Psychiatrists in Lee, MA
![Photo of Lisa Zakhary, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32dc7322-0cc4-462b-b6e3-6f9daa2261e7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are those obsessions and rituals getting the better of you? Have you been struggling with skin picking or hair pulling and just don’t know where to turn? Do you experience distressing appearance concerns? You may be one of the many with OCD or a related disorder struggling to find a specialist or languishing on a long waitlist. I have been specializing in this area for over a decade and can provide you tailored medication recommendations so you can finally gain the control you seek. While I won’t be prescribing your medications, you can bring my recs back to your primary care doc or psychiatric prescriber for implementation.
Are those obsessions and rituals getting the better of you? Have you been struggling with skin picking or hair pulling and just don’t know where to turn? Do you experience distressing appearance concerns? You may be one of the many with OCD or a related disorder struggling to find a specialist or languishing on a long waitlist. I have been specializing in this area for over a decade and can provide you tailored medication recommendations so you can finally gain the control you seek. While I won’t be prescribing your medications, you can bring my recs back to your primary care doc or psychiatric prescriber for implementation.
![Photo of Nora Schwartz-Martin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47df8c7d-4cbf-42dc-9c08-23f6fb27c625/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked for 30 plus years as a psychiatrist- mostly with families- and those who have struggled with anxiety/ trauma and mood disorders- as well as adhd. I see people for initial evaluations for what you are struggling with and make recommendations about potential diagnoses and treatment options- I then follow up with you for either medication management or support around your treatment options.
I have worked for 30 plus years as a psychiatrist- mostly with families- and those who have struggled with anxiety/ trauma and mood disorders- as well as adhd. I see people for initial evaluations for what you are struggling with and make recommendations about potential diagnoses and treatment options- I then follow up with you for either medication management or support around your treatment options.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Margaret Hughes, PMHNP, CPNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd3a62bb-dadd-452c-b8b4-6e6200f0ca8e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Great Barrington, MA 01230 (Online Only)
Margaret Hughes, PMHNP, is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with degrees from Yale and Northeastern University. With a blend of clinical expertise and compassion, she specializes in providing comprehensive medication management, supportive therapy and genetic testing to individuals across the lifespan. She has a particular interest in college students and young adults and understands the unique challenges faced by these individuals, including academic pressure, identity formation, and the transition to independence.
Margaret Hughes, PMHNP, is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with degrees from Yale and Northeastern University. With a blend of clinical expertise and compassion, she specializes in providing comprehensive medication management, supportive therapy and genetic testing to individuals across the lifespan. She has a particular interest in college students and young adults and understands the unique challenges faced by these individuals, including academic pressure, identity formation, and the transition to independence.
![Photo of William Chad Garrett, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24f4af5f-7273-4bb8-a7fd-85cbb2184368/2/320x400.jpeg)
William Chad Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pittsfield, MA 01201
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
We are a growing holistic psychiatric practice for the whole family with a Child Psychiatrist for children, and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for adults. Our mission is to provide evidence-based, holistic mental health care using the art and science of healing to adults, children and adolescents. Our primary treatment model involves the pillars of what we believe to make up a healthy and happy life: being part of a community, nutritional information and mind-body therapies as well as focused treatment of symptoms using therapy or medications as indicated.
We are a growing holistic psychiatric practice for the whole family with a Child Psychiatrist for children, and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for adults. Our mission is to provide evidence-based, holistic mental health care using the art and science of healing to adults, children and adolescents. Our primary treatment model involves the pillars of what we believe to make up a healthy and happy life: being part of a community, nutritional information and mind-body therapies as well as focused treatment of symptoms using therapy or medications as indicated.
![Photo of Dr. Harold R. JordanMD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a5cab12-7da3-488a-a191-55992b45e7ec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Now Accepting New Clients: As a compassionate and experienced Board-Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in Florida and Massachusetts, I understand that seeking help for mental health can be challenging. My concierge telehealth practice offers a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and work towards achieving mental well-being.
Now Accepting New Clients: As a compassionate and experienced Board-Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in Florida and Massachusetts, I understand that seeking help for mental health can be challenging. My concierge telehealth practice offers a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and work towards achieving mental well-being.
![Photo of Randall R Dwenger, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53889a2d-258e-4350-b20f-e728de25dc0f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Randall Dwenger is board-certified in both Psychiatry and in Addiction Medicine, and has been practicing psychiatry for more than 35 years. His goal in working with clients is to instill hope in those who are often feeling hopeless. Treatment begins with a Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation, where he gets to know each client as an individual. Throughout his career, he has had a passion for working with young people as they transition to adulthood. He has a love for treating those suffering from addiction, and a hatred for the Opioid Epidemic given all the lives lost to this disease.
Dr. Randall Dwenger is board-certified in both Psychiatry and in Addiction Medicine, and has been practicing psychiatry for more than 35 years. His goal in working with clients is to instill hope in those who are often feeling hopeless. Treatment begins with a Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation, where he gets to know each client as an individual. Throughout his career, he has had a passion for working with young people as they transition to adulthood. He has a love for treating those suffering from addiction, and a hatred for the Opioid Epidemic given all the lives lost to this disease.
![Photo of Sabrina Ritchie - Thoughtful Therapies, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62464261-14a5-4e1a-a04a-8ca237e1d587/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thoughtful Therapies, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lenox, MA 01240 (Online Only)
Welcome to Thoughtful Therapies LLC.! Getting the help you need for your mental health should be easy and accessible which is why I offer telehealth services. You will be provided a judgment-free space where you can express your concerns and work towards recovery. I provide psychotherapy as an adjunct to medication management and will work with you to create a comprehensive treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. We also offer lab monitoring and genetic testing to optimize your treatment. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or other general mental health concerns, I am here to help.
Welcome to Thoughtful Therapies LLC.! Getting the help you need for your mental health should be easy and accessible which is why I offer telehealth services. You will be provided a judgment-free space where you can express your concerns and work towards recovery. I provide psychotherapy as an adjunct to medication management and will work with you to create a comprehensive treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. We also offer lab monitoring and genetic testing to optimize your treatment. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or other general mental health concerns, I am here to help.
![Photo of Jesse A. Goodman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf15416d-81e9-4565-95e8-8f559e48cb8a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist who is also an experienced therapist. I provide care that integrates psychotherapy with medication for adults with anxiety and depression. Most of my patients meet with me once or twice a week for several months to many years. About half use medication. I have been practicing psychiatry and psychotherapy since 1998. I attended Mayo Medical School and trained in Adult Psychiatry at The Cambridge Hospital of Harvard Medical School. I completed a four-year fellowship in Advanced Psychiatry at Austen Riggs Center.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist who is also an experienced therapist. I provide care that integrates psychotherapy with medication for adults with anxiety and depression. Most of my patients meet with me once or twice a week for several months to many years. About half use medication. I have been practicing psychiatry and psychotherapy since 1998. I attended Mayo Medical School and trained in Adult Psychiatry at The Cambridge Hospital of Harvard Medical School. I completed a four-year fellowship in Advanced Psychiatry at Austen Riggs Center.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Lauren Wenzl, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ed25a27-bd7f-4a41-a0fe-3a196099a645/1/320x400.png)
Lauren Wenzl
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Framingham, MA 01702 (Online Only)
My name is Lauren Wenzl, I am a certified Physician Assistant specializing in Psychiatric-Mental Health. In 2016 I achieved a Masters Degree in Physician Assistance from Keiser University and now have 7 years practice experience. I have come to understand that all of us need someone to listen to our concerns. Someone who listens without judging, offers empathy, compassion, and lends an ear to our struggles can make a significant impact in our mental health. My goal is to provide that relief to my patients through talk, recommendations, medications, or therapeutic care guidance.
My name is Lauren Wenzl, I am a certified Physician Assistant specializing in Psychiatric-Mental Health. In 2016 I achieved a Masters Degree in Physician Assistance from Keiser University and now have 7 years practice experience. I have come to understand that all of us need someone to listen to our concerns. Someone who listens without judging, offers empathy, compassion, and lends an ear to our struggles can make a significant impact in our mental health. My goal is to provide that relief to my patients through talk, recommendations, medications, or therapeutic care guidance.
![Photo of Chidinma Onyegwu - Equilibrium Health , DNP, , PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51222830-9bce-4273-9f5c-0dee3b64e000/1/320x400.png)
Equilibrium Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fitchburg, MA 01420 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW patients for same day virtual appointments. Have you been experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, mood swings, ADHD, and insomnia? Are these symptoms interfering with your thinking, and making it difficult for you to manage work, relationships, and other responsibilities? Are you looking for a provider that will listen to you and develop a complete plan to assist you in returning to a normal life? If you responded "yes" to any of these questions, you are a candidate for the treatment we offer. Here at Equilibrium Health, we provide supportive, personalize treatment tailored to your to your individual needs.
Accepting NEW patients for same day virtual appointments. Have you been experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, mood swings, ADHD, and insomnia? Are these symptoms interfering with your thinking, and making it difficult for you to manage work, relationships, and other responsibilities? Are you looking for a provider that will listen to you and develop a complete plan to assist you in returning to a normal life? If you responded "yes" to any of these questions, you are a candidate for the treatment we offer. Here at Equilibrium Health, we provide supportive, personalize treatment tailored to your to your individual needs.
![Photo of Dr. Michael Boggs, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e78704fe-a6cb-4e51-9cdc-36eefe9449a7/1/320x400.png)
June / July 2024 Update - Accepting new clients. Providing expert medication management and brief supportive psychotherapy for mental health for individuals aged 12+ living throughout Massachusetts with Clearview Health & Wellness Group.
June / July 2024 Update - Accepting new clients. Providing expert medication management and brief supportive psychotherapy for mental health for individuals aged 12+ living throughout Massachusetts with Clearview Health & Wellness Group.
![Photo of Nicholas Muraguri, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/078c2d7e-8030-4a67-9777-ede035c1d9dc/4/320x400.jpeg)
Nicholas Muraguri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01609
I work with clients who are struggling with various psychiatric symptoms, such as depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and Bipolar disorder. During our initial meeting, we will work together to create a personalized treatment plan that includes medication and therapy. My goal is to help you heal and regain control of your life. Most of my clients experience significant improvement in a short period and maintain it over the long term.
I work with clients who are struggling with various psychiatric symptoms, such as depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and Bipolar disorder. During our initial meeting, we will work together to create a personalized treatment plan that includes medication and therapy. My goal is to help you heal and regain control of your life. Most of my clients experience significant improvement in a short period and maintain it over the long term.
![Photo of Laura Mayer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2fbfb3f-deea-4b56-b66c-93cb18977b45/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting NEW preconception planning, pregnant/postpartum ONLY at this time. Welcome! I'm a board certified psychiatrist with an MD from Brown University, fellowship training in Women's Mental Health, and a faculty member at Brown University. I aim to create a highly individualized care plan, tailored to each patient's goals and vision of care. My practice is designed to be small to allow for flexibility, accessibility and attentiveness to each of my patients. Our work together will be empathic, supportive and collaborative. I am now available to see patients in person or via telehealth in RI and virtually for those in MA.
Accepting NEW preconception planning, pregnant/postpartum ONLY at this time. Welcome! I'm a board certified psychiatrist with an MD from Brown University, fellowship training in Women's Mental Health, and a faculty member at Brown University. I aim to create a highly individualized care plan, tailored to each patient's goals and vision of care. My practice is designed to be small to allow for flexibility, accessibility and attentiveness to each of my patients. Our work together will be empathic, supportive and collaborative. I am now available to see patients in person or via telehealth in RI and virtually for those in MA.
![Photo of Henry Kengong Ntoro, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1b8c69e-e953-42f9-bea8-86f5c1298227/5/320x400.jpeg)
I am an adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a unique experience in psychopharmacology focusing on mechanism of action for psychotropic medications. Please go to my website yourplaceofcare.com, fill a referral form and send to me via email or fax. I am also offering pharmacogenetic testing as need arises. It's all about you!
I am an adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a unique experience in psychopharmacology focusing on mechanism of action for psychotropic medications. Please go to my website yourplaceofcare.com, fill a referral form and send to me via email or fax. I am also offering pharmacogenetic testing as need arises. It's all about you!
![Photo of Erica Perry - Perry Psychiatry, LLC, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfaf4ef8-d649-4933-a1b1-217c74ab23a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Perry Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Holden, MA 01520 (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Patients! Perry Psychiatry, LLC provides psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents, and adults via telehealth with a wide variety of mental health challenges and diagnoses. Visit our website for more information: perrypsychiatry.com.
Now Accepting New Patients! Perry Psychiatry, LLC provides psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents, and adults via telehealth with a wide variety of mental health challenges and diagnoses. Visit our website for more information: perrypsychiatry.com.
![Photo of Barry Federman, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c188bf0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Barry Federman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northampton, MA 01060
I am a Board Certified advanced practice Psychiatric Nurse. The majority of my practice is psychopharmacology ( prescribing psychiatric medications). I do not treat ADHD or ADD. I treat each person individually and in our collaboration will listen carefully to your concerns, symptoms, and needs to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. In my practice I treat a variety of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, , Bipolar disorder , PTSD as well as others. My clients range from late adolescents to geriatrics. Best way to contact me is email through Psychology Today website.
I am a Board Certified advanced practice Psychiatric Nurse. The majority of my practice is psychopharmacology ( prescribing psychiatric medications). I do not treat ADHD or ADD. I treat each person individually and in our collaboration will listen carefully to your concerns, symptoms, and needs to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. In my practice I treat a variety of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, , Bipolar disorder , PTSD as well as others. My clients range from late adolescents to geriatrics. Best way to contact me is email through Psychology Today website.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ad67b5c-e5be-4c67-85ec-cd5ad5b8752e/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![Photo of John-Paul Cloutier, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4438268e-b4b7-4520-a3a5-08d71aa7eb8f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Please visit my website to schedule an appointment. I have a particular interest in working with clients with Depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar. Separately, if you are interested in tapering off psychiatric medications, I would be happy to help.
Please visit my website to schedule an appointment. I have a particular interest in working with clients with Depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar. Separately, if you are interested in tapering off psychiatric medications, I would be happy to help.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who understands the importance of providing healthcare from a holistic and realistic perspective, which is centered on healing the whole person (mind, body, and spirit). I am board certified in working with all ages, from children to the elderly. I am experienced with anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, ASD, as well as other disorders. My psychiatric experience includes working in multiple acute care psychiatric hospitals as well as private practice outpatient mental health care.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who understands the importance of providing healthcare from a holistic and realistic perspective, which is centered on healing the whole person (mind, body, and spirit). I am board certified in working with all ages, from children to the elderly. I am experienced with anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, ASD, as well as other disorders. My psychiatric experience includes working in multiple acute care psychiatric hospitals as well as private practice outpatient mental health care.
See more therapy options for Lee
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lee, MA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lee, MA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
50% | Anxiety |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
50% | Other |
50% | Autism |
50% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
23 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Lee, MA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lee?
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.