Psychiatrists in Boston, MA
![Photo of Karina Riedel, PMHNP-B, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab5cc02c-590d-452e-a1d4-fd59fa7855a7/1/320x400.png)
Taking New Patients. I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, currently practicing recently relocated from Austin, Texas. I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing from Boston College and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. I bring a comprehensive educational background to my role as my clinical experience is extensive.
Taking New Patients. I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, currently practicing recently relocated from Austin, Texas. I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing from Boston College and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. I bring a comprehensive educational background to my role as my clinical experience is extensive.
![Photo of Erin Valenti, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2614054b-a587-41c6-9378-ab0aaaf62917/1/320x400.jpeg)
You want to take care of your mental health, but a one-size-fits-all system isn't working for you. You'd like a more flexible and creative approach and a highly personalized treatment plan. You're looking for a provider that is approachable, available, and attentive. The relationship between a provider and a client is everything in mental health treatment. I founded Newbury Street Psychiatry and Psychotherapy to provide patients with treatment relationships that are open, collaborative, and all about you.
You want to take care of your mental health, but a one-size-fits-all system isn't working for you. You'd like a more flexible and creative approach and a highly personalized treatment plan. You're looking for a provider that is approachable, available, and attentive. The relationship between a provider and a client is everything in mental health treatment. I founded Newbury Street Psychiatry and Psychotherapy to provide patients with treatment relationships that are open, collaborative, and all about you.
![Photo of Asma Rashid, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cfe0edc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Harvard trained, board certified, Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with a private practice in Back Bay Area, Boston. I believe that, the treatment process begins by creating an empathic and trusting relationship between the clinician and patients. During my evaluation and ongoing work, I consider various factors such as, genetic predisposition, biological, psychological and social processes to understand the person fully. Academic affiliation with Boston University helps me stay abreast with not only the recent developments in the field of psychiatry but also with the cultural and evidence based treatments.
I am a Harvard trained, board certified, Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with a private practice in Back Bay Area, Boston. I believe that, the treatment process begins by creating an empathic and trusting relationship between the clinician and patients. During my evaluation and ongoing work, I consider various factors such as, genetic predisposition, biological, psychological and social processes to understand the person fully. Academic affiliation with Boston University helps me stay abreast with not only the recent developments in the field of psychiatry but also with the cultural and evidence based treatments.
![Photo of Grace Onye, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/664e0d5b-93be-4d0a-862a-7ed314ae04c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can often present us with roadblocks, hardships, and tragedies. And because of this it's sometimes easy to feel stuck and helpless. As such it can be difficult trying to figure out how to navigate such life challenges and whom to confide to about them. That’s where I come in.
Life can often present us with roadblocks, hardships, and tragedies. And because of this it's sometimes easy to feel stuck and helpless. As such it can be difficult trying to figure out how to navigate such life challenges and whom to confide to about them. That’s where I come in.
![Photo of Preya Patel, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91ae54cc-46df-47d9-9c32-6b5f9eb5bb07/2/320x400.jpeg)
Preya is a nationally certified Physician Associate, with a focus on psychiatry. She received her bachelors in Health Science and a master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies. Preya has experience in urgent care, inpatient and outpatient settings.
Preya is a nationally certified Physician Associate, with a focus on psychiatry. She received her bachelors in Health Science and a master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies. Preya has experience in urgent care, inpatient and outpatient settings.
![Photo of Chloe Wagen, MSN, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6ff40ca-fa87-425f-8d82-62ed0fb22528/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been working in outpatient private practice for 3 years. I have worked with patients across the lifespan, and I have a particular interest in working with young adults as well as older adults/geriatrics. I am experienced in the evaluation and treatment of many mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders including bipolar spectrum disorders. I prioritize establishing a collaborative relationship with the individuals I work with. I hope to help my patients set their own goals and provide the environment and support they need in order to reach those goals.
I have been working in outpatient private practice for 3 years. I have worked with patients across the lifespan, and I have a particular interest in working with young adults as well as older adults/geriatrics. I am experienced in the evaluation and treatment of many mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and mood disorders including bipolar spectrum disorders. I prioritize establishing a collaborative relationship with the individuals I work with. I hope to help my patients set their own goals and provide the environment and support they need in order to reach those goals.
![Photo of Chenelle Christian, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03910991-eca7-417f-93f9-6c1c5b931973/1/320x400.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 18-65 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 18-65 years old with mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, womens mental health and various other psychiatric diagnoses.
![Photo of Daniel Gonzalez, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd48e086-618b-4d33-b0db-3cdeeb2bc679/1/320x400.png)
Do you have difficulty feeling at peace? Do you struggle with finding your voice, unable to fully embrace who you are? Is it difficult for you to accept yourself, or challenging to navigate your life, given your current environment or community? These are certainly distressing feelings that can contribute to restlessness, anxiety, or depression. They can be debilitating and keep you from living the life you envision. I believe we are multi-faceted individuals, with dynamic and evolving features, who are both capable and deserving of living with a greater sense of fulfillment and connectedness.
Do you have difficulty feeling at peace? Do you struggle with finding your voice, unable to fully embrace who you are? Is it difficult for you to accept yourself, or challenging to navigate your life, given your current environment or community? These are certainly distressing feelings that can contribute to restlessness, anxiety, or depression. They can be debilitating and keep you from living the life you envision. I believe we are multi-faceted individuals, with dynamic and evolving features, who are both capable and deserving of living with a greater sense of fulfillment and connectedness.
![Photo of Tetyana Tarnavsky, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f33627ac-827d-4dd2-9a5a-28361c4df93a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tetyana Tarnavsky is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. She attended Dnipropetrovsk State Medical Academy in Ukraine where she received her M.D., M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Psychiatry. Dr. Tarnavsky has completed her residency at Harvard South Shore Psychiatry Residency Training Program in MA where she was elected Chief Resident.
Dr. Tetyana Tarnavsky is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. She attended Dnipropetrovsk State Medical Academy in Ukraine where she received her M.D., M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Psychiatry. Dr. Tarnavsky has completed her residency at Harvard South Shore Psychiatry Residency Training Program in MA where she was elected Chief Resident.
![Photo of Marisol A. Segundo, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44bf3085-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Harvard-trained, board certified psychiatrist with expertise in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. My practice is tailored for adults facing issues that are interfering with their goals and happiness. I believe in providing optimal individualized care that takes into account the patient's preferences. In an initial consultation with me, I assess for a host of factors that could be contributing to your challenges, and provide recommendations about best treatments.
I am a Harvard-trained, board certified psychiatrist with expertise in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. My practice is tailored for adults facing issues that are interfering with their goals and happiness. I believe in providing optimal individualized care that takes into account the patient's preferences. In an initial consultation with me, I assess for a host of factors that could be contributing to your challenges, and provide recommendations about best treatments.
![Photo of Joseph F. Toomey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ca2ba5e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
With over three decades’ experience in academic and corporate environments, my current work as a Psychiatric DNP has evolved from observing the challenges and successes of colleagues and students and their relationship to emotional HEALTH and the ability to FOCUS on daily and long-term goals. As a result of my Yale, Duke, and MGH psychiatric training, I’ve honed my observations into effective working theories about the biopsychosocial factors that influence peoples’ vitality and well-being. If you're currently struggling with academic, professional or emotional obstacles, I believe I can help.
With over three decades’ experience in academic and corporate environments, my current work as a Psychiatric DNP has evolved from observing the challenges and successes of colleagues and students and their relationship to emotional HEALTH and the ability to FOCUS on daily and long-term goals. As a result of my Yale, Duke, and MGH psychiatric training, I’ve honed my observations into effective working theories about the biopsychosocial factors that influence peoples’ vitality and well-being. If you're currently struggling with academic, professional or emotional obstacles, I believe I can help.
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![Photo of Adriana Blakely-Chavez, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84cc3b27-69a3-4ecb-bcd9-ad04a8eb6da3/2/320x400.jpeg)
With a strong commitment to mental health, I have acquired extensive experience as a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional. I played a vital role in educating patients on essential aspects of mental health, and I've also done a lot of work in helping individuals dealing with diabetic and weight management issues deal and work through these concerns.
With a strong commitment to mental health, I have acquired extensive experience as a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional. I played a vital role in educating patients on essential aspects of mental health, and I've also done a lot of work in helping individuals dealing with diabetic and weight management issues deal and work through these concerns.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/510fbd87-18f8-4aa8-8c90-82cc573d0726/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Michael Fiori, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95134ed5-c760-45f9-917f-79475db4e51f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michael Fiori is Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. He has practiced general psychiatry for 40 years, and has also sub-specialized in Addiction Psychiatry for the past 20 years. Dr. Fiori's practice emphasizes Diagnostic Clarification, which is an ongoing process. He is highly trained and experienced in the biological and psychosocial underpinnings of psychiatric problems. He typically follows diagnostic evaluations with 20 minute follow up visits for medication adjustments and brief therapy. Dr. Fiori often enjoys collaborating with outside therapists when needed.
Dr. Michael Fiori is Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. He has practiced general psychiatry for 40 years, and has also sub-specialized in Addiction Psychiatry for the past 20 years. Dr. Fiori's practice emphasizes Diagnostic Clarification, which is an ongoing process. He is highly trained and experienced in the biological and psychosocial underpinnings of psychiatric problems. He typically follows diagnostic evaluations with 20 minute follow up visits for medication adjustments and brief therapy. Dr. Fiori often enjoys collaborating with outside therapists when needed.
![Photo of Lindsey Stanley, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca44472e-be95-4508-a5b7-2407098bb6a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Lindsey, a dedicated and compassionate Physician Assistant (PA) who prioritizes comprehensive care and mental health in her practice. With a commitment to addressing the root causes of her patients' concerns, Lindsey brings a unique perspective to the field of healthcare. Her expertise, combined with her passion for overall well-being, makes her a valuable asset in the pursuit of mental health. Lindsey's journey in healthcare is marked by excellence, having graduated with honors from her Master of Physician Assistant program in Boston, MA.
Meet Lindsey, a dedicated and compassionate Physician Assistant (PA) who prioritizes comprehensive care and mental health in her practice. With a commitment to addressing the root causes of her patients' concerns, Lindsey brings a unique perspective to the field of healthcare. Her expertise, combined with her passion for overall well-being, makes her a valuable asset in the pursuit of mental health. Lindsey's journey in healthcare is marked by excellence, having graduated with honors from her Master of Physician Assistant program in Boston, MA.
![Photo of Beatrice Boham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c44890b-df4e-4b83-98d9-72a6d7bb53e3/2/320x400.png)
A person seeking compassionate psychiatric care who is experiencing anxiety, depression, or mood disorders is Dr Boham's ideal client. This individual appreciates a comprehensive strategy that blends medicine and therapy to create a unique, efficient treatment plan. This individual's ultimate goals are to achieve mental well-being and lead a balanced, meaningful life.
A person seeking compassionate psychiatric care who is experiencing anxiety, depression, or mood disorders is Dr Boham's ideal client. This individual appreciates a comprehensive strategy that blends medicine and therapy to create a unique, efficient treatment plan. This individual's ultimate goals are to achieve mental well-being and lead a balanced, meaningful life.
![Photo of Jeffrey Lucero, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48f4dc8a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeffrey Lucero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115
Welcome. Thoughtful Psychiatry is a group of psychiatric providers devoted to providing a "thoughtful" approach to psychiatric care. The practice consists of multiple psychiatric prescribers that have extensive training in psychotherapy. While we believe that medications can be very helpful, we insist on providing more than medication for our patients.
Welcome. Thoughtful Psychiatry is a group of psychiatric providers devoted to providing a "thoughtful" approach to psychiatric care. The practice consists of multiple psychiatric prescribers that have extensive training in psychotherapy. While we believe that medications can be very helpful, we insist on providing more than medication for our patients.
![Photo of Chelesia Burkes-Brown - Mindful Psychiatric Services LLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/796bb35f-ce31-4d12-8214-5a4d6539e186/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Chelsia Burkes-Brown, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of nursing experience in psychiatry.
Hello! My name is Chelsia Burkes-Brown, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of nursing experience in psychiatry.
![Photo of Aminat Mohammed - Tanima Health Inc , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d10da1ea-f26f-42e3-8161-f0bd128387fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tanima Health supports your mental health wellness. Our PMHNPs provide psychopharmacological treatment, offer an ease of service and secure access from the comfort of your home. We currently accept insurance and offer affordable out- of-pocket pricing.
Tanima Health supports your mental health wellness. Our PMHNPs provide psychopharmacological treatment, offer an ease of service and secure access from the comfort of your home. We currently accept insurance and offer affordable out- of-pocket pricing.
![Photo of Melanie Kelley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbf64dd5-c6bb-41a3-8fa3-ae6b864196cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melanie Kelley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114 (Online Only)
My name is Melanie Kelley, and I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about delivering innovative mental health care, including psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I combine both medication management and psychotherapy modalities to treat children, adolescents, and adults to achieve sustainable and safe outcomes. As many of us know, treatment takes a collaborative and multimodal approach that is unique and individualized based on the patient's desired goals and outcomes.
My name is Melanie Kelley, and I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about delivering innovative mental health care, including psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I combine both medication management and psychotherapy modalities to treat children, adolescents, and adults to achieve sustainable and safe outcomes. As many of us know, treatment takes a collaborative and multimodal approach that is unique and individualized based on the patient's desired goals and outcomes.
See more therapy options for Boston
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Boston, MA
400+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Boston, MA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
72% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Medication Management |
70% | ADHD |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
82% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Boston, MA see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
30% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Boston?
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.