Psychiatrists in Walpole, MA
![Photo of Hannah Roberts, PMHNP, FNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5d1fc86-a3c6-486d-8998-a99e8e64ac86/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah employs a compassionate, empowering patient care style and specializes in working with children (10+) and young adults. She provides psychiatric medication management services, emphasizing a collaborative approach with patients and families.
Hannah employs a compassionate, empowering patient care style and specializes in working with children (10+) and young adults. She provides psychiatric medication management services, emphasizing a collaborative approach with patients and families.
![Photo of Dr. Qays Munir, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5a37d26-8cf7-4e2a-b0de-c30acd6b651a/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Munir graduated with academic distinction, receiving his medical degree from Baqai Medical University in Karachi, Pakistan in 2013. He completed his psychiatry residency training at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center in Boston, MA in 2022 at which point he joined BNBA. Dr. Munir's goal as an early career psychiatrist is to accommodate the wide spectrum of needs of his patients. He is a staunch proponent of patient advocacy, and emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic alliance. He is attuned to the vast array of different cultural, religious and political backgrounds of our diverse communities.
Dr. Munir graduated with academic distinction, receiving his medical degree from Baqai Medical University in Karachi, Pakistan in 2013. He completed his psychiatry residency training at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center in Boston, MA in 2022 at which point he joined BNBA. Dr. Munir's goal as an early career psychiatrist is to accommodate the wide spectrum of needs of his patients. He is a staunch proponent of patient advocacy, and emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic alliance. He is attuned to the vast array of different cultural, religious and political backgrounds of our diverse communities.
![Photo of Yousef Abou Allaban - Neuro Behavioral Center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86c188da-2aaf-4a4d-bf1c-7903595a2dc4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Neuro Behavioral Center is a premier outpatient center focused on providing you with the highest quality of mental health services. Our highly qualified team of compassionate and caring professionals are dedicated to providing the most advanced and comprehensive treatment and adult psychiatric and psychology services. Utilizing advanced technology and evidenced-based treatment, we maintain a private and secure communication channel with our patients, while collaborating with other care providers to ensure the success of our therapies.
Neuro Behavioral Center is a premier outpatient center focused on providing you with the highest quality of mental health services. Our highly qualified team of compassionate and caring professionals are dedicated to providing the most advanced and comprehensive treatment and adult psychiatric and psychology services. Utilizing advanced technology and evidenced-based treatment, we maintain a private and secure communication channel with our patients, while collaborating with other care providers to ensure the success of our therapies.
![Photo of Peter R. Bourque Jr. Np, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9877093-0ece-4485-85e9-369f548a9260/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peter R. Bourque Jr. Np
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Walpole, MA 02081 (Online Only)
I specialize in medication management for mental health medications. Through my virtual consultation, I can discuss the best treatment options for you. Take the first step towards a healthier state of mind today and schedule a confidential virtual visit.
I specialize in medication management for mental health medications. Through my virtual consultation, I can discuss the best treatment options for you. Take the first step towards a healthier state of mind today and schedule a confidential virtual visit.
![Photo of Dr. Joseph S Insler - Atlas Behavioral Health, PC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8d3348f-ced0-485f-a067-1ba910789dea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Atlas Behavioral Health, where we believe that every journey toward mental wellness is a unique expedition deserving of personalized and compassionate care. At Atlas Behavioral Health, our mission is to support you in navigating life’s challenges with a tailored approach that respects your individual needs and goals. We offer a range of services including individual therapy, psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support for various behavioral health concerns.
Welcome to Atlas Behavioral Health, where we believe that every journey toward mental wellness is a unique expedition deserving of personalized and compassionate care. At Atlas Behavioral Health, our mission is to support you in navigating life’s challenges with a tailored approach that respects your individual needs and goals. We offer a range of services including individual therapy, psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support for various behavioral health concerns.
![Photo of Bryan Teran-Zuniga, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/763617e9-074a-4a2b-88d2-1c906f28e786/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bryan Teran-Zuniga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Walpole, MA 02081
I believe that there is nothing brighter than a child's mind. This is why I am passionate about working with children and adolescents of diverse cultural backgrounds struggling with mental health conditions. While I provide psychopharmacological treatment, I believe that treatment should be dynamic, person centered with strong emphasis on life style and behavioral changes as well as environmental supports. Working with a multidisciplinary team is the most effective approach to manage mental health conditions, this is why I REQUIRE that all my clients MUST BE actively engaged on individual/behavioral therapy.
I believe that there is nothing brighter than a child's mind. This is why I am passionate about working with children and adolescents of diverse cultural backgrounds struggling with mental health conditions. While I provide psychopharmacological treatment, I believe that treatment should be dynamic, person centered with strong emphasis on life style and behavioral changes as well as environmental supports. Working with a multidisciplinary team is the most effective approach to manage mental health conditions, this is why I REQUIRE that all my clients MUST BE actively engaged on individual/behavioral therapy.
![Photo of Jill Forte, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4746b5e9-f45e-46ea-b9cc-d6b3536364fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Forte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walpole, MA 02081 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients: Jill is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 9 years of experience in the nursing field. Jill provides care for adults 18 years and older with a variety of mental and emotional conditions. Her specialties include anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and eating disorders. Jill has a strong interest in the mind-body connection and enjoys providing health and lifestyle education to her patients. She believes in a collaborative and individualized approach to care.
Accepting New Clients: Jill is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 9 years of experience in the nursing field. Jill provides care for adults 18 years and older with a variety of mental and emotional conditions. Her specialties include anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and eating disorders. Jill has a strong interest in the mind-body connection and enjoys providing health and lifestyle education to her patients. She believes in a collaborative and individualized approach to care.
![Photo of Brenda Vigue, APRN, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d67993c-3de5-42d8-a826-252e59710393/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am currently accepting new patients. Thank you for stopping by my profile. People reach out for a variety of reasons. Many of these are related to change, life transitions, and an inability to function at their fullest potential. You may be going through a major life transition and associated stress, seeking some relief from your psychiatric symptoms. Through taking a thorough history of the patient's symptoms and life situation, we can come up with a plan for medication management and therapy.
I am currently accepting new patients. Thank you for stopping by my profile. People reach out for a variety of reasons. Many of these are related to change, life transitions, and an inability to function at their fullest potential. You may be going through a major life transition and associated stress, seeking some relief from your psychiatric symptoms. Through taking a thorough history of the patient's symptoms and life situation, we can come up with a plan for medication management and therapy.
![Photo of Justin Marotta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/390cf8bc-9b9f-4e3b-80bb-371fe79877f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Justin Marotta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Walpole, MA 02081 (Online Only)
I am the founder and owner of Boston Psychiatric Services. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I aim to establish individualized and comprehensive care to clients that promotes resilience, growth, and fosters one’s ability to cope and manage with life’s struggles.
I am the founder and owner of Boston Psychiatric Services. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I aim to establish individualized and comprehensive care to clients that promotes resilience, growth, and fosters one’s ability to cope and manage with life’s struggles.
![Photo of Hannah Lynch - Onward Psychiatry, PMHNP, LICSW, LADC1, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0fb4186-25b0-434b-b8c7-695a3ea7280b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Onward Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LICSW, LADC1
Verified Verified
Walpole, MA 02081
Immediate openings for therapy and medication management in person or via telehealth! If you have been struggling with symptoms that are keeping you from moving forward, we can help. At Onward Psychiatry we put a focus on symptoms, not just diagnosis, to help you improve areas of your life where you might be having difficulty. We will help you formulate a treatment plan with medications and/or therapy to aid in improving areas of your life that you have been struggling with.
Immediate openings for therapy and medication management in person or via telehealth! If you have been struggling with symptoms that are keeping you from moving forward, we can help. At Onward Psychiatry we put a focus on symptoms, not just diagnosis, to help you improve areas of your life where you might be having difficulty. We will help you formulate a treatment plan with medications and/or therapy to aid in improving areas of your life that you have been struggling with.
![Photo of Rebecca Blair, CPNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58d865f7-76f1-4359-b39a-cda54c96e9a4/2/320x400.png)
Rebecca Blair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CPNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walpole, MA 02081
I have been a pediatric nurse practitioner since 2014 in primary care settings where I supported pediatric patients' physical and mental health. Through this role, I gained ample experience treating ADHD, depression, and anxiety in pediatric and adolescent populations. I completed Duke University's PMHNP program, during which time I worked with adolescent and adult populations in community healthcare clinics, a partial-hospital program and an emergency department. I have training in CBT and have studied DBT. I treat children, adolescents, and adults with a special interest in providing care for youth and families.
I have been a pediatric nurse practitioner since 2014 in primary care settings where I supported pediatric patients' physical and mental health. Through this role, I gained ample experience treating ADHD, depression, and anxiety in pediatric and adolescent populations. I completed Duke University's PMHNP program, during which time I worked with adolescent and adult populations in community healthcare clinics, a partial-hospital program and an emergency department. I have training in CBT and have studied DBT. I treat children, adolescents, and adults with a special interest in providing care for youth and families.
![Photo of Benjamin Brondsky, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4197d134-852d-4803-b3b0-98ab447c7dcc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Benjamin Brondsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Walpole, MA 02081
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing medication management and supportive therapy for clients ages 10+. I received my Bachelors and Masters in Nursing from the MGH Institute of Health Professions. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked throughout the medical field as a mental health specialist, a research coordinator and as a school nurse. My work experience and training include McLean Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, and multiple public school systems in the Greater Boston area. I have experience working with clients' diagnoses such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, and bipolar disorder.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner providing medication management and supportive therapy for clients ages 10+. I received my Bachelors and Masters in Nursing from the MGH Institute of Health Professions. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, I worked throughout the medical field as a mental health specialist, a research coordinator and as a school nurse. My work experience and training include McLean Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, and multiple public school systems in the Greater Boston area. I have experience working with clients' diagnoses such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, and bipolar disorder.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Siera Jennifer Alkee - Sage Psychiatry LLC, CNP, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e271810-98aa-4d40-b19f-45b53bb61e0f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sage Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Stoughton, MA 02072
In envisioning my ideal client, I see someone who is courageous and committed to their journey of self-discovery and healing. They may be grappling with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, but they are determined to confront these challenges head-on. Their needs encompass both emotional support and practical guidance as they navigate their path towards mental wellness. My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding ally who can offer them a safe space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. They crave validation, empathy, and validation.
In envisioning my ideal client, I see someone who is courageous and committed to their journey of self-discovery and healing. They may be grappling with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, but they are determined to confront these challenges head-on. Their needs encompass both emotional support and practical guidance as they navigate their path towards mental wellness. My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding ally who can offer them a safe space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. They crave validation, empathy, and validation.
![Photo of Betty Yu - Integrated Psychiatric Services, PMHNP, CARN-AP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bbbca38-0a34-45ca-a5f6-c36e95f70a75/4/320x400.jpeg)
Integrated Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CARN-AP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Canton, MA 02021
Betty Yu, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC is an ANCC-certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing complex psychiatric and substance use disorders. Betty follows an integrative approach to care focusing on the concept of Functional Psychiatry, a holistic approach to mental health care that focuses on identifying and treating the underlying root causes of mental health disorders. Unlike conventional psychiatry, which primarily uses pharmaceuticals to alleviate symptoms, functional psychiatry seeks to address and correct these underlying imbalances. Licensed to practice in Massachusetts and New Hampshire
Betty Yu, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC is an ANCC-certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing complex psychiatric and substance use disorders. Betty follows an integrative approach to care focusing on the concept of Functional Psychiatry, a holistic approach to mental health care that focuses on identifying and treating the underlying root causes of mental health disorders. Unlike conventional psychiatry, which primarily uses pharmaceuticals to alleviate symptoms, functional psychiatry seeks to address and correct these underlying imbalances. Licensed to practice in Massachusetts and New Hampshire
![Photo of William Chad Garrett, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79f6e876-3e57-4f8c-9b79-0e1ceb302324/2/320x400.jpeg)
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
When you are suffering, you want help now, not one month from now. If symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, or insomnia are negatively affecting your life, follow the link to my website and click the "Request Consultation" button to get started.
![Photo of Katherine Johnson, AGNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c7ffdd7-a14c-4b40-bbe4-b01de4c13f13/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine brings a humanistic approach to her practice. She uses her background in primary care medicine as well as psychiatry to provide compassionate and client-focused care, and to meet the needs of each patient as individuals. Katherine’s clinical experience is broad and includes adult medicine, geriatrics, community health, and college health. Katherine provides medication therapy using evidence-based practice, which include micro-dosing strategies for care tailored to individual needs.
Katherine brings a humanistic approach to her practice. She uses her background in primary care medicine as well as psychiatry to provide compassionate and client-focused care, and to meet the needs of each patient as individuals. Katherine’s clinical experience is broad and includes adult medicine, geriatrics, community health, and college health. Katherine provides medication therapy using evidence-based practice, which include micro-dosing strategies for care tailored to individual needs.
![Photo of Gary Warstadt, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf8d184-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe deeply that people can change their lives, and I have dedicated my life's work to just that. Patterns of behavior always exist for good reason. They begin as a way of adapting to circumstances, then the situation changes, and years later, what was once a way to cope has now become a liability. There is nothing more gratifying than assisting people in recognizing these lifelong patterns in which they have been entwined, and learning how to slip those bonds. Understanding alone, though, is not enough. The hard part is putting together and implementing a plan to change.
I believe deeply that people can change their lives, and I have dedicated my life's work to just that. Patterns of behavior always exist for good reason. They begin as a way of adapting to circumstances, then the situation changes, and years later, what was once a way to cope has now become a liability. There is nothing more gratifying than assisting people in recognizing these lifelong patterns in which they have been entwined, and learning how to slip those bonds. Understanding alone, though, is not enough. The hard part is putting together and implementing a plan to change.
![Photo of Gerald Jean, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57cd6d20-62e8-457e-b326-b13f568bc110/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gérald is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) driven by his fervidness for patient-centered, evidence-based practice, and concerted approaches to nursing care. With the experience accumulated over 30 years in health care, he aims at helping close the gap in the delivery of services to the mentally ill. Gérald’s primacy is to support the patients and their families in overcoming the stigmas associated with mental health, help patients improve their quality of life and reach their full potential.
Gérald is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) driven by his fervidness for patient-centered, evidence-based practice, and concerted approaches to nursing care. With the experience accumulated over 30 years in health care, he aims at helping close the gap in the delivery of services to the mentally ill. Gérald’s primacy is to support the patients and their families in overcoming the stigmas associated with mental health, help patients improve their quality of life and reach their full potential.
![Photo of Lisa Joyce, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29403adf-b01a-4b74-b52a-264a00e337fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new clients at New England Counseling Center in Mansfield, MA. Lisa is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is a Regis College graduate. She has over 18 years diverse clinical experience in healthcare within the general population in specialty fields such as palliative care, clinical instruction, and transitional care management. Lisa's didactic history includes but is not limited to outpatient counseling centers, crisis centers, and partial hospitalization programs.
Now accepting new clients at New England Counseling Center in Mansfield, MA. Lisa is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is a Regis College graduate. She has over 18 years diverse clinical experience in healthcare within the general population in specialty fields such as palliative care, clinical instruction, and transitional care management. Lisa's didactic history includes but is not limited to outpatient counseling centers, crisis centers, and partial hospitalization programs.
![Photo of Catherine Moore, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b77229d2-89d6-4e04-b5a0-f5b064f23838/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who works alongside clients to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health concerns through medication management. I value client centered and collaborative care to make sure the focus of treatment is on what matters most to you.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who works alongside clients to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health concerns through medication management. I value client centered and collaborative care to make sure the focus of treatment is on what matters most to you.
See more therapy options for Walpole
Nearby Searches for Walpole
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Walpole, MA
10+
Average cost per session
$330
Psychiatrists in Walpole, MA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
92% | Trauma and PTSD |
92% | Bipolar Disorder |
85% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | ADHD |
69% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
85% | Aetna |
69% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Walpole, MA see their clients
70% | In Person and Online | |
30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
55% | Female | |
45% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Walpole?
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.