Psychiatrists in Avon, CT

Photo of Lisa Killips, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC
Lisa Killips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC
Online Only
I am accepting new Clients. My goal is to treat clients with an individual, holistic approach in an effort to strive for a healthy, balanced, quality of life. I am an empathetic listener utilizing integrative treatment strategies of medication management, complimentary therapies, mindfulness, nutrition, exercise and more. Treatment is with thoughtful consideration of the Client as a whole.
I am accepting new Clients. My goal is to treat clients with an individual, holistic approach in an effort to strive for a healthy, balanced, quality of life. I am an empathetic listener utilizing integrative treatment strategies of medication management, complimentary therapies, mindfulness, nutrition, exercise and more. Treatment is with thoughtful consideration of the Client as a whole.
(860) 590-8236 View (860) 590-8236
Photo of Margaret M Rudin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHCNS
Margaret M Rudin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHCNS
Avon, CT 06001
Are you a teen or parent looking for someone who can help you or your child feel better about themselves at school or home? As both an APRN and psychologist, I specialize in treating children and adolescents with depression, anxiety, learning disorders, ADHD, as well as symptoms associated with autism. Together we will work on a plan to determine which symptoms could be addressed with therapy, psychotropic medication or a behavioral plan; whether academic or psychological testing is indicated, as well as an IEP or 504 plan. Medical concerns influencing mental health can be coordinated with PCP through lab work and consultation.
Are you a teen or parent looking for someone who can help you or your child feel better about themselves at school or home? As both an APRN and psychologist, I specialize in treating children and adolescents with depression, anxiety, learning disorders, ADHD, as well as symptoms associated with autism. Together we will work on a plan to determine which symptoms could be addressed with therapy, psychotropic medication or a behavioral plan; whether academic or psychological testing is indicated, as well as an IEP or 504 plan. Medical concerns influencing mental health can be coordinated with PCP through lab work and consultation.
(860) 854-4578 View (860) 854-4578
Photo of Dr. Savitha Chandramohan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Dr. Savitha Chandramohan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Avon, CT 06001
I am board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over fifteen years of physical and mental health field experience. I ensure that I provide the most advanced quality of care to the population that I serve. My master's and doctorate degrees from the University of Saint Joseph and the University of Connecticut have taught me more in-depth research and evidence-based practice to apply in my practice and treat my patients as a whole.
I am board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over fifteen years of physical and mental health field experience. I ensure that I provide the most advanced quality of care to the population that I serve. My master's and doctorate degrees from the University of Saint Joseph and the University of Connecticut have taught me more in-depth research and evidence-based practice to apply in my practice and treat my patients as a whole.
(860) 431-2163 View (860) 431-2163
Photo of Milton J Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Milton J Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Now accepting new patients. I have worked with outpatient clients of all ages that are struggling with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, gender identity issues, and psychiatric symptoms associated with chronic medical disorders.
Now accepting new patients. I have worked with outpatient clients of all ages that are struggling with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, gender identity issues, and psychiatric symptoms associated with chronic medical disorders.
(860) 864-5528 View (860) 864-5528
Photo of Cara Marie Bartos, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNS, APRN
Cara Marie Bartos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNS, APRN
Avon, CT 06001
Not accepting new clients
Finding a psychiatric provider can be overwhelming, whether you are looking for yourself or a loved one. I am a psychiatric APRN who specializes in treating children and adolescents who struggle with emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues. I have 18 years of experience working with children and adolescents facing depression, anxiety, ADHD, and thought disorders. I have extensive experience in treating psychiatric symptoms related to trauma. When a child's symptoms impair their ability to achieve developmental milestones or a healthy quality of life, we must do our best to remove any obstacles that stand in their way.
Finding a psychiatric provider can be overwhelming, whether you are looking for yourself or a loved one. I am a psychiatric APRN who specializes in treating children and adolescents who struggle with emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues. I have 18 years of experience working with children and adolescents facing depression, anxiety, ADHD, and thought disorders. I have extensive experience in treating psychiatric symptoms related to trauma. When a child's symptoms impair their ability to achieve developmental milestones or a healthy quality of life, we must do our best to remove any obstacles that stand in their way.
(860) 512-7194 View (860) 512-7194
Photo of Laura Gabriel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Laura Gabriel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Laura Gabriel is a Board Certified Psychiatric APRN with prescriptive rights to prescribe psychiatric medications.
Laura Gabriel is a Board Certified Psychiatric APRN with prescriptive rights to prescribe psychiatric medications.
(860) 846-4349 View (860) 846-4349
Photo of David A. Krulee, Psychiatrist, MD
David A. Krulee
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Avon, CT 06001
Dr. Krulee specializes in the treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, traumatic stress and dissociative disorders, psychotic disorders, and many others. With over 37 years of clinical experience treating many thousands of patients, you will find expert assessment and psychopharmacology services. Dr. Krulee is on the consulting staff at Connecticut Childrens Medical Center and Hartford Healthcare/Institute of Living and provides consultations to pediatricians, internists, family practitioners, and therapists throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts.
Dr. Krulee specializes in the treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, traumatic stress and dissociative disorders, psychotic disorders, and many others. With over 37 years of clinical experience treating many thousands of patients, you will find expert assessment and psychopharmacology services. Dr. Krulee is on the consulting staff at Connecticut Childrens Medical Center and Hartford Healthcare/Institute of Living and provides consultations to pediatricians, internists, family practitioners, and therapists throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts.
(860) 631-4415 View (860) 631-4415
Photo of Theresa Antwi - Live Well LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Live Well LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Theresa Antwi, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experience supporting people through all stages of life in managing their mental health. The mission is to help each patient achieve their fullest potential and live a more balanced, fulfilling life. Theresa provides compassionate, culturally competent care to children and adults, using an integrative approach that includes talk therapy and medication management. She is known for her ability to build meaningful connections with her patients, always approaching care with empathy, respect, and a focus on each person's unique needs.
Theresa Antwi, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experience supporting people through all stages of life in managing their mental health. The mission is to help each patient achieve their fullest potential and live a more balanced, fulfilling life. Theresa provides compassionate, culturally competent care to children and adults, using an integrative approach that includes talk therapy and medication management. She is known for her ability to build meaningful connections with her patients, always approaching care with empathy, respect, and a focus on each person's unique needs.
(860) 855-3246 View (860) 855-3246
Photo of Latonya S King, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN-ED, PMHNP, BC
Latonya S King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN-ED, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Avon, CT 06001
Hello, my name is Latonya and I am the owner of Hopelife Behavioral & Wellness Services LLC. Mental health management is similar to treating various medical conditions. It requires lifestyle changes, behavioral support, regular monitoring, and even pharmaceutical interventions. My goal is to treat mental health disorders holistically in efforts to provide a better quality of life.
Hello, my name is Latonya and I am the owner of Hopelife Behavioral & Wellness Services LLC. Mental health management is similar to treating various medical conditions. It requires lifestyle changes, behavioral support, regular monitoring, and even pharmaceutical interventions. My goal is to treat mental health disorders holistically in efforts to provide a better quality of life.
(959) 207-8287 View (959) 207-8287
Photo of Dorre Black, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN-Ed, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Dorre Black
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN-Ed, APRN, PMHNP, BC
5 Endorsed
Avon, CT 06001
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of nursing experience working with patients facing diverse physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional challenges. As a result, my expertise in psychopharmacology is built upon years of nursing experience in various healthcare settings including hospitals, schools and academia.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of nursing experience working with patients facing diverse physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional challenges. As a result, my expertise in psychopharmacology is built upon years of nursing experience in various healthcare settings including hospitals, schools and academia.
(860) 609-6319 View (860) 609-6319
Photo of Sarah Phillips, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(860) 898-9216 View (860) 898-9216
Photo of Amit Rathi MD, Psychiatrist
Amit Rathi MD
Psychiatrist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist, treating a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and relational difficulties. I specialize in problems of mood (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety (panic attacks, OCD, phobias, generalized anxiety), childhood behavior (ADHD, oppositionality), autism spectrum disorders, and thought disorders. I believe strongly in the importance of psychotherapy as well as the balanced, evidence-based use of medications, where necessary.
I am a child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist, treating a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and relational difficulties. I specialize in problems of mood (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety (panic attacks, OCD, phobias, generalized anxiety), childhood behavior (ADHD, oppositionality), autism spectrum disorders, and thought disorders. I believe strongly in the importance of psychotherapy as well as the balanced, evidence-based use of medications, where necessary.
(860) 910-1088 View (860) 910-1088
Photo of Elina Alfin - Supportive Psych Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN
Supportive Psych Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Elina Alfin, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with twenty years of experience in the field of mental health, which includes acute care. She specializes in problems of mood (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety (generalized anxiety), and neurocognitive impairments (Alzheimer’s Dementia, Vascular Dementia, and other forms of dementia).
Elina Alfin, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with twenty years of experience in the field of mental health, which includes acute care. She specializes in problems of mood (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety (generalized anxiety), and neurocognitive impairments (Alzheimer’s Dementia, Vascular Dementia, and other forms of dementia).
(860) 898-1298 View (860) 898-1298
Photo of Ayesha Ahmed, Psychiatrist, MD
Ayesha Ahmed
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
We are accepting new Patient (Adult,18 years and older). I am a 15+ years Experienced, Board Certified Physician specialized in Psychiatry, with Fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry. Depression, Anxiety, Sleep Disorders, Trauma, Phobias, Alzheimer, Postpartum Depression, Behavioral Disturbance, Senior-Geriatric conditions. My mission is to provide my patients with the best care in a confidential, relaxed environment through Evaluation and Medication Management. My office is in West Hartford Center, near by towns are Bloomfield, Avon, Granby, Simsbury, Canton, Windsor, Hartford, Newrington, Glastonbury, Danbury, Springfield-MA.
We are accepting new Patient (Adult,18 years and older). I am a 15+ years Experienced, Board Certified Physician specialized in Psychiatry, with Fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry. Depression, Anxiety, Sleep Disorders, Trauma, Phobias, Alzheimer, Postpartum Depression, Behavioral Disturbance, Senior-Geriatric conditions. My mission is to provide my patients with the best care in a confidential, relaxed environment through Evaluation and Medication Management. My office is in West Hartford Center, near by towns are Bloomfield, Avon, Granby, Simsbury, Canton, Windsor, Hartford, Newrington, Glastonbury, Danbury, Springfield-MA.
(860) 478-4341 View (860) 478-4341
Photo of Deborah S Greene - Deborah S. Greene APRN, Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHCNS-
Deborah S. Greene APRN
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHCNS-
Online Only
Mood Disorders and Anxiety are medical illnesses. Successful treatment is available. Treatment may involve various types of psychotherapy. It may also involve in the addition of medication which can successfully target symptoms. The word therapy stems for the Latin word for healing; the term nurse stems from the Latin word for care. Psychiatric nurses care for their patients who are suffering; while assisting our patients in the healing process
Mood Disorders and Anxiety are medical illnesses. Successful treatment is available. Treatment may involve various types of psychotherapy. It may also involve in the addition of medication which can successfully target symptoms. The word therapy stems for the Latin word for healing; the term nurse stems from the Latin word for care. Psychiatric nurses care for their patients who are suffering; while assisting our patients in the healing process
(860) 787-5578 View (860) 787-5578
Photo of Caroline Polsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Caroline Polsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner trained throughout the lifespan with an additional certification in addictions, I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults with mental health and/or substance use concerns. I am skilled in treating anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders. Whether you're not feeling like yourself or feeling like your anxieties are controlling you I can help. In order to provide the best quality treatment I look at the client as a whole from a holistic perspective and provide individualized treatment.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner trained throughout the lifespan with an additional certification in addictions, I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults with mental health and/or substance use concerns. I am skilled in treating anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders. Whether you're not feeling like yourself or feeling like your anxieties are controlling you I can help. In order to provide the best quality treatment I look at the client as a whole from a holistic perspective and provide individualized treatment.
(475) 405-2930 View (475) 405-2930
Photo of Dr. Harrison Strom, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Harrison Strom
Psychiatrist, DO
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who has felt overlooked or misunderstood in the mental health system. They may have been misdiagnosed, placed on multiple medications without clear benefit, or left without a meaningful explanation of their condition. They are seeking clarity, consistency, and a provider who will take the time to understand the full picture. They want to feel grounded, informed, and supported in their care. I value working with people who are ready to engage in a collaborative process toward long-term stability and a renewed sense of self.
My ideal client is someone who has felt overlooked or misunderstood in the mental health system. They may have been misdiagnosed, placed on multiple medications without clear benefit, or left without a meaningful explanation of their condition. They are seeking clarity, consistency, and a provider who will take the time to understand the full picture. They want to feel grounded, informed, and supported in their care. I value working with people who are ready to engage in a collaborative process toward long-term stability and a renewed sense of self.
(860) 497-9369 View (860) 497-9369
Photo of Lukasz Junger - Leading Psychiatry of Connecticut, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Leading Psychiatry of Connecticut
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that specializes in medication management and treatment planning. Experienced in psychiatry and addiction, but also having worked in medicine and surgery, provides me with a unique skill set and ability to incorporate knowledge from multiple specialties when developing a targeted and personalized treatment plan.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that specializes in medication management and treatment planning. Experienced in psychiatry and addiction, but also having worked in medicine and surgery, provides me with a unique skill set and ability to incorporate knowledge from multiple specialties when developing a targeted and personalized treatment plan.
(860) 431-3521 View (860) 431-3521
Photo of Kimberly Milaney - Thrive Behavioral Health, PLLC (860) 840-3878, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN
Thrive Behavioral Health, PLLC (860) 840-3878
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you struggle with depression or find anxiety interferes with your ability to function? Do you have difficulty concentrating or staying on task? Do you experience sleep issues or low energy? Your struggles do not define you. You are worthy of happiness and peace of mind. Mental health treatment is a journey and there is no shame in seeking help. Mental health is as important as physical health. I want to help improve your quality of life and function by setting you on a path of hope and wellness, in order to see the light at the end of your road. This is my goal as a mental health provider. I offer treatment to all CT residents.
Do you struggle with depression or find anxiety interferes with your ability to function? Do you have difficulty concentrating or staying on task? Do you experience sleep issues or low energy? Your struggles do not define you. You are worthy of happiness and peace of mind. Mental health treatment is a journey and there is no shame in seeking help. Mental health is as important as physical health. I want to help improve your quality of life and function by setting you on a path of hope and wellness, in order to see the light at the end of your road. This is my goal as a mental health provider. I offer treatment to all CT residents.
(860) 840-3878 View (860) 840-3878
Photo of Janet Yager - Latham Psychiatric NP Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Latham Psychiatric NP Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
My family is my reason for everything. I have two beautiful daughters, a living husband and three very spoiled pups. I love learning. (
My family is my reason for everything. I have two beautiful daughters, a living husband and three very spoiled pups. I love learning. (
(860) 935-8432 View (860) 935-8432

See more therapy options for Avon

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Avon, CT

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Avon, CT who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
97% Anxiety
83% Bipolar Disorder
72% Medication Management
66% ADHD
66% Trauma and PTSD
66% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
81% Cigna and Evernorth
71% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Avon, CT see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Avon?

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.