Psychiatrists in Boston, MA
![Photo of Chenelle Christian, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1774fc4c-14fc-44f7-9909-8bf3d088cc26/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP.) I am also Perinatal mental health certified. I provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management services to individuals 18-64 years old with mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, womens mental health and various other psychiatric diagnoses.
Hello! I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP.) I am also Perinatal mental health certified. I provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management services to individuals 18-64 years old with mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, womens mental health and various other psychiatric diagnoses.
![Photo of Jennifer Blackwell, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9f59b7b-fed5-4ab2-a22f-5098be1c3179/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Jenn, a nationally certified Physician Assistant (PA) with a strong focus on psychiatric care. Her unique background sets her apart as a healthcare professional who brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her field. Jenn served as a Soldier in the United States Army for 11 years before embarking on her journey in healthcare. Jenn's path to becoming a PA took her through the Interservice Physician Assistant program, where she received her education and certification in 2015.
Meet Jenn, a nationally certified Physician Assistant (PA) with a strong focus on psychiatric care. Her unique background sets her apart as a healthcare professional who brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her field. Jenn served as a Soldier in the United States Army for 11 years before embarking on her journey in healthcare. Jenn's path to becoming a PA took her through the Interservice Physician Assistant program, where she received her education and certification in 2015.
![Photo of Meredith Morrison, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a4ada10-ac51-4d71-b8c6-58a6e291f572/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meredith Morrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients with mental health issues across the lifespan. My clinical career has taken me on a journey through the healthcare system, from inpatient to outpatient settings. My clinical practice focuses on assessing, diagnosing, treatment planning and care coordination for those struggling with a wide range of mental health issues. I specialize in psychopharmacology and provide diagnostic evaluations, assessments and ongoing treatment via medication management for my clients, tailored to their individual needs’.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients with mental health issues across the lifespan. My clinical career has taken me on a journey through the healthcare system, from inpatient to outpatient settings. My clinical practice focuses on assessing, diagnosing, treatment planning and care coordination for those struggling with a wide range of mental health issues. I specialize in psychopharmacology and provide diagnostic evaluations, assessments and ongoing treatment via medication management for my clients, tailored to their individual needs’.
![Photo of Anastasia Burns, PMHNP, AGNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bf77ca0-4dbd-4e51-89d0-b0c603b18be4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anastasia Burns
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02109 (Online Only)
Anastasia Burns is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping individuals cultivate joy and harmony amidst life's challenges. Her clients grapple with persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and lack of motivation that can render even simple tasks overwhelming. She also specializes in supporting those who experience frequent anxiety, fear, physical symptoms like racing heart or trembling, as well as intense irritability or short-temperedness – conditions that can significantly impair daily functioning and engagement.
Anastasia Burns is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping individuals cultivate joy and harmony amidst life's challenges. Her clients grapple with persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and lack of motivation that can render even simple tasks overwhelming. She also specializes in supporting those who experience frequent anxiety, fear, physical symptoms like racing heart or trembling, as well as intense irritability or short-temperedness – conditions that can significantly impair daily functioning and engagement.
![Photo of Dhanviney (Vinay) Verma, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e0c8ad2-0937-48b9-96ea-1f469a2dbe70/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital and a faculty member at Harvard Medical School. I consider it a true privilege to serve as your psychiatrist. In my private practice, I am committed to working with you to enhance your quality of life in meaningful ways. My approach is collaborative, empowering you to take control of your mental well-being and achieve the goals that matter most to you.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital and a faculty member at Harvard Medical School. I consider it a true privilege to serve as your psychiatrist. In my private practice, I am committed to working with you to enhance your quality of life in meaningful ways. My approach is collaborative, empowering you to take control of your mental well-being and achieve the goals that matter most to you.
![Photo of Dr. Fey Ramey, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a18afed6-9187-4ade-8c34-d3c6be110129/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Fey Ramey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Dr. Fey Ramey, a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 17 years of nursing experience and a doctorate from Duke University. Specializing in evidence-based mental health and substance use disorder treatment for over 2 years, I'm here to support individuals like you in your mental health journey. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, I provide a safe, empathetic space tailored to meet your unique needs. My collaborative approach encompasses personalized treatment plans and a commitment to your empowerment.
Welcome! I'm Dr. Fey Ramey, a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 17 years of nursing experience and a doctorate from Duke University. Specializing in evidence-based mental health and substance use disorder treatment for over 2 years, I'm here to support individuals like you in your mental health journey. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, I provide a safe, empathetic space tailored to meet your unique needs. My collaborative approach encompasses personalized treatment plans and a commitment to your empowerment.
![Photo of Molly Sonner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/532c573d-1685-4e1b-b3a9-1cff2c905fe2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Molly, and I am a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified by the ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center), with a specialization in child and adolescent mental health. I have extensive experience working with individuals across all age ranges and from diverse backgrounds, and I am committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to my patients.
Hello, my name is Molly, and I am a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified by the ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center), with a specialization in child and adolescent mental health. I have extensive experience working with individuals across all age ranges and from diverse backgrounds, and I am committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to my patients.
![Photo of Eli Nader, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81de7f10-af07-4eac-8571-679d73947460/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, possessing specialized expertise in both General Adult Psychiatry from Harvard University and Consultation Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) from Boston University. I earned Board Certification in both specialties from the esteemed American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Additionally, I am recognized as a Board Certified Addiction Medicine Specialist by the esteemed American Board of Preventive Medicine. A focal aspect of my expertise lies in psychopharmacological treatment and complex medication management which enables me to tailor precise and specific treatment plans.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, possessing specialized expertise in both General Adult Psychiatry from Harvard University and Consultation Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) from Boston University. I earned Board Certification in both specialties from the esteemed American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Additionally, I am recognized as a Board Certified Addiction Medicine Specialist by the esteemed American Board of Preventive Medicine. A focal aspect of my expertise lies in psychopharmacological treatment and complex medication management which enables me to tailor precise and specific treatment plans.
![Photo of Daniel Gonzalez, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd48e086-618b-4d33-b0db-3cdeeb2bc679/1/320x400.png)
Do you have difficulty feeling at peace? Do you struggle with finding your voice, unable to fully embrace who you are? Is it difficult for you to accept yourself, or challenging to navigate your life, given your current environment or community? These are certainly distressing feelings that can contribute to restlessness, anxiety, or depression. They can be debilitating and keep you from living the life you envision. I believe we are multi-faceted individuals, with dynamic and evolving features, who are both capable and deserving of living with a greater sense of fulfillment and connectedness.
Do you have difficulty feeling at peace? Do you struggle with finding your voice, unable to fully embrace who you are? Is it difficult for you to accept yourself, or challenging to navigate your life, given your current environment or community? These are certainly distressing feelings that can contribute to restlessness, anxiety, or depression. They can be debilitating and keep you from living the life you envision. I believe we are multi-faceted individuals, with dynamic and evolving features, who are both capable and deserving of living with a greater sense of fulfillment and connectedness.
![Photo of Erin Valenti, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2614054b-a587-41c6-9378-ab0aaaf62917/1/320x400.jpeg)
You want to take care of your mental health, but a one-size-fits-all system isn't working for you. You'd like a more flexible and creative approach and a highly personalized treatment plan. You're looking for a provider that is approachable, available, and attentive. The relationship between a provider and a client is everything in mental health treatment. I founded Newbury Street Psychiatry and Psychotherapy to provide patients with treatment relationships that are open, collaborative, and all about you.
You want to take care of your mental health, but a one-size-fits-all system isn't working for you. You'd like a more flexible and creative approach and a highly personalized treatment plan. You're looking for a provider that is approachable, available, and attentive. The relationship between a provider and a client is everything in mental health treatment. I founded Newbury Street Psychiatry and Psychotherapy to provide patients with treatment relationships that are open, collaborative, and all about you.
![Photo of Yixi Dong, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1928703-a8c4-455f-af00-232d16d70d12/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yixi Dong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109 (Online Only)
As a college student, you may suddenly have to master every aspect of your life with little guidance in college. Have you wondered why you hold such high expectations for yourself? Why do you constantly worry about how others see you? Why do you prioritize others’ feelings over yours? How can you focus on classes and complete assignments on time? You may feel lost and confused. This can lead to sadness, fatigue, loss of interest in activities, or constant anxiety about things that don’t seem to bother others. You may feel like you’ve lost control of your emotions.
As a college student, you may suddenly have to master every aspect of your life with little guidance in college. Have you wondered why you hold such high expectations for yourself? Why do you constantly worry about how others see you? Why do you prioritize others’ feelings over yours? How can you focus on classes and complete assignments on time? You may feel lost and confused. This can lead to sadness, fatigue, loss of interest in activities, or constant anxiety about things that don’t seem to bother others. You may feel like you’ve lost control of your emotions.
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![Photo of Ishnane Guillet, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30add9b6-920c-4dd5-a584-9fd298e0d46c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ishnane Guillet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02131 (Online Only)
I am looking to help the professional struggling with burnout, the Christian who has always been unsure about psychiatric medication in context with their faith, the individual struggling with trauma, anxiety and depression, all the way to the, "I'm curious about mental health but I'm not sure if it's for me."
I am looking to help the professional struggling with burnout, the Christian who has always been unsure about psychiatric medication in context with their faith, the individual struggling with trauma, anxiety and depression, all the way to the, "I'm curious about mental health but I'm not sure if it's for me."
![Photo of Ying A. Cao - Integrative Psychiatry & TMS Dr. Ying A. Cao, MD, MEng, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c6a71b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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Psychiatrist, MD, MEng
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
Thriving in an evermore complex world can be overwhelming; mental health is key and self-actualization is a journey best undertaken with good support. Hello! I am a Harvard-affiliated psychiatrist and MIT-trained engineer with additional background in Traditional Chinese Medicine and genetics. I believe in the motto "Mind & Hand" and the transformative power of integrative care that aims to incorporate the full biopsychosocial experience of each patient and actualize lasting growth through facilitating insight, addressing root-causes, shifting paradigms, upgrading coping skills, and implementing measurable improvements.
Thriving in an evermore complex world can be overwhelming; mental health is key and self-actualization is a journey best undertaken with good support. Hello! I am a Harvard-affiliated psychiatrist and MIT-trained engineer with additional background in Traditional Chinese Medicine and genetics. I believe in the motto "Mind & Hand" and the transformative power of integrative care that aims to incorporate the full biopsychosocial experience of each patient and actualize lasting growth through facilitating insight, addressing root-causes, shifting paradigms, upgrading coping skills, and implementing measurable improvements.
![Photo of Cecily Allen - Holistic Well, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5e48ce5-4607-47f5-ac6f-fb3eecb544a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Great to meet you! Working in Psychiatric mental health since 2016, I help children and adults throughout the lifespan. I have an MSN from Regis College. Neurodivergent individuals and those with special needs are very welcome to my practice. I provide LGBTQAI+ affirming care. I offer no-rush care and supportive therapy for a range of issues. Your goals are my goals. Satisfaction and life-fulfillment are on the horizon and I can help you on this journey.
Great to meet you! Working in Psychiatric mental health since 2016, I help children and adults throughout the lifespan. I have an MSN from Regis College. Neurodivergent individuals and those with special needs are very welcome to my practice. I provide LGBTQAI+ affirming care. I offer no-rush care and supportive therapy for a range of issues. Your goals are my goals. Satisfaction and life-fulfillment are on the horizon and I can help you on this journey.
![Photo of Lisa Marie Shaffer, RN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d4a7d51-56c4-4b51-a0b6-8effd4ae6d1d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Marie Shaffer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115 (Online Only)
Lisa Shaffer is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has several years of experience in both medical and psychiatric care settings including, inpatient, outpatient and emergency care. She works collaboratively with clients of all ages integrating medication management, and psychotherapy in order to empower her clients in becoming their best self.
Lisa Shaffer is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has several years of experience in both medical and psychiatric care settings including, inpatient, outpatient and emergency care. She works collaboratively with clients of all ages integrating medication management, and psychotherapy in order to empower her clients in becoming their best self.
![Photo of Vanja Pumpalovic - Vanja Pumpalovic, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32376d5c-361d-489f-823d-60594f9b5d5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vanja Pumpalovic, PMHNP - OptiMindHealth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
Vanja received her Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Tennessee State University and her Masters of Science in psychiatric nursing from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She strives to create a secure and stable environment for her patients in order to facilitate collaboration and the creation of an effective treatment plan.
Vanja received her Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Tennessee State University and her Masters of Science in psychiatric nursing from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She strives to create a secure and stable environment for her patients in order to facilitate collaboration and the creation of an effective treatment plan.
![Photo of Kelechi Job, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86bcafbc-bea2-4289-a3b8-cd5fe40b62a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 5 years experience, providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management for patients with mental health problems.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 5 years experience, providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management for patients with mental health problems.
![Photo of Drew Pittman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e19d15ec-4f77-4900-a433-bdb64b8e3680/5/320x400.jpeg)
Drew Pittman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116 (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new patients for same week telehealth appointments in Ohio, Florida, Colorado and Massachusetts. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adults suffering as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I specialize in offering individualized, measurement based care to quickly assess and treat your illness. I prescribe psychiatric medications and recommend therapy modalities and natural remedies that are tailored to your symptoms. I take pride in improving your well-being quickly, while minimizing side effects from medications.
I am currently accepting new patients for same week telehealth appointments in Ohio, Florida, Colorado and Massachusetts. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adults suffering as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I specialize in offering individualized, measurement based care to quickly assess and treat your illness. I prescribe psychiatric medications and recommend therapy modalities and natural remedies that are tailored to your symptoms. I take pride in improving your well-being quickly, while minimizing side effects from medications.
![Photo of James Niels Rosenquist, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dfa0bf1-dc6d-43c9-95bb-335a2a716c1c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking professional help for mental health is a challenge for many people. Between doubt (about their symptoms needing treatment), skepticism (about the efficacy of treatments), shame (about their symptoms), and frustration (over finding providers that can treat them), many people are not able to connect with providers who can help them. People deserve to have access to providers who can listen, explain, and treat them with intelligence and empathy.
Seeking professional help for mental health is a challenge for many people. Between doubt (about their symptoms needing treatment), skepticism (about the efficacy of treatments), shame (about their symptoms), and frustration (over finding providers that can treat them), many people are not able to connect with providers who can help them. People deserve to have access to providers who can listen, explain, and treat them with intelligence and empathy.
![Photo of Yuan Jia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f45e75b2-c376-4554-9897-2630b6de0229/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yuan has experience working in community mental health, psychiatric consultation, skilled nursing facilities, and outpatient practice. Yuan values the importance of understanding the stigma traditionally associated with mental health struggles and wishes to provide the best-individualized care with an evidence-based and effective holistic approach. She provides a thorough diagnostic evaluation to detect patterns in thoughts and behaviors in her patients, and then match them to appropriate diagnoses.
Yuan has experience working in community mental health, psychiatric consultation, skilled nursing facilities, and outpatient practice. Yuan values the importance of understanding the stigma traditionally associated with mental health struggles and wishes to provide the best-individualized care with an evidence-based and effective holistic approach. She provides a thorough diagnostic evaluation to detect patterns in thoughts and behaviors in her patients, and then match them to appropriate diagnoses.
See more therapy options for Boston
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Boston, MA
400+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Boston, MA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
72% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Medication Management |
70% | ADHD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
82% | Aetna |
81% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Boston, MA see their clients
53% | In Person and Online | |
47% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
30% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Boston?
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.