Psychiatrists in 06470

Photo of Alex Mustachi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alex Mustachi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Newtown, CT 06470
It is my goal and passion to see each client as a complex individual via the nursing holistic lenses. I do not see people as a diagnosis or disorder. People have multiple factors that affect and influence their lives. Family, environment, culture and genes are only some of the main factors that make us who we are. I intend to help you with the symptoms that negatively effects your life rather than “Treat” a diagnosis. Your improvement, your ability to get back to the life you envision for yourself, in other words; finding your center will be my reward in our provider/client relationship.
It is my goal and passion to see each client as a complex individual via the nursing holistic lenses. I do not see people as a diagnosis or disorder. People have multiple factors that affect and influence their lives. Family, environment, culture and genes are only some of the main factors that make us who we are. I intend to help you with the symptoms that negatively effects your life rather than “Treat” a diagnosis. Your improvement, your ability to get back to the life you envision for yourself, in other words; finding your center will be my reward in our provider/client relationship.
(475) 275-0799 View (475) 275-0799
Photo of Elizabeth Feingold, Psychiatrist, MD
Elizabeth Feingold
Psychiatrist, MD
4 Endorsed
Newtown, CT 06470
I am a Columbia/Cornell trained, triple board certified psychiatrist with broad training in psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, forensic psychiatry, and emergency psychiatry. I work with patients to get practical outcomes, such as improving school or work performance, relationships, or self-esteem.
I am a Columbia/Cornell trained, triple board certified psychiatrist with broad training in psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, forensic psychiatry, and emergency psychiatry. I work with patients to get practical outcomes, such as improving school or work performance, relationships, or self-esteem.
(917) 832-1923 View (917) 832-1923
Photo of Keisha Asante - Mar Y Sol Mental Health experts, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Mar Y Sol Mental Health experts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Serves Area
Are you grappling with mental health challenges, seeking understanding, compassion, and personalized care? Have you tried navigating anxiety, and depression, but can’t seem to get a firm grasp? Perhaps you have tried medications in the past, but don’t see the changes you envision. You long for a professional who can truly connect with your unique journey. Taking the necessary steps to optimal mental wellness doesn’t have to be difficult. At Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts we provided psychiatric evaluations, medication management and treatment resistant depression with Spravato or Ketamine infusion, intramuscular or oral.
Are you grappling with mental health challenges, seeking understanding, compassion, and personalized care? Have you tried navigating anxiety, and depression, but can’t seem to get a firm grasp? Perhaps you have tried medications in the past, but don’t see the changes you envision. You long for a professional who can truly connect with your unique journey. Taking the necessary steps to optimal mental wellness doesn’t have to be difficult. At Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts we provided psychiatric evaluations, medication management and treatment resistant depression with Spravato or Ketamine infusion, intramuscular or oral.
(203) 456-6989 View (203) 456-6989
Photo of Perry Githens, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Perry Githens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I embrace a diverse practice that ranges from adolescents through older adults in all ages and areas. I enjoy helping people that have struggled to find a way to peace and happiness. Perry appreciates listening and learning about a person and building a therapeutic relationship. I work with people who have never taken medications that are new to psychiatric treatment and medication management. I also have the ability to manage difficult complex psychiatric cases.
I embrace a diverse practice that ranges from adolescents through older adults in all ages and areas. I enjoy helping people that have struggled to find a way to peace and happiness. Perry appreciates listening and learning about a person and building a therapeutic relationship. I work with people who have never taken medications that are new to psychiatric treatment and medication management. I also have the ability to manage difficult complex psychiatric cases.
(860) 792-4332 View (860) 792-4332
Photo of Karen H Brody, Psychiatrist, MD
Karen H Brody
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a Board-certified in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry with thirty-plus years of clinical experience. I offer a comprehensive treatment approach that includes diagnostic evaluation, talk therapy (integrating insight-oriented psychotherapy with cognitive therapy) and medication, when appropriate. I do not typically accept new referrals solely for medication management. I believe strongly that therapy together with judicious use of medication, overseen by a consistent provider, allows for an effective intervention for my clients, ages 16 and up.
I am a Board-certified in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry with thirty-plus years of clinical experience. I offer a comprehensive treatment approach that includes diagnostic evaluation, talk therapy (integrating insight-oriented psychotherapy with cognitive therapy) and medication, when appropriate. I do not typically accept new referrals solely for medication management. I believe strongly that therapy together with judicious use of medication, overseen by a consistent provider, allows for an effective intervention for my clients, ages 16 and up.
(508) 306-8502 View (508) 306-8502
Photo of Ariel Greene, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ariel Greene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here — reaching out for support takes courage, and I hope to make that next step feel easier. I’m Ariel, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in CT, offering virtual and in-person psychiatric care. I help adults and teens navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorder. Many feel high-functioning on the outside but emotionally drained on the inside. Others may be newly diagnosed and unsure of the next steps in their mental health journey. If you're seeking compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care in Southbury, CT or via telehealth, you're in the right place.
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here — reaching out for support takes courage, and I hope to make that next step feel easier. I’m Ariel, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in CT, offering virtual and in-person psychiatric care. I help adults and teens navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorder. Many feel high-functioning on the outside but emotionally drained on the inside. Others may be newly diagnosed and unsure of the next steps in their mental health journey. If you're seeking compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care in Southbury, CT or via telehealth, you're in the right place.
(475) 262-8321 View (475) 262-8321
Photo of Alison Kraska, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Alison Kraska
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals in Connecticut and beyond. With a blend of clinical expertise and empathy, I strive to empower my patients on their journey toward improved mental wellness. I do this by using a therapeutic approach to medication management.
As a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals in Connecticut and beyond. With a blend of clinical expertise and empathy, I strive to empower my patients on their journey toward improved mental wellness. I do this by using a therapeutic approach to medication management.
(475) 265-5529 View (475) 265-5529
Alexia Cortella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, APRN
Serves Area
Alexia is trained to assess, diagnose, and treat individuals across the lifespan with psychiatric disorders, provide holistic, patient-centered care that integrates both mental and physical health considerations. She incorporates individuals sociocultural, biological, medical, behavioral, and environmental needs into treatment, offering a flexible and individualized approach to treatment. Her practice style emphasizes a collaborative and non-judgmental environment, aiming to help clients feel comfortable. Dr. Cortella's areas of expertise encompass adhd,anxiety,autism,bipolar disorder, depression,PTSD.
Alexia is trained to assess, diagnose, and treat individuals across the lifespan with psychiatric disorders, provide holistic, patient-centered care that integrates both mental and physical health considerations. She incorporates individuals sociocultural, biological, medical, behavioral, and environmental needs into treatment, offering a flexible and individualized approach to treatment. Her practice style emphasizes a collaborative and non-judgmental environment, aiming to help clients feel comfortable. Dr. Cortella's areas of expertise encompass adhd,anxiety,autism,bipolar disorder, depression,PTSD.
(475) 323-6384 View (475) 323-6384
Photo of Jean Paula Yacelga, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jean Paula Yacelga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Provider is currently accepting new clients and specializes in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and PTSD. She works with both adults and teens, offering a supportive and nonjudgmental space to explore challenges and make meaningful progress. Her approach is compassionate, client-centered, and tailored to each individual’s needs, with a focus on helping clients feel heard, understood, and empowered in their journey toward better mental health.
Provider is currently accepting new clients and specializes in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, and PTSD. She works with both adults and teens, offering a supportive and nonjudgmental space to explore challenges and make meaningful progress. Her approach is compassionate, client-centered, and tailored to each individual’s needs, with a focus on helping clients feel heard, understood, and empowered in their journey toward better mental health.
(475) 265-6350 View (475) 265-6350
Photo of Ariel Greene - FHCL Psychiatry LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
FHCL Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome to FHCL Psychiatry — we’re glad you’re here. Taking the first step toward mental health care takes courage, and we’re here to make it easier. We offer in-person and virtual psychiatric care for adults, adolescents, and children. Our board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner provides compassionate, evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorder. Whether you’re feeling emotionally drained, navigating a new diagnosis, or simply seeking support, we’re here to help. FHCL Psychiatry offers personalized care tailored to you; in Southbury or anywhere in Connecticut through tele-health.
Welcome to FHCL Psychiatry — we’re glad you’re here. Taking the first step toward mental health care takes courage, and we’re here to make it easier. We offer in-person and virtual psychiatric care for adults, adolescents, and children. Our board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner provides compassionate, evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorder. Whether you’re feeling emotionally drained, navigating a new diagnosis, or simply seeking support, we’re here to help. FHCL Psychiatry offers personalized care tailored to you; in Southbury or anywhere in Connecticut through tele-health.
(475) 251-8836 View (475) 251-8836
Photo of Tulie Brew - Brew Medical and Rejuvenation Clinic LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brew Medical and Rejuvenation Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serves Area
Happiness, freedom and peace of mind is the goal for all of our patient's. We provide evaluation, treatment and counseling services for various mental health disorders including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Obesity, PTSD, OCD, amongst others.
Happiness, freedom and peace of mind is the goal for all of our patient's. We provide evaluation, treatment and counseling services for various mental health disorders including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Obesity, PTSD, OCD, amongst others.
(475) 244-9577 View (475) 244-9577

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Cheryl Henrietta Cottrol - Affiliate Neurology & Psychiatry-All Brain MD, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Struggling with Memory, Headaches, Anxiety, Depression or PTSD? You deserve a comprehensive evaluation and personalized care. At Affiliates of Neurology & Psychiatry—All Brain MD, we offer cutting edge diagnostic tools and advanced therapeutic options to support your mental and emotional well being. From the latest brain imaging technology to tailored psychotherapy that addresses your unique needs, we are committed to helping you invest in your health.
Struggling with Memory, Headaches, Anxiety, Depression or PTSD? You deserve a comprehensive evaluation and personalized care. At Affiliates of Neurology & Psychiatry—All Brain MD, we offer cutting edge diagnostic tools and advanced therapeutic options to support your mental and emotional well being. From the latest brain imaging technology to tailored psychotherapy that addresses your unique needs, we are committed to helping you invest in your health.
(833) 339-0508 View (833) 339-0508
Photo of Aloysius Bezejouh - Alpha Health Global, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alpha Health Global
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is a high-functioning adult struggling silently with anxiety, depression, or burnout. They’re overwhelmed by life’s demands but hesitant to ask for help. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to process emotions, gain clarity, and develop coping strategies. Their goal is to feel balanced, regain control, and improve their overall well-being. They want relief, peace of mind, and the ability to thrive—not just survive—because they’re tired of feeling stuck.
My ideal client is a high-functioning adult struggling silently with anxiety, depression, or burnout. They’re overwhelmed by life’s demands but hesitant to ask for help. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to process emotions, gain clarity, and develop coping strategies. Their goal is to feel balanced, regain control, and improve their overall well-being. They want relief, peace of mind, and the ability to thrive—not just survive—because they’re tired of feeling stuck.
(202) 817-2192 View (202) 817-2192
Photo of Thuraya Abdi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRNP
Thuraya Abdi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Thuraya Abdi, APRN-P, is an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over thirty-five years of experience. She deals with problems such as: stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, insomnia , anger management, panic attacks, and ADHD. She has always been inclined toward the holistic and healing nature of Nursing, but is able to provide FDA approved medications if indicated.
Thuraya Abdi, APRN-P, is an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over thirty-five years of experience. She deals with problems such as: stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, insomnia , anger management, panic attacks, and ADHD. She has always been inclined toward the holistic and healing nature of Nursing, but is able to provide FDA approved medications if indicated.
(203) 883-0464 View (203) 883-0464
Photo of Olanike Idowu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN, NP
Olanike Idowu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN, NP
Prospect, CT 06712
I am a Yale University-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner with over 18 years of experience in Mental Health. I am lifespan board-certified to treat ages 5 to 70years old. I have subspecialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical research. I treat all psychiatric conditions including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD and abuse survivors, OCD, Eating Disorders, and ODD. I provide culturally sensitive integrative and holistic psychiatric services that are tailored to each individual patient's needs.
I am a Yale University-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner with over 18 years of experience in Mental Health. I am lifespan board-certified to treat ages 5 to 70years old. I have subspecialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical research. I treat all psychiatric conditions including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD and abuse survivors, OCD, Eating Disorders, and ODD. I provide culturally sensitive integrative and holistic psychiatric services that are tailored to each individual patient's needs.
(475) 255-6394 View (475) 255-6394
Photo of Douglas Zelisko, Psychiatrist, MD
Douglas Zelisko
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Erin McCarthy Shaw, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erin McCarthy Shaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Westport, CT 06880
ADHD? Autism? Giftedness? Dyslexia? Twice-exceptional? If you are tired of guessing, you are in the right place. Maybe you or your child has always felt a bit different: vividly creative, attuned to tiny details, moved by sounds, textures, or ideas in ways others miss. Yet routines may drain you, crowded spaces feel too loud, and deadlines slip by no matter how hard you try. Your brain has worked overtime just to keep up. Now you want real answers, and I am here to help you find them.
ADHD? Autism? Giftedness? Dyslexia? Twice-exceptional? If you are tired of guessing, you are in the right place. Maybe you or your child has always felt a bit different: vividly creative, attuned to tiny details, moved by sounds, textures, or ideas in ways others miss. Yet routines may drain you, crowded spaces feel too loud, and deadlines slip by no matter how hard you try. Your brain has worked overtime just to keep up. Now you want real answers, and I am here to help you find them.
(518) 662-7001 View (518) 662-7001
Photo of Vaishali Desai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BA, PMHNP, PMHNPBC
Vaishali Desai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BA, PMHNP, PMHNPBC
Darien, CT 06820
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated by just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls? Do you hope that life could be better? Now more than ever all people are feeling uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated by just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls? Do you hope that life could be better? Now more than ever all people are feeling uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life.
(862) 346-5841 View (862) 346-5841
Photo of Paul Furino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Paul Furino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Serves Area
I provide patients with psychiatric medication management needs out of my Vero Beach, Florida location, with ability to offer services to patients thru Palm Beach County. Telepsych services are available after the initial visit, as is in person visits.
I provide patients with psychiatric medication management needs out of my Vero Beach, Florida location, with ability to offer services to patients thru Palm Beach County. Telepsych services are available after the initial visit, as is in person visits.
(475) 215-2620 View (475) 215-2620
Photo of Jennifer Nolan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jennifer Nolan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Thomaston, CT 06787
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With 30 years of nursing experience , the last 10 as a NP, I have experience across the life span treating patients aged 5-85. I am an independent provider offering in home services.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With 30 years of nursing experience , the last 10 as a NP, I have experience across the life span treating patients aged 5-85. I am an independent provider offering in home services.
(959) 210-5847 View (959) 210-5847

See more therapy options for 06470

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 06470

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 06470 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
91% ADHD
91% Trauma and PTSD
82% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
73% Medication Management

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 06470 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 06470?

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.