Psychiatrists in Bristol, CT

I provide holistic, trauma-informed care that goes beyond just medication management. Together we'll address the underlying causes of symptoms like anxiety, mood swings, or addictions. My practice is LGBTQ Alllied, Body Positive, and Neurodiversity-Affirming. I am accepting new clients (ages 18 and up) with immediate availability for Intakes. I am currently in network with Cigna and Aetna, and will be in network with Optum/United in March 2025. The fastest way to schedule is through the booking app on my website.
I provide holistic, trauma-informed care that goes beyond just medication management. Together we'll address the underlying causes of symptoms like anxiety, mood swings, or addictions. My practice is LGBTQ Alllied, Body Positive, and Neurodiversity-Affirming. I am accepting new clients (ages 18 and up) with immediate availability for Intakes. I am currently in network with Cigna and Aetna, and will be in network with Optum/United in March 2025. The fastest way to schedule is through the booking app on my website.

Amber Corbalis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bristol, CT 06010
Hi! I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about the mental health field. I continuously strive to help my patients find healing through individualized treatment modalities. There is truth to the common phrase “a sound mind in a sound body” as I believe there is a strong, bi-directional relationship between both physical & mental health. My commitment to purpose & resolve in medicine also drives me to the research field, where my work was recently published in Neurology, Psychiatry, & Brain Research.
Hi! I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about the mental health field. I continuously strive to help my patients find healing through individualized treatment modalities. There is truth to the common phrase “a sound mind in a sound body” as I believe there is a strong, bi-directional relationship between both physical & mental health. My commitment to purpose & resolve in medicine also drives me to the research field, where my work was recently published in Neurology, Psychiatry, & Brain Research.

Evelyn Boateng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP , APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol, CT 06010
I am board certified in both family medicine, psychiatric mental health and therapy. I treat the whole person as a primary care provider, PCP. I believe that taking care of your physical and mental health is holistic and deeply personal. Compassionate and knowledgeable care is the key to successful wellness.
I am board certified in both family medicine, psychiatric mental health and therapy. I treat the whole person as a primary care provider, PCP. I believe that taking care of your physical and mental health is holistic and deeply personal. Compassionate and knowledgeable care is the key to successful wellness.

Hi there, I'm Heather! Whether you're dealing with navigating social norms, social media, cycles of anxiety and depression, bullying, being caught in the middle of your parent divorcing or conflict, the death of a parent or friend, anger, lack of communication with a parental figure, or the breakup of a romantic relationship I'm here to help. Seeking medication management and therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hang-ups and habits holding you back.
Hi there, I'm Heather! Whether you're dealing with navigating social norms, social media, cycles of anxiety and depression, bullying, being caught in the middle of your parent divorcing or conflict, the death of a parent or friend, anger, lack of communication with a parental figure, or the breakup of a romantic relationship I'm here to help. Seeking medication management and therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hang-ups and habits holding you back.

Ezinne “Zinny” Ezete, PMHNP-BC, licensed in CT, NY, and NJ, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare that truly addresses each individual’s unique journey. My approach focuses on empowering clients to find balance and resilience, specializing in areas like trauma, mood disorders, and holistic mental wellness. My approach to mental healthcare is rooted in empathy and empowerment, focusing on each client's unique needs and strengths. I use a blend of evidence-based practices, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed care, to foster resilience and balance.
Ezinne “Zinny” Ezete, PMHNP-BC, licensed in CT, NY, and NJ, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare that truly addresses each individual’s unique journey. My approach focuses on empowering clients to find balance and resilience, specializing in areas like trauma, mood disorders, and holistic mental wellness. My approach to mental healthcare is rooted in empathy and empowerment, focusing on each client's unique needs and strengths. I use a blend of evidence-based practices, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed care, to foster resilience and balance.

My name is Akinola Mobolaji, but people call me A-K, and that's perfect okay. I usually say, A-K is okay. I'm a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the psychiatric evaluation, solution-oriented psychotherapy, and medication management of an individual with mental illness. My approach to providing mental healthcare is active listening, solution-focused, and providing treatment options for my clients to be a part of their treatment and well-being.
My name is Akinola Mobolaji, but people call me A-K, and that's perfect okay. I usually say, A-K is okay. I'm a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the psychiatric evaluation, solution-oriented psychotherapy, and medication management of an individual with mental illness. My approach to providing mental healthcare is active listening, solution-focused, and providing treatment options for my clients to be a part of their treatment and well-being.

My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective and to find harmony between mind and body. I find that it can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective and to find harmony between mind and body. I find that it can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.

I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.

I am thrilled to be serving the people of Connecticut as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have plenty of experience working in Connecticut, I have grown to love and appreciate the diverse and vibrant community here. I have licenses in Texas, New Mexico, and Connecticut. I provide a holistic approach to mental health, offering both therapy and medication management.
I am thrilled to be serving the people of Connecticut as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have plenty of experience working in Connecticut, I have grown to love and appreciate the diverse and vibrant community here. I have licenses in Texas, New Mexico, and Connecticut. I provide a holistic approach to mental health, offering both therapy and medication management.

I'm Eddyfay Daley. I'm a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I'm licensed in CT, NY, & FL. My focus is to treat my patients from a person-centered and a measurement based approach. My patient population includes adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. My focus areas are treating patients with ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and substance use disorders. It is my goal to continue to advocate for my clients who struggle to be heard and understood, while honoring their individuality and autonomy.
I'm Eddyfay Daley. I'm a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I'm licensed in CT, NY, & FL. My focus is to treat my patients from a person-centered and a measurement based approach. My patient population includes adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. My focus areas are treating patients with ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and substance use disorders. It is my goal to continue to advocate for my clients who struggle to be heard and understood, while honoring their individuality and autonomy.

I’m a dedicated Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in providing compassionate and evidence-based care. I specialize in mental health and primary care, with a focus on anxiety disorders, ADHD, depression, Mood disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse, and helping patients find relief and improve their quality of life. My holistic and patient-centered approach integrates therapy, medication management, and lifestyle interventions to support your overall well-being. I aim to create a safe, supportive environment where patients feel heard and understood.
I’m a dedicated Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in providing compassionate and evidence-based care. I specialize in mental health and primary care, with a focus on anxiety disorders, ADHD, depression, Mood disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse, and helping patients find relief and improve their quality of life. My holistic and patient-centered approach integrates therapy, medication management, and lifestyle interventions to support your overall well-being. I aim to create a safe, supportive environment where patients feel heard and understood.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Hi, my name is Jennifer Richello and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Clinical Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Robert Morris University. I see patients in Connecticut via telehealth only. I combine traditional psychiatric care with complementary and holistic therapies, offering personalized treatment that helps you gain a deeper understanding of your symptoms. I use evidence-based practices incorporating functional and integrative medicine to address your physical and emotional well-being.
Hi, my name is Jennifer Richello and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Clinical Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Robert Morris University. I see patients in Connecticut via telehealth only. I combine traditional psychiatric care with complementary and holistic therapies, offering personalized treatment that helps you gain a deeper understanding of your symptoms. I use evidence-based practices incorporating functional and integrative medicine to address your physical and emotional well-being.

I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with nearly five years of experience in providing a wide range of psychiatric and mental health services. My focus is on delivering compassionate care and utilizing evidence-based approaches to support my patients' mental well-being. I am excited to join this team, collaborate with colleagues, and continue learning from one another to provide the best care possible. As a PMHNP, my approach to patient care is centered around a holistic and compassionate understanding of each individual's unique mental health journey.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with nearly five years of experience in providing a wide range of psychiatric and mental health services. My focus is on delivering compassionate care and utilizing evidence-based approaches to support my patients' mental well-being. I am excited to join this team, collaborate with colleagues, and continue learning from one another to provide the best care possible. As a PMHNP, my approach to patient care is centered around a holistic and compassionate understanding of each individual's unique mental health journey.

My name is Radmila Meyer. I am APRN, PMHNP-BC and specialize in medication-assisted treatment and provide therapy for patients who have mental health concerns and needs. During my working experience, I use a wide range of nursing, psychosocial, and neurobiological expertise in evaluating patients with psychiatric illnesses and their mental health needs. I provide behavioral counseling and education of patients and their families about psychiatric symptoms, maintain compliance with treatment plans, and detect adverse effects from prescribed medication.
My name is Radmila Meyer. I am APRN, PMHNP-BC and specialize in medication-assisted treatment and provide therapy for patients who have mental health concerns and needs. During my working experience, I use a wide range of nursing, psychosocial, and neurobiological expertise in evaluating patients with psychiatric illnesses and their mental health needs. I provide behavioral counseling and education of patients and their families about psychiatric symptoms, maintain compliance with treatment plans, and detect adverse effects from prescribed medication.

Dr. Joana B. Lauture is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 2 years of experience in behavioral health and an extensive medical background in respiratory therapy, labor and delivery, and inpatient psychiatry. She is passionate about delivering comprehensive, empathetic, high-quality mental health services to adults and adolescents, specializing in anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, trauma, and grief. Dr. Lauture serves as both a mental health advocate and a therapist in her role as a PMHNP.
Dr. Joana B. Lauture is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 2 years of experience in behavioral health and an extensive medical background in respiratory therapy, labor and delivery, and inpatient psychiatry. She is passionate about delivering comprehensive, empathetic, high-quality mental health services to adults and adolescents, specializing in anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, trauma, and grief. Dr. Lauture serves as both a mental health advocate and a therapist in her role as a PMHNP.

Beatrice Peku, DNP, APRN, PMHNP - BC. Licensed in Connecticut. My approach to mental healthcare is evidence-based, client centered, integrative and holistic. I prioritize patient education, empowering those who come in contact with me to actively participate in their treatment. In my practice, I prioritize client-centered care, focusing on empathy and collaboration. I utilize an evidence-based approach and incorporate integrative practices including medication management as indicated to tailor treatment plans to each individual's need.
Beatrice Peku, DNP, APRN, PMHNP - BC. Licensed in Connecticut. My approach to mental healthcare is evidence-based, client centered, integrative and holistic. I prioritize patient education, empowering those who come in contact with me to actively participate in their treatment. In my practice, I prioritize client-centered care, focusing on empathy and collaboration. I utilize an evidence-based approach and incorporate integrative practices including medication management as indicated to tailor treatment plans to each individual's need.

My name is Ikenna Okechukwu PMHNP. I received my Master's degree from Walden University. I am enthusiastic about collaborating with you on your road to optimal mental well-being, and my experience and attitude distinguish me as an appropriate partner in your mental health treatment. I provide a blend of advanced training, clinical expertise, and genuine empathy, and my objective is to heal symptoms and understand you thoroughly.
My name is Ikenna Okechukwu PMHNP. I received my Master's degree from Walden University. I am enthusiastic about collaborating with you on your road to optimal mental well-being, and my experience and attitude distinguish me as an appropriate partner in your mental health treatment. I provide a blend of advanced training, clinical expertise, and genuine empathy, and my objective is to heal symptoms and understand you thoroughly.

My name is Ashley Sansom, DNP, PMNHP-BC. I am a Doctorally-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience treating a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. Using a patient-centered, holistic approach to care, I address both the physical and emotional aspects of health and well-being. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care in a warm and welcoming environment. Using evidence-based research as the foundation of medication management, I strive to maximize the therapeutic benefit of medication with minimal side effects.
My name is Ashley Sansom, DNP, PMNHP-BC. I am a Doctorally-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience treating a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. Using a patient-centered, holistic approach to care, I address both the physical and emotional aspects of health and well-being. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care in a warm and welcoming environment. Using evidence-based research as the foundation of medication management, I strive to maximize the therapeutic benefit of medication with minimal side effects.

Diana Lankenau graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor's in psychology and University of Miami bachelor's in nursing. She has a master's degree in nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialty Certificate and Nursing Education Certificate. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). She has proudly served the community by providing nursing services to children in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
Diana Lankenau graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor's in psychology and University of Miami bachelor's in nursing. She has a master's degree in nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialty Certificate and Nursing Education Certificate. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). She has proudly served the community by providing nursing services to children in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools.

I am a PMHNP- BC with over 10 years of total experience in mental health care. My clinical focus is on holistic and patient-centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating anxiety, depression, stress-related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing and CBT which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults struggling with ADHD, Substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma/ PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorder, eating disorder, sleep problems, and more.
I am a PMHNP- BC with over 10 years of total experience in mental health care. My clinical focus is on holistic and patient-centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating anxiety, depression, stress-related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing and CBT which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults struggling with ADHD, Substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma/ PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorder, eating disorder, sleep problems, and more.
See more therapy options for Bristol
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bristol, CT
30+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Bristol, CT who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
90% | ADHD |
87% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
60% | Sleep or Insomnia |
57% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
93% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Bristol, CT see their clients
70% | Online Only | |
30% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
85% | Female | |
15% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bristol?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.