Psychiatrists in 06110

Photo of Mariela Podolski, Psychiatrist, MD
Mariela Podolski
Psychiatrist, MD
West Hartford, CT 06110
I am a psychiatrist, with board certifications from ABPN in both, Psychiatry, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Prior to pursuing my psychiatry career, I worked as a general physician in primary care, an experience that taught me skills I still use today. Practicing psychiatry since 2012, I have worked with patients with diverse diagnoses, particularly individuals suffering with Eating Disorders. If you are struggling, I would like to help you.
I am a psychiatrist, with board certifications from ABPN in both, Psychiatry, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Prior to pursuing my psychiatry career, I worked as a general physician in primary care, an experience that taught me skills I still use today. Practicing psychiatry since 2012, I have worked with patients with diverse diagnoses, particularly individuals suffering with Eating Disorders. If you are struggling, I would like to help you.
(959) 600-6640 View (959) 600-6640
Photo of Serrita Roper, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Serrita Roper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06110
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer medication management for mood disorders and ADHD. I offer both in-person and telehealth (for established patients). I am passionate about mental health and helping my patients achieve the proper tools to be the best versions of themselves.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer medication management for mood disorders and ADHD. I offer both in-person and telehealth (for established patients). I am passionate about mental health and helping my patients achieve the proper tools to be the best versions of themselves.
(860) 485-7416 View (860) 485-7416
Photo of Hye Sil Adams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Hye Sil Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Dr. Amy R. Salerno - Dr. Amy R. Salerno, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Amy R. Salerno
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
PLEASE note: NO Husky or health insurances accepted. I am taking a LIMITED number of new patients at this time.
PLEASE note: NO Husky or health insurances accepted. I am taking a LIMITED number of new patients at this time.
(860) 935-6556 View (860) 935-6556
Photo of Nancy Concepcion, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Nancy Concepcion
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Serves Area
I am a bilingual Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with three years of experience in the outpatient setting. I provide psychiatric medication management across the lifespan but I prefer to treat patients ages 12 and older. Prior to my current experience, I spent five years in the inpatient setting working as a psychiatric nurse with adolescent and young adult patients. I have over 10 years of experience in psychiatry prior to starting my nursing career. Everyone has a unique story and deserves an individualized approach to care. Once we decide to work together, we’ll act as partners in your therapeutic journey.
I am a bilingual Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with three years of experience in the outpatient setting. I provide psychiatric medication management across the lifespan but I prefer to treat patients ages 12 and older. Prior to my current experience, I spent five years in the inpatient setting working as a psychiatric nurse with adolescent and young adult patients. I have over 10 years of experience in psychiatry prior to starting my nursing career. Everyone has a unique story and deserves an individualized approach to care. Once we decide to work together, we’ll act as partners in your therapeutic journey.
(860) 792-3909 View (860) 792-3909
Photo of Anita Z. Durnen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Anita Z. Durnen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Online Only
You’ve been trying to keep it together, but lately it feels like life keeps pulling you off balance. Maybe your mind won’t stop racing, sleep feels impossible, or you’re just tired of pretending you’re okay. You don’t have to do this alone and with the right care and understanding, it’s possible to regain clarity, balance, and peace of mind. Hi! I'm Anita. I am a double board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, licensed to serve CT, NY, NJ, PA, FL, VA, and WA. I aim to empower my clients to navigate their emotions, overcome obstacles, and achieve optimal mental wellness.
You’ve been trying to keep it together, but lately it feels like life keeps pulling you off balance. Maybe your mind won’t stop racing, sleep feels impossible, or you’re just tired of pretending you’re okay. You don’t have to do this alone and with the right care and understanding, it’s possible to regain clarity, balance, and peace of mind. Hi! I'm Anita. I am a double board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, licensed to serve CT, NY, NJ, PA, FL, VA, and WA. I aim to empower my clients to navigate their emotions, overcome obstacles, and achieve optimal mental wellness.
(860) 512-9713 View (860) 512-9713
Photo of Stéphane P Clermont, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Stéphane P Clermont
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Accepting New Patient. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
Accepting New Patient. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
(860) 431-3331 View (860) 431-3331

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Martha Stewart - Five Corners Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MPH, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Five Corners Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MPH, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Farmington, CT 06032
Marti Stewart is a Nurse Practitioner who is board certified in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine. She sees patients age 16 and up. Marti’s specialties include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Depression.
Marti Stewart is a Nurse Practitioner who is board certified in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine. She sees patients age 16 and up. Marti’s specialties include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Depression.
(860) 821-7678 View (860) 821-7678
Photo of Dr. Sequilla Carter, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Dr. Sequilla Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Our goal is to provide better mental health care for people with physical health problems and improved support for people with common mental disorders as well as those with severe mental illness. The underpinning of our care plans are based on the 6 human needs: Certainty, Variety, Significance, Connection, Growth and Contribution. We know that management of whatever you're experiencing likely falls outside of the realm of the "health care system" so we recognize the importance of having open, empathetic conversations about mental health as we continue to navigate the challenges life throws at us.
Our goal is to provide better mental health care for people with physical health problems and improved support for people with common mental disorders as well as those with severe mental illness. The underpinning of our care plans are based on the 6 human needs: Certainty, Variety, Significance, Connection, Growth and Contribution. We know that management of whatever you're experiencing likely falls outside of the realm of the "health care system" so we recognize the importance of having open, empathetic conversations about mental health as we continue to navigate the challenges life throws at us.
(413) 779-3186 View (413) 779-3186
Photo of Carlos A Gonzalez, Psychiatrist, MD
Carlos A Gonzalez
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06042
I am a native of Puerto Rico and a transplanted New Yorker. I graduated from Cornell University Medical College and completed a residency at St. Vincent's Hospital, followed by a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in New York. I have been in CT since 1989, initially as an assistant professor of psychiatry at Yale and director of the Connecticut Mental Health Center's Hispanic Clinic. I subsequently worked extensively as chief of the psychiatric crisis service at Griffin Hospital. I am currently the medical director of the Community Child Guidance Clinic in Manchester, CT.
I am a native of Puerto Rico and a transplanted New Yorker. I graduated from Cornell University Medical College and completed a residency at St. Vincent's Hospital, followed by a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in New York. I have been in CT since 1989, initially as an assistant professor of psychiatry at Yale and director of the Connecticut Mental Health Center's Hispanic Clinic. I subsequently worked extensively as chief of the psychiatric crisis service at Griffin Hospital. I am currently the medical director of the Community Child Guidance Clinic in Manchester, CT.
(860) 880-3214 View (860) 880-3214
Photo of Deon Milardo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, APRN
Deon Milardo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, APRN
3 Endorsed
Wethersfield, CT 06109
Healing Haven Psychiatry LLC About the Owner Deon Milardo, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
, Founder & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Deon Milardo founded Healing Haven Psychiatry LLC in November 2024 with a mission to create a compassionate, client-centered space for individuals seeking mental health care across the lifespan. Deon’s path into nursing was driven by purpose and passion. After earning his foundational degree from Gateway Community College, he advanced through rigorous academic programs at Bridgeport University and Goodwin University, where he earned his Master of Science in Nursing with a focus in
Healing Haven Psychiatry LLC About the Owner Deon Milardo, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
, Founder & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Deon Milardo founded Healing Haven Psychiatry LLC in November 2024 with a mission to create a compassionate, client-centered space for individuals seeking mental health care across the lifespan. Deon’s path into nursing was driven by purpose and passion. After earning his foundational degree from Gateway Community College, he advanced through rigorous academic programs at Bridgeport University and Goodwin University, where he earned his Master of Science in Nursing with a focus in
(860) 406-5958 View (860) 406-5958
Photo of Douglas Zelisko, Psychiatrist, MD
Douglas Zelisko
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Hartford, CT 06105
Making the decision to seek help with your challenges can feel both empowering and vulnerable. I offer a safe and compassionate, non-judgmental space for us to start the process and talk. I strive to help adults with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, focus, and physical ailments among others. I provide both medication management, as well as individual psychotherapy. I primarily practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, however am trained in other modalities to best help you through the emotional challenges you face and allow a greater understanding of yourself.
Making the decision to seek help with your challenges can feel both empowering and vulnerable. I offer a safe and compassionate, non-judgmental space for us to start the process and talk. I strive to help adults with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, focus, and physical ailments among others. I provide both medication management, as well as individual psychotherapy. I primarily practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, however am trained in other modalities to best help you through the emotional challenges you face and allow a greater understanding of yourself.
(860) 854-7338 View (860) 854-7338
Photo of Chengping Wang - WCT Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
WCT Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Waterbury, CT 06705
Welcome! We are a group practice of 60 licensed counselors and medication providers. We have a multi disciplinary team which is trained in several models to tailor each of our clients needs. Our biggest focus, is you, our client. We provide family, couples and individual counseling. Medication management for psychiatry and also offer Primary Care Services.
Welcome! We are a group practice of 60 licensed counselors and medication providers. We have a multi disciplinary team which is trained in several models to tailor each of our clients needs. Our biggest focus, is you, our client. We provide family, couples and individual counseling. Medication management for psychiatry and also offer Primary Care Services.
(203) 916-4595 View (203) 916-4595
Photo of Eunice Dunu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Eunice Dunu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Middletown, CT 06457
Eunice is a dedicated board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in mental health medication management. With over seven years of experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings, she expertly addresses the challenges faced by individuals with anxiety, depression, and other psychiatric disorders. Her commitment to compassionate care makes her a vital resource for those on their mental health journey.
Eunice is a dedicated board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in mental health medication management. With over seven years of experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings, she expertly addresses the challenges faced by individuals with anxiety, depression, and other psychiatric disorders. Her commitment to compassionate care makes her a vital resource for those on their mental health journey.
(860) 962-6043 View (860) 962-6043
Photo of Kathleen M Lazzarini, Psychiatrist, MD
Kathleen M Lazzarini
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Solo practitioner in general psychiatry with an expertise in PTSD providing psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
Solo practitioner in general psychiatry with an expertise in PTSD providing psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
(475) 260-8301 View (475) 260-8301
Photo of Julio R Duran, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Julio R Duran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
6 Endorsed
Enfield, CT 06082
Thank you for viewing my profile. My name is Julio Duran and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (Bilingual – Spanish) in Enfield, Connecticut. My primary focus is treating individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder and many other psychiatric conditions. For those struggling with opiate and alcohol dependence I prescribe medications to promote and regain a substance free lifestyle. My focus is on the adult population from 18 to 65 years old. Please call my office at anytime and my friendly staff will make an appointment for you.
Thank you for viewing my profile. My name is Julio Duran and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (Bilingual – Spanish) in Enfield, Connecticut. My primary focus is treating individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder and many other psychiatric conditions. For those struggling with opiate and alcohol dependence I prescribe medications to promote and regain a substance free lifestyle. My focus is on the adult population from 18 to 65 years old. Please call my office at anytime and my friendly staff will make an appointment for you.
(959) 335-0050 View (959) 335-0050
Photo of Sherieffa Jackson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sherieffa Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
11 Endorsed
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Hi, my name is Sherieffa Jackson, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. My background includes extensive work in inpatient psychiatric hospital settings, where I’ve gained valuable experience managing complex mental health conditions. In addition to my work in hospital settings, I also provide care through my private telehealth practice, offering accessible and personalized treatment for individuals across a range of psychiatric needs. I have experience treating patients with PTSD, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar and Schizophrenia.
Hi, my name is Sherieffa Jackson, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. My background includes extensive work in inpatient psychiatric hospital settings, where I’ve gained valuable experience managing complex mental health conditions. In addition to my work in hospital settings, I also provide care through my private telehealth practice, offering accessible and personalized treatment for individuals across a range of psychiatric needs. I have experience treating patients with PTSD, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar and Schizophrenia.
(860) 813-6904 View (860) 813-6904
Man Up Wellness Plus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , Psych
South Windsor, CT 06074
You might be surprised to learn that low testosterone levels could be a contributing factor. Despite the myth that testosterone levels do not affect sleep, the fact is that low testosterone levels can cause mood changes and are associated with insomnia in both men and women. Don't let misconceptions hold you back; book an appointment today and let our experts help you understand the truth about your body and what you can do to improve your sleep quality and overall health. Book an appointment
You might be surprised to learn that low testosterone levels could be a contributing factor. Despite the myth that testosterone levels do not affect sleep, the fact is that low testosterone levels can cause mood changes and are associated with insomnia in both men and women. Don't let misconceptions hold you back; book an appointment today and let our experts help you understand the truth about your body and what you can do to improve your sleep quality and overall health. Book an appointment
(860) 846-4479 View (860) 846-4479
Photo of Amer Nabil - Amer Nabil, Connecticut ADHD treatment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Amer Nabil, Connecticut ADHD treatment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Welcome to Half Full Psychiatry, where my objective as a medication prescriber and a mental health provider is to build a "glass half full perspective". This does not mean I primarily rely on medications to solve an individual's problem. I value knowing about you as an individual to be able to offer solutions, whether they involve medication, psychotherapy or productivity skills. I am currently a father of young children, a husband, a caregiver to my elderly father, a son who lost my mother abruptly. I was also once a student who found it difficult to navigate the social and academic life.
Welcome to Half Full Psychiatry, where my objective as a medication prescriber and a mental health provider is to build a "glass half full perspective". This does not mean I primarily rely on medications to solve an individual's problem. I value knowing about you as an individual to be able to offer solutions, whether they involve medication, psychotherapy or productivity skills. I am currently a father of young children, a husband, a caregiver to my elderly father, a son who lost my mother abruptly. I was also once a student who found it difficult to navigate the social and academic life.
(860) 339-0606 View (860) 339-0606
Photo of Paul Furino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Paul Furino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgemental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgemental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
(860) 390-4126 View (860) 390-4126

See more therapy options for 06110

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 06110

< 10

Psychiatrists in 06110 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Trauma and PTSD
86% Bipolar Disorder
86% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth
80% Oxford

How Psychiatrists in 06110 see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 06110?

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.