Psychiatrists in Winchester, MA

Beryllium Psychiatric Services
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winchester, MA 01890
Ask about our new Art Based Support Group For Women dealing with stress and burnout beginning February 10, 2025!
We have a new Child Psychiatrist!
Welcome to Beryllium Psychiatric, your integrated, mental health treatment center. We provide evidence-based, holistic care for adults, adolescents, and children struggling with trauma, depression, postpartum illness, anxiety, ADHD, binge eating disorder, and obesity. At Beryllium, we know that medication is not enough. Instead we offer you an individualized treatment approach which also includes therapy, exercise planning, health coaching, sleep optimization, and nutrition care.
Ask about our new Art Based Support Group For Women dealing with stress and burnout beginning February 10, 2025!
We have a new Child Psychiatrist!
Welcome to Beryllium Psychiatric, your integrated, mental health treatment center. We provide evidence-based, holistic care for adults, adolescents, and children struggling with trauma, depression, postpartum illness, anxiety, ADHD, binge eating disorder, and obesity. At Beryllium, we know that medication is not enough. Instead we offer you an individualized treatment approach which also includes therapy, exercise planning, health coaching, sleep optimization, and nutrition care.

Since you made it here, I imagine you are feeling many possible emotions: hope, skepticism, curiosity, fear.... I would like to invite you to explore these further with me. I want to learn about what things are like for you now, what has and hasn't worked for you in the past, and what hopes you have for the future.
Since you made it here, I imagine you are feeling many possible emotions: hope, skepticism, curiosity, fear.... I would like to invite you to explore these further with me. I want to learn about what things are like for you now, what has and hasn't worked for you in the past, and what hopes you have for the future.

Are you a driven professional in a high pressure career? Do you seek effective treatment to cope with your mental stress, emotional fatigue, insomnia, and interpersonal conflict? Is it your goal to improve your wellbeing and achieve personal fulfillment? If you’re looking to develop the skills to stay focused and calm under pressure, prioritize restful sleep, and achieve work-life balance, you’re not alone. Based in the Boston area, Dr. Ruxandra Carp is currently providing a discreet, private-pay Telepsychiatry practice to high-performance individuals in academia, biotech, healthcare, and finance.
Are you a driven professional in a high pressure career? Do you seek effective treatment to cope with your mental stress, emotional fatigue, insomnia, and interpersonal conflict? Is it your goal to improve your wellbeing and achieve personal fulfillment? If you’re looking to develop the skills to stay focused and calm under pressure, prioritize restful sleep, and achieve work-life balance, you’re not alone. Based in the Boston area, Dr. Ruxandra Carp is currently providing a discreet, private-pay Telepsychiatry practice to high-performance individuals in academia, biotech, healthcare, and finance.

John Donovan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winchester, MA 01890
You deserve a life where you wake up happy and go to bed at peace. I'm here to help you achieve that. I promise to listen and support you through whatever challenges you’re facing right now. I appreciate clients who are motivated and open to change. I know that taking the first step toward seeking help can be intimidating, but I'm here for you! Together, we will create a personalized treatment plan that may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Whether you have a long history of mental health struggles or are reaching out for the first time, I am here to support and guide you.
You deserve a life where you wake up happy and go to bed at peace. I'm here to help you achieve that. I promise to listen and support you through whatever challenges you’re facing right now. I appreciate clients who are motivated and open to change. I know that taking the first step toward seeking help can be intimidating, but I'm here for you! Together, we will create a personalized treatment plan that may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Whether you have a long history of mental health struggles or are reaching out for the first time, I am here to support and guide you.

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my priority is to create a safe and supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. I know that seeking mental health care can be a big step, and I want you to know that I’m here to meet you wherever you are on your journey. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your unique needs, combining compassionate listening with evidence-based care to help you achieve your goals.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my priority is to create a safe and supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. I know that seeking mental health care can be a big step, and I want you to know that I’m here to meet you wherever you are on your journey. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your unique needs, combining compassionate listening with evidence-based care to help you achieve your goals.

We have the power to improve our mental health. We can choose what to think about and challenge & reframe our thoughts; live by our own values rather than by others' expectations; focus outward to create purpose, surround ourselves with good people and good energy. Nourishing and honoring our bodies with food and exercise, and, connecting with our fellow beings, can produce and release chemicals that make us feel good. Even the ability to activate our parasympathetic or calming nervous system is within our control, with a few simple techniques. We already have the tools to thrive in life. I would love to help you uncover them.
We have the power to improve our mental health. We can choose what to think about and challenge & reframe our thoughts; live by our own values rather than by others' expectations; focus outward to create purpose, surround ourselves with good people and good energy. Nourishing and honoring our bodies with food and exercise, and, connecting with our fellow beings, can produce and release chemicals that make us feel good. Even the ability to activate our parasympathetic or calming nervous system is within our control, with a few simple techniques. We already have the tools to thrive in life. I would love to help you uncover them.

I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.

I am a multilingual psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked across the lifespan in Massachusetts. I work with clients who are struggling with a myriad of mental health concerns, including substance abuse. My goal is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients to empower them to engage in their treatment to reach their maximum potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have adequate information while being an active participant to make an informed decision about their treatment plan.
I am a multilingual psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked across the lifespan in Massachusetts. I work with clients who are struggling with a myriad of mental health concerns, including substance abuse. My goal is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients to empower them to engage in their treatment to reach their maximum potential as individuals. My priority is that every client should walk out of my office feeling that they have adequate information while being an active participant to make an informed decision about their treatment plan.

Angela is a fully licensed and board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She completed her master of science in nursing from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in 2016 where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Angela's goal is to create a trusting relationship with her patients and to deliver high-quality care. Angela has a passion for running and traveling the world! She enjoys spending her free time with her family and dog, George.
Angela is a fully licensed and board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She completed her master of science in nursing from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in 2016 where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Angela's goal is to create a trusting relationship with her patients and to deliver high-quality care. Angela has a passion for running and traveling the world! She enjoys spending her free time with her family and dog, George.

Veenu Thakur, NP In 2014, I graduated from university of Cincinnati with Master of Science in Nursing and became adult-geri primary care nurse practitioner. Prior to this I was working as an RN in psychiatry. I have also worked with PACE: Program of all inclusive care for the elderly and Medoptions Behavioral Health. I believe in the force of the gravity going downwards. Similarly, what goes on in our minds travels downwards to our body causing multiple illnesses such as headache, insomnia, chronic pain, digestive issues. Hence, it is very important that we first take care of our mental wellbeing.
Veenu Thakur, NP In 2014, I graduated from university of Cincinnati with Master of Science in Nursing and became adult-geri primary care nurse practitioner. Prior to this I was working as an RN in psychiatry. I have also worked with PACE: Program of all inclusive care for the elderly and Medoptions Behavioral Health. I believe in the force of the gravity going downwards. Similarly, what goes on in our minds travels downwards to our body causing multiple illnesses such as headache, insomnia, chronic pain, digestive issues. Hence, it is very important that we first take care of our mental wellbeing.

Growing up and parenting, even under the best circumstances, are full of challenges. When you or your child is struggling, it makes each of those challenges even more difficult. Dr. Jennifer Koch specializes in helping adults and children navigate these difficult times whether they are brought on by life stressors, grief, behavior patterns, or illness. She works with individuals and their families to evaluate their circumstances, to provide personalized recommendations, and to address their concerns so that they may return to a more comfortable, peaceful way of life.
Growing up and parenting, even under the best circumstances, are full of challenges. When you or your child is struggling, it makes each of those challenges even more difficult. Dr. Jennifer Koch specializes in helping adults and children navigate these difficult times whether they are brought on by life stressors, grief, behavior patterns, or illness. She works with individuals and their families to evaluate their circumstances, to provide personalized recommendations, and to address their concerns so that they may return to a more comfortable, peaceful way of life.

I work with adult men and women to better understand and regulate strong emotions, cope with life stressors, and learn to manage the effects of mental illness and trauma on their daily lives so that they can reach and maintain their full potential and work toward their own personal goals. I am trained in psychopharmacology (medication management) as well as a number of psychotherapies (psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, MBT, staged treatment of trauma, prolonged exposure, and family therapy).
I work with adult men and women to better understand and regulate strong emotions, cope with life stressors, and learn to manage the effects of mental illness and trauma on their daily lives so that they can reach and maintain their full potential and work toward their own personal goals. I am trained in psychopharmacology (medication management) as well as a number of psychotherapies (psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, MBT, staged treatment of trauma, prolonged exposure, and family therapy).

Streamline your well-being with a Harvard-trained psychiatrist MD with psychotherapy as a focus and cornerstone of care. Individuals describe themselves as educated, aspiring, accomplished. But the journey of through life can scramble priorities and fulfillment. Invest in yourself to break free of patterns, to become the best you, and to chart the life legacy you desire. Connect conveniently from the privacy of your own home, right from where you are. It's Time to Prioritize Your Mental Health and Well-Being. It's Time to Feel Like Your Best Self.
Streamline your well-being with a Harvard-trained psychiatrist MD with psychotherapy as a focus and cornerstone of care. Individuals describe themselves as educated, aspiring, accomplished. But the journey of through life can scramble priorities and fulfillment. Invest in yourself to break free of patterns, to become the best you, and to chart the life legacy you desire. Connect conveniently from the privacy of your own home, right from where you are. It's Time to Prioritize Your Mental Health and Well-Being. It's Time to Feel Like Your Best Self.

Dr. Alexander Kozlovsky at Square Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a physician, Board Certified in Adult psychiatry, specializing in medication management of a variety of mental health-related problems, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, obsessive-compulsive conditions, etc. I am also treating substance abuse-related conditions, including opioid dependence. I offer primarily IN-PERSON appointments in our office in Woburn. Telehealth appointments are optional depending on the complexity and treatment needs.
I am a physician, Board Certified in Adult psychiatry, specializing in medication management of a variety of mental health-related problems, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, obsessive-compulsive conditions, etc. I am also treating substance abuse-related conditions, including opioid dependence. I offer primarily IN-PERSON appointments in our office in Woburn. Telehealth appointments are optional depending on the complexity and treatment needs.

Martin Frazee at Square Medical Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in the Greater Boston area. I completed my education at Northeastern University and furthered my training at Brigham Psychiatric Specialties. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Square Medical Group in Woburn, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. I am particularly interested in psychiatric research and health disparities, integrating insights from these areas into my practice. I am offering in-person medication management appointments in our Woburn office, as well as telehealth appointments.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in the Greater Boston area. I completed my education at Northeastern University and furthered my training at Brigham Psychiatric Specialties. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Square Medical Group in Woburn, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. I am particularly interested in psychiatric research and health disparities, integrating insights from these areas into my practice. I am offering in-person medication management appointments in our Woburn office, as well as telehealth appointments.

Shannon Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C , PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello and welcome to Shannon Psychiatry! I am accepting new patients at this time. My primary specialty is ages 14 years to 30 years. All visits are through telemedicine, so I can see anyone in the state of Massachusetts from the comfort of your home, without having to worry about the commute! If you are a new patient, urgently needing to be seen, I can usually get you in within 2-3 days. My love for what I do in psychiatry, comes from the joy I get in helping others improve their lives. Most of my patients do not know which direction to go when then come to me, and that is ok. We can work on that together!
Hello and welcome to Shannon Psychiatry! I am accepting new patients at this time. My primary specialty is ages 14 years to 30 years. All visits are through telemedicine, so I can see anyone in the state of Massachusetts from the comfort of your home, without having to worry about the commute! If you are a new patient, urgently needing to be seen, I can usually get you in within 2-3 days. My love for what I do in psychiatry, comes from the joy I get in helping others improve their lives. Most of my patients do not know which direction to go when then come to me, and that is ok. We can work on that together!

I treat adults with mental health disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD and PTSD. I also treat adults with substance use disorders and behavioral addictions. I believe in individualizing treatment based on each person's needs. I offer medication management visits, complemented with elements of Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and psychodymanic psychotherapy. I also offer psychotherapy visits without medication management, if someone is not in need of medications.
I treat adults with mental health disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD and PTSD. I also treat adults with substance use disorders and behavioral addictions. I believe in individualizing treatment based on each person's needs. I offer medication management visits, complemented with elements of Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and psychodymanic psychotherapy. I also offer psychotherapy visits without medication management, if someone is not in need of medications.

Wellness Today
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with clients of all ages struggling with symptoms such as depression, anxiety, chronic fatigue, and brain fog. They may have tried traditional medications with limited success and are open to exploring root causes like gut health, thyroid, or adrenal imbalances. My ideal client is invested in their health and open to lifestyle changes, and willing to try natural solutions. While I prescribe medication, when necessary, this is secondary in my practice. My approach includes a full medical review, specialized lab testing, and care team coordination to support emotional healing and lasting wellness.
I work with clients of all ages struggling with symptoms such as depression, anxiety, chronic fatigue, and brain fog. They may have tried traditional medications with limited success and are open to exploring root causes like gut health, thyroid, or adrenal imbalances. My ideal client is invested in their health and open to lifestyle changes, and willing to try natural solutions. While I prescribe medication, when necessary, this is secondary in my practice. My approach includes a full medical review, specialized lab testing, and care team coordination to support emotional healing and lasting wellness.

Christine M Bourgeois
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner working in the Andover, MA area. I have been a Nurse Practitioner for 22 years initially starting out with a specialty in primary care pediatrics and then specializing in psychiatry in 2012. My practice is primarily pediatric focused, seeing children from age 7-25. With a background in primary care, I believe in doing a comprehensive medical review while considering the appropriate treatment to meet an individual's psychiatric needs.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner working in the Andover, MA area. I have been a Nurse Practitioner for 22 years initially starting out with a specialty in primary care pediatrics and then specializing in psychiatry in 2012. My practice is primarily pediatric focused, seeing children from age 7-25. With a background in primary care, I believe in doing a comprehensive medical review while considering the appropriate treatment to meet an individual's psychiatric needs.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Clients struggling in their mental health journey. I want you to feel empowered and supported throughout our journey together. Trust is not just a word to me-it is the foundation of our meeting. I am fully committed to helping you reach your goals and realize your dreams.
Clients struggling in their mental health journey. I want you to feel empowered and supported throughout our journey together. Trust is not just a word to me-it is the foundation of our meeting. I am fully committed to helping you reach your goals and realize your dreams.
See more therapy options for Winchester
Nearby Searches for Winchester
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Winchester, MA
10+
Average cost per session
$375
Psychiatrists in Winchester, MA who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
89% | Medication Management |
84% | Trauma and PTSD |
79% | ADHD |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
17 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
71% | Aetna |
71% | Harvard Pilgrim |
How Psychiatrists in Winchester, MA see their clients
90% | In Person and Online | |
10% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
21% | Male | |
7% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Winchester?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.