Psychiatrists in Mattapan, MA
![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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![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 Shauntelle Wisdom, MSN, PMHNP, CARN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd69095c-7338-44be-9fec-186518f1df3e/5/320x400.jpeg)
Shauntelle Wisdom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CARN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milton, MA 02186
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual board certification and over 15 years in healthcare. I specialize in providing care to individuals and families who are struggling with mental health, substance abuse, and relational challenges. My services include comprehensive mental health assessments, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual board certification and over 15 years in healthcare. I specialize in providing care to individuals and families who are struggling with mental health, substance abuse, and relational challenges. My services include comprehensive mental health assessments, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support.
![Photo of Fauzia Wali Khan - Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac10b247-533d-4afa-aef0-8923be996425/1/320x400.png)
With over 20 years of experience, Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care is dedicated to providing top-quality mental health care. We've expanded from Massachusetts to meet the growing need for outpatient support across the nation. Our ideal clients seek a comprehensive continuum of care, needing support at various stages of recovery. They want coordinated, patient-friendly services that address their unique mental health challenges, helping them achieve long-term well-being and recovery.
With over 20 years of experience, Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care is dedicated to providing top-quality mental health care. We've expanded from Massachusetts to meet the growing need for outpatient support across the nation. Our ideal clients seek a comprehensive continuum of care, needing support at various stages of recovery. They want coordinated, patient-friendly services that address their unique mental health challenges, helping them achieve long-term well-being and recovery.
![Photo of Gerald Jean, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57cd6d20-62e8-457e-b326-b13f568bc110/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gérald is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) driven by his fervidness for patient-centered, evidence-based practice, and concerted approaches to nursing care. With the experience accumulated over 30 years in health care, he aims at helping close the gap in the delivery of services to the mentally ill. Gérald’s primacy is to support the patients and their families in overcoming the stigmas associated with mental health, help patients improve their quality of life and reach their full potential.
Gérald is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) driven by his fervidness for patient-centered, evidence-based practice, and concerted approaches to nursing care. With the experience accumulated over 30 years in health care, he aims at helping close the gap in the delivery of services to the mentally ill. Gérald’s primacy is to support the patients and their families in overcoming the stigmas associated with mental health, help patients improve their quality of life and reach their full potential.
![Photo of Dr. Khadija Tuitt, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f55e5d7-fd39-47ac-a15a-5e419a20b299/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Khadija Tuitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02124 (Online Only)
Welcome to In-Tuitt Behavioral Health Services, where the care feels intuitive, relaxed, and safe. No need to wait for help, we have openings every week for new patients. If you are suffering with mood changes, anxiety, ADHD symptoms, sleep disturbances, or you just aren't sure, let me help you to find clarity and treatment options that work for you. If you are ready to start your healing journey, go to my website and hit the "Book an Appointment Link" and lets get into it!
Welcome to In-Tuitt Behavioral Health Services, where the care feels intuitive, relaxed, and safe. No need to wait for help, we have openings every week for new patients. If you are suffering with mood changes, anxiety, ADHD symptoms, sleep disturbances, or you just aren't sure, let me help you to find clarity and treatment options that work for you. If you are ready to start your healing journey, go to my website and hit the "Book an Appointment Link" and lets get into it!
![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
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
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 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 Oluranti Adepoju - Revive Holistic Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76f0ef0a-b20a-4900-9f62-440dd3cdfa75/1/320x400.png)
•• Accepting New Patients •• Many struggle with their mental health and often feel anxious or depressed, lack the motivation to work, isolate themselves from family and friends, lose interest in the things they use to enjoy, or perform poorly at their job. I believe when you treat someone holistically you can address the root cause of the mental health struggle so you can get back to living a balanced and fulfilled life.
•• Accepting New Patients •• Many struggle with their mental health and often feel anxious or depressed, lack the motivation to work, isolate themselves from family and friends, lose interest in the things they use to enjoy, or perform poorly at their job. I believe when you treat someone holistically you can address the root cause of the mental health struggle so you can get back to living a balanced and fulfilled life.
![Photo of Aminatu West Kasali-Adeyemi - AmiTop Care LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b768d8b-6db4-454f-9629-badad073fb67/1/320x400.jpeg)
AmiTop Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dorchester, MA 02122 (Online Only)
Welcome to AmiTop Care LLC, where we are dedicated to providing top-tier, comprehensive psychiatry care. Our professional private practice, based in Massachusetts, seamlessly combines psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to deliver personalized mental health solutions. We extend our services to include telepsychiatry for follow-up visits, ensuring continuity of care. We offer specialized services in medication management, pharmacogenomic testing, and psychotherapy treatment. Our expertise extends to managing a range of conditions, including ADHD, depression and anxiety
Welcome to AmiTop Care LLC, where we are dedicated to providing top-tier, comprehensive psychiatry care. Our professional private practice, based in Massachusetts, seamlessly combines psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to deliver personalized mental health solutions. We extend our services to include telepsychiatry for follow-up visits, ensuring continuity of care. We offer specialized services in medication management, pharmacogenomic testing, and psychotherapy treatment. Our expertise extends to managing a range of conditions, including ADHD, depression and anxiety
![Photo of Nikolas Wilde - Awaken Mind Center, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25d256c1-d36a-45b4-989a-9a799ae73137/1/320x400.png)
At Awaken Mind Center, we are dedicated in providing comprehensive mental health services to support your progress towards well-being. We provide a wide range of services tailored to your unique needs. Whether through therapy, medication management, genetic testing, our goal is to support your mental wellness with compassionate, and evidence-based care. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve a better quality of life.
At Awaken Mind Center, we are dedicated in providing comprehensive mental health services to support your progress towards well-being. We provide a wide range of services tailored to your unique needs. Whether through therapy, medication management, genetic testing, our goal is to support your mental wellness with compassionate, and evidence-based care. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve a better quality of life.
![Photo of Hung Do, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/232b156a-290f-4ed9-b03b-f660d61b7997/2/320x400.jpeg)
Each person has so much to offer the world. Don't let your addiction to drugs and alcohol hold you back. Your family, friends, and community need a sober "you" so that they can see the best of "you". Your connections to your loved ones are vitally important to your happiness and drugs and alcohol only work to sever those connections. Don't let your addiction be a barrier to your personal, professional, and financial goals.
Each person has so much to offer the world. Don't let your addiction to drugs and alcohol hold you back. Your family, friends, and community need a sober "you" so that they can see the best of "you". Your connections to your loved ones are vitally important to your happiness and drugs and alcohol only work to sever those connections. Don't let your addiction be a barrier to your personal, professional, and financial goals.
![Photo of Laura Rusu, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46d0d793-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laura is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She conducts psychiatric evaluations, makes diagnoses, and prescribes effective medications. She has experience with a broad spectrum of disorders including depression, anxiety, panic,ADD/ADHD, and PTSD. Laura's goal is to prescribe medications in a conservative, effective, and safe manner.
Laura is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She conducts psychiatric evaluations, makes diagnoses, and prescribes effective medications. She has experience with a broad spectrum of disorders including depression, anxiety, panic,ADD/ADHD, and PTSD. Laura's goal is to prescribe medications in a conservative, effective, and safe manner.
![Photo of Dr. William Yang, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eda659e8-82f6-4d08-af94-ec0a9ed18a6f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dedicated and compassionate board certified psychiatrist committed to helping individuals achieve optimal mental health and well-being. I help my patients better understand the complex nature of the human mind and address the diverse range of mental health challenges that they may be facing. I believe in a person centered approach, incorporating evidence-based treatments and therapeutic interventions to support my patients on their journey towards healing and growth.
I am a dedicated and compassionate board certified psychiatrist committed to helping individuals achieve optimal mental health and well-being. I help my patients better understand the complex nature of the human mind and address the diverse range of mental health challenges that they may be facing. I believe in a person centered approach, incorporating evidence-based treatments and therapeutic interventions to support my patients on their journey towards healing and growth.
![Photo of Chenelle Christian, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0170c400-d0bd-4e92-824e-eaede8bd9d08/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP.) I am also Perinatal mental health certified. I provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management services to individuals 18-64 years old with mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, womens mental health and various other psychiatric diagnoses.
Hello! I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP.) I am also Perinatal mental health certified. I provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management services to individuals 18-64 years old with mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, womens mental health and various other psychiatric diagnoses.
![Photo of 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 Joshua Selly, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63d68761-5d4c-4904-969e-da2ba89dd7c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joshua Selly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dorchester, MA 02121
Are you tired of trying many different medications with no results? As a psychiatric nurse practitioner at Revive Therapeutic Services, my mission is to help my clients overcome any mental health condition or issue that is hindering them from living their desired life. I specialize in providing evidence-based, compassionate care to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and other psychiatric illnesses.
Are you tired of trying many different medications with no results? As a psychiatric nurse practitioner at Revive Therapeutic Services, my mission is to help my clients overcome any mental health condition or issue that is hindering them from living their desired life. I specialize in providing evidence-based, compassionate care to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and other psychiatric illnesses.
![Photo of William Chad Garrett, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af737896-d36c-4116-b4bd-2c49c1af9262/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![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 Dale Buckman, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4cb629b-0c79-49c0-8182-9fda2977930b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dale Buckman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
Welcome! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Primary Care Medicine. My approach is rooted in Functional and Integrative Psychiatry. I am dedicated to helping you achieve mental wellness and a better quality of life. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, sleep issues, ADHD, PTSD, or OCD, I am here to support you. I specialize in medication initiation and management as well as lifestyle and dietary changes. Together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs. Reach out today. www.DrDale.com
Welcome! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Primary Care Medicine. My approach is rooted in Functional and Integrative Psychiatry. I am dedicated to helping you achieve mental wellness and a better quality of life. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, sleep issues, ADHD, PTSD, or OCD, I am here to support you. I specialize in medication initiation and management as well as lifestyle and dietary changes. Together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs. Reach out today. www.DrDale.com
See more therapy options for Mattapan
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Mattapan, MA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Mattapan, MA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Anger Management |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Mattapan, MA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Mattapan?
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.