Psychiatrists in Boston, MA
![Photo of Carly Rando, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83b19253-35a0-421d-a4db-10c2b2464442/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing for 7 years. I earned my BS in Neuroscience from Trinity College in 2012 after which I went on to graduate from Boston College Connell School of Nursing, earning a Master’s degree in Nursing in 2014. I have broad-ranging experience working in outpatient settings particularly in in private practice. I have worked and continue to work extensively with diverse populations. My expertise includes treating adolescents, adult and geriatric populations; utilizing a combination of psychopharmacology and supportive therapy.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing for 7 years. I earned my BS in Neuroscience from Trinity College in 2012 after which I went on to graduate from Boston College Connell School of Nursing, earning a Master’s degree in Nursing in 2014. I have broad-ranging experience working in outpatient settings particularly in in private practice. I have worked and continue to work extensively with diverse populations. My expertise includes treating adolescents, adult and geriatric populations; utilizing a combination of psychopharmacology and supportive therapy.
![Photo of Samantha Rose Jankowski, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ed44897-ef96-41ab-92b5-7c03e4658928/3/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Rose Jankowski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109 (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Patients! Samantha is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. Samantha offers convenient telehealth psychiatric medication management. She specializes in GAD, MDD, ADHD, OCD, and Eating Disorders. Samantha utilizes her therapeutic background to create a trusting and respectful environment for her patients. Samantha is committed to a patient-centered care approach, crediting positive outcomes to shared decision making and the patient-provider alliance.
Now Accepting New Patients! Samantha is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. Samantha offers convenient telehealth psychiatric medication management. She specializes in GAD, MDD, ADHD, OCD, and Eating Disorders. Samantha utilizes her therapeutic background to create a trusting and respectful environment for her patients. Samantha is committed to a patient-centered care approach, crediting positive outcomes to shared decision making and the patient-provider alliance.
![Photo of Brian Jewers - Northeast Wellness, PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae62a792-6a34-4090-9d43-8e57e83fe7fa/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brian Jewers is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with many years of experience and a passion to help his community. Brian specializes in ADHD, Depression and Anxiety. Brian is a proud veteran of the United States Air Force where he served for nearly a decade, and translates the same commitment to serve into his nursing career. Now accepting new patients ages 14 and older.
Brian Jewers is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with many years of experience and a passion to help his community. Brian specializes in ADHD, Depression and Anxiety. Brian is a proud veteran of the United States Air Force where he served for nearly a decade, and translates the same commitment to serve into his nursing career. Now accepting new patients ages 14 and older.
![Photo of Nikolas Wilde - Awaken Mind Center, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25d256c1-d36a-45b4-989a-9a799ae73137/1/320x400.png)
At Awaken Mind Center, we are dedicated in providing comprehensive mental health services to support your progress towards well-being. We provide a wide range of services tailored to your unique needs. Whether through therapy, medication management, genetic testing, our goal is to support your mental wellness with compassionate, and evidence-based care. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve a better quality of life.
At Awaken Mind Center, we are dedicated in providing comprehensive mental health services to support your progress towards well-being. We provide a wide range of services tailored to your unique needs. Whether through therapy, medication management, genetic testing, our goal is to support your mental wellness with compassionate, and evidence-based care. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve a better quality of life.
![Photo of Lauren Stanley, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/270e4118-2297-47c7-a763-0a9c13b9c99d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Lauren, a nationally certified Physician Associate with a specialization in psychiatry, highlighting her commitment to mental health care. Her educational journey, marked by academic excellence, includes both a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from MCPHS University, where she graduated magna cum laude. Lauren's primary goal as a psychiatric PA is to empower her patients to achieve their mental health goals through honest and open communication.
Meet Lauren, a nationally certified Physician Associate with a specialization in psychiatry, highlighting her commitment to mental health care. Her educational journey, marked by academic excellence, includes both a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from MCPHS University, where she graduated magna cum laude. Lauren's primary goal as a psychiatric PA is to empower her patients to achieve their mental health goals through honest and open communication.
![Photo of Sparsha S. Reddy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38919e68-09e2-4b23-a3d3-94f72162519d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Harvard and Brown University trained board-certified psychiatrist welcoming new patients seeking tailored, patient-centered psychiatric care in a warm and supportive environment. Whether you want to gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, emotions and behaviors, learn new coping strategies, calm anxiety, feel more confident or cultivate healthier relationships, therapy can help jumpstart that journey.
I am a Harvard and Brown University trained board-certified psychiatrist welcoming new patients seeking tailored, patient-centered psychiatric care in a warm and supportive environment. Whether you want to gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, emotions and behaviors, learn new coping strategies, calm anxiety, feel more confident or cultivate healthier relationships, therapy can help jumpstart that journey.
![Photo of Alexandra Strack, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/510f7800-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Strack
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116 (Online Only)
I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, and received my Master of Science in Psychiatric Nursing from Northeastern University.
I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, and received my Master of Science in Psychiatric Nursing from Northeastern University.
![Photo of Marissa Ross, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e55fe524-db08-45bd-88c5-a60e7b507f5c/1/320x400.png)
Marissa Ross is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who treats a variety of mental health concerns including mood disorders, depression, anxiety, sleep, insomnia, PTSD, substance abuse, and women's issues. Marissa is a compassionate provider with strong clinical skills and an emphasis on following evidence-based guidelines.
Marissa Ross is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who treats a variety of mental health concerns including mood disorders, depression, anxiety, sleep, insomnia, PTSD, substance abuse, and women's issues. Marissa is a compassionate provider with strong clinical skills and an emphasis on following evidence-based guidelines.
![Photo of Amanda Bennett, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7cfb59e-462f-4c89-96d7-d3d3a7dfbf53/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Amanda Bennett is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry who specializes in medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. She completed medical school at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her adult residency training at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center/Tufts University School of Medicine.Dr. Bennett has worked in a variety of treatment settings, including inpatient and outpatient, as well as community and academic centers.
Dr. Amanda Bennett is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry who specializes in medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. She completed medical school at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her adult residency training at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center/Tufts University School of Medicine.Dr. Bennett has worked in a variety of treatment settings, including inpatient and outpatient, as well as community and academic centers.
![Photo of Stephanie Etienne, MSN , PMHNP-B, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03df293c-334d-4507-8ef1-8a3247a59ae7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Etienne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP-B, RN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
Stephanie is accepting NEW patients. As dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I obtained my BSN at Southern New Hampshire University. My desire to make a difference in the mental health field led me to further my education at Regis College, where I graduated with my master’s in nursing in May 2023, specializing in Psychiatry. As a Psychiatric Mental Health NP, my approach to patient care is deeply rooted in compassion and understanding. I VALUE validation; focus on the present, ensure that her patients feel seen, heard, and supported throughout their healing journey.
Stephanie is accepting NEW patients. As dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I obtained my BSN at Southern New Hampshire University. My desire to make a difference in the mental health field led me to further my education at Regis College, where I graduated with my master’s in nursing in May 2023, specializing in Psychiatry. As a Psychiatric Mental Health NP, my approach to patient care is deeply rooted in compassion and understanding. I VALUE validation; focus on the present, ensure that her patients feel seen, heard, and supported throughout their healing journey.
![Photo of Asma Rashid, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cfe0edc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Harvard trained, board certified, Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with a private practice in Back Bay Area, Boston. I believe that, the treatment process begins by creating an empathic and trusting relationship between the clinician and patients. During my evaluation and ongoing work, I consider various factors such as, genetic predisposition, biological, psychological and social processes to understand the person fully. Academic affiliation with Boston University helps me stay abreast with not only the recent developments in the field of psychiatry but also with the cultural and evidence based treatments.
I am a Harvard trained, board certified, Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with a private practice in Back Bay Area, Boston. I believe that, the treatment process begins by creating an empathic and trusting relationship between the clinician and patients. During my evaluation and ongoing work, I consider various factors such as, genetic predisposition, biological, psychological and social processes to understand the person fully. Academic affiliation with Boston University helps me stay abreast with not only the recent developments in the field of psychiatry but also with the cultural and evidence based treatments.
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![Photo of Adriana Blakely-Chavez, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84cc3b27-69a3-4ecb-bcd9-ad04a8eb6da3/2/320x400.jpeg)
With a strong commitment to mental health, I have acquired extensive experience as a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional. I played a vital role in educating patients on essential aspects of mental health, and I've also done a lot of work in helping individuals dealing with diabetic and weight management issues deal and work through these concerns.
With a strong commitment to mental health, I have acquired extensive experience as a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional. I played a vital role in educating patients on essential aspects of mental health, and I've also done a lot of work in helping individuals dealing with diabetic and weight management issues deal and work through these concerns.
![Photo of Donald Schiermer MD PhD, MD, PhD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e42ca89-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
You need help, but are unsure where to turn. Wary of doctors, suspicious of drugs to which you think you could get "addicted," unbelieving that anyone could know you well enough to help. You may already be taking medicine, but aren't convinced it is the best one for you, or even helping at all. As a clinical psychologist and family physician trained in psychopharmacology, I apply an unusual and broad background to help identify and clarify what is "stuck" for you right now. Discovering ways to feel free of anxiety, depression, anger or hate is our business together.
You need help, but are unsure where to turn. Wary of doctors, suspicious of drugs to which you think you could get "addicted," unbelieving that anyone could know you well enough to help. You may already be taking medicine, but aren't convinced it is the best one for you, or even helping at all. As a clinical psychologist and family physician trained in psychopharmacology, I apply an unusual and broad background to help identify and clarify what is "stuck" for you right now. Discovering ways to feel free of anxiety, depression, anger or hate is our business together.
![Photo of Karla Hanson, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aac32e52-2f66-4910-a303-402750661738/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Karla, an exceptionally experienced Physician Assistant (PA) with an impressive 23-year career spanning across various medical specialties, including Primary Care, Community Health, Addiction Medicine, Surgery, and Geriatric and Adult Psychiatry. Karla's extensive background highlights her dedication to providing comprehensive and diverse healthcare services.
Meet Karla, an exceptionally experienced Physician Assistant (PA) with an impressive 23-year career spanning across various medical specialties, including Primary Care, Community Health, Addiction Medicine, Surgery, and Geriatric and Adult Psychiatry. Karla's extensive background highlights her dedication to providing comprehensive and diverse healthcare services.
![Photo of Dominque Serio, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ca7251d-b69e-4930-a9a2-876592adc16a/1/320x400.jpeg)
What sets Dominique apart is her specialization in mental health, where she is deeply committed to the emotional and psychological well-being of her patients. Her expertise extends beyond traditional medical care, as she understands the intricate relationship between mental and physical health.
What sets Dominique apart is her specialization in mental health, where she is deeply committed to the emotional and psychological well-being of her patients. Her expertise extends beyond traditional medical care, as she understands the intricate relationship between mental and physical health.
![Photo of Christoforos Iraklis Giakoumatos, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a4573df-c386-4523-9d8a-27153be3d389/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Robin Shannon - Shannon Psychiatry, LLC , FNP-C , PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64964182-25fc-4bac-b074-198982786208/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109
Hello! I am currently accepting new patients as of 1/14/2022. All visits are through telemedicine, so I can see anyone in the state of Massachusetts. 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. Some people come to me looking for second or third opinions about diagnosis or medications, some people are referred by a therapist to start medication. We can openly discuss decisions and options. This is a judgement free zone. There is no way you can TMI me!
Hello! I am currently accepting new patients as of 1/14/2022. All visits are through telemedicine, so I can see anyone in the state of Massachusetts. 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. Some people come to me looking for second or third opinions about diagnosis or medications, some people are referred by a therapist to start medication. We can openly discuss decisions and options. This is a judgement free zone. There is no way you can TMI me!
![Photo of Paul E Lynch, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c15db97-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work in a variety of ways in talk therapy to help you get what you want out of therapy. Most often that involves getting relief from painful emotional symptoms, improving personal relationships, becoming more productive in work, and being freed to take more pleasure from life. Therapy can also help you to gain greater control over your life, or change lifelong ways of coping that just aren't working as well as you'd like.
I work in a variety of ways in talk therapy to help you get what you want out of therapy. Most often that involves getting relief from painful emotional symptoms, improving personal relationships, becoming more productive in work, and being freed to take more pleasure from life. Therapy can also help you to gain greater control over your life, or change lifelong ways of coping that just aren't working as well as you'd like.
![Photo of Lisa Curtain, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb52267f-6415-46c6-8a81-8a6e78987120/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Curtain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02128 (Online Only)
Welcome; My name is Lisa Curtain and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) at The Evolving Mind LLC. I prescribe psychiatric medication for mental wellness and stability. I recognize that mental well-being is not merely the absence of illness but a dynamic state of balance, encompassing emotional, psychological, and social dimensions. Central to my approach is the cultivation of self-awareness and self-compassion. I encourage individuals to engage in a journey of introspection, exploring their thoughts, emotions and behaviors while being kind to self
Welcome; My name is Lisa Curtain and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) at The Evolving Mind LLC. I prescribe psychiatric medication for mental wellness and stability. I recognize that mental well-being is not merely the absence of illness but a dynamic state of balance, encompassing emotional, psychological, and social dimensions. Central to my approach is the cultivation of self-awareness and self-compassion. I encourage individuals to engage in a journey of introspection, exploring their thoughts, emotions and behaviors while being kind to self
![Photo of Asifa Noreen, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0d0ece9-ac29-4c0d-982a-2950b3ececc8/1/320x400.png)
Meet a dedicated Physician Assistant (PA) with over 11 years of valuable experience in the healthcare field. Graduating in 2012 from CUNY College, this PA brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to patient care. A committed and dedicated team member, this PA is known for their ability to work effectively within a healthcare team, contributing to positive clinical outcomes. Their excellence in communication and listening skills allows them to provide compassionate care and establish strong connections with patients.
Meet a dedicated Physician Assistant (PA) with over 11 years of valuable experience in the healthcare field. Graduating in 2012 from CUNY College, this PA brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to patient care. A committed and dedicated team member, this PA is known for their ability to work effectively within a healthcare team, contributing to positive clinical outcomes. Their excellence in communication and listening skills allows them to provide compassionate care and establish strong connections with patients.
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 |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
82% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Boston, MA see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | 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.