Psychiatrists in Hyde Park, MA
![Photo of Clarence Theodore Dennis, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/469dfe39-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clarence Theodore Dennis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hyde Park, MA 02136
with all the technological advances in society you would expect life to be more simple to manage, but it has become more complicated. there are more and more people dealing with depression,anxiety, and other mental health issues. my practice is centered on creating a safe environment to help you live successfully and reach the goals that you have set for yourself.I use a combination of solution-focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and medication management.
with all the technological advances in society you would expect life to be more simple to manage, but it has become more complicated. there are more and more people dealing with depression,anxiety, and other mental health issues. my practice is centered on creating a safe environment to help you live successfully and reach the goals that you have set for yourself.I use a combination of solution-focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and medication management.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Sarah Silva, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c62c524d-f944-416d-868b-9cc99291dfa7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner clinically educated in treating patients with mental health diagnoses across the lifespan. I have more than 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. I am passionate about taking a patient-centered care approach, attributing positive outcomes to shared decision making.
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner clinically educated in treating patients with mental health diagnoses across the lifespan. I have more than 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. I am passionate about taking a patient-centered care approach, attributing positive outcomes to shared decision making.
Gabriella Marciante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Dedham, MA 02026 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) across the lifespan. Embracing a holistic approach with the belief that mental health is a multidimensional experience, I strive to promote an active partnership with my clients to manage and decrease symptoms of mental illness. I would enjoy collaborating with your therapist or other providers, and believe combining both medication and psychotherapy allows for the best possible outcomes. I enjoy working with patients age 16 and older who present with a diversity of psychiatric needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) across the lifespan. Embracing a holistic approach with the belief that mental health is a multidimensional experience, I strive to promote an active partnership with my clients to manage and decrease symptoms of mental illness. I would enjoy collaborating with your therapist or other providers, and believe combining both medication and psychotherapy allows for the best possible outcomes. I enjoy working with patients age 16 and older who present with a diversity of psychiatric needs.
![Photo of Michal McDowell, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23fe6af4-efa2-4c4e-9e75-1c30ed382260/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michal McDowell's clinical interests include the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, somatization, and relational difficulties, as well as caring for sexually and gender diverse patients. She takes a dynamic approach to care: her practice is informed by cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and attachment theory. Dr. McDowell sees adult individuals based in Massachusetts in her practice.
Dr. Michal McDowell's clinical interests include the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, somatization, and relational difficulties, as well as caring for sexually and gender diverse patients. She takes a dynamic approach to care: her practice is informed by cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and attachment theory. Dr. McDowell sees adult individuals based in Massachusetts in her practice.
![Photo of Charlotte Maguire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c38a4b0-759d-4137-9f0a-d9f0d6d6a14b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Charlotte Maguire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dedham, MA 02026
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and received my training from MGH Institute of Health Professions, which included induction into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and received my training from MGH Institute of Health Professions, which included induction into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
![Photo of Sandra Bellerice - Inspired by Belsa, Mental Health & Wellness, LLC, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b02b1bb9-a615-4acd-aa51-cf6540842eaf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inspired by Belsa, Mental Health & Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02126
Welcome to Inspired by Belsa! Meet Sandra Bellerice, a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in depression and anxiety. Sandra listens to your unique needs, manages medication, and offers tailored psychotherapy. Never feel alone with a healthcare provider like Sandra. Your treatment is personalized and follows evidence-based guidelines. Share your story, and let Sandra guide you to a brighter, healthier path. You deserve to live your life to the fullest.
Welcome to Inspired by Belsa! Meet Sandra Bellerice, a compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in depression and anxiety. Sandra listens to your unique needs, manages medication, and offers tailored psychotherapy. Never feel alone with a healthcare provider like Sandra. Your treatment is personalized and follows evidence-based guidelines. Share your story, and let Sandra guide you to a brighter, healthier path. You deserve to live your life to the fullest.
![Photo of Melanie Daley - Carnegie Psychiatry, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/064cf029-ac0d-4213-a532-accaf863072a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carnegie Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02136
Currently accepting new patients for medication management. Melanie Daley's professional background as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Massachusetts reflects a comprehensive and dedicated career in mental health care. With over twelve years of experience as a Registered Nurse in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis settings, Melanie possesses a robust skill set to address various mental health issues.
Currently accepting new patients for medication management. Melanie Daley's professional background as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Massachusetts reflects a comprehensive and dedicated career in mental health care. With over twelve years of experience as a Registered Nurse in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis settings, Melanie possesses a robust skill set to address various mental health issues.
![Photo of Onyinye Osuagwu - Victorious HealthCare Services LLC, BSN , MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa859efa-f98c-47e9-b406-66e69e6fdf14/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victorious HealthCare Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN , MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02136
I am Onyinye Osuagwu, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive experience working as a nurse in multiple settings. I found my passion for mental health early in my nursing career. A few years ago, I made providing mental healthcare one of my life's missions and decided to advance my career by obtaining a master's degree in nursing. My goal is to provide client-centered, conscientious, and holistic care to my patients.
I am Onyinye Osuagwu, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive experience working as a nurse in multiple settings. I found my passion for mental health early in my nursing career. A few years ago, I made providing mental healthcare one of my life's missions and decided to advance my career by obtaining a master's degree in nursing. My goal is to provide client-centered, conscientious, and holistic care to my patients.
![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 Rosel Forwang Lewis, DNP-RN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52f6a439-6a56-4b78-9d30-c9a70c72c9d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rosel Forwang Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP-RN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02126 (Online Only)
As a nurse, I have worked in various settings, enabling me providing culture-sensitive care, and performing case management for patients in these settings. My supervisors have received outstanding reviews on my ability to work independently and provide compassionate care to patients. I am energetic, caring, personable, and hardworking. From my experience working as a psychiatric nurse for several years,I have acquired additional skills used to provide care to patients and families/caregivers. At heart, I am an advanced practice nurse passionate about providing excellent and cost-effective care to individuals across the lifespan.
As a nurse, I have worked in various settings, enabling me providing culture-sensitive care, and performing case management for patients in these settings. My supervisors have received outstanding reviews on my ability to work independently and provide compassionate care to patients. I am energetic, caring, personable, and hardworking. From my experience working as a psychiatric nurse for several years,I have acquired additional skills used to provide care to patients and families/caregivers. At heart, I am an advanced practice nurse passionate about providing excellent and cost-effective care to individuals across the lifespan.
![Photo of Martha Cesena, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e986cb9-8910-4a55-913e-b07750de99a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have more than 20 years of clinical experience working In academia and private practice. I am a board certified psychiatrist affiliated with Children’s Hospital and I am assistant professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. I am a graduate of Temple University Hospital in adult psychiatry and Children’s Hospital, Boston in adolescent psychiatry. I work with young adult ages 17 and above. I provide medication management in a welcoming and safe environment where your concerns are discussed with an open mind and no judgment. My office is close to the green t line in the Brookline area.
I have more than 20 years of clinical experience working In academia and private practice. I am a board certified psychiatrist affiliated with Children’s Hospital and I am assistant professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. I am a graduate of Temple University Hospital in adult psychiatry and Children’s Hospital, Boston in adolescent psychiatry. I work with young adult ages 17 and above. I provide medication management in a welcoming and safe environment where your concerns are discussed with an open mind and no judgment. My office is close to the green t line in the Brookline area.
![Photo of Gerry Anne Jean, NPI, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/863716be-1169-4c90-8bb1-833049752de7/2/320x400.jpeg)
GerryAnne, a distinguished board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over five years of expertise, has become a stalwart advocate for mental health across diverse environments. Her extensive experience encompasses a range of settings, from inpatient and residential treatment to community-based outpatient care, reflecting a commitment to delivering comprehensive mental health support across the lifespan. At the core of GerryAnne's professional mission is a fervent dedication to enhancing access to mental health care for everyone.
GerryAnne, a distinguished board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over five years of expertise, has become a stalwart advocate for mental health across diverse environments. Her extensive experience encompasses a range of settings, from inpatient and residential treatment to community-based outpatient care, reflecting a commitment to delivering comprehensive mental health support across the lifespan. At the core of GerryAnne's professional mission is a fervent dedication to enhancing access to mental health care for everyone.
![Photo of Kari Spaeth, PMHNP, LICSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69672d2c-4671-4969-b6f4-3680e8ddee22/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kari Spaeth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02131 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about listening and developing treatment goals that meet your individual needs for mind, body and spirit health from the comfort of your own home.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about listening and developing treatment goals that meet your individual needs for mind, body and spirit health from the comfort of your own home.
![Photo of Yohanis Leonor Anglero Diaz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4c80dbf-baed-433f-b6ad-0ac0ef7bfcd1/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Brown-trained and Harvard-affiliated psychiatrist who is interested in helping older teenagers and young adults manage and cope with transitions. I have experience working with patients with ADHD and with anxiety and adjustment disorders and can offer medication management in addition to supportive therapy.
I am a Brown-trained and Harvard-affiliated psychiatrist who is interested in helping older teenagers and young adults manage and cope with transitions. I have experience working with patients with ADHD and with anxiety and adjustment disorders and can offer medication management in addition to supportive therapy.
![Photo of Priya Hippolyte, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a67eba3-cd1c-46cd-8176-f74731937931/1/320x400.jpeg)
At our practice, we're committed to treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. Our modern approach to mental health focuses on an integrative approach to psychiatry combines traditional medical treatments with holistic therapies such as mindfulness, nutrition, and lifestyle changes to help you achieve optimal mental and emotional well-being. One of our greatest passions is working with teens and young adults during their formative years. We understand the unique challenges they face and strive to provide a safe and supportive space where they can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
At our practice, we're committed to treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. Our modern approach to mental health focuses on an integrative approach to psychiatry combines traditional medical treatments with holistic therapies such as mindfulness, nutrition, and lifestyle changes to help you achieve optimal mental and emotional well-being. One of our greatest passions is working with teens and young adults during their formative years. We understand the unique challenges they face and strive to provide a safe and supportive space where they can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Jennifer Kania
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02132 (Online Only)
Jennifer believes in providing a holistic and individualized care tailored to the specific needs of each patient. She combines psychopharmacology and psychotherapy in each encounter.
Jennifer believes in providing a holistic and individualized care tailored to the specific needs of each patient. She combines psychopharmacology and psychotherapy in each encounter.
![Photo of Taylor W. Gray, PMHNP, LICSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1faa9137-7cf0-4b28-9b1e-0766fc0e3f16/3/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor W. Gray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02132 (Online Only)
At Gray Matter Behavioral Health, we take your mental health seriously. Whether you’re coping with a particular problem or feeling stuck in long-term patterns, we can help you navigate to a better place in your life. You will work with an expert who will help you to identify your challenges and nurture new growth with the goal of helping you achieve an authentic, passionate, and fulfilling life. Our team is dedicated to providing you with comprehensive and evidence-based care so that you can take charge of your health and wellbeing.
At Gray Matter Behavioral Health, we take your mental health seriously. Whether you’re coping with a particular problem or feeling stuck in long-term patterns, we can help you navigate to a better place in your life. You will work with an expert who will help you to identify your challenges and nurture new growth with the goal of helping you achieve an authentic, passionate, and fulfilling life. Our team is dedicated to providing you with comprehensive and evidence-based care so that you can take charge of your health and wellbeing.
![Photo of Rebecca McCloskey - Rebecca McCloskey PLLC, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78c00311-e4ea-42e3-a887-344cd5e54bd9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca McCloskey PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
West Roxbury, MA 02132
Finding high-quality mental health care can seem like an insurmountable challenge at times. It takes motivation and organization to even start a search, only to run into insurance restrictions and provider shortages. My goal is to help simplify that process by providing holistic, evidence-based care in a low-pressure, client-centered way. With over a decade of experience in mental health and a background in nursing, I bring a compassionate and conversational approach to wellness.
Finding high-quality mental health care can seem like an insurmountable challenge at times. It takes motivation and organization to even start a search, only to run into insurance restrictions and provider shortages. My goal is to help simplify that process by providing holistic, evidence-based care in a low-pressure, client-centered way. With over a decade of experience in mental health and a background in nursing, I bring a compassionate and conversational approach to wellness.
![Photo of Nicholas Sousa, APRN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c6ed283-b3b7-45e6-aea7-0b295275cf90/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicholas Sousa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roslindale, MA 02131
Nicholas Sousa is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with many years of experience. Nicholas specializes in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Adjustment disorders and bi-polar spectrum disorders, he also has experience working with schizophrenia, substance use disorders and major mental illness. He is committed to providing high quality care for individuals suffering from mental illness.
Nicholas Sousa is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with many years of experience. Nicholas specializes in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Adjustment disorders and bi-polar spectrum disorders, he also has experience working with schizophrenia, substance use disorders and major mental illness. He is committed to providing high quality care for individuals suffering from mental illness.
![Photo of Dr. Ellen Elizabeth Sampson, DNP, PMHNP, GNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/542278cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ellen Elizabeth Sampson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, GNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Roxbury, MA 02132
I am a Psychiatric and Geriatric Board Certified Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working closely with my patients to help them find ways to understand and improve their quality of life. I believe that everyone has issues which can become problems if not understood and addressed as life is a process with many stages. My job is to help you to find ways to cope and give you hope and good outcomes by the use of counseling, education, medications or other alternatives.
I am a Psychiatric and Geriatric Board Certified Nurse Practitioner who enjoys working closely with my patients to help them find ways to understand and improve their quality of life. I believe that everyone has issues which can become problems if not understood and addressed as life is a process with many stages. My job is to help you to find ways to cope and give you hope and good outcomes by the use of counseling, education, medications or other alternatives.
See more therapy options for Hyde Park
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hyde Park, MA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hyde Park, MA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Spirituality |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Hyde Park, MA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hyde Park?
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.