Psychiatrists in 06489

Photo of Kelli Bernier - North Star Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C
North Star Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489
At North Star Wellness, we are dedicated to guiding you on your journey to mental wellness. We understand the challenges that individuals and families face when dealing with mental health concerns, and we are here to provide you with the highest level of care and support throughout your healing process.
At North Star Wellness, we are dedicated to guiding you on your journey to mental wellness. We understand the challenges that individuals and families face when dealing with mental health concerns, and we are here to provide you with the highest level of care and support throughout your healing process.
(860) 851-4494 View (860) 851-4494
Photo of Bassam Awwa - Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC, Psychiatrist, MD
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases. Any individual in need is eligible to receive services regardless of race, religion, disability, national origin or gender, while protecting the dignity and privacy of all individuals served.
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases. Any individual in need is eligible to receive services regardless of race, religion, disability, national origin or gender, while protecting the dignity and privacy of all individuals served.
(860) 406-7650 x206 View (860) 406-7650 x206
Photo of Holly DeVylder, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Holly DeVylder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, it's so great to meet you! I’m Holly, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a robust background in psychiatry, internal medicine, and clinical research. This combination of experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of the unmet needs of mental health care within our communities as well as the importance of clinical trials proving drug efficacy and safety for patients. I also gladly offer (and encourage) GeneSight testing to patients who've previously failed mental health medications. My goal is to help bring the best version of you, to each day!
Hi, it's so great to meet you! I’m Holly, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a robust background in psychiatry, internal medicine, and clinical research. This combination of experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of the unmet needs of mental health care within our communities as well as the importance of clinical trials proving drug efficacy and safety for patients. I also gladly offer (and encourage) GeneSight testing to patients who've previously failed mental health medications. My goal is to help bring the best version of you, to each day!
(860) 467-7371 View (860) 467-7371
Photo of Dr. Karen Yan, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Karen Yan
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
You might be navigating career stress, burnout, or feeling stuck in a major life transition—and wondering how to move forward. I work with high-achieving individuals, international students, and professionals (especially in law and finance) who are managing anxiety, identity shifts, or ADHD. Therapy with me can help you understand your patterns, find clarity, and build momentum. Whether you're navigating overwhelming responsibilities or searching for a more meaningful path, I offer a space for you to explore what matters and create lasting change. I combine medication management with therapy that adapts to your needs.
You might be navigating career stress, burnout, or feeling stuck in a major life transition—and wondering how to move forward. I work with high-achieving individuals, international students, and professionals (especially in law and finance) who are managing anxiety, identity shifts, or ADHD. Therapy with me can help you understand your patterns, find clarity, and build momentum. Whether you're navigating overwhelming responsibilities or searching for a more meaningful path, I offer a space for you to explore what matters and create lasting change. I combine medication management with therapy that adapts to your needs.
(201) 371-4460 View (201) 371-4460
Photo of George J Costanzo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DC APRN
George J Costanzo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DC APRN
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (APRN), licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan. At our practice, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications conservatively, while always incorporating holistic methods to assist in recovery. I have 30 years of experience as a chiropractor, treating patients without the use of medication. Now, with the ability to prescribe medication, I carry with me the philosophy that judicious medication use is key in treatment plans. My strength is in adolescents, adults and geriatric patients.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (APRN), licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan. At our practice, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications conservatively, while always incorporating holistic methods to assist in recovery. I have 30 years of experience as a chiropractor, treating patients without the use of medication. Now, with the ability to prescribe medication, I carry with me the philosophy that judicious medication use is key in treatment plans. My strength is in adolescents, adults and geriatric patients.
(203) 680-0030 View (203) 680-0030
Photo of Irene Topping, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Irene Topping
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel tired, foggy, or not like yourself? Some clients come to us with anxiety, depression, or trouble focusing. Others are struggling with fatigue, mood shifts, poor sleep, or unexplained weight changes. You may have tried therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes — but nothing has fully worked. Whether the issue is hormonal, psychological, or both, you want answers and lasting relief. You’re ready to feel balanced, clear, and like yourself again.
Do you feel tired, foggy, or not like yourself? Some clients come to us with anxiety, depression, or trouble focusing. Others are struggling with fatigue, mood shifts, poor sleep, or unexplained weight changes. You may have tried therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes — but nothing has fully worked. Whether the issue is hormonal, psychological, or both, you want answers and lasting relief. You’re ready to feel balanced, clear, and like yourself again.
(475) 262-9657 View (475) 262-9657
Photo of Julee Higgins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Julee Higgins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Connecticut. I received my master's degree from Fairfield University and have been practicing for 8 years. I help young adults/adults struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. Together, we determine the best pharmacological (and non-pharmacological) interventions to provide relief of symptoms.
Hi! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Connecticut. I received my master's degree from Fairfield University and have been practicing for 8 years. I help young adults/adults struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. Together, we determine the best pharmacological (and non-pharmacological) interventions to provide relief of symptoms.
(475) 284-7165 View (475) 284-7165
Photo of Daniel Kenny, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Daniel Kenny
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Everyone needs help sometimes. I am a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner, board-certified in treating mental health issues in children and adults. I believe in improving health through care that is both sensitive and scientific, with careful medication management and therapy. My goal is to meet clients where they are, and help them explore the big picture. Our past experiences shape who we are today, and I strive to enable clients to make informed decisions in their care, with their goals at the forefront.
Everyone needs help sometimes. I am a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner, board-certified in treating mental health issues in children and adults. I believe in improving health through care that is both sensitive and scientific, with careful medication management and therapy. My goal is to meet clients where they are, and help them explore the big picture. Our past experiences shape who we are today, and I strive to enable clients to make informed decisions in their care, with their goals at the forefront.
(475) 325-2817 View (475) 325-2817
Photo of Theresa Antwi - Wholistic Perspective, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Serves Area
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
(203) 433-6890 View (203) 433-6890
Photo of Duyen Nguyen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-BC, RN
Duyen Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-BC, RN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when you're facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or trauma. You may feel stuck, unsure how to move forward, or simply need more support than you've been getting. Whether you're navigating the complexities of young adulthood, dealing with the stresses of later life, or managing a mental health condition, your goal is to find relief, regain control, and experience a better quality of life. With years of experience in inpatient and outpatient care, I offer compassionate, non-judgmental guidance, always working collaboratively to create a treatment plan that feels right for you.
Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when you're facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or trauma. You may feel stuck, unsure how to move forward, or simply need more support than you've been getting. Whether you're navigating the complexities of young adulthood, dealing with the stresses of later life, or managing a mental health condition, your goal is to find relief, regain control, and experience a better quality of life. With years of experience in inpatient and outpatient care, I offer compassionate, non-judgmental guidance, always working collaboratively to create a treatment plan that feels right for you.
(646) 832-2562 View (646) 832-2562

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Sweeney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Ashley Sweeney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
Ashley Sweeney is a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. Licensed in NV, TX, CO, OR, WA, and NV for telemedicine appointments. She believes in establishing trusting relationships, strengthening her client's decision-making process, and providing evidence-based information. She believes education and collaboration are the best methods to sustain long-term treatment success. Ashey offers Christain faith-based services when requested. She is passionate about helping her clients become the best version of themselves while they walk their life's journey. She sees children, adolescents, and adults.
Ashley Sweeney is a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. Licensed in NV, TX, CO, OR, WA, and NV for telemedicine appointments. She believes in establishing trusting relationships, strengthening her client's decision-making process, and providing evidence-based information. She believes education and collaboration are the best methods to sustain long-term treatment success. Ashey offers Christain faith-based services when requested. She is passionate about helping her clients become the best version of themselves while they walk their life's journey. She sees children, adolescents, and adults.
View
Photo of Ogechi Ebere - Sound Mynd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Sound Mynd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
(860) 775-6069 View (860) 775-6069
Photo of Jewel Walters-Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Jewel Walters-Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I treat clients from adolescence to older adulthood with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress and obsessive-compulsive disorders, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, ADHD etc. and hope to collaborate with clients to establish an individualized treatment plan. Treatment goals are best reached through a holistic approach; I encourage clients to participate in therapy in addition to medication management and lifestyle modifications. I help to empower clients to understand that they are one of the most important members of the care team, and it is my hope that you are ready to take on an active role.
I treat clients from adolescence to older adulthood with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress and obsessive-compulsive disorders, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, ADHD etc. and hope to collaborate with clients to establish an individualized treatment plan. Treatment goals are best reached through a holistic approach; I encourage clients to participate in therapy in addition to medication management and lifestyle modifications. I help to empower clients to understand that they are one of the most important members of the care team, and it is my hope that you are ready to take on an active role.
(860) 736-3397 View (860) 736-3397
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
Photo of Mark D Stracks, Psychiatrist, MD, MS, MPH
Mark D Stracks
Psychiatrist, MD, MS, MPH
Southbury, CT 06488
I strive to understand each of my clients as an individual and to craft treatment options that are most appropriate to their needs and preferences. I have found that, where possible, it is best to take a minimalist approach to medication interventions, balancing these with appropriate therapy interventions and focus on life changes that can improve a client's mental health or addiction difficulties. I bring many years of caring treatment experience to each of my client's individual needs. I look forward to working with you.
I strive to understand each of my clients as an individual and to craft treatment options that are most appropriate to their needs and preferences. I have found that, where possible, it is best to take a minimalist approach to medication interventions, balancing these with appropriate therapy interventions and focus on life changes that can improve a client's mental health or addiction difficulties. I bring many years of caring treatment experience to each of my client's individual needs. I look forward to working with you.
(475) 882-8791 View (475) 882-8791
Photo of Sadaf M Hashmi, Psychiatrist, MD
Sadaf M Hashmi
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a board certified Adult and Forensic psychiatrist, trained at University of Connecticut and Yale School of Medicine. My background is in outpatient, correctional, emergency and forensic psychiatry. I am currently working at private practices in Back Bay, Boston (since 2018), and Connecticut (Since 2023).
I am a board certified Adult and Forensic psychiatrist, trained at University of Connecticut and Yale School of Medicine. My background is in outpatient, correctional, emergency and forensic psychiatry. I am currently working at private practices in Back Bay, Boston (since 2018), and Connecticut (Since 2023).
(959) 222-4751 View (959) 222-4751
Photo of Kerisha Prince, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kerisha Prince
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Biography Hello! I’m Kerisha Prince, a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience in providing comprehensive mental health care. With a Master’s degree in Nursing and specialized training in psychiatric-mental health, I am committed to improving the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Biography Hello! I’m Kerisha Prince, a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of experience in providing comprehensive mental health care. With a Master’s degree in Nursing and specialized training in psychiatric-mental health, I am committed to improving the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges.
(860) 943-4686 View (860) 943-4686
Photo of Gony Alexandra Weiss, Psychiatrist, MD
Gony Alexandra Weiss
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, burn out, stress, poor motivation, difficulty focusing or general dissatisfaction with where you are in life? Are you wanting help, guidance, and support in creating a life that you love? If so, I am hear to help you. I am a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist, voted Top Doctor in CT, and was awarded an Excellence in Healthcare Award. My mission is to help you live your best life. I provide a caring and comprehensive approach to patient care and utilize both medication management and supportive therapy to support your healing and restore your health!
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, burn out, stress, poor motivation, difficulty focusing or general dissatisfaction with where you are in life? Are you wanting help, guidance, and support in creating a life that you love? If so, I am hear to help you. I am a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist, voted Top Doctor in CT, and was awarded an Excellence in Healthcare Award. My mission is to help you live your best life. I provide a caring and comprehensive approach to patient care and utilize both medication management and supportive therapy to support your healing and restore your health!
(475) 242-8026 View (475) 242-8026
Photo of Elizabeth Feingold, Psychiatrist, MD
Elizabeth Feingold
Psychiatrist, MD
3 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 Maegan Monterose, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Maegan Monterose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
At Maystone Psychiatry, I believe in the power of transformation. I understand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate depression, anxiety, executive dysfunction, or unexpected life changes alone. You want relief and a safe place to explore your thoughts without judgment. Drawing on a compassionate, strengths-based approach, I help you discover renewed meaning and develop resilience. My holistic care includes comprehensive evaluations, personalized medication management, and therapy services when appropriate. Together, we’ll adapt, grow, and find hope.
At Maystone Psychiatry, I believe in the power of transformation. I understand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate depression, anxiety, executive dysfunction, or unexpected life changes alone. You want relief and a safe place to explore your thoughts without judgment. Drawing on a compassionate, strengths-based approach, I help you discover renewed meaning and develop resilience. My holistic care includes comprehensive evaluations, personalized medication management, and therapy services when appropriate. Together, we’ll adapt, grow, and find hope.
(475) 256-5372 View (475) 256-5372

See more therapy options for 06489

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 06489

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 06489 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
90% ADHD
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Medication Management
70% Addiction

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
90% Cigna and Evernorth
90% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 06489 see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 06489?

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.