Psychiatrists in Worcester County, MA
![Photo of Tiffany Osborne - TTK Psychiatry Matters, PLLC, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d77a8a4d-992c-431d-b8f9-cb274f60864d/2/320x400.jpeg)
TTK Psychiatry Matters, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fitchburg, MA 01420
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in diagnostic evaluation, medication management and variety of psychotherapy to provide you with a comprehensive and individualized support for your mental health. My goal is to help you improve your mental well-being, enhance your quality of life, and promote overall wellness. In a world where mental health challenges are prevalent, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care through shared decision making with my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in diagnostic evaluation, medication management and variety of psychotherapy to provide you with a comprehensive and individualized support for your mental health. My goal is to help you improve your mental well-being, enhance your quality of life, and promote overall wellness. In a world where mental health challenges are prevalent, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care through shared decision making with my patients.
![Photo of Zafar N Naqvi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd9401cc-9d73-41d9-8636-abc8c9cac3a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you’re looking for a trusted confidant to your mental health who listens to you and offers treatment that gets to the root of the problem and considers medication an option, not the only option, who believes in bare minimum Psychiatry medications at a time supports double-benefits medications then you’re at the right place. Integrated tailor-made mental health treatment simultaneously works for both our Brain and Mind. I work with you in providing effective & optimizing treatment for you so you can be yourself again and stop living in a dazed world’ via gradually learning to feel happy when precise chemicals in your brain are
If you’re looking for a trusted confidant to your mental health who listens to you and offers treatment that gets to the root of the problem and considers medication an option, not the only option, who believes in bare minimum Psychiatry medications at a time supports double-benefits medications then you’re at the right place. Integrated tailor-made mental health treatment simultaneously works for both our Brain and Mind. I work with you in providing effective & optimizing treatment for you so you can be yourself again and stop living in a dazed world’ via gradually learning to feel happy when precise chemicals in your brain are
![Photo of Stacie Rose, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fe09b38-d64c-461f-9157-dd7d137d7e86/3/320x400.png)
Stacie Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605 (Online Only)
Stacie is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, providing diagnostic mental health evaluations, medication, and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of psychosocial and behavioral health concerns. Utilizing an integrative approach, treatment is a collaborative process that may include a combination of psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle/nutritional modifications, and complementary practices.
Stacie is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, providing diagnostic mental health evaluations, medication, and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of psychosocial and behavioral health concerns. Utilizing an integrative approach, treatment is a collaborative process that may include a combination of psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle/nutritional modifications, and complementary practices.
![Photo of Aimee Brianne Beck - A Healthy State of Mind Psychiatry PLLC, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13f78b94-8d11-4fdd-8d93-4e26d61b69ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
A Healthy State of Mind Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fitchburg, MA 01420
I'm Aimee, a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric NP with a passion for mental wellness and a commitment to comprehensive patient care. Graduating with my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from UMass Amherst in 2015, I bring nine years of invaluable experience from primary care and urgent care settings. I believe in a collaborative approach to mental health, tailoring treatment plans to address the unique needs of each individual. Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide compassionate care and expert guidance.
I'm Aimee, a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric NP with a passion for mental wellness and a commitment to comprehensive patient care. Graduating with my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from UMass Amherst in 2015, I bring nine years of invaluable experience from primary care and urgent care settings. I believe in a collaborative approach to mental health, tailoring treatment plans to address the unique needs of each individual. Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, I'm here to provide compassionate care and expert guidance.
![Photo of Lorrie MacDonald, DHS, MSN, PMHNPBC, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99a746a9-fce0-4d42-9fbe-6b1d64f838c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lorrie MacDonald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DHS, MSN, PMHNPBC, CNP
Verified Verified
West Boylston, MA 01583
Currently accepting new clients ages 6-60 for in-person and virtual visits for medication management and solution-focused therapy to be your best self! To become a new client, go to our website an fill out the information for "new patient".
Currently accepting new clients ages 6-60 for in-person and virtual visits for medication management and solution-focused therapy to be your best self! To become a new client, go to our website an fill out the information for "new patient".
![Photo of Ramteen Rezai - TAK Center for Mental Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5978f312-840c-493d-8eb1-1cf422fccae7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified general psychiatrist. I completed my residency training at New York Medical College at Westchester Medical Center, as well, as a two-year certification course in psychodynamic psychotherapy at New York Medical College Psychoanalytic Institute. I provide comprehensive, high-quality outpatient mental health services to a broad range of individuals and their families.
I am a board-certified general psychiatrist. I completed my residency training at New York Medical College at Westchester Medical Center, as well, as a two-year certification course in psychodynamic psychotherapy at New York Medical College Psychoanalytic Institute. I provide comprehensive, high-quality outpatient mental health services to a broad range of individuals and their families.
![Photo of Bonnie Biggs, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0a9f97f-23cd-4703-9503-53cc56ea407b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Bonnie Biggs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Boylston, MA 01583
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to work with you to develop an individualized comprehensive treatment plan that is both empowering and attainable. I see myself as a consultant, and value the opportunity to address your questions and concerns as I apply validated scientific principles to our work together. Please note that I primarily focus in medication management, but also spend time understanding your goals and lifestyle and offer brief supportive therapy.
My goal is to work with you to develop an individualized comprehensive treatment plan that is both empowering and attainable. I see myself as a consultant, and value the opportunity to address your questions and concerns as I apply validated scientific principles to our work together. Please note that I primarily focus in medication management, but also spend time understanding your goals and lifestyle and offer brief supportive therapy.
![Photo of Dr. Momen El Nesr, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78dd37b4-864f-4c22-a238-183279bc5f88/1/320x400.jpeg)
Relationship first and foremost, I believe that a healthy, caring relationship with a doctor who knows you - as a person - is the most important aspect of psychiatric care. As such, I make it a priority to develop a therapeutic relationship with you for your treatment. The second part of my commitment to you is to discuss and offer state-of-the-art treatment. This includes both medication and non-medication treatments. I have extensive experience and expertise treating all age groups and have found that my patients appreciate the consistency and simplicity of the care.
Relationship first and foremost, I believe that a healthy, caring relationship with a doctor who knows you - as a person - is the most important aspect of psychiatric care. As such, I make it a priority to develop a therapeutic relationship with you for your treatment. The second part of my commitment to you is to discuss and offer state-of-the-art treatment. This includes both medication and non-medication treatments. I have extensive experience and expertise treating all age groups and have found that my patients appreciate the consistency and simplicity of the care.
![Photo of Jennifer Lehto, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2f27b6e-73b8-47ff-9714-f59873ca3aac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Lehto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holden, MA 01520
At Peak Wellness Psychiatry I use a down to earth, compassionate approach and use my expertise to help you achieve your personal wellness goals. Wellness is more than the absence of disease and discomfort. I bring years of both mental health and primary care experience for an entirely individualized and holistic approach to your health. In addition to a comprehensive evaluation, every patient is offered support in making healthy lifestyle changes and solution-focused psychotherapy to maximize the benefits of medication management. Let’s work together to help achieve your goals!
At Peak Wellness Psychiatry I use a down to earth, compassionate approach and use my expertise to help you achieve your personal wellness goals. Wellness is more than the absence of disease and discomfort. I bring years of both mental health and primary care experience for an entirely individualized and holistic approach to your health. In addition to a comprehensive evaluation, every patient is offered support in making healthy lifestyle changes and solution-focused psychotherapy to maximize the benefits of medication management. Let’s work together to help achieve your goals!
![Photo of Jasmine Velez, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69e7790d-f076-4a68-b481-05192d33529b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am currently welcoming new patients for Medication Management with supportive therapy. With experience in treating children and adults, mental health is essential to an individual's overall well-being. The clinics I work for focus on an integrative treatment approach that emphasizes making life changes in addition to medication treatment. To create a comprehensive treatment plan, we work closely with our clients to understand their unique stressors and the pressures of everyday life. I want to offer IDgenetix (genetic testing) for the ability to customize medication management to those interested.
I am currently welcoming new patients for Medication Management with supportive therapy. With experience in treating children and adults, mental health is essential to an individual's overall well-being. The clinics I work for focus on an integrative treatment approach that emphasizes making life changes in addition to medication treatment. To create a comprehensive treatment plan, we work closely with our clients to understand their unique stressors and the pressures of everyday life. I want to offer IDgenetix (genetic testing) for the ability to customize medication management to those interested.
![Photo of Peninah Elizabeth Waithira, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1aca49f1-0aad-4cfe-9f6c-216ff1f1e30e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Peninah Elizabeth Waithira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01608
Are you looking for stability in a Provider, a professional who does not consider you just a number? One who is empathetic and non-judgmental? My ideal client is one who wants the best version of themselves. One who is aware that mental health struggles do not define them, but makes them stronger. If you are out there and need a fresh start, let's press the reset button together. If you are looking for an experienced Provider, who treats you as a unique person, listens to you, and provides top-notch care, look no further.
Are you looking for stability in a Provider, a professional who does not consider you just a number? One who is empathetic and non-judgmental? My ideal client is one who wants the best version of themselves. One who is aware that mental health struggles do not define them, but makes them stronger. If you are out there and need a fresh start, let's press the reset button together. If you are looking for an experienced Provider, who treats you as a unique person, listens to you, and provides top-notch care, look no further.
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![Photo of Us For More Information - EleMental Wellness Center , PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cce5a730-32da-4a2d-b870-439737778f78/2/320x400.jpeg)
EleMental Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
We are accepting new Clients for In-Person OR Telehealth appointments for adolescents 12 years and older and Adults 18 years and older: Here at EleMental Wellness Center, we provide diagnostic assessment and treatment for broad range of psychiatric illnesses including but not limited to: Mood Disorders [Depression/Bipolar disorder], Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, Alcohol use disorders and Panic disorders.
We are accepting new Clients for In-Person OR Telehealth appointments for adolescents 12 years and older and Adults 18 years and older: Here at EleMental Wellness Center, we provide diagnostic assessment and treatment for broad range of psychiatric illnesses including but not limited to: Mood Disorders [Depression/Bipolar disorder], Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, Alcohol use disorders and Panic disorders.
Patricia Hogan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, AHN-BC
Verified Verified
West Boylston, MA 01583
Accepting new patients ages 13-70 for diagnostic evaluations and medication management. Insurances and self-pay are accepted. Visit our website at www.newviewhw.com to become a new patient. I offer evening and weekend appointments to accommodate your needs.
Accepting new patients ages 13-70 for diagnostic evaluations and medication management. Insurances and self-pay are accepted. Visit our website at www.newviewhw.com to become a new patient. I offer evening and weekend appointments to accommodate your needs.
![Photo of Jennifer Caraballo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ceb02f6-d9cf-4aae-a6fa-5710f9f5cfb9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Caraballo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605 (Online Only)
Jennifer Caraballo DNP- PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, school issues, sleep/insomnia, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bipolar disorder. Jennifer enjoys working with adolescents, young adults, and across the life span providing comprehensive and compassionate care.
Jennifer Caraballo DNP- PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, school issues, sleep/insomnia, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bipolar disorder. Jennifer enjoys working with adolescents, young adults, and across the life span providing comprehensive and compassionate care.
![Photo of Jillian Bonzani, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18adc332-02ba-4969-8c9d-8d63b2f979da/1/320x400.png)
Jillian Bonzani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605 (Online Only)
Jillian is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression and anxiety. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Jillian’s role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Jillian completed her Master's Degree in Nursing at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
Jillian is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression and anxiety. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Jillian’s role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager. Jillian completed her Master's Degree in Nursing at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
![Photo of Chukwuemeka Asiegbu - LifeTent Behavioral Health, LLC, PMHNP, CNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4d21d0c-c469-471b-80ec-2c080b98312f/1/320x400.png)
LifeTent Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNP, APRN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01609 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients for diagnostic evaluation and medication management. Schedule appointment at lifetentcare.com. Insurance and self-pay accepted. Feel free to text or call us. Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, alcohol and substance use, and other mental health issues? Do you know it is recommended to combine therapy with medication? Medication can help reduce your symptoms, while therapy can teach you skills to manage the symptoms. Our experienced, board-certified psychiatric mental health providers will listen to you and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Accepting new patients for diagnostic evaluation and medication management. Schedule appointment at lifetentcare.com. Insurance and self-pay accepted. Feel free to text or call us. Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, alcohol and substance use, and other mental health issues? Do you know it is recommended to combine therapy with medication? Medication can help reduce your symptoms, while therapy can teach you skills to manage the symptoms. Our experienced, board-certified psychiatric mental health providers will listen to you and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
![Photo of Corrine Potter, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f47fda2b-aeac-46ed-98a8-362e1b9712e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Corrine Potter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01608 (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years experience in nursing. I believe in providing individualized care specific to each patient and their needs. I utilize medication management and psychotherapy during appointments for optimal patient outcomes. I specialize in Anxiety, Panic disorders, Depression, Bipolar disorders, Insomnia, Adjustment disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Eating disorders, ADHD, ADD, OCD, Stress and Psychotic disorders.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years experience in nursing. I believe in providing individualized care specific to each patient and their needs. I utilize medication management and psychotherapy during appointments for optimal patient outcomes. I specialize in Anxiety, Panic disorders, Depression, Bipolar disorders, Insomnia, Adjustment disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Eating disorders, ADHD, ADD, OCD, Stress and Psychotic disorders.
![Photo of Amberly Chaplin, PMHNP, LMHC, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c37f3e43-f428-43f5-8fe5-5e160892e1c0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amberly Chaplin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LMHC, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sutton, MA 01590 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults who are experiencing depression and anxiety to help them understand their symptoms, and together we find the best treatment. In addition to medication management and brief therapy, I incorporate nutritional practices when applicable. I have extensive experience working with people with substance use disorders, and although I am unable to provide detox or acute withdrawal treatment in this setting, I can provide consults with recommendations for your PCP or other provider. I also enjoy helping those with an addiction rebuild their health and identity. Please note: I can not Rx controlled substances at this time.
I work with adults who are experiencing depression and anxiety to help them understand their symptoms, and together we find the best treatment. In addition to medication management and brief therapy, I incorporate nutritional practices when applicable. I have extensive experience working with people with substance use disorders, and although I am unable to provide detox or acute withdrawal treatment in this setting, I can provide consults with recommendations for your PCP or other provider. I also enjoy helping those with an addiction rebuild their health and identity. Please note: I can not Rx controlled substances at this time.
![Photo of Shanise Perez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a0d0171-ca3b-48ec-9792-c4e2ed91cff3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management for a waitlist with the goal of booking in April. If you are interested in joining the waitlist please email Admin(at sign)PBHealthLLC.com. With experience in treating both children and adults, I believe mental health is the foundation of an individual's over-all health. I focus on an integrative treatment approach with an emphasis on making life changes in addition to treatment with medication. I work with my clients to develop an understanding of their own unique stressors and pressure of everyday life in order to create a well-rounded treatment plan.
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management for a waitlist with the goal of booking in April. If you are interested in joining the waitlist please email Admin(at sign)PBHealthLLC.com. With experience in treating both children and adults, I believe mental health is the foundation of an individual's over-all health. I focus on an integrative treatment approach with an emphasis on making life changes in addition to treatment with medication. I work with my clients to develop an understanding of their own unique stressors and pressure of everyday life in order to create a well-rounded treatment plan.
![Photo of Savina Nicole (Nikki) Setze, MSN, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5269ec7e-5f09-432a-b45a-8e87a0461b6a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Savina Nicole (Nikki) Setze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Westborough, MA 01581 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients for medication management! To request an appointment, please send me an email or visit my website and click "Contact" at the top of the page: https:/snspmhnp.clientsecure.me/
Accepting new patients for medication management! To request an appointment, please send me an email or visit my website and click "Contact" at the top of the page: https:/snspmhnp.clientsecure.me/
See more therapy options for Worcester County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Worcester County, MA
100+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Worcester County, MA who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
79% | Medication Management |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | ADHD |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
84% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Worcester County, MA see their clients
57% | In Person and Online | |
43% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Worcester County?
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.