Psychiatrists in Westford, MA

Photo of Joshua Ritz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joshua Ritz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westford, MA 01886
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, trauma, and mood disorders. I have had a long career working in mental healthcare at McLean Hospital, treating patients ranging in age from late adolescence through the elderly, and completed my clinical training there while earning my graduate degree from Regis College. I believe treatment to be multifaceted, with medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes as factors that work best in concert with each other.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, trauma, and mood disorders. I have had a long career working in mental healthcare at McLean Hospital, treating patients ranging in age from late adolescence through the elderly, and completed my clinical training there while earning my graduate degree from Regis College. I believe treatment to be multifaceted, with medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes as factors that work best in concert with each other.
(508) 290-6732 View (508) 290-6732
Photo of Natasa Ristivojevic, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natasa Ristivojevic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
It’s fulfilling to see my clients regain their lives back. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, a low mood, or feelings of anger, it's my belief these things don't have to last forever. Your decision to reach out is essential, as it will initiate the direction you want to take. My goal is to listen carefully and use evidence-based interventions along with judicious use of prescription medications to address your symptoms. It's important to remember, however, that prescribing the right medication regimen is only one part of the treatment that leads to alleviating mental and emotional suffering.
It’s fulfilling to see my clients regain their lives back. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, a low mood, or feelings of anger, it's my belief these things don't have to last forever. Your decision to reach out is essential, as it will initiate the direction you want to take. My goal is to listen carefully and use evidence-based interventions along with judicious use of prescription medications to address your symptoms. It's important to remember, however, that prescribing the right medication regimen is only one part of the treatment that leads to alleviating mental and emotional suffering.
(508) 466-6151 View (508) 466-6151
Photo of Vanessa DeMelo, BSN, MSN, PMH-CNP, NP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vanessa DeMelo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMH-CNP, NP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westford, MA 01886
Telehealth sessions available. We are an established practice providing care to the community since 2011. Our specialty is treating patients with anxiety, depression and ADHD. Our approach has always been holistic by considering your social, personal and work environment as well as your medical history.
Telehealth sessions available. We are an established practice providing care to the community since 2011. Our specialty is treating patients with anxiety, depression and ADHD. Our approach has always been holistic by considering your social, personal and work environment as well as your medical history.
(978) 678-8487 View (978) 678-8487
Photo of Meredith Hogarty, PMHNPBC, MSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Meredith Hogarty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel like you are not making progress with therapy or lifestyle modifications alone? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, misunderstood or unheard when it comes to your mental health? Do you believe that you are not on the right medication or experiencing unwanted side effects? I use a collaborative approach to managing your medications, where you feel heard, respected, and understood. We will carefully select and monitor medications tailored to address your unique needs and symptoms so that we can find the right balance between effectively managing your condition and minimizing any unwanted side effects.
Do you feel like you are not making progress with therapy or lifestyle modifications alone? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, misunderstood or unheard when it comes to your mental health? Do you believe that you are not on the right medication or experiencing unwanted side effects? I use a collaborative approach to managing your medications, where you feel heard, respected, and understood. We will carefully select and monitor medications tailored to address your unique needs and symptoms so that we can find the right balance between effectively managing your condition and minimizing any unwanted side effects.
(978) 561-2325 View (978) 561-2325
Photo of Cristina Desa, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-NP, APRN-NP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cristina Desa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-NP, APRN-NP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westford, MA 01886
Hello and welcome to Psychiatric Holistic Health! Since 2011, we've been a sanctuary for individuals seeking compassionate support through life’s challenges. I'm Cristina Desa, and as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, it’s my privilege to walk alongside you on your mental health journey. At Psychiatric Holistic Health, we don’t just see symptoms—we see stories, dreams, and potential. Our practice embodies a holistic philosophy, treating the mind, body, and spirit as a unified whole. Whether you're battling depression, anxiety, or ADHD, our personalized care will be crafted to suit your unique needs.
Hello and welcome to Psychiatric Holistic Health! Since 2011, we've been a sanctuary for individuals seeking compassionate support through life’s challenges. I'm Cristina Desa, and as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, it’s my privilege to walk alongside you on your mental health journey. At Psychiatric Holistic Health, we don’t just see symptoms—we see stories, dreams, and potential. Our practice embodies a holistic philosophy, treating the mind, body, and spirit as a unified whole. Whether you're battling depression, anxiety, or ADHD, our personalized care will be crafted to suit your unique needs.
(978) 440-2025 View (978) 440-2025
Photo of Cecilia Sky Ryll, APRN, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cecilia Sky Ryll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Westford, MA 01886
I am a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with experience in evaluating and treating anxiety disorders, depression, various mood disorders such as bipolar, PTSD, neurocognitive and psychotic disorders. I graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a post-master certificate in psychiatry and mental health. Prior to this I earned my MSN with specialization in women’s health and then my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Frontier University, and worked as a women’s health nurse practitioner and a primary care provider for women. My niche is focusing on issues involving both areas.
I am a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with experience in evaluating and treating anxiety disorders, depression, various mood disorders such as bipolar, PTSD, neurocognitive and psychotic disorders. I graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a post-master certificate in psychiatry and mental health. Prior to this I earned my MSN with specialization in women’s health and then my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Frontier University, and worked as a women’s health nurse practitioner and a primary care provider for women. My niche is focusing on issues involving both areas.
(508) 625-7434 View (508) 625-7434
Photo of Regina Macharia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Regina Macharia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Regina is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with multiple years of experience as a nurse in community psychiatric care. She believes in individualized client care that is holistic and is vested in promoting self-care, and lifestyle changes (sleep hygiene, exercise, nutrition, stress management) in concert with a variety of psychotherapy and pharmacological modalities.
Regina is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with multiple years of experience as a nurse in community psychiatric care. She believes in individualized client care that is holistic and is vested in promoting self-care, and lifestyle changes (sleep hygiene, exercise, nutrition, stress management) in concert with a variety of psychotherapy and pharmacological modalities.
(508) 841-5132 View (508) 841-5132
Photo of Stella Macharia, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stella Macharia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a dually certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner and I have extensive psychiatric nursing experience having worked in inpatient, homecare and outpatient settings. I have experience in Anxiety disorders, Bipolar disorders, Mood disorders, Psychotic disorders and other mental illness. I work with 13+ and I take pride in providing high-quality patient care.
I am a dually certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner and I have extensive psychiatric nursing experience having worked in inpatient, homecare and outpatient settings. I have experience in Anxiety disorders, Bipolar disorders, Mood disorders, Psychotic disorders and other mental illness. I work with 13+ and I take pride in providing high-quality patient care.
(508) 978-6074 View (508) 978-6074
Photo of Charlene Julien - Our Hopeful & Holistic Healing Center (Our HHHC), NP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Our Hopeful & Holistic Healing Center (Our HHHC)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westford, MA 01886
Greetings, my name is Charlene. I am a double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family nurse practitioner (NP) also trained as a Usui Reiki practitioner who embraces into my practice that mental and physical health are deeply interconnected. If you struggle with anxiety or depression, I'd love to work with you to develop a holistic approach to your care that addresses the many facets of your mental well-being. I use holistic evidence-based and evidence-informed methods to help women with anxiety and/or depression in their 20s to 50s achieve optimal mental well-being and regain control over their lives.
Greetings, my name is Charlene. I am a double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family nurse practitioner (NP) also trained as a Usui Reiki practitioner who embraces into my practice that mental and physical health are deeply interconnected. If you struggle with anxiety or depression, I'd love to work with you to develop a holistic approach to your care that addresses the many facets of your mental well-being. I use holistic evidence-based and evidence-informed methods to help women with anxiety and/or depression in their 20s to 50s achieve optimal mental well-being and regain control over their lives.
(781) 285-7266 View (781) 285-7266
Photo of Juliana Pires, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Juliana Pires
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westford, MA 01886
I have helped people who reported anxiety that "comes unannounced from nowhere", or had been feeling low and having difficulty finding motivation, or who were just not feeling like themselves for different reasons including poor sleep, low energy, inability to stop worrying, and inability to concentrate to complete tasks.
I have helped people who reported anxiety that "comes unannounced from nowhere", or had been feeling low and having difficulty finding motivation, or who were just not feeling like themselves for different reasons including poor sleep, low energy, inability to stop worrying, and inability to concentrate to complete tasks.
(603) 782-9572 View (603) 782-9572
Photo of James Quackenbush, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
James Quackenbush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westford, MA 01886
Please note: At this time, I am primarily virtual but offer intermittent in-person appointments. I am based in Southern NH and Greater Boston, MA. I received my nurse practitioner education at Rivier University and completed clinical training at McLean Hospital, in Belmont, MA. My personal and professional goals include bridging the gaps that exist in our healthcare system to ensure everyone has adequate access and good mental health care, reducing stigma so that people are more inclined to ask for help, and providing a treatment plan where both you and I work together to ensure your needs are met.
Please note: At this time, I am primarily virtual but offer intermittent in-person appointments. I am based in Southern NH and Greater Boston, MA. I received my nurse practitioner education at Rivier University and completed clinical training at McLean Hospital, in Belmont, MA. My personal and professional goals include bridging the gaps that exist in our healthcare system to ensure everyone has adequate access and good mental health care, reducing stigma so that people are more inclined to ask for help, and providing a treatment plan where both you and I work together to ensure your needs are met.
(617) 982-3184 View (617) 982-3184
Photo of Salma Trainor, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Salma Trainor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Westford, MA 01886
Welcome to Birch Grove Mental Health! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong passion and desire to help patients feel better by improving sleep, decreasing anxiety and improving mood. I use a combination of medication management and psychotherapy to achieve your goals as we target symptoms that may be disruptive to your life. I take great care with every patient I treat to ensure they feel heard, respected and understood. I work with you to get through a difficult time or to maintain a current regimen that perhaps is working well.
Welcome to Birch Grove Mental Health! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong passion and desire to help patients feel better by improving sleep, decreasing anxiety and improving mood. I use a combination of medication management and psychotherapy to achieve your goals as we target symptoms that may be disruptive to your life. I take great care with every patient I treat to ensure they feel heard, respected and understood. I work with you to get through a difficult time or to maintain a current regimen that perhaps is working well.
(617) 600-4506 View (617) 600-4506
Photo of Shailaja Emani, MD, Psychiatrist
Shailaja Emani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Shailaja Emani is a board certified psychiatrist passionate about providing holistic, comprehensive, and evidence based psychiatric care. She has a wide variety of experience treating children, adolescents, and adults across treatment settings and complexity levels.
Dr. Shailaja Emani is a board certified psychiatrist passionate about providing holistic, comprehensive, and evidence based psychiatric care. She has a wide variety of experience treating children, adolescents, and adults across treatment settings and complexity levels.
(339) 500-6853 View (339) 500-6853
Photo of Danielle Cogliano, NP, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Cogliano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westford, MA 01886
Accepting state of MA. clients only. Please visit my website at Oasisbehavioral.com and fill out the new patient Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. My focus is to help my patients heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths in order to move forward to where they want to be in life. This is achieved by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. Often this involves medication management, although I always take a holistic approach to my practice, treating the whole person.
Accepting state of MA. clients only. Please visit my website at Oasisbehavioral.com and fill out the new patient Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. My focus is to help my patients heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths in order to move forward to where they want to be in life. This is achieved by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. Often this involves medication management, although I always take a holistic approach to my practice, treating the whole person.
(351) 888-1916 View (351) 888-1916
Lauane C Boonchuilier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Westford, MA 01886
Currently accepting new clients for medication management from the state of MA. ONLY. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please go to oasisbehavioral.com and fill out the new patient paperwork and email it to the email provided on the form.
Currently accepting new clients for medication management from the state of MA. ONLY. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please go to oasisbehavioral.com and fill out the new patient paperwork and email it to the email provided on the form.
(978) 721-8739 View (978) 721-8739
Photo of Holistic Behavioral Health Services Llc - Holistic Behavioral Health Services LLC , MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Westford, MA 01886
Holistic Behavioral Health Services provides both outpatient and tele-psychiatry mental health services in Dracut and surrounding areas. Tele-psychiatry services are provided in the comfort of your home using a computer/ a phone. We accepting new patients. Evening and weekend hours are available to those busy during office hours. Board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with training and experience across the lifespan in outpatient settings.
Holistic Behavioral Health Services provides both outpatient and tele-psychiatry mental health services in Dracut and surrounding areas. Tele-psychiatry services are provided in the comfort of your home using a computer/ a phone. We accepting new patients. Evening and weekend hours are available to those busy during office hours. Board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with training and experience across the lifespan in outpatient settings.
(978) 693-5001 View (978) 693-5001
Photo of Louisa Martin, PMHCNS-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Louisa Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westford, MA 01886
Through active listening and thoughtful questioning I aim to deliver high quality compassionate care. As an adult psychiatric clinical nurse specialist I am focused on person centered holistic care. I have over 20 years of experience treating psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression and ADD. I earned my BSN and MSN at the University of Pennsylvania in 2002 and have worked at both inpatient and outpatient setting. I provide psychiatric medication prescriptions and medication management. I also offer ADHD testing and treatment. I do not provide psychotherapy. I treat ages 18 and above.
Through active listening and thoughtful questioning I aim to deliver high quality compassionate care. As an adult psychiatric clinical nurse specialist I am focused on person centered holistic care. I have over 20 years of experience treating psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression and ADD. I earned my BSN and MSN at the University of Pennsylvania in 2002 and have worked at both inpatient and outpatient setting. I provide psychiatric medication prescriptions and medication management. I also offer ADHD testing and treatment. I do not provide psychotherapy. I treat ages 18 and above.
(978) 515-6622 View (978) 515-6622

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Matthew Pearson, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Matthew Pearson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Woburn, MA 01801
My ideal client is ready to take an active role in their mental health journey, even if they feel uncertain or overwhelmed. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or life transitions and want a space where they can feel heard and supported. Their goals might include building coping skills, gaining insight into their challenges, and improving their overall well-being. I want to help them create a plan that feels within reach and tailored to their unique needs because everyone deserves a chance to thrive and feel in control of their life.
My ideal client is ready to take an active role in their mental health journey, even if they feel uncertain or overwhelmed. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or life transitions and want a space where they can feel heard and supported. Their goals might include building coping skills, gaining insight into their challenges, and improving their overall well-being. I want to help them create a plan that feels within reach and tailored to their unique needs because everyone deserves a chance to thrive and feel in control of their life.
(339) 330-0905 View (339) 330-0905
Photo of Daniel Barron, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Daniel Barron
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Belmont, MA 02478
Are you a busy professional, expectant or new parent, or navigating a life transition? Let's work together to improve your mood, manage stress, and help you "stick the landing." My approach is open-minded, evidence-based, and unafraid to use a little humor. Life can be overwhelming, especially when you're juggling roles or facing changes. We'll work together to create a personalized plan, grounded in the latest research, to help you find balance and regain control. I'm here to support you through whatever challenges you're facing.
Are you a busy professional, expectant or new parent, or navigating a life transition? Let's work together to improve your mood, manage stress, and help you "stick the landing." My approach is open-minded, evidence-based, and unafraid to use a little humor. Life can be overwhelming, especially when you're juggling roles or facing changes. We'll work together to create a personalized plan, grounded in the latest research, to help you find balance and regain control. I'm here to support you through whatever challenges you're facing.
(617) 712-2666 View (617) 712-2666
Photo of Andrea Sawyer, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrea Sawyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I provide medication management and consultation (virtually) for children, adolescents and young adults ages 5-21 with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, autism and mood disorders. Please visit my website and follow the link at the bottom of the page to arrange for a free consultation.
I provide medication management and consultation (virtually) for children, adolescents and young adults ages 5-21 with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, autism and mood disorders. Please visit my website and follow the link at the bottom of the page to arrange for a free consultation.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Westford, MA

10+

Average cost per session

$312

Psychiatrists in Westford, MA who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
76% Depression
71% Medication Management
59% ADHD
59% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
59% Bipolar Disorder
53% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
81% Cigna and Evernorth
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Westford, MA see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
13% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Westford?

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.