
Photo of William Chad Garrett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
William Chad Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Revere, MA 02151
When you're struggling, you need support right away, not in a month. If you're dealing with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia that are impacting your life, visit my website and click on the "Request Consultation" button to get started today.
When you're struggling, you need support right away, not in a month. If you're dealing with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia that are impacting your life, visit my website and click on the "Request Consultation" button to get started today.
(781) 546-5847 View (781) 546-5847
Photo of Jackie Ollis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Jackie Ollis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jackie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA/gender/sexuality topics, Life Coaching, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Race & Cultural Identity and Relationship Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jackie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA/gender/sexuality topics, Life Coaching, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Race & Cultural Identity and Relationship Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(617) 676-2835 View (617) 676-2835
Photo of Dr. H. Ho, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, DABPN, DABOM, DABPM
Dr. H. Ho
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, DABPN, DABOM, DABPM
Boston, MA 02115
I am a Johns-Hopkins trained, award-winning Harvard psychiatrist, affiliated with McLean and Mass General Brigham, quadruple board certified in Addiction Medicine, Obesity Medicine, Adult Psychiatry, and Child Psychiatry. Do you feel no one understands your unspeakable sorrow, helplessness, insecurity, or regret? You don't have to endure alone. I have helped a diverse group: abuse survivors, addiction recoverees, children with anxiety, elders with dementia, missionaries, LGBTQ individuals, physicians, attorneys, administrators, etc. I advocate for using the least amount of medications and non-medication approach whenever possible.
I am a Johns-Hopkins trained, award-winning Harvard psychiatrist, affiliated with McLean and Mass General Brigham, quadruple board certified in Addiction Medicine, Obesity Medicine, Adult Psychiatry, and Child Psychiatry. Do you feel no one understands your unspeakable sorrow, helplessness, insecurity, or regret? You don't have to endure alone. I have helped a diverse group: abuse survivors, addiction recoverees, children with anxiety, elders with dementia, missionaries, LGBTQ individuals, physicians, attorneys, administrators, etc. I advocate for using the least amount of medications and non-medication approach whenever possible.
(781) 786-7351 View (781) 786-7351
Photo of Greg Hard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHS, MS
Greg Hard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHS, MS
Online Only
Accepting new patients! Are you struggling with ADHD, OCD, depression or anxiety? Have you tried numerous treatments with limited success, or felt unheard by previous prescribers? Taking a patient-centered approach, I believe in utilizing all of the tools available to help my patients achieve optimal results, including evidence-based medication management, therapy, and emerging and holistic treatments. I completed my clinical training at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where I gained extensive experience working with adult and adolescent patients, as well as my Master of Health Science degree at Johns Hopkins University.
Accepting new patients! Are you struggling with ADHD, OCD, depression or anxiety? Have you tried numerous treatments with limited success, or felt unheard by previous prescribers? Taking a patient-centered approach, I believe in utilizing all of the tools available to help my patients achieve optimal results, including evidence-based medication management, therapy, and emerging and holistic treatments. I completed my clinical training at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where I gained extensive experience working with adult and adolescent patients, as well as my Master of Health Science degree at Johns Hopkins University.
(781) 614-7115 View (781) 614-7115
Photo of Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Boston, MA 02108
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(339) 330-3586 View (339) 330-3586
Photo of Dr. David Eiler, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. David Eiler
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. David Eiler is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board certified in adult psychiatry. Before joining Talkiatry, Dr. Eiler was a staff psychiatrist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), where he had an academic appointment and served as clinical director of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and intranasal esketamine services. Dr. Eiler has focused on medication management and interventional techniques, including TMS, for the treatment of depression and other disorders. Dr. Eiler received his MD from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health and completed his residency at DHMC.
Dr. David Eiler is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board certified in adult psychiatry. Before joining Talkiatry, Dr. Eiler was a staff psychiatrist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), where he had an academic appointment and served as clinical director of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and intranasal esketamine services. Dr. Eiler has focused on medication management and interventional techniques, including TMS, for the treatment of depression and other disorders. Dr. Eiler received his MD from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health and completed his residency at DHMC.
(857) 688-3242 View (857) 688-3242

See more therapy options for Suffolk County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Suffolk County, MA

600+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in Suffolk County, MA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
93% Depression
77% Medication Management
75% Bipolar Disorder
74% ADHD
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Aetna
81% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Suffolk County, MA see their clients

52% Online Only
48% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

69% Female
30% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Suffolk County?

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.