Psychiatrists in Westborough, MA

Mandala Health Services LLC
Psychiatrist, MD MBA
Westborough, MA 01581
Mandala Health Services is one of the leading Psychiatric Clinics in Central Massachusetts. Based in Westborough, we offer collaborative, individualized mental health treatment in a safe and comfortable environment. Our Logo symbolizes transformation and healing. The center of a mandala represents the beginning of each person's journey toward knowledge, wisdom and enlightenment.
Mandala Health Services is one of the leading Psychiatric Clinics in Central Massachusetts. Based in Westborough, we offer collaborative, individualized mental health treatment in a safe and comfortable environment. Our Logo symbolizes transformation and healing. The center of a mandala represents the beginning of each person's journey toward knowledge, wisdom and enlightenment.
(508) 290-4096 View (508) 290-4096
Photo of Mynette H Shifman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, WHNP, FNP
Mynette H Shifman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, WHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Westborough, MA 01581
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 30 years of diverse healthcare experience. I provide compassionate mental health support to individuals and families, with a special focus on the perinatal and postpartum periods. I also support clients navigating the emotional and psychological challenges of perimenopause and menopause, helping them manage transitions with care and understanding. I manage depressive, anxiety, adjustment, and obsessive-compulsive disorders, ADHD, trauma responses, and bipolar disorders.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 30 years of diverse healthcare experience. I provide compassionate mental health support to individuals and families, with a special focus on the perinatal and postpartum periods. I also support clients navigating the emotional and psychological challenges of perimenopause and menopause, helping them manage transitions with care and understanding. I manage depressive, anxiety, adjustment, and obsessive-compulsive disorders, ADHD, trauma responses, and bipolar disorders.
(774) 344-5594 View (774) 344-5594
Photo of Karen Gardner Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHCNS, BC, LLC
Karen Gardner Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHCNS, BC, LLC
Westborough, MA 01581
Integrity, Kindness, Compassion. I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist with over 25 years of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy experience. My philosophy is to treat every person as an individual with unique Social, Spiritual, and Biophysical experiences.
Integrity, Kindness, Compassion. I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist with over 25 years of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy experience. My philosophy is to treat every person as an individual with unique Social, Spiritual, and Biophysical experiences.
(508) 501-3618 View (508) 501-3618
Photo of Thanh Tam Huynh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Thanh Tam Huynh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Westborough, MA 01581
Accepting New Patients with Immediate availability. Pease email Admin(at sign)PBHealthLLC.com to have an intake form sent to you. With experience in treating both children and adults, We believe mental health is the foundation of an individual's over-all health. We focus on an integrative treatment approach with an emphasis on making life changes in addition to treatment with medication. We work with my clients to develop an understanding of their own unique stressors and pressure of everyday life in order to create a well-rounded treatment plan
Accepting New Patients with Immediate availability. Pease email Admin(at sign)PBHealthLLC.com to have an intake form sent to you. With experience in treating both children and adults, We believe mental health is the foundation of an individual's over-all health. We focus on an integrative treatment approach with an emphasis on making life changes in addition to treatment with medication. We work with my clients to develop an understanding of their own unique stressors and pressure of everyday life in order to create a well-rounded treatment plan
(508) 233-9297 View (508) 233-9297
Photo of Steven Benyas, Psychiatrist, MD
Steven Benyas
Psychiatrist, MD
Westborough, MA 01581
I provide evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, and consultations for children (age 5 and up), adolescents, and adults. Weighing the potential risks and benefits of taking a medication is a personal decision. My task is to provide the information and recommendations to help you make a decision with which you are comfortable. I believe medications need to be used thoughtfully, minimally, and as one part of a whole plan that often involves non-pharmacological interventions, such as therapy, mindfulness training, lifestyle changes, and the like. Those interventions are important if one wants to achieve lasting changes, especially if one decides to eventually stop taking a medication.
I provide evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, and consultations for children (age 5 and up), adolescents, and adults. Weighing the potential risks and benefits of taking a medication is a personal decision. My task is to provide the information and recommendations to help you make a decision with which you are comfortable. I believe medications need to be used thoughtfully, minimally, and as one part of a whole plan that often involves non-pharmacological interventions, such as therapy, mindfulness training, lifestyle changes, and the like. Those interventions are important if one wants to achieve lasting changes, especially if one decides to eventually stop taking a medication.
(617) 648-5976 View (617) 648-5976
Photo of Shanise Perez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shanise Perez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Westborough, MA 01581
Accepting New Patients with Immediate availability. Pease email Admin(at sign)PBHealthLLC.com to have an intake form sent to you. With experience in treating both children and adults, We believe mental health is the foundation of an individual's over-all health. We focus on an integrative treatment approach with an emphasis on making life changes in addition to treatment with medication. We work with my clients to develop an understanding of their own unique stressors and pressure of everyday life in order to create a well-rounded treatment plan
Accepting New Patients with Immediate availability. Pease email Admin(at sign)PBHealthLLC.com to have an intake form sent to you. With experience in treating both children and adults, We believe mental health is the foundation of an individual's over-all health. We focus on an integrative treatment approach with an emphasis on making life changes in addition to treatment with medication. We work with my clients to develop an understanding of their own unique stressors and pressure of everyday life in order to create a well-rounded treatment plan
(774) 214-2829 View (774) 214-2829
Photo of Dr. Momen El Nesr, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Momen El Nesr
Psychiatrist, MD
Westborough, MA 01581
Relationship first and foremost, I believe that a healthy, caring relationship with a doctor who knows you - as a person - is the most important aspect of psychiatric care. As such, I make it a priority to develop a therapeutic relationship with you for your treatment. The second part of my commitment to you is to discuss and offer state-of-the-art treatment. This includes both medication and non-medication treatments. I have extensive experience and expertise treating all age groups and have found that my patients appreciate the consistency and simplicity of the care.
Relationship first and foremost, I believe that a healthy, caring relationship with a doctor who knows you - as a person - is the most important aspect of psychiatric care. As such, I make it a priority to develop a therapeutic relationship with you for your treatment. The second part of my commitment to you is to discuss and offer state-of-the-art treatment. This includes both medication and non-medication treatments. I have extensive experience and expertise treating all age groups and have found that my patients appreciate the consistency and simplicity of the care.
(774) 804-5764 View (774) 804-5764
Photo of Patricia Seely, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Patricia Seely
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Online Only
My primary goal is to help individuals find wholeness through therapy and medication. I am not prescribing in Massachusetts at this time but do provide therapy. I am prescribing and doing therapy in Maine now. I work with adults and have experience working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, individuals in recovery and those struggling with chronic health issues. As a veteran myself working with military active duty, their spouses and veterans is a special interest. I enjoy working with first responders. I do prescribe in Maine but do not prescribe benzodiazepines at this time.
My primary goal is to help individuals find wholeness through therapy and medication. I am not prescribing in Massachusetts at this time but do provide therapy. I am prescribing and doing therapy in Maine now. I work with adults and have experience working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, individuals in recovery and those struggling with chronic health issues. As a veteran myself working with military active duty, their spouses and veterans is a special interest. I enjoy working with first responders. I do prescribe in Maine but do not prescribe benzodiazepines at this time.
(207) 817-2702 View (207) 817-2702
Photo of Amberly Chaplin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMHC, RN
Amberly Chaplin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMHC, RN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults who are experiencing depression and anxiety to help them understand their symptoms, and together we find the best treatment. In addition to medication management and brief therapy, I incorporate nutritional practices when applicable. I have extensive experience working with people with substance use disorders, and although I am unable to provide detox or acute withdrawal treatment in this setting, I can provide consults with recommendations for your PCP or other provider. I also enjoy helping those with an addiction rebuild their health and identity. Please note: I can not Rx controlled substances at this time.
I work with adults who are experiencing depression and anxiety to help them understand their symptoms, and together we find the best treatment. In addition to medication management and brief therapy, I incorporate nutritional practices when applicable. I have extensive experience working with people with substance use disorders, and although I am unable to provide detox or acute withdrawal treatment in this setting, I can provide consults with recommendations for your PCP or other provider. I also enjoy helping those with an addiction rebuild their health and identity. Please note: I can not Rx controlled substances at this time.
(508) 625-9208 View (508) 625-9208
Photo of Chukwuemeka Asiegbu - LifeTent Behavioral Health, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, APRN
LifeTent Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, APRN
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, or substance use? Do you feel overwhelmed and need support to regain control? At LifeTent Behavioral Health, we provide compassionate medication management to help you achieve your mental wellness goals. Request an appointment easily at our website.
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, or substance use? Do you feel overwhelmed and need support to regain control? At LifeTent Behavioral Health, we provide compassionate medication management to help you achieve your mental wellness goals. Request an appointment easily at our website.
(508) 635-0144 View (508) 635-0144
Photo of Alex Cutler, Psychiatrist, MD
Alex Cutler
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who is double board certified in Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. I incorporate psycho-dynamic, cognitive behavioral, supportive therapies, and psychopharmacological management and tailor my approach to meet your specific needs. I work with individuals and families to navigate through difficult times and I will provide personalized recommendations to address the difficulties you may be facing. I have a lot of research and clinical work in sleep medicine and can utilize cognitive behavioral therapy to help with your sleep difficulties.
I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who is double board certified in Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. I incorporate psycho-dynamic, cognitive behavioral, supportive therapies, and psychopharmacological management and tailor my approach to meet your specific needs. I work with individuals and families to navigate through difficult times and I will provide personalized recommendations to address the difficulties you may be facing. I have a lot of research and clinical work in sleep medicine and can utilize cognitive behavioral therapy to help with your sleep difficulties.
(508) 449-9034 View (508) 449-9034
Photo of Michael Robustelli - Mood Clinic, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Mood Clinic, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Michael Robustelli is dual board-certified as a Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, specializing in adult psychiatry. With years of experience, he is an expert in ADHD, mood disorders, and anxiety. Recognized for his empathy and collaboration with patients, compassionate healing is provided in a holistic, personalized manner, focused on improving overall well being
Michael Robustelli is dual board-certified as a Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, specializing in adult psychiatry. With years of experience, he is an expert in ADHD, mood disorders, and anxiety. Recognized for his empathy and collaboration with patients, compassionate healing is provided in a holistic, personalized manner, focused on improving overall well being
(508) 715-9625 View (508) 715-9625
Photo of Pauline T Eteng, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Pauline T Eteng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you looking for a qualified, experienced, psychiatric nurse practitioner with a patient-centered, nonjudgmental approach? A provider with clinical skills, who is approachable, empathetic, and goal-oriented? If so, Collegial Psychiatric & Behavioral Medicine (CPBM) is the place for you. At CPBM, we collaborate with clients to build a trust based professional relationship, that allows clients to be active participants in their healing journey. Our major goal is to provide holistic care to a distinct populace, preparing clients towards self-actualization and optimum functioning.
Are you looking for a qualified, experienced, psychiatric nurse practitioner with a patient-centered, nonjudgmental approach? A provider with clinical skills, who is approachable, empathetic, and goal-oriented? If so, Collegial Psychiatric & Behavioral Medicine (CPBM) is the place for you. At CPBM, we collaborate with clients to build a trust based professional relationship, that allows clients to be active participants in their healing journey. Our major goal is to provide holistic care to a distinct populace, preparing clients towards self-actualization and optimum functioning.
(508) 506-8842 View (508) 506-8842
Photo of Savina Nicole (Nikki) Setze, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Savina Nicole (Nikki) Setze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new patients for medication management! In-network with BCBS of MA, Aetna, and UnitedHealthcare. To request an appointment, please send me an email with details on what I can help you with, insurance plan info, and best days/times for scheduling a 60-min intake appointment. Office hours are Tuesdays-Thursdays 10:30am-6:30pm and Fridays 10:30am-4:30pm. The office is closed Mondays and weekends.
Accepting new patients for medication management! In-network with BCBS of MA, Aetna, and UnitedHealthcare. To request an appointment, please send me an email with details on what I can help you with, insurance plan info, and best days/times for scheduling a 60-min intake appointment. Office hours are Tuesdays-Thursdays 10:30am-6:30pm and Fridays 10:30am-4:30pm. The office is closed Mondays and weekends.
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More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Shanel Chandra, Psychiatrist, MD
Shanel Chandra
Psychiatrist, MD
Lexington, MA 02420
Dr. Shanel Chandra is a board certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience, specializing in both adult and child psychiatry. She is dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care to each patient, ensuring their unique needs are met. Dr. Chandra has worked in various settings, giving her a broad perspective on mental health care.
Dr. Shanel Chandra is a board certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience, specializing in both adult and child psychiatry. She is dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care to each patient, ensuring their unique needs are met. Dr. Chandra has worked in various settings, giving her a broad perspective on mental health care.
(781) 633-7255 View (781) 633-7255
Photo of David Geltman, Psychiatrist, MD
David Geltman
Psychiatrist, MD
Brookline, MA 02446
When you feel stuck in an emotional or behavioral rut and find your usual coping skills are no longer enough, this is a good time to seek help. I enjoy helping individuals and couples who want to get unstuck to discover new paths toward growth and fulfillment. I am a Harvard-trained, board-certified psychiatrist with over 20 years experience specializing in psychotherapy. In my view, the therapeutic relationship is the main vehicle for psychological healing and change. I pay close attention to creating a safe and effective collaboration with you. I try to tailor an approach that suits you.
When you feel stuck in an emotional or behavioral rut and find your usual coping skills are no longer enough, this is a good time to seek help. I enjoy helping individuals and couples who want to get unstuck to discover new paths toward growth and fulfillment. I am a Harvard-trained, board-certified psychiatrist with over 20 years experience specializing in psychotherapy. In my view, the therapeutic relationship is the main vehicle for psychological healing and change. I pay close attention to creating a safe and effective collaboration with you. I try to tailor an approach that suits you.
(617) 874-1957 View (617) 874-1957
Photo of Erline Destra, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Erline Destra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, adjusting to life's challenges, or trauma? You're not alone, and there is help available.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, adjusting to life's challenges, or trauma? You're not alone, and there is help available.
(857) 371-4105 View (857) 371-4105
Photo of Fauzia Wali Khan - Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care, Psychiatrist, MD
Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760
With over 20 years of experience, Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care is dedicated to providing top-quality mental health care. We've expanded from Massachusetts to meet the growing need for outpatient support across the nation. Our ideal clients seek a comprehensive continuum of care, needing support at various stages of recovery. They want coordinated, patient-friendly services that address their unique mental health challenges, helping them achieve long-term well-being and recovery.
With over 20 years of experience, Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care is dedicated to providing top-quality mental health care. We've expanded from Massachusetts to meet the growing need for outpatient support across the nation. Our ideal clients seek a comprehensive continuum of care, needing support at various stages of recovery. They want coordinated, patient-friendly services that address their unique mental health challenges, helping them achieve long-term well-being and recovery.
(508) 980-2589 View (508) 980-2589
Photo of Alicia Battles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Alicia Battles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new patients-July 2025! Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like your mind just won’t quiet down? You’re not alone and you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, and major life transitions through a warm, thoughtful, and individualized approach. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer medication management alongside supportive care to help you feel more grounded and in control. Whether you’re juggling work, relationships, or simply trying to feel more like yourself again, I’m here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Accepting new patients-July 2025! Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like your mind just won’t quiet down? You’re not alone and you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, and major life transitions through a warm, thoughtful, and individualized approach. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer medication management alongside supportive care to help you feel more grounded and in control. Whether you’re juggling work, relationships, or simply trying to feel more like yourself again, I’m here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
(508) 682-5937 View (508) 682-5937
Photo of Yangchen Gethoktsang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Yangchen Gethoktsang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN-BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, with over five years experience in emergency room settings, psychiatric urgent care, adult inpatient settings and geriatric psychiatry, I am deeply committed to understanding the complexities of the human mind and fostering meaningful, transformative change in the lives of my patients.
As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, with over five years experience in emergency room settings, psychiatric urgent care, adult inpatient settings and geriatric psychiatry, I am deeply committed to understanding the complexities of the human mind and fostering meaningful, transformative change in the lives of my patients.
(339) 230-2919 View (339) 230-2919

See more therapy options for Westborough

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Westborough, MA

10+

Average cost per session

$199

Psychiatrists in Westborough, MA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
79% Depression
71% Medication Management
64% ADHD
57% Bipolar Disorder
50% Sleep or Insomnia
50% Stress

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% BlueCross and BlueShield
77% Tufts
69% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Westborough, MA see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Westborough?

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.