Psychiatrists in Boston, MA
I am a Harvard-trained, Harvard-affiliated, child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I am passionate about working collaboratively with my patients to overcome emotional suffering and meet their goals. I provide weekly therapy to teens, college students, and adults in my telehealth private practice and work with patients to determine if medications can be of help. I do not offer medication management only services (without therapy) in my private practice.
I am a Harvard-trained, Harvard-affiliated, child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I am passionate about working collaboratively with my patients to overcome emotional suffering and meet their goals. I provide weekly therapy to teens, college students, and adults in my telehealth private practice and work with patients to determine if medications can be of help. I do not offer medication management only services (without therapy) in my private practice.
With nearly three decades of experience in psychiatry, focusing on neuropsychiatric conditions that affect mood and cognition, my goal is to deliver new, effective therapies to those struggling with depression, anxiety, post-COVID syndromes, cognitive impairments, and more. With my extensive background in neuropsychopharmacology (and affiliations with Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Harvard Medical School as Director of Photobiomodulation and Associate Professor respectively), I always start with the most scientifically proven treatments. I ensure that my approach aligns with the latest, evidence-based standards.
With nearly three decades of experience in psychiatry, focusing on neuropsychiatric conditions that affect mood and cognition, my goal is to deliver new, effective therapies to those struggling with depression, anxiety, post-COVID syndromes, cognitive impairments, and more. With my extensive background in neuropsychopharmacology (and affiliations with Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Harvard Medical School as Director of Photobiomodulation and Associate Professor respectively), I always start with the most scientifically proven treatments. I ensure that my approach aligns with the latest, evidence-based standards.
Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment requires courage and motivation. As your psychiatrist, I honor your willingness to be vulnerable with me by being transparent with you throughout our work together. My clinical approach balances directness with empathy, shared expectation with flexibility, and professionalism with humor and warmth. I provide psychiatric evaluations, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management to adolescents and adults. I am passionate about caring for LGBTQIA+ people, and I have been researching and teaching about queer issues in health care for the past ten years.
Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment requires courage and motivation. As your psychiatrist, I honor your willingness to be vulnerable with me by being transparent with you throughout our work together. My clinical approach balances directness with empathy, shared expectation with flexibility, and professionalism with humor and warmth. I provide psychiatric evaluations, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management to adolescents and adults. I am passionate about caring for LGBTQIA+ people, and I have been researching and teaching about queer issues in health care for the past ten years.
Please visit my website to schedule an appointment. I have a particular interest in working with clients with Depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar. Separately, if you are interested in tapering off psychiatric medications, I would be happy to help.
Please visit my website to schedule an appointment. I have a particular interest in working with clients with Depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar. Separately, if you are interested in tapering off psychiatric medications, I would be happy to help.
Mary Beth, an experienced and dedicated Physician Assistant (PA), is on a mission to support her patients in achieving optimal physical and mental health. She brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her practice, making her a valuable asset to the field of healthcare. Mary Beth's educational journey reflects her commitment to providing comprehensive care. She graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Oklahoma Baptist University in 2003, demonstrating her early passion for understanding the intricacies of the human mind.
Mary Beth, an experienced and dedicated Physician Assistant (PA), is on a mission to support her patients in achieving optimal physical and mental health. She brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her practice, making her a valuable asset to the field of healthcare. Mary Beth's educational journey reflects her commitment to providing comprehensive care. She graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Oklahoma Baptist University in 2003, demonstrating her early passion for understanding the intricacies of the human mind.
Kari Spaeth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02131 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about listening and developing treatment goals that meet your individual needs for mind, body and spirit health from the comfort of your own home.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about listening and developing treatment goals that meet your individual needs for mind, body and spirit health from the comfort of your own home.
Resolve Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115 (Online Only)
We specialize in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, DMDD for children, adolescents/teens, and adults. We treat a small group of clients and focus on personalization of services. Allow us to provide quality care to you or your child.
We specialize in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, DMDD for children, adolescents/teens, and adults. We treat a small group of clients and focus on personalization of services. Allow us to provide quality care to you or your child.
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Boston, offering online psychotherapy to clients throughout Massachusetts, in-person therapy and medication management in Jamaica Plain, and online classes and workshops at www.ThreeTreesMentalHealth.com
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Boston, offering online psychotherapy to clients throughout Massachusetts, in-person therapy and medication management in Jamaica Plain, and online classes and workshops at www.ThreeTreesMentalHealth.com
Hi I am an Advanced Practice Nurse who has varied experience with all mental health issues such as mood disorders, trauma issues, addiction issues, anxiety, ADHD and more. I have been practicing in this role for 24 years of assessing, diagnosing, and medicating patients to improve quality of life. I enjoy treating patients of all ages to help them function at their highest level and enjoy life to its fullest.
Hi I am an Advanced Practice Nurse who has varied experience with all mental health issues such as mood disorders, trauma issues, addiction issues, anxiety, ADHD and more. I have been practicing in this role for 24 years of assessing, diagnosing, and medicating patients to improve quality of life. I enjoy treating patients of all ages to help them function at their highest level and enjoy life to its fullest.
Mulberry Tree Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, DC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
A board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is an advanced practice nurse with the primary role of assessing, diagnosing and treating the mental health needs of patients. PMHNPs prescribe medications and provide support for patients with mental health disorders. Our integrated approach addresses the underlying cause of disease using a patient-centered approach encompassing the whole person, rather than the traditional disease-centered approach of an isolated set of symptoms.
A board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is an advanced practice nurse with the primary role of assessing, diagnosing and treating the mental health needs of patients. PMHNPs prescribe medications and provide support for patients with mental health disorders. Our integrated approach addresses the underlying cause of disease using a patient-centered approach encompassing the whole person, rather than the traditional disease-centered approach of an isolated set of symptoms.
Holistic Well
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
Hello and welcome! My name is Rachel Zagarella and I am a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on providing compassionate care for individuals seeking support with their mental health. With a deep commitment to helping others, I specialize in understanding your unique needs and developing personalized treatment plans. Through evidence-based practices and a collaborative approach, we can work together to enhance your mental well-being. Take the first step by scheduling a consultation, and let’s embark on your journey towards lasting wellness.
Hello and welcome! My name is Rachel Zagarella and I am a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on providing compassionate care for individuals seeking support with their mental health. With a deep commitment to helping others, I specialize in understanding your unique needs and developing personalized treatment plans. Through evidence-based practices and a collaborative approach, we can work together to enhance your mental well-being. Take the first step by scheduling a consultation, and let’s embark on your journey towards lasting wellness.
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I am a board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapy to children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in helping individuals with ADHD, depression, autism and those who are gender-diverse or other LGBTQ+ individuals. I believe in guiding and empowering you to make your own decisions about what is right for you and your mental health. Whether through diagnosis, medication, or therapy, I will help you meet your personal treatment goals. Ultimately, I believe the relationship between the clinician and the patient is the most important factor in treatment.
I am a board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapy to children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in helping individuals with ADHD, depression, autism and those who are gender-diverse or other LGBTQ+ individuals. I believe in guiding and empowering you to make your own decisions about what is right for you and your mental health. Whether through diagnosis, medication, or therapy, I will help you meet your personal treatment goals. Ultimately, I believe the relationship between the clinician and the patient is the most important factor in treatment.
Joshua Hatcher-Mullins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02111 (Online Only)
Joshua believes in caring for the whole person holistically. He strives to understand current mental health concerns as well as various stressors and past traumas. He provides a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment for clients. He works collaboratively with clients to create a plan, overcome stuck points, and reach treatment goals utilizing both therapeutic techniques and medication. Joshua's education consists of some of the highest rated programs in the country - Cornell, Duke University, and GSU, as well as an Emory Residency program. Most insurances accepted, generally with very low or NO copay - verified before first visit!
Joshua believes in caring for the whole person holistically. He strives to understand current mental health concerns as well as various stressors and past traumas. He provides a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment for clients. He works collaboratively with clients to create a plan, overcome stuck points, and reach treatment goals utilizing both therapeutic techniques and medication. Joshua's education consists of some of the highest rated programs in the country - Cornell, Duke University, and GSU, as well as an Emory Residency program. Most insurances accepted, generally with very low or NO copay - verified before first visit!
Jacine Yael Vilches
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116 (Online Only)
Ideal client is an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma. etc looking for the best expert psychiatric care, motivated to improve their mental health but feel stuck and overwhelmed. High-achieving professionals or students who find their mental health challenges interfering with their lives. They want to regain a sense of control/balance through customized treatment plans, medication management, compassionate therapy, and holistic solutions. Empathetic support, enhancement of mental wellness, professional guidance, flexible scheduling all available.
Ideal client is an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma. etc looking for the best expert psychiatric care, motivated to improve their mental health but feel stuck and overwhelmed. High-achieving professionals or students who find their mental health challenges interfering with their lives. They want to regain a sense of control/balance through customized treatment plans, medication management, compassionate therapy, and holistic solutions. Empathetic support, enhancement of mental wellness, professional guidance, flexible scheduling all available.
Annie Hollyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, ANCC-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02109 (Online Only)
South Boston Psychiatry was created with the understanding that mental health can not be “one-size-fits-all”. The telehealth model allows you to seek care when/how it is convenient for you. Board Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner Annie Hollyer, PMHNP-BC, RN, MSN offers psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy treatment, documentation and will be happy to work with you on referrals to the cutting edge medicine that’s changing mental health including Pharmacogenetic testing, Spravato, Suboxone, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
South Boston Psychiatry was created with the understanding that mental health can not be “one-size-fits-all”. The telehealth model allows you to seek care when/how it is convenient for you. Board Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner Annie Hollyer, PMHNP-BC, RN, MSN offers psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy treatment, documentation and will be happy to work with you on referrals to the cutting edge medicine that’s changing mental health including Pharmacogenetic testing, Spravato, Suboxone, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
William Chad Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02215
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.
My ideal client feels overwhelmed by life's demands and struggles with anxiety or low self-esteem. They seek to understand themselves better, manage stress effectively, and cultivate a more fulfilling life. Their goal is to develop coping strategies and build confidence to navigate their world with greater ease. They want guidance to unlock their potential and desire a therapist who listens deeply and offers compassionate, evidence-based support to help them thrive.
My ideal client feels overwhelmed by life's demands and struggles with anxiety or low self-esteem. They seek to understand themselves better, manage stress effectively, and cultivate a more fulfilling life. Their goal is to develop coping strategies and build confidence to navigate their world with greater ease. They want guidance to unlock their potential and desire a therapist who listens deeply and offers compassionate, evidence-based support to help them thrive.
Sonal Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110
I am dedicated and highly qualified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in critical care nursing, clinical care coordination, and team leadership. She holds certifications from both the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center, reflecting her commitment to excellence in mental health practice.
I am dedicated and highly qualified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in critical care nursing, clinical care coordination, and team leadership. She holds certifications from both the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center, reflecting her commitment to excellence in mental health practice.
Kyle B Sargent is a Psychiatric Physician Assistant. He graduated from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences specializing in Psychiatric Health as well as Acute Care. Kyle joined our team in hopes of connecting with patients to create a solid and trusting relationship in order to provide appropriate patient-centered care. He has worked in Urgent Cares across the South Shore, but his main passion is mental health where he aims to serve and provide care to his community in areas that need it the most.
Kyle B Sargent is a Psychiatric Physician Assistant. He graduated from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences specializing in Psychiatric Health as well as Acute Care. Kyle joined our team in hopes of connecting with patients to create a solid and trusting relationship in order to provide appropriate patient-centered care. He has worked in Urgent Cares across the South Shore, but his main passion is mental health where he aims to serve and provide care to his community in areas that need it the most.
Jacqueline Dubois a Family Nurse Practitioner. While working as a Registered Nurse she continued my education in the Master of Science Nursing program at Simmons University where she had the opportunity to complete a clinical rotation with the Medical Director of Addiction Medicine at South Shore Health. Through this experience she found my passion for the mental health and addiction medicine field. She worked as a Registered Nurse at the Grayken Center for Treatment Bridge Program and the Office Based Addiction Treatment program through South Shore Health providing medication administration for substance use disorders.
Jacqueline Dubois a Family Nurse Practitioner. While working as a Registered Nurse she continued my education in the Master of Science Nursing program at Simmons University where she had the opportunity to complete a clinical rotation with the Medical Director of Addiction Medicine at South Shore Health. Through this experience she found my passion for the mental health and addiction medicine field. She worked as a Registered Nurse at the Grayken Center for Treatment Bridge Program and the Office Based Addiction Treatment program through South Shore Health providing medication administration for substance use disorders.
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 |
73% | Medication Management |
72% | Bipolar Disorder |
70% | ADHD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
81% | Aetna |
79% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Boston, MA see their clients
52% | In Person and Online | |
48% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
68% | Female | |
31% | 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.