Psychiatrists in Weston, MA

Photo of Jonathan Moran, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist
Jonathan Moran
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, MA 02493
Not accepting new clients
Are you sad or anxious too much of the time? Stressed from work? Do you wish you could be closer to the people in your life? Are you feeling a little lost? Life is challenging and seeking help can be an important first step towards feeling better. I offer weekly or every other week psychotherapy for adults in a warm, empathic and private setting. As a physician, my practice may include medications, if clinically indicated. I look forward to working together so that you may achieve a rewarding and fulfilling life.
Are you sad or anxious too much of the time? Stressed from work? Do you wish you could be closer to the people in your life? Are you feeling a little lost? Life is challenging and seeking help can be an important first step towards feeling better. I offer weekly or every other week psychotherapy for adults in a warm, empathic and private setting. As a physician, my practice may include medications, if clinically indicated. I look forward to working together so that you may achieve a rewarding and fulfilling life.
(774) 221-7026 View (774) 221-7026
Susan E Ruskin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
My expertise is in working with people who have symptoms of depression and anxiety. I have been in practice for more than 30 years. While I primarily see patients for psychopharmacology treatment, I combine that with psychotherapy for some patients. I am also happy to work with you and your current therapist or primary care doctor and am comfortable treating patients with co-occurring medical issues. I feel that treatment works best when it is collaborative and I want my patients to be aware of treatment options so that we can make a decision together about which treatment may be best for you.
My expertise is in working with people who have symptoms of depression and anxiety. I have been in practice for more than 30 years. While I primarily see patients for psychopharmacology treatment, I combine that with psychotherapy for some patients. I am also happy to work with you and your current therapist or primary care doctor and am comfortable treating patients with co-occurring medical issues. I feel that treatment works best when it is collaborative and I want my patients to be aware of treatment options so that we can make a decision together about which treatment may be best for you.
(508) 456-9048 View (508) 456-9048
Photo of Maria Pia Rogines Velo, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Maria Pia Rogines Velo
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, MA 02493
Not accepting new clients
Throughout childhood and adulthood, we sometimes encounter challenges that are not easy to overcome. These challenges often time come from developmental crisis, life stressors, behavioral patterns or disease. We deal with conflicting feelings and thoughts that are in our way to develop at our full potential, build meaningful relationships and succeed academically and professionally. It takes courage and self-awarness to ask for help when we feel the most vulnerable. I am committed to provide a warm, compassionate and safe environment that promotes growth and collaborative work .
Throughout childhood and adulthood, we sometimes encounter challenges that are not easy to overcome. These challenges often time come from developmental crisis, life stressors, behavioral patterns or disease. We deal with conflicting feelings and thoughts that are in our way to develop at our full potential, build meaningful relationships and succeed academically and professionally. It takes courage and self-awarness to ask for help when we feel the most vulnerable. I am committed to provide a warm, compassionate and safe environment that promotes growth and collaborative work .
(617) 934-6239 View (617) 934-6239
Photo of Andrew Compaine, MD, Psychiatrist
Andrew Compaine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493
My approach is to synthesize a medical-model to the evaluation and treatment of your symptoms with a commitment to psychodynamic therapy. Diagnostic labels can be useful if you may need medications; but,even more important is our work together to understand the context of your current difficulties. What are the triggers for your symptoms; what are the meanings you give to feelings; and, how do your relationships, past and present, effect your coping style? My aim is to facilitate your growth towards ever greater authenticity, and to empower you to make healthier choices and maintain a more positive outlook.
My approach is to synthesize a medical-model to the evaluation and treatment of your symptoms with a commitment to psychodynamic therapy. Diagnostic labels can be useful if you may need medications; but,even more important is our work together to understand the context of your current difficulties. What are the triggers for your symptoms; what are the meanings you give to feelings; and, how do your relationships, past and present, effect your coping style? My aim is to facilitate your growth towards ever greater authenticity, and to empower you to make healthier choices and maintain a more positive outlook.
(781) 479-2171 View (781) 479-2171
Photo of Daniel Barron, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Daniel Barron
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493
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 Joe Gallego, MD, Psychiatrist
Joe Gallego
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Weston, MA 02493
Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment requires courage and motivation. As your psychiatrist, I honor your willingness to be vulnerable with me by being transparent with you throughout our work together. My clinical approach balances directness with empathy, shared expectation with flexibility, and professionalism with humor and warmth. I provide psychiatric evaluations, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management to adolescents and adults. I am passionate about caring for LGBTQIA+ people, and I have been researching and teaching about queer issues in health care for the past ten years.
Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment requires courage and motivation. As your psychiatrist, I honor your willingness to be vulnerable with me by being transparent with you throughout our work together. My clinical approach balances directness with empathy, shared expectation with flexibility, and professionalism with humor and warmth. I provide psychiatric evaluations, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management to adolescents and adults. I am passionate about caring for LGBTQIA+ people, and I have been researching and teaching about queer issues in health care for the past ten years.
(508) 374-9271 View (508) 374-9271
Photo of Kendra Smith - Kind Mind Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist
Kind Mind Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, MA 02493
Currently accepting new patients! Seeking mental health treatment can be a daunting task. Congrats on taking this first step! At Kind Mind, we strive to create a warm, welcoming environment where patients can feel comfortable, heard and that they are in partnership with their doctor to meet their goals. Therapy can be a wonderful way for patients to understand themselves, relationships, and patterns of interacting in a deeper way to effect positive change in their lives. At times, medication is needed in conjunction with therapy to address acuity of symptoms and augment progress. We also provide medication evaluation and treatment.
Currently accepting new patients! Seeking mental health treatment can be a daunting task. Congrats on taking this first step! At Kind Mind, we strive to create a warm, welcoming environment where patients can feel comfortable, heard and that they are in partnership with their doctor to meet their goals. Therapy can be a wonderful way for patients to understand themselves, relationships, and patterns of interacting in a deeper way to effect positive change in their lives. At times, medication is needed in conjunction with therapy to address acuity of symptoms and augment progress. We also provide medication evaluation and treatment.
(617) 544-0403 View (617) 544-0403
Photo of Kirstin Ritchie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kirstin Ritchie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
Online Only
Harborside Psychiatrics offers medication management to clients of all ages and genders. We are specialized in the treatment of eating disorders and PTSD, with a particular passion for working with athletes. We also have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
Harborside Psychiatrics offers medication management to clients of all ages and genders. We are specialized in the treatment of eating disorders and PTSD, with a particular passion for working with athletes. We also have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
(860) 831-4708 View (860) 831-4708
Photo of Ainat Koren, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ainat Koren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02193
Are you feeling overwhelmed by sudden changes, transitions or challenging times? Are you dealing with depression,anxiety, sleep issues as a result? I offer in person and Tele Mental Health Services.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by sudden changes, transitions or challenging times? Are you dealing with depression,anxiety, sleep issues as a result? I offer in person and Tele Mental Health Services.
(339) 214-9322 View (339) 214-9322
Photo of Kiran S Lulla, MD, MBA, DFAACAP, Psychiatrist
Kiran S Lulla
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, DFAACAP
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493
Is your child or teenager struggling with transitions? Are they having problems with limit setting? Or going through developmental changes? Relationship issues with friends or family members? Transitioning from elementary school to middle school? For the past 25 years, I have helped patients and their families with these issues and many more as a Board-Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. As Medical Director at Boston Children’s Hospital and at Metro West Medical Center, I have supported families through these various issues. I have an active faculty appointment at both Harvard University and Tufts University.
Is your child or teenager struggling with transitions? Are they having problems with limit setting? Or going through developmental changes? Relationship issues with friends or family members? Transitioning from elementary school to middle school? For the past 25 years, I have helped patients and their families with these issues and many more as a Board-Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. As Medical Director at Boston Children’s Hospital and at Metro West Medical Center, I have supported families through these various issues. I have an active faculty appointment at both Harvard University and Tufts University.
(339) 666-6618 View (339) 666-6618
Photo of Renee Marie Garbitt, MSN, C-NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Renee Marie Garbitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, C-NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Now accepting new referrals.- At Grounded Interventions Psychiatric Services we offer treatment grounded in empirically supported strategies to address a dynamic set of behavioral health needs. Our approach is compassionate, individually tailored and aimed at reducing distressing symptoms while improving overall quality of life.​
Now accepting new referrals.- At Grounded Interventions Psychiatric Services we offer treatment grounded in empirically supported strategies to address a dynamic set of behavioral health needs. Our approach is compassionate, individually tailored and aimed at reducing distressing symptoms while improving overall quality of life.​
(508) 886-3921 View (508) 886-3921

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Karina Riedel, PMHNP-B, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse
Karina Riedel
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP-B, MSN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
Taking New Patients. I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, currently practicing recently relocated from Austin, Texas. I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing from Boston College and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. I bring a comprehensive educational background to my role as my clinical experience is extensive.
Taking New Patients. I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, currently practicing recently relocated from Austin, Texas. I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing from Boston College and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. I bring a comprehensive educational background to my role as my clinical experience is extensive.
(617) 380-4472 View (617) 380-4472
Photo of Josephine Banigo - Victoria Counseling Services, PMNP-BC, ACNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victoria Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNP-BC, ACNP-BC
Verified Verified
Marlborough, MA 01752
Victoria Counseling Services is an outpatient Adult Psychiatry, established in 2015 following the sudden death of a beloved younger sister, Victoria, who suffered from severe depression and PTSD for most of her adult years. As a patient, expect to be an active participant in your treatment plan.
Victoria Counseling Services is an outpatient Adult Psychiatry, established in 2015 following the sudden death of a beloved younger sister, Victoria, who suffered from severe depression and PTSD for most of her adult years. As a patient, expect to be an active participant in your treatment plan.
(508) 252-0916 View (508) 252-0916
Photo of Henry Kaggwa - Assured Hope Community Health, LLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Assured Hope Community Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Chelmsford, MA 01824
We provide Therapy services by incorporating patient-centered care while implementing a multi-disciplinary approach. Patient-centered care enables you to be the immediate source for information on your values in any clinical decision. Our goal is to include the perspective of the patients in their care and clinical decision-making process. Our multi-disciplinary approach to care assists the client and clinician to integrate the diversity of clients’ and clinician’s values while merging and outreaching with a multi-disciplinary team of internal and external specializations to deliver the best results for you.
We provide Therapy services by incorporating patient-centered care while implementing a multi-disciplinary approach. Patient-centered care enables you to be the immediate source for information on your values in any clinical decision. Our goal is to include the perspective of the patients in their care and clinical decision-making process. Our multi-disciplinary approach to care assists the client and clinician to integrate the diversity of clients’ and clinician’s values while merging and outreaching with a multi-disciplinary team of internal and external specializations to deliver the best results for you.
(978) 677-6354 View (978) 677-6354
Photo of Amber Bentley, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Amber Bentley
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02118
Her goal is to help patients attain their well-being and long-term health. I am looking to partner with each patient and help them draw their roadmap to optimal wellness whether that be through lifestyle changes, therapy or when needed medications.
Her goal is to help patients attain their well-being and long-term health. I am looking to partner with each patient and help them draw their roadmap to optimal wellness whether that be through lifestyle changes, therapy or when needed medications.
(857) 578-3976 View (857) 578-3976
Photo of Shula Waldoks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shula Waldoks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02464
I really enjoy working with people who are struggling with their mental health and know it's time to get help. Perhaps it is their first time reaching out or maybe their current medication and therapy regimen isn't working at well as it could be. I love to work with patients collaboratively, so that we can make decisions together and work as a team. I am particularly skilled at working with older adolescents and young adults in their 20s and early 30s as they navigate their way into healthy adulthood.
I really enjoy working with people who are struggling with their mental health and know it's time to get help. Perhaps it is their first time reaching out or maybe their current medication and therapy regimen isn't working at well as it could be. I love to work with patients collaboratively, so that we can make decisions together and work as a team. I am particularly skilled at working with older adolescents and young adults in their 20s and early 30s as they navigate their way into healthy adulthood.
(617) 644-4834 View (617) 644-4834
Photo of Kathleen M Andolina, PMHCNS, BC, PC, Psychiatric Nurse
Kathleen M Andolina
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHCNS, BC, PC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist who has been helping clients improve their lives for 25+ years. Telemedicine and in-person sessions available. Please inquire at www.kandolina.com/appointments I provide psychiatric services for individuals ages 18 - 65+ with a focus on mental health across the life span. I am most successful with those dealing with anxiety, depression or mood disorders as well as career, academic or relationship stress. I treat students, career professionals, men, women and LGBTQ+ populations as well as those from many ethnic, racial and class backgrounds.
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist who has been helping clients improve their lives for 25+ years. Telemedicine and in-person sessions available. Please inquire at www.kandolina.com/appointments I provide psychiatric services for individuals ages 18 - 65+ with a focus on mental health across the life span. I am most successful with those dealing with anxiety, depression or mood disorders as well as career, academic or relationship stress. I treat students, career professionals, men, women and LGBTQ+ populations as well as those from many ethnic, racial and class backgrounds.
(774) 768-8650 View (774) 768-8650
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 Onyebuchi Ogbo - Good Path Health Services, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Good Path Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired, depressed, lack concentration or motivation? Are you having trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you awaken? If any of the above describes you, it takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. We understand the emotional challenges that life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop personalized treatment approach that can help you on your mental health journey. You are not alone.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired, depressed, lack concentration or motivation? Are you having trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you awaken? If any of the above describes you, it takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. We understand the emotional challenges that life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop personalized treatment approach that can help you on your mental health journey. You are not alone.
(857) 290-4276 View (857) 290-4276
Photo of Mayumi Okuda Benavides, MD, Psychiatrist
Mayumi Okuda Benavides
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
(831) 539-0572 View (831) 539-0572

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Weston, MA

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Weston, MA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
64% Relationship Issues
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
64% Medication Management
64% Stress
55% ADHD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Optum
50% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% Harvard Pilgrim

How Psychiatrists in Weston, MA see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

57% Male
43% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Weston?

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.