Psychiatrists in Allston, MA
![Photo of Greg Hard, MS, MHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d043d7e0-c160-4610-91c2-1bfaf3efc1de/1/320x400.png)
Accepting new patients! Are you struggling with ADHD, OCD, depression or anxiety? Taking a judgment-free and humanistic approach, I believe in utilizing all of the tools available to help my clients achieve optimal results, which may include evidence-based and precision medication management, psychotherapy, as well as emerging treatments that are often of interest to my clients, such as objective ADHD testing, precision psychopharmacology, along with holistic approaches. I completed my clinical training at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where I gained extensive experience working with adult and adolescent clients.
Accepting new patients! Are you struggling with ADHD, OCD, depression or anxiety? Taking a judgment-free and humanistic approach, I believe in utilizing all of the tools available to help my clients achieve optimal results, which may include evidence-based and precision medication management, psychotherapy, as well as emerging treatments that are often of interest to my clients, such as objective ADHD testing, precision psychopharmacology, along with holistic approaches. I completed my clinical training at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where I gained extensive experience working with adult and adolescent clients.
![Photo of Hanna Yapikhina, AGNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74a4220e-4ce8-40f6-8611-833c8e25d3b1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hanna Yapikhina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Allston, MA 02134
Welcome to your wellness journey. I am currently accepting new adult clients for medication management. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with a compassionate approach and 10+ years of clinical experience. I provide a comprehensive psychiatric assessments, develop tailored treatment plans, and implement evidence-based interventions for diverse mental health conditions while considering medical comorbidities.
Welcome to your wellness journey. I am currently accepting new adult clients for medication management. I am a dual board certified Psychiatric and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with a compassionate approach and 10+ years of clinical experience. I provide a comprehensive psychiatric assessments, develop tailored treatment plans, and implement evidence-based interventions for diverse mental health conditions while considering medical comorbidities.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Ashley Baker, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85963357-78f7-4b3c-ad70-d62ef106c081/1/320x400.jpeg)
We have immediate openings due to our expansion. We understand that getting an appointment in these post COVID times, is nearly impossible. This is why Ascend Integrative Medicine has opened extra spots in the after five hours. Call today and we will get you in right away.
We have immediate openings due to our expansion. We understand that getting an appointment in these post COVID times, is nearly impossible. This is why Ascend Integrative Medicine has opened extra spots in the after five hours. Call today and we will get you in right away.
![Photo of Jason Mishoe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19a394fd-81c6-4c7e-a0b4-9d137a43bc83/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experience in outpatient, inpatient, and emergency psychiatry. I strive to provide excellent, evidence-based care through collaboration and understanding each person’s unique history and needs.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experience in outpatient, inpatient, and emergency psychiatry. I strive to provide excellent, evidence-based care through collaboration and understanding each person’s unique history and needs.
![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 Erline Destra, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/960ab1bc-43d5-45bf-a143-d8d6d140f154/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erline Destra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02118 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, adjusting to life's challenges, or trauma? You're not alone, and there is help available.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, adjusting to life's challenges, or trauma? You're not alone, and there is help available.
![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 Mauree Whitaker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32606430-e35c-40f3-8c6f-65e77f2a9062/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mauree Whitaker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
Hi! I am dual certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been a Family Nurse Practitioner since 2011, and truly enjoy providing whole-person care for my patients. I have always felt passionate about mental health and emotional wellness, so I decided to go back to school to get my Psychiatry board certification in 2022 in order to provide the best care possible for my patients. I was born and raised in Athens, Georgia, and love the South, but I also have a love for Massachusetts and the Boston area.
Hi! I am dual certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have been a Family Nurse Practitioner since 2011, and truly enjoy providing whole-person care for my patients. I have always felt passionate about mental health and emotional wellness, so I decided to go back to school to get my Psychiatry board certification in 2022 in order to provide the best care possible for my patients. I was born and raised in Athens, Georgia, and love the South, but I also have a love for Massachusetts and the Boston area.
![Photo of Lauren Costello, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a7e543f-84ca-446c-8b68-224610c0ef61/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Costello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 12 years of experience. Particular interests of mine include working with anxiety and mood disorders. I provide a thoughtful evaluation of your condition and on-going medication management. We will work together to find the lowest dose of effective medications that will reduce your suffering and minimize side effects.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 12 years of experience. Particular interests of mine include working with anxiety and mood disorders. I provide a thoughtful evaluation of your condition and on-going medication management. We will work together to find the lowest dose of effective medications that will reduce your suffering and minimize side effects.
![Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63ac17aa-cd99-4b6f-8132-e31858fee2c7/2/320x400.png)
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02215 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
![Photo of Paolo Cassano, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84434268-6736-4d6f-ad49-219c88c3d1b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
With nearly three decades of experience in psychiatry, focusing on neuropsychiatric conditions that affect mood and cognition, my goal is to deliver new, effective therapies to those struggling with depression, anxiety, post-COVID syndromes, cognitive impairments, and more. With my extensive background in neuropsychopharmacology (and affiliations with Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Harvard Medical School as Director of Photobiomodulation and Associate Professor respectively), I always start with the most scientifically proven treatments. I ensure that my approach aligns with the latest, evidence-based standards.
With nearly three decades of experience in psychiatry, focusing on neuropsychiatric conditions that affect mood and cognition, my goal is to deliver new, effective therapies to those struggling with depression, anxiety, post-COVID syndromes, cognitive impairments, and more. With my extensive background in neuropsychopharmacology (and affiliations with Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Harvard Medical School as Director of Photobiomodulation and Associate Professor respectively), I always start with the most scientifically proven treatments. I ensure that my approach aligns with the latest, evidence-based standards.
![Photo of Rachel Steere, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab0ccc4d-8431-4a9b-9e15-85c74ca90d72/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Steere
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
Waitlist for new clients
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist in adult psychiatry and addiction psychiatry in Boston, Massachusetts. I provide psychiatric evaluation, consultation, individual psychodynamic psychotherapy, and psychopharmacology for adults age 18-65. My focus is on helping individuals to develop a greater understanding of themselves and their patterns of relating to others as they navigate life transitions, relationships, losses, and life’s many complexities.
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist in adult psychiatry and addiction psychiatry in Boston, Massachusetts. I provide psychiatric evaluation, consultation, individual psychodynamic psychotherapy, and psychopharmacology for adults age 18-65. My focus is on helping individuals to develop a greater understanding of themselves and their patterns of relating to others as they navigate life transitions, relationships, losses, and life’s many complexities.
![Photo of Saria El Haddad, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/942ffd3b-6a89-42e9-adef-760dea0bc288/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Saria El Haddad is double boarded in general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry. She previously held a leadership role of medical director for the dual diagnosis partial hospitalization program at the Brigham and Women's Faulkner hospital where she helped create and establish this program, and also worked as an outpatient addiction psychiatrist. She has been involved in teaching and currently maintains academic affiliation with the Harvard Medical School. In addition, she has appeared in numerous professional publications and authored several research papers.
Dr. Saria El Haddad is double boarded in general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry. She previously held a leadership role of medical director for the dual diagnosis partial hospitalization program at the Brigham and Women's Faulkner hospital where she helped create and establish this program, and also worked as an outpatient addiction psychiatrist. She has been involved in teaching and currently maintains academic affiliation with the Harvard Medical School. In addition, she has appeared in numerous professional publications and authored several research papers.
![Photo of Saleema John, MMS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ea07a8b-b31d-499d-9b3a-449fe80abf40/1/320x400.png)
Saleema John
Physician Assistant, MMS, PA-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446 (Online Only)
Insurance-Covered. Personalized. Compassionate. Medication Management. Trained by Harvard Medical School Faculty Member. I am a dedicated clinician with a passion for providing high-quality psychiatric care tailored to your unique needs to enhance your mental health. I understand that medication can play a crucial role in achieving balance and stability in life. Whether you are navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, etc., my focus is on delivering empathetic and individualized care. I embrace a holistic approach to mental health, recognizing the importance of lifestyle, self-care, and therapeutic support.
Insurance-Covered. Personalized. Compassionate. Medication Management. Trained by Harvard Medical School Faculty Member. I am a dedicated clinician with a passion for providing high-quality psychiatric care tailored to your unique needs to enhance your mental health. I understand that medication can play a crucial role in achieving balance and stability in life. Whether you are navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, etc., my focus is on delivering empathetic and individualized care. I embrace a holistic approach to mental health, recognizing the importance of lifestyle, self-care, and therapeutic support.
![Photo of Jungjin Kim, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f6a8bab-22d7-4c56-a053-a0dc175ea61d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jungjin Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02146 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! It's not easy finding an excellent psychiatrist in today's world. I aim to be that psychiatrist you can send your family with confidence...a caring and trustworthy partnership that is consistently warm, knowledgeable, and thoughtful. To ensure outstanding service, I have a boutique practice, where patients have access to sooner appointments and can speak to me outside of appointments, if needed. I start with a thorough assessment to individualize your journey towards a life grounded in peace, contentment, and meaning.
Hello! It's not easy finding an excellent psychiatrist in today's world. I aim to be that psychiatrist you can send your family with confidence...a caring and trustworthy partnership that is consistently warm, knowledgeable, and thoughtful. To ensure outstanding service, I have a boutique practice, where patients have access to sooner appointments and can speak to me outside of appointments, if needed. I start with a thorough assessment to individualize your journey towards a life grounded in peace, contentment, and meaning.
![Photo of Claudio O. Toppelberg, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/401cd04e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Toppelberg is an experienced, Harvard-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, usually working with ages 3-30. He evaluates and treats emotional/ behavioral difficulties including ADHD, depression, trauma, stress, anxiety, and selective mutism, and those preventing weight loss. He has focused on issues of performance at work, study and competitive sports. He regularly works with tour-level tennis players and other professional and student athletes. He is an expert in neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as learning and language disabilities. He runs psychiatric services at an excellent school for children/adolescents with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities, the prestigious New England Center for Children.
Dr. Toppelberg is an experienced, Harvard-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, usually working with ages 3-30. He evaluates and treats emotional/ behavioral difficulties including ADHD, depression, trauma, stress, anxiety, and selective mutism, and those preventing weight loss. He has focused on issues of performance at work, study and competitive sports. He regularly works with tour-level tennis players and other professional and student athletes. He is an expert in neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as learning and language disabilities. He runs psychiatric services at an excellent school for children/adolescents with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities, the prestigious New England Center for Children.
![Photo of Joseph Lavoie, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/419d5b87-7bc6-4f39-a757-62277c7a0a1a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joseph Lavoie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Somerville, MA 02143
People reach out to me with a variety of concerns including anxiety, attention difficulty, depression, sleep trouble, grief, relationship issues, sexual identity, self-esteem, life transitions and so much more. Whether a teenager, young adult, middle-aged or older, my clients are looking for help to overcome personal struggles and to achieve their optimal potential for mental, emotional, and physical health.
People reach out to me with a variety of concerns including anxiety, attention difficulty, depression, sleep trouble, grief, relationship issues, sexual identity, self-esteem, life transitions and so much more. Whether a teenager, young adult, middle-aged or older, my clients are looking for help to overcome personal struggles and to achieve their optimal potential for mental, emotional, and physical health.
![Photo of Mack Schoenfeld, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6084c391-141e-4b7c-8d4f-38f206a965cc/1/320x400.png)
Medication Management: Personalized, Compassionate, Evidence-Based, Empowering, Insurance Accepted!... Hello! I’m Mack, and I would be honored to hear from you and care for you in your mental health journey. Send me a message and let me know how I can help you. Thanks! → Customized Compassionate Care: I individualize my medication treatment plans to your unique experiences, symptoms, narrative, needs, and goals. → Root Cause Approach: I delve deeper than surface symptoms, taking time to understand your history and diagnostic picture (ordering appropriate laboratory tests; optional genetic testing).
Medication Management: Personalized, Compassionate, Evidence-Based, Empowering, Insurance Accepted!... Hello! I’m Mack, and I would be honored to hear from you and care for you in your mental health journey. Send me a message and let me know how I can help you. Thanks! → Customized Compassionate Care: I individualize my medication treatment plans to your unique experiences, symptoms, narrative, needs, and goals. → Root Cause Approach: I delve deeper than surface symptoms, taking time to understand your history and diagnostic picture (ordering appropriate laboratory tests; optional genetic testing).
![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 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.
See more therapy options for Allston
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Allston, MA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Allston, MA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Harvard Pilgrim |
How Psychiatrists in Allston, MA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Allston?
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.