Psychiatrists in 06840

Photo of Kimberly G Morgan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Kimberly G Morgan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
1 Endorsed
New Canaan, CT 06840
Kimberly has over a decade of experience working as a Board Certified APRN in Adult Psychiatry (ages 18-65). She offers medication management and in some cases, psychotherapy, to help patients alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, post-partum syndromes, bipolar disorder and psychosis. The first appointment will be used to identify the symptoms that are causing the most distress, as well as to discuss any other factors that may be influencing the patient's condition. Kimberly takes a holistic approach to treatment and individualizes the treatment plan by patient, not by diagnosis.
Kimberly has over a decade of experience working as a Board Certified APRN in Adult Psychiatry (ages 18-65). She offers medication management and in some cases, psychotherapy, to help patients alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, post-partum syndromes, bipolar disorder and psychosis. The first appointment will be used to identify the symptoms that are causing the most distress, as well as to discuss any other factors that may be influencing the patient's condition. Kimberly takes a holistic approach to treatment and individualizes the treatment plan by patient, not by diagnosis.
(475) 263-3116 View (475) 263-3116
Photo of Dr. Amanda J. Calhoun, Psychiatrist
Dr. Amanda J. Calhoun
Psychiatrist
New Canaan, CT 06840
I am a Yale University-trained Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist who meets patients "where they're at". This means that I personalize each treatment plan for each individual, not based on a one-size-fits-all, robotic, regimen. No two people are the same, so my treatment plans should not be either. Each patient can expect to receive top-quality, compassionate, individualized care, whether that includes medications or just therapy, with tangible resources that they can utilize outside of our appointment times. There is no such thing as a "difficult" patient, only a patient who we have not figured out how to help yet.
I am a Yale University-trained Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist who meets patients "where they're at". This means that I personalize each treatment plan for each individual, not based on a one-size-fits-all, robotic, regimen. No two people are the same, so my treatment plans should not be either. Each patient can expect to receive top-quality, compassionate, individualized care, whether that includes medications or just therapy, with tangible resources that they can utilize outside of our appointment times. There is no such thing as a "difficult" patient, only a patient who we have not figured out how to help yet.
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Photo of Noelle O'Shea, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Noelle O'Shea
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
New Canaan, CT 06840
Noelle provides both psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions for children, adolescents, and adults. She is trained in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), EX/RP (Exposure Response Prevention) and NVR (Non-Violent Resistance) which is a therapeutic system for supporting caregivers of children with behavioral problems, reducing parental helplessness/erasure, and helping families that suffer from intense conflict between parent and child.
Noelle provides both psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions for children, adolescents, and adults. She is trained in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), EX/RP (Exposure Response Prevention) and NVR (Non-Violent Resistance) which is a therapeutic system for supporting caregivers of children with behavioral problems, reducing parental helplessness/erasure, and helping families that suffer from intense conflict between parent and child.
(203) 594-1692 View (203) 594-1692
Photo of Sarah L. Handler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Sarah L. Handler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
1 Endorsed
New Canaan, CT 06840
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in delivering comprehensive care to individuals at every life stage. My expertise lies in medication management, specifically addressing mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, substance use disorders, and eating disorders. Embracing a holistic philosophy, I personalize treatment approaches to align with each patient's unique requirements and desires. In addition to medication management, I am dedicated to supporting clients in recognizing and resolving other contributing factors influencing their mental well-being.
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in delivering comprehensive care to individuals at every life stage. My expertise lies in medication management, specifically addressing mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, substance use disorders, and eating disorders. Embracing a holistic philosophy, I personalize treatment approaches to align with each patient's unique requirements and desires. In addition to medication management, I am dedicated to supporting clients in recognizing and resolving other contributing factors influencing their mental well-being.
(475) 271-1924 View (475) 271-1924
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Trotman, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Rebecca Trotman
Psychiatrist, MD
New Canaan, CT 06840
Rebecca Trotman, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist who provides thoughtful, compassionate care tailored to the individual. Her treatment approach is collaborative, built on a foundation of trust, mutual respect, and recognition of each patient's unique strengths and challenges. Dr. Trotman is a graduate of New York University School of Medicine where she was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her training in psychiatry at New York Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center where she served as Chief Resident.
Rebecca Trotman, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist who provides thoughtful, compassionate care tailored to the individual. Her treatment approach is collaborative, built on a foundation of trust, mutual respect, and recognition of each patient's unique strengths and challenges. Dr. Trotman is a graduate of New York University School of Medicine where she was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her training in psychiatry at New York Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center where she served as Chief Resident.
(475) 473-8779 View (475) 473-8779
Photo of Sara Khalid, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Sara Khalid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
New Canaan, CT 06840
I am a Yale University-educated, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in trauma. One of my favorite concepts is the art of "kintsugi" - when a piece of pottery breaks, it is not hidden or discarded. Instead, it is repaired with gold. The result is a piece that is not just repaired but is even more unique and valuable than before. The cracks are not signs of weakness but marks of resilience, a testament to overcoming adversity. My approach to mental health is similar. The aim is to equip you with tools that highlight your resilience and strength.
I am a Yale University-educated, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in trauma. One of my favorite concepts is the art of "kintsugi" - when a piece of pottery breaks, it is not hidden or discarded. Instead, it is repaired with gold. The result is a piece that is not just repaired but is even more unique and valuable than before. The cracks are not signs of weakness but marks of resilience, a testament to overcoming adversity. My approach to mental health is similar. The aim is to equip you with tools that highlight your resilience and strength.
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Photo of Mark D'agostino, Psychiatrist, MD, MS, MSc
Mark D'agostino
Psychiatrist, MD, MS, MSc
New Canaan, CT 06840
Dr. D'Agostino is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), and has a subspeciality Board Certification in Addiction Medicine; he is a Suboxone provider, and treats a variety of substance use disorders with medication assisted treatment (MAT) and therapy (as needed). He specializes in the treatment of adults and late-adolescents, with expertise in medication management and therapy for conditions including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, opioid and alcohol use disorder.
Dr. D'Agostino is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), and has a subspeciality Board Certification in Addiction Medicine; he is a Suboxone provider, and treats a variety of substance use disorders with medication assisted treatment (MAT) and therapy (as needed). He specializes in the treatment of adults and late-adolescents, with expertise in medication management and therapy for conditions including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, opioid and alcohol use disorder.
(833) 735-0559 View (833) 735-0559
Photo of Jordana Hollen, Psychiatrist, MD
Jordana Hollen
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
New Canaan, CT 06840
Dr. Jordana Hollen is Board Certified by The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology; and she specializes in providing outpatient Psychiatric care for adults. Dr. Hollen has experience treating a variety of mental health concerns with a special focus on Mood and Anxiety disorders, as well as a particular interest in Women’s Health. She treats a range of conditions including Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD.
Dr. Jordana Hollen is Board Certified by The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology; and she specializes in providing outpatient Psychiatric care for adults. Dr. Hollen has experience treating a variety of mental health concerns with a special focus on Mood and Anxiety disorders, as well as a particular interest in Women’s Health. She treats a range of conditions including Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD.
(833) 755-0729 View (833) 755-0729
Photo of Susan Lachs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Susan Lachs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Your story and your struggles are unique to you. Media and family often put expectations on us that do not align with what is best for our authentic self. Family conflict, anxiety, depression, substance use, and unhealthy relationships - with ourselves and others - can be the result of these pressures. There is no one size fits all for therapy and together we will work to understand you through different perspectives and modalities, including prescribing medication if indicated, always with the goal of helping you make changes that will stick and you feel good about.
Your story and your struggles are unique to you. Media and family often put expectations on us that do not align with what is best for our authentic self. Family conflict, anxiety, depression, substance use, and unhealthy relationships - with ourselves and others - can be the result of these pressures. There is no one size fits all for therapy and together we will work to understand you through different perspectives and modalities, including prescribing medication if indicated, always with the goal of helping you make changes that will stick and you feel good about.
(475) 256-5374 View (475) 256-5374
Photo of David L. Lopez - Dr. David L. Lopez / Cornell Affiliated, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP, Cornell, Faculty
Dr. David L. Lopez / Cornell Affiliated
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP, Cornell, Faculty
Serves Area
Cornell and Columbia trained, Dr. Lopez does not believe in one-size-fits-all treatments. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the national Child and Adolescent Psychiatry society (AACAP) and believes in down-to-earth approaches that really make sense. Dr. Lopez is also an adult psychotherapist with years of training in the most in-depth psychotherapies. He provides interventions that have clear results. A Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), he has taught at Cornell and Columbia specialized programs for more than 15 years. He now brings to Philadelphia the latest knowledge to help kids, parents, and adult patients.
Cornell and Columbia trained, Dr. Lopez does not believe in one-size-fits-all treatments. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the national Child and Adolescent Psychiatry society (AACAP) and believes in down-to-earth approaches that really make sense. Dr. Lopez is also an adult psychotherapist with years of training in the most in-depth psychotherapies. He provides interventions that have clear results. A Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), he has taught at Cornell and Columbia specialized programs for more than 15 years. He now brings to Philadelphia the latest knowledge to help kids, parents, and adult patients.
(215) 650-8406 View (215) 650-8406
Photo of Suparna Basu, Psychiatrist, MD
Suparna Basu
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Suparna Basu is an experienced and compassionate board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in caring for those with a variety of mental health problems and emotional difficulties . Dr. Basu is a psychopharmacologist who focuses primarily on medication management. She prefers her patients have a separate therapist that she can collaborate with. Dr. Basu's approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which her working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about Dr.Basu on her website; http://basupsychiatry.com/
Suparna Basu is an experienced and compassionate board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in caring for those with a variety of mental health problems and emotional difficulties . Dr. Basu is a psychopharmacologist who focuses primarily on medication management. She prefers her patients have a separate therapist that she can collaborate with. Dr. Basu's approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which her working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about Dr.Basu on her website; http://basupsychiatry.com/
(203) 633-7602 View (203) 633-7602
Photo of Dr. Patricia Hardy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, DNP
Dr. Patricia Hardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, DNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with children, teens, women, and families, focusing on how behavioral changes (sometimes coupled with medication) can improve their psychological & physical well-being. When addressing the concerns of a child, I include the whole family system. I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner who has a special interest in working with adolescents and young adults. My practice focuses include emergency psychiatry, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
I work with children, teens, women, and families, focusing on how behavioral changes (sometimes coupled with medication) can improve their psychological & physical well-being. When addressing the concerns of a child, I include the whole family system. I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner who has a special interest in working with adolescents and young adults. My practice focuses include emergency psychiatry, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
(475) 897-5611 View (475) 897-5611
Photo of Eric B Nicholson, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Eric B Nicholson
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Serves Area
Board-Certified in Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Addiction Psychiatry, for 25 years Dr. Eric Nicholson has specialized in non-autistic and autistic individuals with trauma-related disorders (including PTSD) and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder/OCD-Spectrum Disorders including Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (trichotillomania, skin picking) with Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Exposure/Response Prevention therapy with Inhibitory Learning, Habit Reversal Training and prescription medicine as needed. He also expertly treats all Addictions and Depressive & Anxiety Disorders (Social Anxiety, Panic disorders).
Board-Certified in Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Addiction Psychiatry, for 25 years Dr. Eric Nicholson has specialized in non-autistic and autistic individuals with trauma-related disorders (including PTSD) and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder/OCD-Spectrum Disorders including Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (trichotillomania, skin picking) with Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Exposure/Response Prevention therapy with Inhibitory Learning, Habit Reversal Training and prescription medicine as needed. He also expertly treats all Addictions and Depressive & Anxiety Disorders (Social Anxiety, Panic disorders).
(203) 838-8168 View (203) 838-8168
Photo of Tom Knightly, Psychiatrist, MD
Tom Knightly
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am board-certified in general psychiatry as well as fellowship-trained in advanced treatments including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Additionally, I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University, where I work as a member of the Stanford Brain Stimulation Lab. Our lab is responsible for developing and implementing cutting edge psychiatric treatments. I bring this experience to my clinic where I am able to provide these cutting edge, highly-effective and fast-acting treatments to those who suffer with mental health.
I am board-certified in general psychiatry as well as fellowship-trained in advanced treatments including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Additionally, I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University, where I work as a member of the Stanford Brain Stimulation Lab. Our lab is responsible for developing and implementing cutting edge psychiatric treatments. I bring this experience to my clinic where I am able to provide these cutting edge, highly-effective and fast-acting treatments to those who suffer with mental health.
(203) 504-9758 View (203) 504-9758
Photo of Nicholas J. O'Brien - Holistic Services & Alternative Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Holistic Services & Alternative Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
To create the kind of practice I want for my patients, I operate a full-service, "concierge" psychiatry practice, as opposed to an insurance-driven model. This allows me to focus on quality over quantity, and on personalized service and accessibility over volume. Most importantly, I have fewer patients than an insurance-driven practice, which means I have more time for you. We will have ample time during your visit to discuss your concerns. I am also much more accessible between visits for your phone calls and emails.
To create the kind of practice I want for my patients, I operate a full-service, "concierge" psychiatry practice, as opposed to an insurance-driven model. This allows me to focus on quality over quantity, and on personalized service and accessibility over volume. Most importantly, I have fewer patients than an insurance-driven practice, which means I have more time for you. We will have ample time during your visit to discuss your concerns. I am also much more accessible between visits for your phone calls and emails.
(860) 735-3592 View (860) 735-3592

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Joan F Poll, Psychiatrist, MD
Joan F Poll
Psychiatrist, MD
Westport, CT 06880
Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry and Psychoanalysis
Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry and Psychoanalysis
(203) 584-9478 View (203) 584-9478
Photo of Omolola Aragbada - Light-tunnel Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, MSNPH, PMHNP
Light-tunnel Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, MSNPH, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Norwalk, CT 06851
Are you looking for a provider who makes you feel comfortable enough to reflect and express yourself as you wish? Do you need a provider who listens actively to your concerns? Are you seeking a participatory treatment where you can contribute to your individualized treatment plan?
Are you looking for a provider who makes you feel comfortable enough to reflect and express yourself as you wish? Do you need a provider who listens actively to your concerns? Are you seeking a participatory treatment where you can contribute to your individualized treatment plan?
(475) 303-6260 View (475) 303-6260
Photo of Holly DeVylder, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Holly DeVylder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Do you feel paralyzed by anxiety? Are you struggling to find joy amidst depression? Are ADHD symptoms derailing your or your child’s day? Do you seek compassionate support to overcome these challenges? Holly DeVylder is committed to helping adolescents and adults navigate their mental health journey. In her practice, you will find a supportive space that fosters understanding and growth. Holly believes in empowering her clients to rebuild their lives and achieve lasting wellness. If you're looking for a path to recovery that respects your unique needs and personal history, Holly is here to guide and support you every step of the way
Do you feel paralyzed by anxiety? Are you struggling to find joy amidst depression? Are ADHD symptoms derailing your or your child’s day? Do you seek compassionate support to overcome these challenges? Holly DeVylder is committed to helping adolescents and adults navigate their mental health journey. In her practice, you will find a supportive space that fosters understanding and growth. Holly believes in empowering her clients to rebuild their lives and achieve lasting wellness. If you're looking for a path to recovery that respects your unique needs and personal history, Holly is here to guide and support you every step of the way
(203) 456-6989 View (203) 456-6989
Photo of Joyce Z Pere - Joyce Z. Pere, M.D., Psychiatrist, MD
Joyce Z. Pere, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Greenwich, CT 06830
I approach each new patient as a caring, sympathetic practitioner, taking the time to assess the challenges facing both the patient and their family. My main objective is to help children, adolescents, adults and their families by providing Psychodynamic Therapies to enable patients to develop a variety of coping skills that will help balance life. Medication management is offered with a careful, cautious approach.
I approach each new patient as a caring, sympathetic practitioner, taking the time to assess the challenges facing both the patient and their family. My main objective is to help children, adolescents, adults and their families by providing Psychodynamic Therapies to enable patients to develop a variety of coping skills that will help balance life. Medication management is offered with a careful, cautious approach.
(203) 583-3843 View (203) 583-3843
Kasey Spoonamore
Psychiatrist, MD
Greenwich, CT 06830
As a psychiatrist in Greenwich, Connecticut (CT), I specialize in treating an array of mental disorders and illnesses, including addiction disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders and depressive disorders. My training is in Relational Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Treatments consist of: Neuropsychopharmacology, certification in Buprenorphine (Suboxone), Naltrexone maintenance therapy and Psychotherapy. I am dedicated to providing my patients with the highest level of personalized, authentic and therapeutic care. My goal is to build collaborative relationships with patients that creates a platform for greater insight into ones self understanding, which in turn leads to goal achievement.
As a psychiatrist in Greenwich, Connecticut (CT), I specialize in treating an array of mental disorders and illnesses, including addiction disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders and depressive disorders. My training is in Relational Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Treatments consist of: Neuropsychopharmacology, certification in Buprenorphine (Suboxone), Naltrexone maintenance therapy and Psychotherapy. I am dedicated to providing my patients with the highest level of personalized, authentic and therapeutic care. My goal is to build collaborative relationships with patients that creates a platform for greater insight into ones self understanding, which in turn leads to goal achievement.
(203) 433-5469 View (203) 433-5469

See more therapy options for 06840

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 06840

10+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in 06840 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
93% Anxiety
80% ADHD
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Medication Management
60% Trauma and PTSD
60% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 06840 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 06840?

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.