Psychiatrists in 06477

Photo of Dr. Gordon Hill, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Dr. Gordon Hill
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Orange, CT 06477  (Online Only)
I am an internist and addiction medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to individuals with substance use disorders. I graduated from the addiction medicine fellowship at Yale University and completed my residency in internal medicine at Temple University Hospital, a national epicenter for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). I have years of experience managing advanced use disorders and their complications.
I am an internist and addiction medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to individuals with substance use disorders. I graduated from the addiction medicine fellowship at Yale University and completed my residency in internal medicine at Temple University Hospital, a national epicenter for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). I have years of experience managing advanced use disorders and their complications.
(475) 291-4403 View (475) 291-4403
Photo of Karolina Dudzik, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karolina Dudzik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Orange, CT 06477  (Online Only)
Hey, I’m Karolina (like the state). Do you ever feel overwhelmed going through your day to day life? Are you feeling like you never have time to think about yourself? ? Is it hard for you to wind down after a long stressful day? I can help you learn to improve your overall self-care behaviors and understand your emotions through the therapeutic use of medications.
Hey, I’m Karolina (like the state). Do you ever feel overwhelmed going through your day to day life? Are you feeling like you never have time to think about yourself? ? Is it hard for you to wind down after a long stressful day? I can help you learn to improve your overall self-care behaviors and understand your emotions through the therapeutic use of medications.
(203) 408-6021 View (203) 408-6021
Photo of Ingrid Coello, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ingrid Coello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CT 06477  (Online Only)
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), Ingrid assesses and treats adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and personality disorders. Her focus is on treatment, psychiatric assessment, psychotherapeutic interventions, and medication management.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), Ingrid assesses and treats adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and personality disorders. Her focus is on treatment, psychiatric assessment, psychotherapeutic interventions, and medication management.
(475) 264-6729 View (475) 264-6729
Photo of Patricia Ann Hardy, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia Ann Hardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CT 06477
(475) 252-4228 View (475) 252-4228
Photo of Jamila Hokanson, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist
Jamila Hokanson
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, CT 06477
(203) 463-5102 View (203) 463-5102

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Lori Pelosi - Holistic Services, LLC, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse
Holistic Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Milford, CT 06461
Hello! I am a nurse practitioner who has been helping those with mental health issues for many years. I do medication management. I also do tele-health visits.I am a kind and compassionate practitioner that focuses on the whole person and their needs.
Hello! I am a nurse practitioner who has been helping those with mental health issues for many years. I do medication management. I also do tele-health visits.I am a kind and compassionate practitioner that focuses on the whole person and their needs.
(860) 483-3163 View (860) 483-3163
Photo of Sofia Loran, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sofia Loran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Woodbridge, CT 06525  (Online Only)
Therapeutic Health and Wellness, LLC is a private practice owned by Sofia Loran, who is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. At Therapeutic Health and Wellness, LLC we believe in a nonjudgmental approach to individualized care. Medication might not be for you and is not required for treatment. We can help you to build on your strengths to empower you to achieve your goals. Our goal is to help create a therapeutic balance for every individual with respect, compassion, and professionalism.
Therapeutic Health and Wellness, LLC is a private practice owned by Sofia Loran, who is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. At Therapeutic Health and Wellness, LLC we believe in a nonjudgmental approach to individualized care. Medication might not be for you and is not required for treatment. We can help you to build on your strengths to empower you to achieve your goals. Our goal is to help create a therapeutic balance for every individual with respect, compassion, and professionalism.
(475) 224-4729 View (475) 224-4729
Photo of LaSharon Hernandez, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LaSharon Hernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Haven, CT 06516
My potential clients are adults facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, or OCD. They are searching for a provider who can guide them with empathy and expertise, helping them build practical skills to manage their emotions and find a sense of balance. Often struggling with feelings that make everyday life feel overwhelming and unmanageable, they need a safe, supportive space where they can explore their emotions, gain a deeper understanding of themselves, and work toward lasting relief and control over their lives.
My potential clients are adults facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, or OCD. They are searching for a provider who can guide them with empathy and expertise, helping them build practical skills to manage their emotions and find a sense of balance. Often struggling with feelings that make everyday life feel overwhelming and unmanageable, they need a safe, supportive space where they can explore their emotions, gain a deeper understanding of themselves, and work toward lasting relief and control over their lives.
(475) 244-7178 View (475) 244-7178
Photo of Dr. Lisa Harding, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Lisa Harding
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milford, CT 06461
I'm an adult psychiatrist, fluent in English and Spanish who specializes in treating depression and treatment resistance depression. I completed my training at Yale School of Medicine as the chief resident of Intervention Psychiatry Services at Yale Psychiatric Hospital. I offer comprehensive diagnostic consultations with specific and individualized treatment recommendations. Should you choose me as your provider, I will monitor the effectiveness of your medication regimen over a course of time to determine if the treatment meets your goals.
I'm an adult psychiatrist, fluent in English and Spanish who specializes in treating depression and treatment resistance depression. I completed my training at Yale School of Medicine as the chief resident of Intervention Psychiatry Services at Yale Psychiatric Hospital. I offer comprehensive diagnostic consultations with specific and individualized treatment recommendations. Should you choose me as your provider, I will monitor the effectiveness of your medication regimen over a course of time to determine if the treatment meets your goals.
(203) 701-9737 View (203) 701-9737
Photo of Emily Garber - Emily Garber APRN pllc, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Garber APRN pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Milford, CT 06460
Waitlist for new clients
We often go through mental and physical challenges in life that require additional support to maximize our well-being. This practice seeks to look at the whole person and provide both lifestyle coaching as well as medication options to allow patients to be their best selves. Please note that I am not accepting new patients for the treatment of ADHD and do not prescribe benzodiazepines or stimulants (including Adderall, Ritalin, Focalin, Concerta, Vyvanse, Klonopin, Xanax, Valium, Ativan and other similar medications).
We often go through mental and physical challenges in life that require additional support to maximize our well-being. This practice seeks to look at the whole person and provide both lifestyle coaching as well as medication options to allow patients to be their best selves. Please note that I am not accepting new patients for the treatment of ADHD and do not prescribe benzodiazepines or stimulants (including Adderall, Ritalin, Focalin, Concerta, Vyvanse, Klonopin, Xanax, Valium, Ativan and other similar medications).
(203) 551-4173 View (203) 551-4173
Photo of Beatrice Peku, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Beatrice Peku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Haven, CT 06516
Beatrice Peku, DNP, APRN, PMHNP - BC. Licensed in Connecticut. My approach to mental healthcare is evidence-based, client centered, integrative and holistic. I prioritize patient education, empowering those who come in contact with me to actively participate in their treatment. In my practice, I prioritize client-centered care, focusing on empathy and collaboration. I utilize an evidence-based approach and incorporate integrative practices including medication management as indicated to tailor treatment plans to each individual's need.
Beatrice Peku, DNP, APRN, PMHNP - BC. Licensed in Connecticut. My approach to mental healthcare is evidence-based, client centered, integrative and holistic. I prioritize patient education, empowering those who come in contact with me to actively participate in their treatment. In my practice, I prioritize client-centered care, focusing on empathy and collaboration. I utilize an evidence-based approach and incorporate integrative practices including medication management as indicated to tailor treatment plans to each individual's need.
(475) 250-1485 View (475) 250-1485
Photo of Mayumi Okuda Benavides, MD, Psychiatrist
Mayumi Okuda Benavides
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06501
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
(646) 397-1520 View (646) 397-1520
Photo of Andrew Ding, MD, Psychiatrist
Andrew Ding
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06515
I’m a psychotherapist and integrative psychiatrist specializing in existential and spiritual issues with a focus on psychedelic medicine. I aim to foster not only self-knowledge, but progress from insight to embodiment, contradiction to paradox, and alienation to connection. Informed by influences ranging from modern, evidence-informed Western medicine, to Eastern spirituality, to psychoanalysis, I support growth through a bespoke therapeutic alliance that integrates various psychotherapies, lifestyle medicine, and judicious prescribing within a single relationship. — Please reach out via www.AximMedicine.com —
I’m a psychotherapist and integrative psychiatrist specializing in existential and spiritual issues with a focus on psychedelic medicine. I aim to foster not only self-knowledge, but progress from insight to embodiment, contradiction to paradox, and alienation to connection. Informed by influences ranging from modern, evidence-informed Western medicine, to Eastern spirituality, to psychoanalysis, I support growth through a bespoke therapeutic alliance that integrates various psychotherapies, lifestyle medicine, and judicious prescribing within a single relationship. — Please reach out via www.AximMedicine.com —
(860) 378-2671 View (860) 378-2671
Photo of Cassandra C Shepard - Cassandra Shepard Wellness of Mind LLC., DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cassandra Shepard Wellness of Mind LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Shelton, CT 06484  (Online Only)
The approach is working collaboratively with the clients and focus on teaching, health promotion, clinical guidelines, and integrative care. Cassandra is dual-licensed as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP), board-certified and received her Doctorate of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing. She has experience in short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, inpatient, outpatient psychiatric treatment settings, teaching at a prestigious University, hospitalization care and partial hospitalization program services.
The approach is working collaboratively with the clients and focus on teaching, health promotion, clinical guidelines, and integrative care. Cassandra is dual-licensed as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP), board-certified and received her Doctorate of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing. She has experience in short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, inpatient, outpatient psychiatric treatment settings, teaching at a prestigious University, hospitalization care and partial hospitalization program services.
(475) 241-0491 View (475) 241-0491
Photo of Barbara Stoudmire, BA, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Barbara Stoudmire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525
There has been an increase in those suffering from anxiety and depression, especially after COVID. We watched in fear as the world slipped into a pandemic. I want you to know you are not alone! There are many sufferings from trauma related to a bad relationship, bullying or past abuse. Again, you are not alone! Have you been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or ADHD and have been struggling to manage your symptoms? I am here to help. Regardless of age or diagnosis everyone deserves peace of mind and a little understanding. I believe everyone deserves compassionate and empathetic mental health care. Let me help you.
There has been an increase in those suffering from anxiety and depression, especially after COVID. We watched in fear as the world slipped into a pandemic. I want you to know you are not alone! There are many sufferings from trauma related to a bad relationship, bullying or past abuse. Again, you are not alone! Have you been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or ADHD and have been struggling to manage your symptoms? I am here to help. Regardless of age or diagnosis everyone deserves peace of mind and a little understanding. I believe everyone deserves compassionate and empathetic mental health care. Let me help you.
(475) 264-4768 View (475) 264-4768
Photo of Paul Furino, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Paul Furino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
West Haven, CT 06516
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
Photo of Eric W Voide - CT Center for Psychiatric Wellness- CCPW, Psychiatric Nurse
CT Center for Psychiatric Wellness- CCPW
Psychiatric Nurse
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511
Centered around a telemedicine model, we are expanding the reach of mental health services to those who might not be able to regularly travel to office visits. From Anxiety & Depression, to ADHD, PTSD, Addiction and LGBTQIA, our providers at CCPW are contemporary with their training and provide therapist designed to maximize every patient's quality of life.
Centered around a telemedicine model, we are expanding the reach of mental health services to those who might not be able to regularly travel to office visits. From Anxiety & Depression, to ADHD, PTSD, Addiction and LGBTQIA, our providers at CCPW are contemporary with their training and provide therapist designed to maximize every patient's quality of life.
(203) 680-0030 View (203) 680-0030
Photo of Carine Jean, MD, Psychiatrist
Carine Jean
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Milford, CT 06460
I am a Yale trained psychiatrist, board certified in general and addiction psychiatry. I am also board certified in addiction medicine and a certified provider of Suboxone. I have extensive experience treating co-occurring disorders and chronic mental illnesses. I provide medication management for mental illnesses including: schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, post partum depression, post traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. I treat young adults, adults and elders.
I am a Yale trained psychiatrist, board certified in general and addiction psychiatry. I am also board certified in addiction medicine and a certified provider of Suboxone. I have extensive experience treating co-occurring disorders and chronic mental illnesses. I provide medication management for mental illnesses including: schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, post partum depression, post traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. I treat young adults, adults and elders.
(203) 493-0478 View (203) 493-0478
Photo of Olivia Carter - Liv Well Behavioral Health Services (LWBHS), DNP,  , APRN,  PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Liv Well Behavioral Health Services (LWBHS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511  (Online Only)
Doctorate Degree studies the impact of trauma-informed therapies throughout the life span. Chief Researcher: Building Resilience Among Veterans: TRM, CRM, EMDR to reduce PTSD, depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms. Principal Research Investigator of EMDR Therapy for inner-city adolescents to enhance resiliency. Licensed, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Yale-New Haven Psych & Medical Attending for Adult & Geriatrics Inpatient units, and Adjunct Professor at FFU Fairfield University in Psychiatry/Mental Health. Expertise in Psychopathology, Psychopharmacology, Psychotherapy, and Cultural Diversity.
Doctorate Degree studies the impact of trauma-informed therapies throughout the life span. Chief Researcher: Building Resilience Among Veterans: TRM, CRM, EMDR to reduce PTSD, depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms. Principal Research Investigator of EMDR Therapy for inner-city adolescents to enhance resiliency. Licensed, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Yale-New Haven Psych & Medical Attending for Adult & Geriatrics Inpatient units, and Adjunct Professor at FFU Fairfield University in Psychiatry/Mental Health. Expertise in Psychopathology, Psychopharmacology, Psychotherapy, and Cultural Diversity.
(860) 891-2936 View (860) 891-2936
Photo of Kimberly Jackson - Well Space Women's Mental Health care, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Well Space Women's Mental Health care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Haven, CT 06501  (Online Only)
So glad you found me! I have more than 30 years of experience and specialize in women's mental health, perinatal and reproductive psychiatry. I offer free phone consultations and can answer any questions you have before making an appointment. I am one of the few providers in reproductive psychiatry that accepts insurance. My approach is individualized, person centered, holistic care.
So glad you found me! I have more than 30 years of experience and specialize in women's mental health, perinatal and reproductive psychiatry. I offer free phone consultations and can answer any questions you have before making an appointment. I am one of the few providers in reproductive psychiatry that accepts insurance. My approach is individualized, person centered, holistic care.
(845) 253-4819 View (845) 253-4819

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 06477

< 10

Psychiatrists in 06477 who prioritize treating:

80% Depression
80% Anxiety
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
60% Trauma and PTSD
40% Relationship Issues
40% Addiction
40% Grief

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 06477 see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 06477?

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.