Psychiatry allows people struggling to manage mental conditions or disorders to get access to medications that will make daily functioning easier, as well as work through any mental factors that might be causing or worsening their condition. Though medications can’t cure mental disorders, medication can make symptoms more manageable, making the process of psychotherapeutic treatment easier and more effective. Psychiatric care can be available through in-person psychiatry and online psychiatry, depending on where you live and your own preferences. However, psychiatric providers at Thriveworks in Franklin, MA specifically offer online psychiatry to their clients.
A therapist has an education specifically rooted in therapeutic practice, approaches, techniques, and treatment. They cannot prescribe medications for clients, though they often refer clients to psychiatrists for medication management. Psychiatrists are medically trained doctors who specialize in mental health treatment, mainly through medication management and prescription, though they can also practice therapy.
Oftentimes, psychiatrists or psychiatric professionals will perform a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, which involves an in-depth discussion about your symptoms, medical history, and current medications. Once they reach a diagnosis, they may suggest starting certain medications depending on your condition and the intensity of your symptoms.
Why Would I Need Medication?
Often people find themselves repeatedly having difficulty getting out of bed in the morning. This is often coupled with ongoing struggles beginning and finishing basic tasks. There can be a general feeling of sadness that seems to persist during a variety of settings and in various settings. People with these symptoms can also have a history of these moods and behaviors in their family, so much so that growing up they accepted these traits as normal. But now these symptoms interfere in their daily lives, particularly in relationships.
Many people seek help from a counselor and/or therapist to help resolve these issues. While this is a good first step, many of these traits and behaviors may be symptoms of anxiety or depression. These disorders have physiological elements that are best addressed with a combination approach of therapy and treatment with a psychotropic medication. During treatment using psychotropic medication, managing those medications with the help of a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioners can be very helpful and often essential.
What Is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner?
Psychiatric nurse practitioners are nurses with advance certification who received, or are receiving, training specifically in the treatment of psychiatric syndromes or disorders with the use of psychotropic medication. A psychiatric nurse practitioner is often trained and experienced in treating a variety of disorders within a range of severity: Such disorders include (but are not limited to):
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Other Mood Disorders.
- Attention Deficit and Hyperactive Disorder
- Bipolar Disorder
- Sleep Disorders
- Thought Disorders
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorders
- Adjustment Disorder
- Pain Management
Psychiatric nurse practitioners are also trained in various specialties and across a range of age groups. They are specially trained to deal with the unique and complex problems that mental health disorders present.
How Does a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Work with a Therapist?
Psychiatric nurse practitioners have the ability to prescribe medication. As mentioned before, treatment with medication can be important in treating the internal, medical aspects of mental illness. This treatment can be long-term or short-term depending on the client’s individual needs due to the conditions and cause of the disorder. “Talk” therapists, using a variety of treatment modalities including psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral interventions, are very useful in a variety of situations. However, research has shown that the best outcomes of treatment occur when a therapist works in combination with medication management provided by a psychiatrist and a psychiatric nurse practitioner.
A Thriveworks psychiatric nurse practitioner can prescribe, monitor, and adjust medications as needed. The psychiatric nurse practitioner at Thriveworks Franklin is also trained in the use of alternative approaches to medication, such as essential oils, so that the client has options that they can explore. At Thriveworks Franklin, our skilled team of therapist work closely with our psychiatric nurse practitioner to provide a well-rounded approach to care and healing. Our psychiatric nurse practitioner also received supervision from a Psychiatrist to assure a high quality of care. some problems and disorders simply require medication.
Is Medication Treatment Affordable?
All health insurance companies will cover treatment with medication when it is recognized as an essential part of a treatment plan. Often, the same insurance companies that cover therapy also cover payment for psychotropic medications. At Thriveworks Franklin, we accept many health insurance plans. Our team is will to work with you to understand your health benefits and costs as well as helping you address these issues with you. Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners, as medical practitioners, are part of many standard health insurance plans’ benefits. The team at Thriveworks Franklin will be happy to help you make the right decision for the provider of your mental health needs.
How Do I Make an Appointment?
Thriveworks Franklin psychiatric nurse practitioners and supervising psychiatrists are leaders in their field. They are reputable, licensed, and experienced professionals who have helped many people overcome the often-debilitating symptoms of psychiatric conditions. Our providers have been featured in many reputable academic journals and news outlets. We are ready to put our expertise to work for you.
We understand that making that first call can be the hardest part of seeking help. Therefore, we have a team of schedulers who will be happy to help you set up an initial appointment. You can do so by dialing (617) 360-7210 and one of our schedules will assist you through the process of getting started. So, if you are in need, please make that call today. Our team is willing and ready to help.
Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), +27 more
Anger, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, Stress, Anxiety, +2 more
As an African American male, I understand the unique challenges associated with engaging with a mental health professional. Through building trust in a safe environment, I will work to assist you to learn more about your strengths and how to use them to manage concerns in your life.
Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO), Carelon, Cigna | Evernorth, Compsych, Fallon Health, First Health Network, Harvard Pilgrim, Humana Exchange, Humana HMO/POS, Humana Medicare Advantage, Humana PPO | EPO | HDHP, JP Farley Corporation, Mass General Brigham (Optum), Medicare Massachusetts, Multi Plan PHCS, Railroad Medicare , Tricare East | Out of Network Provider, Tufts Health Plan, United Healthcare | Optum, Wellsense Health Plan, Cigna | Evernorth EAP, Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage, Indiana University Health Plan, Indiana University Health Plan Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO), Quest Behavioral Health , Tufts Health Plan Medicare Advantage, United Healthcare | Optum EAP
Anger, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, Stress, Anxiety, Grief / Loss, Depression
Serves ages 65+, 18-64
About Martin
"As an African American male, I understand the unique challenges associated with engaging with a mental health professional. Through building trust in a safe environment, I will work to assist you to learn more about your strengths and how to use them to manage concerns in your life. "
Martin F. Hill, Sr., PhD, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has over 25 years of clinical experience and 15 years of teaching experience at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Dr. Hill is experienced in addressing multicultural and LGBTQIA+ issues. He is flexible, encouraging, optimistic, and focused on improving overall wellbeing of each client.
Dr. Hill completed his Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at Indiana University-Bloomington. He completed both his Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling and his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Counseling Psychology at Michigan State University. Dr. Hill is a native of Detroit, MI.
Dr. Hill is very engaging with clients in establishing a strong therapeutic relationship. He uses cognitive behavioral techniques centered on addressing emotional concerns, developing solutions using evidenced-backed techniques, and promoting client-centered approaches.
Education and training
Years in practice
25 years
Graduating Institute
Michigan State University
Graduating Degree
Doctorate in Counseling Psychology
Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), +18 more
Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Men’s Issues, Self Esteem, +11 more
As a therapist with over 17 years of experience in helping people who are struggling with a wide range issues, I work to create an accepting and supportive environment where clients can feel comfortable in sharing about their personal issues and struggles.
Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), Carelon, Cigna | Evernorth, Compsych, Fallon Health, First Health Network, Harvard Pilgrim, Humana Exchange, Humana HMO/POS, Humana PPO | EPO | HDHP, JP Farley Corporation, Multi Plan PHCS, Tricare East | Out of Network Provider, Tufts Health Plan, United Healthcare | Optum, Wellsense Health Plan, Magellan, Quest Behavioral Health , United Healthcare | Optum EAP
Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Men’s Issues, Self Esteem, Stress, Divorce / Breakup, ADHD, Addiction, OCD / Obsessive-Compulsive, Sleep / Insomnia, Relationships, Anxiety, Grief / Loss, Depression, Trauma / PTSD
Serves ages 65+, 18-64
About Richard
"As a therapist with over 17 years of experience in helping people who are struggling with a wide range issues, I work to create an accepting and supportive environment where clients can feel comfortable in sharing about their personal issues and struggles."
Richard O’Garr is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 15 years of experience in helping people who are struggling with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, stress, conflicts in relationships, and addiction.
Richard has a Master's in Counseling Psychology from Assumption College. He works to create an accepting and supportive environment where clients can feel comfortable sharing their personal issues and struggles. With his experience in using a variety of counseling approaches, especially cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), he is able to work collaboratively with clients and tailor his approach to meet their individual needs.
Whether you are looking for help in coping with a serious mental health disorder, seeking self-improvement, or a combination of both, Richard will work with you to not only ease your suffering but also help you reach your personal goals, grow in your capabilities, and thrive.
Education and training
Years in practice
15 years
Graduating Institute
Assumption College
Graduating Degree
Masters in Counseling Psychology
Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), +20 more
Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, Stress, Anxiety, +3 more
Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO), Carelon, Cigna | Evernorth, Compsych, Fallon Health, First Health Network, Harvard Pilgrim, Humana Exchange, Humana HMO/POS, Humana Medicare Advantage, Humana PPO | EPO | HDHP, JP Farley Corporation, Medicare Massachusetts, Tricare East | Out of Network Provider, Tufts Health Plan, United Healthcare | Optum, Wellsense Health Plan, Magellan, Quest Behavioral Health , United Healthcare | Optum EAP
Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, Stress, Anxiety, Grief / Loss, Depression, Trauma / PTSD
Serves ages 18-64
About Stephen
Stephen Medina is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMCH) who has 4 years of experience providing care to children, adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders.
Stephen completed his Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology and his Master of Science (MS) in Counseling at Bridgewater State University. He utilizes a variety of approaches to best provide a tailored approach to therapy for his clients. Whether providing and utilizing strength based, cognitive behavioral, or mindfulness techniques, Stephen will provide his clients with a positive and personalized therapy experience.
Stephen would like to work with you, in order to provide assistance in developing your strengths so you can confidently achieve your goals and live the life you deserve.
Education and training
Years in practice
4 years
Graduating Institute
Bridgewater State University
Graduating Degree
Master's in Counseling
Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), +22 more
Coping Skills, Stress, Women’s Issues, Anxiety, Depression
I understand the importance of meeting clients where they are, and I work to tailor treatment approaches to meet individual needs and goals.
Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO), Carelon, Cigna | Evernorth, Compsych, Fallon Health, First Health Network, Harvard Pilgrim, Humana Exchange, Humana HMO/POS, Humana Medicare Advantage, Humana PPO | EPO | HDHP, JP Farley Corporation, Mass General Brigham (Optum), Medicare Massachusetts, Multi Plan PHCS, Tricare East | Out of Network Provider, Tufts Health Plan, United Healthcare | Optum, Wellsense Health Plan, Cigna | Evernorth EAP, Quest Behavioral Health , United Healthcare | Optum EAP
Coping Skills, Stress, Women’s Issues, Anxiety, Depression
Serves ages 18-64, 14-17
About Alyssa
"I understand the importance of meeting clients where they are, and I work to tailor treatment approaches to meet individual needs and goals."
Alyssa Quann is a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with 5 years of experience in mental health. She is committed to helping both individuals and couples navigate the world around them, equipping them with skills to excel in an ever-changing world. She is passionate about creating an authentic therapeutic space and encourages her clients to lean into the discomfort that comes with healing to make room for growth. Alyssa specializes in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and women's issues. She received her bachelor's degree in psychology from Williams College and her master's degree in clinical psychology from UMASS Dartmouth.
Alyssa values creativity, reflection, and humor as pathways of collaboration and connection. She uses several treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and motivational interviewing.
Life is unpredictable and presents each individual with a unique set of challenges. If you are interested in building a therapeutic relationship based off of mutual respect and trust that will enable you reach your goals, book an appointment with her today!
Education and training
Years in practice
5 years
Graduating Institute
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
Graduating Degree
Masters in Clinical Psychology
Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Cigna | Evernorth, +3 more
Domestic Abuse, Self Esteem, Stress, OCD / Obsessive-Compulsive, Sleep / Insomnia, +5 more
As a multi-cultural counselor, I recognize the importance of respecting cultural, sexual, and gender diversity.
Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Cigna | Evernorth, United Healthcare | Optum, Cigna | Evernorth EAP, United Healthcare | Optum EAP
Domestic Abuse, Self Esteem, Stress, OCD / Obsessive-Compulsive, Sleep / Insomnia, Life Transition, Relationships, Anxiety, Grief / Loss, Depression
Serves ages 65+, 18-64
About Jasmin
"As a multi-cultural counselor, I recognize the importance of respecting cultural, sexual, and gender diversity."
Jasmin Ketabi is seeking her Licensure in Mental Health Counseling and has 4 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents and adults to achieve their potential and live more fulfilled lives. Jasmin emphasizes the importance of tailoring her therapeutic interventions to meet the specific needs of her client.
Jasmin values each client’s cultural background and utilizes motivational interviewing, solution-focused modalities, and cognitive behavioral modalities. As a clinician, she respects clients' points of view and belief systems.
Jasmin believes that the essential element of working with a different range of clients is building rapport and a therapeutic alliance. Collaboratively and without judgment, she can help you understand yourself, your fears, and your needs so that your thoughts and emotional experiences don’t overwhelm you.
Education and training
Years in practice
3 years
Graduating Institute
UMass Boston
Graduating Degree
M.Ed. Mental Health Counseling
Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), +23 more
Anger, Coping Skills, Men’s Issues, Stress, ADHD, +6 more
I am an empathetic and experienced therapist dedicated to helping clients achieve personal growth and emotional well-being.
Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO), Carelon, Cigna | Evernorth, Compsych, Fallon Health, First Health Network, Harvard Pilgrim, Humana Exchange, Humana HMO/POS, Humana Medicare Advantage, Humana PPO | EPO | HDHP, JP Farley Corporation, Mass General Brigham (Optum), Medicare Massachusetts, Multi Plan PHCS, Railroad Medicare , Tricare East | Out of Network Provider, Tufts Health Plan, United Healthcare | Optum, Wellsense Health Plan, Cigna | Evernorth EAP, Quest Behavioral Health , United Healthcare | Optum EAP
Anger, Coping Skills, Men’s Issues, Stress, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, OCD / Obsessive-Compulsive, Life Transition, Anxiety, Grief / Loss, Depression
Serves ages 65+, 18-64
About Kenneth
"I am an empathetic and experienced therapist dedicated to helping clients achieve personal growth and emotional well-being."
Kenneth Westerfield is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), working with clients in MA, but have a history of experience working as a licensed clinician in NC.
He is passionate about helping adults address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Kenneth specializes in depression, anxiety, and major life transitions. Kenneth completed his Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Alabama.
Kenneth utilizes multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy, and solution-focused therapy. Kenneth believes that it is important to form a strong therapeutic relationship through understanding, empathy, and unconditional positive regard.
Kenneth is confident that he would be able to support you on your journey to gain new perspectives and techniques that allow you to cope with whatever you may be struggling with. If you are ready to do the work, schedule an appointment with him today!
Education and training
Years in practice
3 years
Graduating Institute
University of Alabama
Graduating Degree
Masters of Arts Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Cigna | Evernorth, +3 more
LGBTQIA+, Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Infidelity, +9 more
As a psychoanalyst, I use a client-centered, holistic approach that prioritizes the human being beyond the diagnosis, and connects patterns of thinking to correct patterns of behavior.
Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS, Cigna | Evernorth, United Healthcare | Optum, Cigna | Evernorth EAP, United Healthcare | Optum EAP
LGBTQIA+, Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Infidelity, Self Esteem, Stress, Career, Life Transition, Relationships, Anxiety, Grief / Loss, Depression, Trauma / PTSD
Serves ages 65+, 18-64
About Melissa
"As a psychoanalyst, I use a client-centered, holistic approach that prioritizes the human being beyond the diagnosis, and connects patterns of thinking to correct patterns of behavior."
Melissa Hinds is a Resident Licensed Mental Health Clinician with 3 years of experience and a concentration in psychodynamic approaches. She works with adults and seniors who are experiencing concerns involving depression, anxiety, family and couples counseling, behavioral problems, anger management, as well as mood and personality disorders. As a queer-identified Afro-Caribbean woman of color, Melissa understands the importance of cultural competency. She has expertise in working with populations diverse in race, nationality, ethnicity, religion, spiritual practices, sexual orientation, gender identity, and political affiliations.
Melissa has a Master of Arts in Psychoanalysis from the Boston Graduate School of Psychoanalysis. She practices modern psychoanalysis, a form of talk therapy that aims to uncover and resolve unconscious forces and childhood experiences that have lasting effects on adult behavior and mental states.
Melissa helps patients explore their patterns, motivations, and defenses to develop healthier coping mechanisms. She believes the greatest therapeutic successes result from a co-creative process and tailors treatment to the individual. Schedule an appointment with her today!
Education and training
Years in practice
3 years
Graduating Institute
Boston Graduate School of Psychoanalysis
Graduating Degree
Master of Arts in Psychoanalysis
