Psychiatrists in 06107

Photo of Yvonne Amune, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC, MSN
Yvonne Amune
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC, MSN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating Substance use disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating Substance use disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
(860) 846-4337 View (860) 846-4337
Photo of Ayesha Ahmed, Psychiatrist, MD
Ayesha Ahmed
Psychiatrist, MD
West Hartford, CT 06107
We are accepting new Patient (Adult,18 years and older). I am a 15+ years Experienced, Board Certified Physician specialized in Psychiatry, with Fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry. Depression, Anxiety, Sleep Disorders, Trauma, Phobias, Alzheimer, Postpartum Depression, Behavioral Disturbance, Senior-Geriatric conditions. My mission is to provide my patients with the best care in a confidential, relaxed environment through Evaluation and Medication Management. My office is in West Hartford Center, near by towns are Bloomfield, Avon, Granby, Simsbury, Canton, Windsor, Hartford, Newrington, Glastonbury, Danbury, Springfield-MA.
We are accepting new Patient (Adult,18 years and older). I am a 15+ years Experienced, Board Certified Physician specialized in Psychiatry, with Fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry. Depression, Anxiety, Sleep Disorders, Trauma, Phobias, Alzheimer, Postpartum Depression, Behavioral Disturbance, Senior-Geriatric conditions. My mission is to provide my patients with the best care in a confidential, relaxed environment through Evaluation and Medication Management. My office is in West Hartford Center, near by towns are Bloomfield, Avon, Granby, Simsbury, Canton, Windsor, Hartford, Newrington, Glastonbury, Danbury, Springfield-MA.
(860) 478-4341 View (860) 478-4341
Photo of Jeffrey S Gold, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeffrey S Gold
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who provides medically-oriented treatment for depression, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety, and Attention Deficit disorder. As a physician (MD) with a psychology, medicine, and neurology background, my care is above average compared to providers without this background. My practice covers both New York and Connecticut. I cap copay and coinsurance at $200.00 text 5164999840
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who provides medically-oriented treatment for depression, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety, and Attention Deficit disorder. As a physician (MD) with a psychology, medicine, and neurology background, my care is above average compared to providers without this background. My practice covers both New York and Connecticut. I cap copay and coinsurance at $200.00 text 5164999840
(860) 499-4910 View (860) 499-4910
Photo of Saeed Ahmed, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
Saeed Ahmed
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
West Hartford, CT 06107
Dr. Saeed Ahmed is a triple board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult psychiatry and addiction medicine. He is certified by the ABPN in general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry, as well as by the ABPM in addiction medicine. He provides comprehensive care for conditions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis and substance use disorders, including alcohol, opioids, and other substance-related disorders. He currently practices at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford, CT.
Dr. Saeed Ahmed is a triple board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult psychiatry and addiction medicine. He is certified by the ABPN in general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry, as well as by the ABPM in addiction medicine. He provides comprehensive care for conditions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis and substance use disorders, including alcohol, opioids, and other substance-related disorders. He currently practices at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford, CT.
(860) 735-3974 View (860) 735-3974
Photo of Dr. Harrison Strom, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Harrison Strom
Psychiatrist, DO
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who has felt overlooked or misunderstood in the mental health system. They may have been misdiagnosed, placed on multiple medications without clear benefit, or left without a meaningful explanation of their condition. They are seeking clarity, consistency, and a provider who will take the time to understand the full picture. They want to feel grounded, informed, and supported in their care. I value working with people who are ready to engage in a collaborative process toward long-term stability and a renewed sense of self.
My ideal client is someone who has felt overlooked or misunderstood in the mental health system. They may have been misdiagnosed, placed on multiple medications without clear benefit, or left without a meaningful explanation of their condition. They are seeking clarity, consistency, and a provider who will take the time to understand the full picture. They want to feel grounded, informed, and supported in their care. I value working with people who are ready to engage in a collaborative process toward long-term stability and a renewed sense of self.
(860) 497-9369 View (860) 497-9369
Photo of Francisco A Ripepi, Psychiatrist, MD
Francisco A Ripepi
Psychiatrist, MD
West Hartford, CT 06107
Accepting New patients at this time. I am a Child and adolescent psychiatrist as well as adult psychiatrist who specializes in Developmental Disorders, including Autism and intellectual disabilities. I also specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, OCD and mood disorders in all ages. My training in child and adolescent psychiatry is tailored to help children and families. I believe that the modality of treatment should be appropriate to the patient's needs.
Accepting New patients at this time. I am a Child and adolescent psychiatrist as well as adult psychiatrist who specializes in Developmental Disorders, including Autism and intellectual disabilities. I also specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, OCD and mood disorders in all ages. My training in child and adolescent psychiatry is tailored to help children and families. I believe that the modality of treatment should be appropriate to the patient's needs.
(860) 846-3740 View (860) 846-3740
Photo of Elizabeth Alve-Hedegaard - Elizabeth Alve-Hedegaard APRN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Elizabeth Alve-Hedegaard APRN
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Eliza. Are you feeling stuck—too drained to do the things that make you feel better, but feeling worse because you’re not doing them? I get it. With 16 years of experience, I work with you to find a treatment plan that fits you—whether that means therapy, lifestyle changes, medication (if needed), or a mix of all three. My approach isn’t about fixing what’s “wrong” with you—it’s about understanding what your mind and body need to feel more balanced.
Hi, I'm Eliza. Are you feeling stuck—too drained to do the things that make you feel better, but feeling worse because you’re not doing them? I get it. With 16 years of experience, I work with you to find a treatment plan that fits you—whether that means therapy, lifestyle changes, medication (if needed), or a mix of all three. My approach isn’t about fixing what’s “wrong” with you—it’s about understanding what your mind and body need to feel more balanced.
(203) 409-8655 View (203) 409-8655
Photo of Irene Topping, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Irene Topping
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel tired, foggy, or not like yourself? Some clients come to us with anxiety, depression, or trouble focusing. Others are struggling with fatigue, mood shifts, poor sleep, or unexplained weight changes. You may have tried therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes — but nothing has fully worked. Whether the issue is hormonal, psychological, or both, you want answers and lasting relief. You’re ready to feel balanced, clear, and like yourself again.
Do you feel tired, foggy, or not like yourself? Some clients come to us with anxiety, depression, or trouble focusing. Others are struggling with fatigue, mood shifts, poor sleep, or unexplained weight changes. You may have tried therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes — but nothing has fully worked. Whether the issue is hormonal, psychological, or both, you want answers and lasting relief. You’re ready to feel balanced, clear, and like yourself again.
(475) 262-9657 View (475) 262-9657
Photo of Maria Manuela Da Costa, Psychiatrist, MD
Maria Manuela Da Costa
Psychiatrist, MD
West Hartford, CT 06107
I believe that the key to effective treatment depends upon a strong collaborative alliance between patient and physician. The difficulties you are experiencing are most likely a combination of physiological and psychological problems.Treatment begins with a comprehensive review of your physical, emotional state and social well being. If you need medication we will discuss the various options. Together we will take into account your unique circumstances and arrive at a personalized treatment plan. Subsequent visits will moniter your response to the medication and help you learn how the medication works.
I believe that the key to effective treatment depends upon a strong collaborative alliance between patient and physician. The difficulties you are experiencing are most likely a combination of physiological and psychological problems.Treatment begins with a comprehensive review of your physical, emotional state and social well being. If you need medication we will discuss the various options. Together we will take into account your unique circumstances and arrive at a personalized treatment plan. Subsequent visits will moniter your response to the medication and help you learn how the medication works.
(860) 578-8396 View (860) 578-8396
Photo of Shantelle Brokaw, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Shantelle Brokaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
NOW Accepting new clients. Helping women who experience anxiety, depression, or ADHD, improve and better manage their symptoms, adopt better lifestyle habits, improve the relationships in their lives and live with more clarity. Schedule an alignment call on the website; you will get 30 mins with me to answer any questions, get insight into your concerns, and see if it is a good fit to meet your needs.
NOW Accepting new clients. Helping women who experience anxiety, depression, or ADHD, improve and better manage their symptoms, adopt better lifestyle habits, improve the relationships in their lives and live with more clarity. Schedule an alignment call on the website; you will get 30 mins with me to answer any questions, get insight into your concerns, and see if it is a good fit to meet your needs.
(617) 477-8401 View (617) 477-8401
Photo of Ashley N Sansom, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Ashley N Sansom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Evening and weekend appointments available! I am a Doctorally-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience treating a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders. Using a patient-centered, holistic approach to care, I address both the physical and emotional aspects of health and well-being. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care in a warm and welcoming environment.
Evening and weekend appointments available! I am a Doctorally-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience treating a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders. Using a patient-centered, holistic approach to care, I address both the physical and emotional aspects of health and well-being. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care in a warm and welcoming environment.
(914) 256-8039 View (914) 256-8039
Photo of Dominique Sanders, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Online Only
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
(253) 544-4674 View (253) 544-4674
Photo of Dr. Savitha Chandramohan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Dr. Savitha Chandramohan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107
I am board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over fifteen years of physical and mental health field experience. I ensure that I provide the most advanced quality of care to the population that I serve. My master's and doctorate degrees from the University of Saint Joseph and the University of Connecticut have taught me more in-depth research and evidence-based practice to apply in my practice and treat my patients as a whole.
I am board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over fifteen years of physical and mental health field experience. I ensure that I provide the most advanced quality of care to the population that I serve. My master's and doctorate degrees from the University of Saint Joseph and the University of Connecticut have taught me more in-depth research and evidence-based practice to apply in my practice and treat my patients as a whole.
(860) 431-2163 View (860) 431-2163
Photo of Bridgitte F Ackeifi - Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting NEW Patients: Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC holistically works with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time. Thank you.
Accepting NEW Patients: Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC holistically works with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time. Thank you.
(860) 846-3775 View (860) 846-3775
Photo of Thamara Jonathas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Thamara Jonathas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. I have 14 years of experience working in healthcare, providing care to patients of all ages. I am dedicated to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care and building strong relationships with my patients to ensure their overall health and well-being. I am passionate about patient education and empowerment. I am committed to staying current on the latest advancements in healthcare and to provide the best possible care for my patients.
Hello, I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. I have 14 years of experience working in healthcare, providing care to patients of all ages. I am dedicated to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care and building strong relationships with my patients to ensure their overall health and well-being. I am passionate about patient education and empowerment. I am committed to staying current on the latest advancements in healthcare and to provide the best possible care for my patients.
(203) 599-0864 View (203) 599-0864
Photo of Ted Hendrickson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ted Hendrickson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Connecticut. I have spent the last 8 years training and working in the mental health space.
Hi! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Connecticut. I have spent the last 8 years training and working in the mental health space.
(203) 457-3120 View (203) 457-3120
Photo of Briana Komar, Psychiatrist, MD
Briana Komar
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
In a majority of diagnoses within the DSM-5, individuals can receive the same diagnosis without sharing any common symptoms. This lack of symptom overlap groups diverse individuals into arbitrary categories, and results in a "one-size-fits-all" treatment approach that is ultimately ineffective and sometimes dangerous. I treat individuals using personalized medicine tailored to their specific needs. Treatment may involve psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, use of medications, compounded hormones, nutraceuticals and supplements, and nutrition counseling.
In a majority of diagnoses within the DSM-5, individuals can receive the same diagnosis without sharing any common symptoms. This lack of symptom overlap groups diverse individuals into arbitrary categories, and results in a "one-size-fits-all" treatment approach that is ultimately ineffective and sometimes dangerous. I treat individuals using personalized medicine tailored to their specific needs. Treatment may involve psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, use of medications, compounded hormones, nutraceuticals and supplements, and nutrition counseling.
(860) 891-6190 View (860) 891-6190
Photo of Wilmot lambert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Wilmot lambert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.
I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.
(203) 318-9159 View (203) 318-9159
Photo of Ruby Mensah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ruby Mensah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting New Patients! Are you struggling with mental health issues? Do not suffer in silence as your mental health is essential and matters for your overall wellbeing. At Renew Mental Healthcare, we work with children and adults struggling with varying forms of mental health disorders that includes anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, PTSD & much more to promote mental and emotional wellness through pharmacotherapy to help patients achieve better quality of life.
Accepting New Patients! Are you struggling with mental health issues? Do not suffer in silence as your mental health is essential and matters for your overall wellbeing. At Renew Mental Healthcare, we work with children and adults struggling with varying forms of mental health disorders that includes anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, PTSD & much more to promote mental and emotional wellness through pharmacotherapy to help patients achieve better quality of life.
(860) 813-6768 View (860) 813-6768
Photo of Jacob Horton, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Jacob Horton
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Serves Area
Go beyond symptom management into growth. Jacob Horton, MD, MBA combines Harvard and Yale psychiatric training, Buddhist-based mindfulness practices, psychodynamic therapy and therapeutic use of exercise to help clients faced with depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma and ADHD. Clients can expect an improvement in symptoms, such as reduced anxiety or substance use, within a few weeks. As treatment progresses, our focus shifts gradually from surface-level symptoms to exploring the deeper, underlying cause of said symptoms and facilitating further growth.
Go beyond symptom management into growth. Jacob Horton, MD, MBA combines Harvard and Yale psychiatric training, Buddhist-based mindfulness practices, psychodynamic therapy and therapeutic use of exercise to help clients faced with depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma and ADHD. Clients can expect an improvement in symptoms, such as reduced anxiety or substance use, within a few weeks. As treatment progresses, our focus shifts gradually from surface-level symptoms to exploring the deeper, underlying cause of said symptoms and facilitating further growth.
(203) 244-7740 View (203) 244-7740

See more therapy options for 06107

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 06107

30+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in 06107 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
91% Depression
73% ADHD
73% Trauma and PTSD
73% Bipolar Disorder
70% Medication Management
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
81% Cigna and Evernorth
69% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 06107 see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
31% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 06107?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.