Psychiatrists in Worcester, MA
![Photo of Shaina LaBonte, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d222e117-333b-4d94-90e8-eb3f26ac92d6/1/320x400.png)
Shaina LaBonte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605 (Online Only)
Shaina LaBonte is a double board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 8 years of experience as a nurse practitioner working with clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and more. She strives to provide quality care and is focused on patient-centered treatment.
Shaina LaBonte is a double board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has over 8 years of experience as a nurse practitioner working with clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and more. She strives to provide quality care and is focused on patient-centered treatment.
![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 Beth Harden, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/237d7f3d-b92a-4702-99b6-4223c9b549f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Harden is a Dually Certified Psychiatric and Medical Nurse Practitioner.
Beth Harden is a Dually Certified Psychiatric and Medical Nurse Practitioner.
![Photo of Grace Ngumi - Bright Act Behavioral Health Center LLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd912f2c-aadf-48af-b1dc-bd4c4b88708f/2/320x400.png)
Bright Act Behavioral Health Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
Bright Act Behavioral Center LLC is an outpatient Mental Health Center in Worcester, Massachusetts which provides diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive services related to mental and behavioral disorders. At Bright Act Behavioral Center We've been proudly attending to our patients’ mental health needs and have been working tirelessly to brighten peoples lives coupled with offering proactive quality Mental healthcare in a safe and comfortable environment. We offer services including Medication Management, Counselling, Substance abuse counselling and other related mental health needs. We guarantee to provide quality mental health.
Bright Act Behavioral Center LLC is an outpatient Mental Health Center in Worcester, Massachusetts which provides diagnostic, treatment, and prescriptive services related to mental and behavioral disorders. At Bright Act Behavioral Center We've been proudly attending to our patients’ mental health needs and have been working tirelessly to brighten peoples lives coupled with offering proactive quality Mental healthcare in a safe and comfortable environment. We offer services including Medication Management, Counselling, Substance abuse counselling and other related mental health needs. We guarantee to provide quality mental health.
![Photo of Raphael M Bibiu - Circle Integrative Psychiatry Group., PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b22af005-7ccf-4ff1-b8dd-194781e8ccf9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Circle Integrative Psychiatry Group.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01608
Throughout my many years of experience both as a registered nurse and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have learned to treat my patients with respect and compassion, knowing that their current problems do not define them. My competence and excellence of care stems from working with diverse patients for over 20 years in healthcare. This experience with different populations has given me confidence to face every situation with an inquisitive and open mind as I deliver evidence based and patient specific care.
Throughout my many years of experience both as a registered nurse and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have learned to treat my patients with respect and compassion, knowing that their current problems do not define them. My competence and excellence of care stems from working with diverse patients for over 20 years in healthcare. This experience with different populations has given me confidence to face every situation with an inquisitive and open mind as I deliver evidence based and patient specific care.
![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.
![Photo of Oliver Joseph - Integrated Psychiatric Consulting, PC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/687247fa-d31a-4a7e-8085-6d7cd3d2d097/2/320x400.jpeg)
Integrated Psychiatric Consulting, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01609 (Online Only)
At Integrated Psychiatric Consulting, PC, our providers have a broad background in mental health conditions. We provide medication management for conditions like ADHD, anxiety and mood disorders, impulse control disorders, and neuropsychiatric conditions, such as brain injuries and intellectual/developmental disabilities. We also provide cognitive-behavioral therapy for these conditions as well as coping with phase of life transitions, men's and women's mental health, and relationship and peer difficulties. Please give us a call to see how we can help.
At Integrated Psychiatric Consulting, PC, our providers have a broad background in mental health conditions. We provide medication management for conditions like ADHD, anxiety and mood disorders, impulse control disorders, and neuropsychiatric conditions, such as brain injuries and intellectual/developmental disabilities. We also provide cognitive-behavioral therapy for these conditions as well as coping with phase of life transitions, men's and women's mental health, and relationship and peer difficulties. Please give us a call to see how we can help.
![Photo of Diana De Souza, NPI, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fae6ecf-0b76-4d66-8050-12f951e83a68/2/320x400.jpeg)
Graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing form Salve Regina University and certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Diana’s goal at BNBA is to deliver advanced nursing care to patients experiencing symptoms of mental and /or behavioral health diagnoses, to promote optimal wellness and functioning through the use patient-centered interventions. One fun fact about Diana is she loves to dance!
Graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing form Salve Regina University and certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Diana’s goal at BNBA is to deliver advanced nursing care to patients experiencing symptoms of mental and /or behavioral health diagnoses, to promote optimal wellness and functioning through the use patient-centered interventions. One fun fact about Diana is she loves to dance!
Collegial Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01606
Are you looking for a qualified, experienced, psychiatric nurse practitioner with a patient-centered, nonjudgmental approach? A provider with clinical skills, who is approachable, empathetic, and goal-oriented? If so, Collegial Psychiatric & Behavioral Medicine (CPBM) is the place for you. At CPBM, we collaborate with clients to build a trust based professional relationship, that allows clients to be active participants in their healing journey. Our major goal is to provide holistic care to a distinct populace, preparing clients towards self-actualization and optimum functioning.
Are you looking for a qualified, experienced, psychiatric nurse practitioner with a patient-centered, nonjudgmental approach? A provider with clinical skills, who is approachable, empathetic, and goal-oriented? If so, Collegial Psychiatric & Behavioral Medicine (CPBM) is the place for you. At CPBM, we collaborate with clients to build a trust based professional relationship, that allows clients to be active participants in their healing journey. Our major goal is to provide holistic care to a distinct populace, preparing clients towards self-actualization and optimum functioning.
![Photo of Monica Muiruri, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0a35e5b-fa7e-4eb9-9a54-5c16acde5b4c/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is proactive about their health, seeking personalized care for their specific concerns and goals. They desire comprehensive evaluation and treatment tailored to their needs, with a provider who listens, respects autonomy, and collaborates on a plan aligned with their values. They value education, empowerment, and active participation in decision-making. They aspire to have a fulfilling, vibrant life, free from health limitations, seeking personalized care that respects their uniqueness and honors their preferences.
My ideal client is proactive about their health, seeking personalized care for their specific concerns and goals. They desire comprehensive evaluation and treatment tailored to their needs, with a provider who listens, respects autonomy, and collaborates on a plan aligned with their values. They value education, empowerment, and active participation in decision-making. They aspire to have a fulfilling, vibrant life, free from health limitations, seeking personalized care that respects their uniqueness and honors their preferences.
![Photo of Dr. Lucy Muigai, DNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8448afdf-27cc-4a73-aed0-d56c6e603bba/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Having started as an Educator, My Education and training Include a Master’s in psychology, a Master’s in Community and Public health, a Master’s in Family Nurse Practitioner, CAGS in PMHNP and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. As a Doctorate prepared Psychiatric and Family practitioner, I draw on my knowledge of Nursing, Psychology, Community / Public Health and Education to advocate for and provide the very best solutions for those I serve. I'm glad to be welcoming new patients Via Telehealth and face to face. You can reach me via email /phone call.
I am a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Having started as an Educator, My Education and training Include a Master’s in psychology, a Master’s in Community and Public health, a Master’s in Family Nurse Practitioner, CAGS in PMHNP and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. As a Doctorate prepared Psychiatric and Family practitioner, I draw on my knowledge of Nursing, Psychology, Community / Public Health and Education to advocate for and provide the very best solutions for those I serve. I'm glad to be welcoming new patients Via Telehealth and face to face. You can reach me via email /phone call.
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![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 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 Dr. Ademola S Obele - A&M Community Healthcare, PMHNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f76db54-b3fa-469b-91da-bf2ba20c785f/2/320x400.jpeg)
A&M Community Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01609
I have a strong passion for mental health care and have worked in this field for over a decade. Unfortunately, I have noticed a concerning shortage of mental healthcare services. That's why A&M Community Healthcare is committed to providing our community with mental health services. We work with clients to provide accurate diagnoses and collaborate with clients on their recovery journeys. Our services are evidence-based and include behavioral health and substance use support.
I have a strong passion for mental health care and have worked in this field for over a decade. Unfortunately, I have noticed a concerning shortage of mental healthcare services. That's why A&M Community Healthcare is committed to providing our community with mental health services. We work with clients to provide accurate diagnoses and collaborate with clients on their recovery journeys. Our services are evidence-based and include behavioral health and substance use support.
![Photo of Chelsea Griswold, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1f67130-a2bf-45ba-979e-44662193d29c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsea Griswold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605 (Online Only)
Chelsea is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has worked with all age groups in both community outpatient and hospital-based outpatient settings. Recently, she worked with children and adolescents, helping them and their parents navigate the school system while working on mental health concerns. Chelsea feels that choosing medication therapy is a decision that should be made by patient and provider, not just the provider. She specializes in anxiety, depression, aggression or anger, trauma, bipolar illness, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and ADHD, among others.
Chelsea is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has worked with all age groups in both community outpatient and hospital-based outpatient settings. Recently, she worked with children and adolescents, helping them and their parents navigate the school system while working on mental health concerns. Chelsea feels that choosing medication therapy is a decision that should be made by patient and provider, not just the provider. She specializes in anxiety, depression, aggression or anger, trauma, bipolar illness, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and ADHD, among others.
![Photo of Maria C Arcia, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7567901f-6206-47b3-aabe-78be9dc25bf4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Arcia is board-certified in Adult Psychiatry. She obtained her MD degree from the University of Coimbra (Portugal). Thereafter, she completed an internship in Internal Medicine, before pursuing residency training in Psychiatry at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center (Brighton, MA), where she also served as Chief Resident in Psychiatry. She has over 13 years of clinical experience in both in-patient and out-patient treatment of patients with a wide range of psychiatric disorders, especially in patients with medical comorbidities. She is also certified in electro-convulsive therapy (ECT) by Cornell University.
Dr. Arcia is board-certified in Adult Psychiatry. She obtained her MD degree from the University of Coimbra (Portugal). Thereafter, she completed an internship in Internal Medicine, before pursuing residency training in Psychiatry at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center (Brighton, MA), where she also served as Chief Resident in Psychiatry. She has over 13 years of clinical experience in both in-patient and out-patient treatment of patients with a wide range of psychiatric disorders, especially in patients with medical comorbidities. She is also certified in electro-convulsive therapy (ECT) by Cornell University.
![Photo of Bernard Waigi, MSN/MPH, PMHNP-B, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9db4ddb9-c4a9-4ee6-99a2-708efb0a4d52/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bernard Waigi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN/MPH, PMHNP-B, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01608
I am an experienced board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of the VA Boston Healthcare Nurse Practitioner Residency Program. I work with patients, adults ages 18 and above. I am well-versed with best practices and utilization of evidence-based care that is patient centered. I am also a very experienced educator, compassionate provider who works to build a strong relationship with patients and their loved ones. It is my believe that treatment works best when an empathic and trusting relationship exists between the patient and the clinician.
I am an experienced board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of the VA Boston Healthcare Nurse Practitioner Residency Program. I work with patients, adults ages 18 and above. I am well-versed with best practices and utilization of evidence-based care that is patient centered. I am also a very experienced educator, compassionate provider who works to build a strong relationship with patients and their loved ones. It is my believe that treatment works best when an empathic and trusting relationship exists between the patient and the clinician.
![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 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 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.
See more therapy options for Worcester
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Worcester, MA
90+
Average cost per session
$227
Psychiatrists in Worcester, MA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Medication Management |
75% | ADHD |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
85% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Worcester, MA see their clients
51% | Online Only | |
49% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
31% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Worcester?
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.