Psychiatrists in 06109

Photo of Jenna Smith, MSN , APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jenna Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wethersfield, CT 06109
I am currently offering admissions within the same week, in person or telehealth. I provide services for children ages 6 and up, as well as adults. I have Saturday and Evening hours. Please visit my website jennasmithaprn.com and complete prospective patient tab for fastest appointment! Are you or your child struggling with mental health concerns? I am a psychiatric prescriber with 20+ years of experience within the field in different roles. I provide a patient centered and collaborative space for us to create and tailor a care plan specific to your goals.
I am currently offering admissions within the same week, in person or telehealth. I provide services for children ages 6 and up, as well as adults. I have Saturday and Evening hours. Please visit my website jennasmithaprn.com and complete prospective patient tab for fastest appointment! Are you or your child struggling with mental health concerns? I am a psychiatric prescriber with 20+ years of experience within the field in different roles. I provide a patient centered and collaborative space for us to create and tailor a care plan specific to your goals.
(860) 864-4761 View (860) 864-4761
Photo of Kelly K. Prior, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly K. Prior
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wethersfield, CT 06109
I have openings within 2 weeks. Are you having difficulties focusing and concentrating on your work? Are you a mother having a rough time managing "having it all?" I have a special interest in helping mothers, working professionals, nurses, therapists, gamer geeks, and graduate students. I specialize in treating ADHD. I strive to have an office that supports the needs of neurodiverse population, and I offer a prospective of skill building along with medications to help you be at your best.
I have openings within 2 weeks. Are you having difficulties focusing and concentrating on your work? Are you a mother having a rough time managing "having it all?" I have a special interest in helping mothers, working professionals, nurses, therapists, gamer geeks, and graduate students. I specialize in treating ADHD. I strive to have an office that supports the needs of neurodiverse population, and I offer a prospective of skill building along with medications to help you be at your best.
(860) 855-3561 View (860) 855-3561
Photo of Verona Gordon - Gordon Health Services, LLC, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gordon Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! I’m Verona, a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I specialize in teens, adults, and geriatrics who are struggling with anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment. I provide medication management and individual therapy to teens, adults, and geriatrics. During our initial sessions, you can expect a nonjudgmental and confidential environment where you are heard and respected. I believe healing is a holistic journey encompassing the mind, body,  and soul. Through compassionate listening and collaborative exploration
Welcome! I’m Verona, a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I specialize in teens, adults, and geriatrics who are struggling with anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment. I provide medication management and individual therapy to teens, adults, and geriatrics. During our initial sessions, you can expect a nonjudgmental and confidential environment where you are heard and respected. I believe healing is a holistic journey encompassing the mind, body,  and soul. Through compassionate listening and collaborative exploration
(860) 606-4156 View (860) 606-4156
Photo of Theresa Webster, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you feel like you are constantly fighting with your own brain? You try to concentrate on a task but your mind constantly wanders off. Your friends joke that you have no concept of time but you wonder when they will tire of your inconsistency. You struggle in social settings with worry that you are talking too much or lose track of what someone is talking with you about when in conversation. Your finances are a mess or you just can’t seem to hold on to savings. Social media has you thinking you might have ADHD and you are ready to find answers.
Do you feel like you are constantly fighting with your own brain? You try to concentrate on a task but your mind constantly wanders off. Your friends joke that you have no concept of time but you wonder when they will tire of your inconsistency. You struggle in social settings with worry that you are talking too much or lose track of what someone is talking with you about when in conversation. Your finances are a mess or you just can’t seem to hold on to savings. Social media has you thinking you might have ADHD and you are ready to find answers.
(702) 830-7193 View (702) 830-7193
Photo of Ogechi Ebere - Sound Mynd, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sound Mynd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wethersfield, CT 06109
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
(860) 775-6069 View (860) 775-6069
Photo of Maria D Ruiz - Sana² Colita Adult Behavioral Health Rx Treatment, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sana² Colita Adult Behavioral Health Rx Treatment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Wethersfield, CT 06109
Hello there! Are you looking for help? I am here to tell you that; "You are not alone" Find your strength, find your support. I am available now and accepting new patients. My approach is to start with an evaluation to help identify your individual treatment needs and provide you with treatment options. Following will create a personalized treatment plan to guide, encourage, support you in reaching your treatment goals these may include: behavioral interventions, medication options, psychotherapy, and or other wellness/treatment recommendations based on your individual needs.
Hello there! Are you looking for help? I am here to tell you that; "You are not alone" Find your strength, find your support. I am available now and accepting new patients. My approach is to start with an evaluation to help identify your individual treatment needs and provide you with treatment options. Following will create a personalized treatment plan to guide, encourage, support you in reaching your treatment goals these may include: behavioral interventions, medication options, psychotherapy, and or other wellness/treatment recommendations based on your individual needs.
(860) 650-2441 View (860) 650-2441
Photo of Milind Kale - Milind Kale, MD LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Milind Kale, MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Taking your child to a psychiatrist is not an easy decision. Many parents have concerns about unnecessarily medicating their child or labeling them with a diagnosis at such a young age. As a physician and as a parent, I take those concerns very seriously. I do a lot of groundwork before I diagnose a child. I use validated rating scales completed by multiple sources and I always work in conjunction with a therapist. I take a family-centric approach to treatment. For school evaluations, I see my role as an advocate for the child, while not losing sight of the school's perspective.
Taking your child to a psychiatrist is not an easy decision. Many parents have concerns about unnecessarily medicating their child or labeling them with a diagnosis at such a young age. As a physician and as a parent, I take those concerns very seriously. I do a lot of groundwork before I diagnose a child. I use validated rating scales completed by multiple sources and I always work in conjunction with a therapist. I take a family-centric approach to treatment. For school evaluations, I see my role as an advocate for the child, while not losing sight of the school's perspective.
(860) 780-5455 View (860) 780-5455
Photo of Ali Rodriguez, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ali Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there. Looking for balance in your mental health journey? I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, and perinatal mental health. Whether you're a new mother, navigating infertility, or struggling to focus at school or in your relationships, I understand the unique challenges you face. If you're feeling lonely, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed, I'm here to help you find healing and relief. I have extensive experience working with pregnant women, new moms, and those coping with the emotional challenges that come with postpartum life.
Hi there. Looking for balance in your mental health journey? I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, and perinatal mental health. Whether you're a new mother, navigating infertility, or struggling to focus at school or in your relationships, I understand the unique challenges you face. If you're feeling lonely, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed, I'm here to help you find healing and relief. I have extensive experience working with pregnant women, new moms, and those coping with the emotional challenges that come with postpartum life.
(860) 364-8228 View (860) 364-8228
Photo of Mohammad Farooq Dada - Central Connecticut Behavioral Health, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Central Connecticut Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Providing quality care to all our satisfied clients through a comprehensive array of services, convenience and timely access. Our Expert, and caring team of clinicians with more than 30 yrs in the field of Psychiatry. We are multilingual with fluency in English, Urdu, Hindi, and Punjabi and treat patients age 18 and over. We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation including thorough evaluation of your medical records, Extensive psychiatric interview and explanation of treatment plan .
Providing quality care to all our satisfied clients through a comprehensive array of services, convenience and timely access. Our Expert, and caring team of clinicians with more than 30 yrs in the field of Psychiatry. We are multilingual with fluency in English, Urdu, Hindi, and Punjabi and treat patients age 18 and over. We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation including thorough evaluation of your medical records, Extensive psychiatric interview and explanation of treatment plan .
(860) 248-2391 View (860) 248-2391
Photo of Armand Ntchana - Integrated Psychiatric Services , APRN, MD, Psychiatric Nurse
Integrated Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Mental health and substance abuse is my passion. I have worked both in outpatient and in-patient settings. Extensive work history with special populations and covering the full spectrum of mental health issues. Providing medication management, counseling, assessments among other services. I'm committed to provide a highly professional, confidential service in an environment that is safe and promotes personal growth and healing. WITH 24/7 DIRECT ACCESS FOR ESTABLISHED PATIENTS.
Mental health and substance abuse is my passion. I have worked both in outpatient and in-patient settings. Extensive work history with special populations and covering the full spectrum of mental health issues. Providing medication management, counseling, assessments among other services. I'm committed to provide a highly professional, confidential service in an environment that is safe and promotes personal growth and healing. WITH 24/7 DIRECT ACCESS FOR ESTABLISHED PATIENTS.
(860) 846-3345 View (860) 846-3345
Photo of Katie L Scheinberg - Nourish Psychiatric- Katie Scheinberg, PMH-NP, APRN, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nourish Psychiatric- Katie Scheinberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, APRN, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting new patients February 2025! Some people find that therapy alone does not allow them to reach their mental health potential and may be considering starting medication, changing medication or looking to continue medication. No matter where you are on your journey to mental wellness, there are options. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, health/nutrition/sleep education, and therapeutic support to children, adolescents, and emerging adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep and eating issues and other mental health concerns.
Accepting new patients February 2025! Some people find that therapy alone does not allow them to reach their mental health potential and may be considering starting medication, changing medication or looking to continue medication. No matter where you are on your journey to mental wellness, there are options. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, health/nutrition/sleep education, and therapeutic support to children, adolescents, and emerging adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep and eating issues and other mental health concerns.
(860) 968-0168 View (860) 968-0168

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Alizah Smith, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alizah Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with New England Wellness, I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based care for children, adolescents, young adults and adults experiencing mental health challenges. I work collaboratively with my patients, empowering them to take an active role in their treatment while focusing on developing treatment plans that meet their unique needs. Whether addressing mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, ADHD or other psychiatric conditions, my goal is to provide thoughtful, individualized care that promotes long-term stability.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with New England Wellness, I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based care for children, adolescents, young adults and adults experiencing mental health challenges. I work collaboratively with my patients, empowering them to take an active role in their treatment while focusing on developing treatment plans that meet their unique needs. Whether addressing mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, ADHD or other psychiatric conditions, my goal is to provide thoughtful, individualized care that promotes long-term stability.
(860) 497-9502 x1003 View (860) 497-9502 x1003
Photo of Bridgitte F Ackeifi - Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS holistically work 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.
Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS holistically work 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.
(203) 935-8632 View (203) 935-8632
Photo of Hye Sil Adams, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hye Sil Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Berlin, CT 06023
Currently accepting new clients. Are you grappling with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or ADHD? Perhaps you're seeking ways to cope with life's challenges or transitions. At Simply Lotus Health PLLC, I offer medication management and psychotherapy tailored to your unique needs. Explore www.simplylotushealth.com to learn about our philosophy and approach to care, which is rooted in resilience and personal growth.
Currently accepting new clients. Are you grappling with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or ADHD? Perhaps you're seeking ways to cope with life's challenges or transitions. At Simply Lotus Health PLLC, I offer medication management and psychotherapy tailored to your unique needs. Explore www.simplylotushealth.com to learn about our philosophy and approach to care, which is rooted in resilience and personal growth.
(860) 544-5625 View (860) 544-5625
Photo of Debra Sicilian, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Debra Sicilian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
With over a decade in neuropsychiatric care, I specialize in diagnostics and medication management for mental illnesses, drawing from diverse settings of inpatient and outpatient care. Holding dual board certification in psychiatric mental health and adult gerontology, my insights drive personalized treatments. Recognized for psychopathology expertise, I guide treatment strategies, influencing positive patient outcomes. Serving tens of thousands across multiple states.
With over a decade in neuropsychiatric care, I specialize in diagnostics and medication management for mental illnesses, drawing from diverse settings of inpatient and outpatient care. Holding dual board certification in psychiatric mental health and adult gerontology, my insights drive personalized treatments. Recognized for psychopathology expertise, I guide treatment strategies, influencing positive patient outcomes. Serving tens of thousands across multiple states.
(475) 203-1655 View (475) 203-1655
Photo of Juliana Igbinosun, NP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Juliana Igbinosun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Online Only
In our clinic, we are committed to helping people with mental health conditions by tailoring their care to their unique needs and requirements. Our Goal is to empower and inspire our patients. Knowing how common it is for people of all ages to experience a decline in mental health, we bring a platform to get support without any judgments. We hope for the possibility of recovery from mental illness.
In our clinic, we are committed to helping people with mental health conditions by tailoring their care to their unique needs and requirements. Our Goal is to empower and inspire our patients. Knowing how common it is for people of all ages to experience a decline in mental health, we bring a platform to get support without any judgments. We hope for the possibility of recovery from mental illness.
(860) 750-9453 View (860) 750-9453
Photo of Holly DeVylder, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holly DeVylder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, it's so great to meet you! I’m Holly, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a robust background in psychiatry, internal medicine, and clinical research. This combination of experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of the unmet needs of mental health care within our communities as well as the importance of clinical trials proving drug efficacy and safety for patients. My goal is to help you bring the best version of you, to each day!
Hi, it's so great to meet you! I’m Holly, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a robust background in psychiatry, internal medicine, and clinical research. This combination of experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of the unmet needs of mental health care within our communities as well as the importance of clinical trials proving drug efficacy and safety for patients. My goal is to help you bring the best version of you, to each day!
(860) 467-7371 View (860) 467-7371
Photo of Katherine Salvador, PA, Physician Assistant
Katherine Salvador
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Katherine is a Board Certified Physician Assistant in the state of Connecticut. She received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Springfield College where she completed her clinical training In psychiatry in the inpatient hospital setting. After graduating, Katherine focused her career in community based mental health and addiction treatment. Her knowledge of psychopharmacology stems from over 9 years’ experience treating a wide scope of mental health conditions including mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders throughout the clinic, hospital, and addiction treatment environments.
Katherine is a Board Certified Physician Assistant in the state of Connecticut. She received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Springfield College where she completed her clinical training In psychiatry in the inpatient hospital setting. After graduating, Katherine focused her career in community based mental health and addiction treatment. Her knowledge of psychopharmacology stems from over 9 years’ experience treating a wide scope of mental health conditions including mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders throughout the clinic, hospital, and addiction treatment environments.
(860) 735-4922 View (860) 735-4922
Photo of Elisabeth Maryke Kressley, MD, Psychiatrist
Elisabeth Maryke Kressley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426
I am Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, and Yale trained Adult psychiatrist. I enjoy treating all ages of people from as young as 3 thru adulthood. I treat ADHD, Depression Anxiety disorders along with behavioral disorders in childhood. I also treat adults, families and couples in addition to individuals with medication and or therapy.
I am Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, and Yale trained Adult psychiatrist. I enjoy treating all ages of people from as young as 3 thru adulthood. I treat ADHD, Depression Anxiety disorders along with behavioral disorders in childhood. I also treat adults, families and couples in addition to individuals with medication and or therapy.
(860) 544-5856 View (860) 544-5856
Photo of Summer Paradise, MD, Psychiatrist
Summer Paradise
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I will work with you to find holistic and humanistic approaches to achieving wellness. At the core of many symptoms, there is trauma and grief, and I will support you in your efforts to heal and construct a life that feels authentic. I will also offer medications that are appropriate when needed.
I will work with you to find holistic and humanistic approaches to achieving wellness. At the core of many symptoms, there is trauma and grief, and I will support you in your efforts to heal and construct a life that feels authentic. I will also offer medications that are appropriate when needed.
(203) 717-5910 View (203) 717-5910

See more therapy options for 06109

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 06109

10+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in 06109 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
91% ADHD
91% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
91% Medication Management
82% Trauma and PTSD
82% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
89% Cigna and Evernorth
78% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 06109 see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 06109?

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.