Psychiatrists in Glastonbury, CT
John Graziano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glastonbury, CT 06033
John Graziano, APRN, PMHNP has a philosophy that care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with John, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfillment. That’s because – with a board certification in psychiatry and experience in a variety of settings such as inpatient, community, and outpatient – John is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
John Graziano, APRN, PMHNP has a philosophy that care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with John, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfillment. That’s because – with a board certification in psychiatry and experience in a variety of settings such as inpatient, community, and outpatient – John is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Taking your child to a psychiatrist is not an easy decision. Many parents have concerns about unnecessarily medicating their child or labeling them with a diagnosis at such a young age. As a physician and as a parent, I take those concerns very seriously. I do a lot of groundwork before I diagnose a child. I use validated rating scales completed by multiple sources and I always work in conjunction with a therapist. I take a family-centric approach to treatment. For school evaluations, I see my role as an advocate for the child, while not losing sight of the school's perspective.
Taking your child to a psychiatrist is not an easy decision. Many parents have concerns about unnecessarily medicating their child or labeling them with a diagnosis at such a young age. As a physician and as a parent, I take those concerns very seriously. I do a lot of groundwork before I diagnose a child. I use validated rating scales completed by multiple sources and I always work in conjunction with a therapist. I take a family-centric approach to treatment. For school evaluations, I see my role as an advocate for the child, while not losing sight of the school's perspective.
Renew Mental Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Accepting New Patients! Are you struggling with mental health issues? Do not suffer in silence as your mental health is essential and matters for your overall wellbeing. At Renew Mental Healthcare, we work with children and adults struggling with varying forms of mental health disorders that includes anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, PTSD & much more to promote mental and emotional wellness through pharmacotherapy to help patients achieve better quality of life.
Accepting New Patients! Are you struggling with mental health issues? Do not suffer in silence as your mental health is essential and matters for your overall wellbeing. At Renew Mental Healthcare, we work with children and adults struggling with varying forms of mental health disorders that includes anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, PTSD & much more to promote mental and emotional wellness through pharmacotherapy to help patients achieve better quality of life.
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Spravato treatment. Every member of our team strives towards the unified goal of making CBHA synonymous with excellent care, phenomenal customer service & an unmatched commitment to families, our communities and most of all, our clients.
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Spravato treatment. Every member of our team strives towards the unified goal of making CBHA synonymous with excellent care, phenomenal customer service & an unmatched commitment to families, our communities and most of all, our clients.
Deborah Collins-Perrica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMH-CNS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Deborah Collins-Perrica APRN is a board certified Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist with over 20 years of experience in the treatment of mental illness providing the following: comprehensive diagnostic evaluations; medication ordering and management; psychotherapy; nutritional medicine; weight loss support; psychotherapy; pregnancy and postpartum mental health; ordering and interpretation of bloodwork and tests; referrals for consultation to other specialists as needed.
Deborah Collins-Perrica APRN is a board certified Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist with over 20 years of experience in the treatment of mental illness providing the following: comprehensive diagnostic evaluations; medication ordering and management; psychotherapy; nutritional medicine; weight loss support; psychotherapy; pregnancy and postpartum mental health; ordering and interpretation of bloodwork and tests; referrals for consultation to other specialists as needed.
Nourish Psychiatric- Katie Scheinberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, APRN, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Accepting new patients for June-July 2024! Some people find that therapy alone does not allow them to reach their mental health potential and may be considering starting medication, changing medication or looking to continue medication. No matter where you are on your journey to mental wellness, there are options. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, health/nutrition/sleep education, and therapeutic support to children, adolescents, and emerging adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep and eating issues and other mental health concerns.
Accepting new patients for June-July 2024! Some people find that therapy alone does not allow them to reach their mental health potential and may be considering starting medication, changing medication or looking to continue medication. No matter where you are on your journey to mental wellness, there are options. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, health/nutrition/sleep education, and therapeutic support to children, adolescents, and emerging adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep and eating issues and other mental health concerns.
I believe mental health care should be an empowering experience. As your provider, we will work together to identify what is most important to you on your journey to building a rich and meaningful life. I provide holistic, trauma-informed care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs and specialize in treating anxiety, addictions, and mood disorders.
I believe mental health care should be an empowering experience. As your provider, we will work together to identify what is most important to you on your journey to building a rich and meaningful life. I provide holistic, trauma-informed care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs and specialize in treating anxiety, addictions, and mood disorders.
I take care of patients who are struggling to find support and stability in their lives. People often come to see me are sometimes in the most difficult time of their lives and I enjoy digging deep and listening to what is really going on for them. I treat patients who have anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, personality disorders, substance abuse/ addiction disorders, and life stress. The correct medication can help to balance out a person's life so that they can start living and being their best. I pride myself in tailoring treatment for each individual.
I take care of patients who are struggling to find support and stability in their lives. People often come to see me are sometimes in the most difficult time of their lives and I enjoy digging deep and listening to what is really going on for them. I treat patients who have anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, personality disorders, substance abuse/ addiction disorders, and life stress. The correct medication can help to balance out a person's life so that they can start living and being their best. I pride myself in tailoring treatment for each individual.
I believe mental health care should be an empowering experience. As your provider, we will work together to identify what is most important to you on your journey to building a rich and meaningful life. I provide holistic, trauma-informed care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs and specialize in treating anxiety, addictions, and mood disorders.
I believe mental health care should be an empowering experience. As your provider, we will work together to identify what is most important to you on your journey to building a rich and meaningful life. I provide holistic, trauma-informed care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs and specialize in treating anxiety, addictions, and mood disorders.
Miranda Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PHMNP, CPNP-PC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glastonbury, CT 06033
I'm passionate about a holistic and integrative approach to psychiatry. True healing goes beyond medication—it involves understanding your unique biological makeup and the environmental factors shaping your experience. While medication can be an important tool, my goal is to create a balanced, personalized plan that respects your individuality and empowers you on your journey to wellness. Our work together will be collaborative. You deserve to feel genuinely heard and have an active role in your care. I focus on shared decision making with each recommendation, helping you feel confident and informed as we explore options.
I'm passionate about a holistic and integrative approach to psychiatry. True healing goes beyond medication—it involves understanding your unique biological makeup and the environmental factors shaping your experience. While medication can be an important tool, my goal is to create a balanced, personalized plan that respects your individuality and empowers you on your journey to wellness. Our work together will be collaborative. You deserve to feel genuinely heard and have an active role in your care. I focus on shared decision making with each recommendation, helping you feel confident and informed as we explore options.
Amer Nabil, Connecticut ADHD treatment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Welcome to Half Full Psychiatry, where my objective as a medication prescriber and a mental health provider is to build a "glass half full perspective". This does not mean I primarily rely on medications to solve an individual's problem. I value knowing about you as an individual to be able to offer solutions, whether they involve medication, psychotherapy or productivity skills. I am currently a father of young children, a husband, a caregiver to my elderly father, a son who lost my mother abruptly. I was also once a student who found it difficult to navigate the social and academic life.
Welcome to Half Full Psychiatry, where my objective as a medication prescriber and a mental health provider is to build a "glass half full perspective". This does not mean I primarily rely on medications to solve an individual's problem. I value knowing about you as an individual to be able to offer solutions, whether they involve medication, psychotherapy or productivity skills. I am currently a father of young children, a husband, a caregiver to my elderly father, a son who lost my mother abruptly. I was also once a student who found it difficult to navigate the social and academic life.
15 Second Videos
Michelle London Caudle
Amer Nabil, Connecticut ADHD treatment
Katherine Salvador
Adam Mikiewicz
It is important for each person to feel a connection with a provider. My hope is to individualize care, treat each person with respect, and enhance a sense of wellbeing. Although I work with different ages, I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults. I offer medication management and psychotherapy in Marblehead, MA and Glastonbury CT.
It is important for each person to feel a connection with a provider. My hope is to individualize care, treat each person with respect, and enhance a sense of wellbeing. Although I work with different ages, I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults. I offer medication management and psychotherapy in Marblehead, MA and Glastonbury CT.
Ashley LaBonte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Bloom Mental Health, LLC you can grow at your own pace. Ashley is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 15 years of experience working in the mental health field. Her philosophy when it comes to medication management is often “less is more”, minimizing medication regimens for better outcomes and encouraging individuals to participate in psychotherapy as well as self-care in order to lead a healthy, fulfilling lives. While she is experienced in treating clients ages 10 and older, she enjoys working with young women, those with a history of trauma as well as women who are in their perinatal phase of life.
At Bloom Mental Health, LLC you can grow at your own pace. Ashley is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 15 years of experience working in the mental health field. Her philosophy when it comes to medication management is often “less is more”, minimizing medication regimens for better outcomes and encouraging individuals to participate in psychotherapy as well as self-care in order to lead a healthy, fulfilling lives. While she is experienced in treating clients ages 10 and older, she enjoys working with young women, those with a history of trauma as well as women who are in their perinatal phase of life.
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgemental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgemental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
Katherine is a Board Certified Physician Assistant in the state of Connecticut. She received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Springfield College where she completed her clinical training In psychiatry in the inpatient hospital setting. After graduating, Katherine focused her career in community based mental health and addiction treatment. Her knowledge of psychopharmacology stems from over 9 years’ experience treating a wide scope of mental health conditions including mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders throughout the clinic, hospital, and addiction treatment environments.
Katherine is a Board Certified Physician Assistant in the state of Connecticut. She received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Springfield College where she completed her clinical training In psychiatry in the inpatient hospital setting. After graduating, Katherine focused her career in community based mental health and addiction treatment. Her knowledge of psychopharmacology stems from over 9 years’ experience treating a wide scope of mental health conditions including mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders throughout the clinic, hospital, and addiction treatment environments.
AFFORDABLE CARE FROM THE PRIVACY OF YOUR HOME: APRN board certified for mental health services specializing in medication management and therapy services, 13 years old through the life span. Licensed for private practice in the states of Connecticut and Rhode Island working in Telepsychiatry 8 YRS. I offer a unique opportunity for clients to be seen from the comfort and privacy of their home on a Hippa Compliant computer platform. Telepsychiatry is proven to help people reach expert providers, while protecting your personal information, family situation, and/or career. Telepsychiatry saves your personal time and reduces stress.
AFFORDABLE CARE FROM THE PRIVACY OF YOUR HOME: APRN board certified for mental health services specializing in medication management and therapy services, 13 years old through the life span. Licensed for private practice in the states of Connecticut and Rhode Island working in Telepsychiatry 8 YRS. I offer a unique opportunity for clients to be seen from the comfort and privacy of their home on a Hippa Compliant computer platform. Telepsychiatry is proven to help people reach expert providers, while protecting your personal information, family situation, and/or career. Telepsychiatry saves your personal time and reduces stress.
With over 13 years in mental health, I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a comprehensive background in both inpatient and private practice settings. My career spans from acute care on inpatient units to personalized treatment in private practice, reflecting my broad expertise in psychiatric nursing. This experience has equipped me with a nuanced understanding of the unique needs at various life stages, allowing me to provide tailored, effective care.
With over 13 years in mental health, I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a comprehensive background in both inpatient and private practice settings. My career spans from acute care on inpatient units to personalized treatment in private practice, reflecting my broad expertise in psychiatric nursing. This experience has equipped me with a nuanced understanding of the unique needs at various life stages, allowing me to provide tailored, effective care.
Giovanni Pascal Pierre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hey there! I am Giovanni Pierre, but you can call me Gio. First, thank you for taking this vital step towards better mental well-being. I get it—life is like a roller coaster, and sometimes, it’s the scary one you never wanted to get on. I own a practice called Safe Haven Health. Safe Haven Health is a virtual mental health clinic aiming to increase access to effective and efficient mental healthcare from the comfort of your home. Safe Haven Health specializes in mental health medication management, at-home ketamine treatment for depression and anxiety, ADHD testing and treatment, and more.
Hey there! I am Giovanni Pierre, but you can call me Gio. First, thank you for taking this vital step towards better mental well-being. I get it—life is like a roller coaster, and sometimes, it’s the scary one you never wanted to get on. I own a practice called Safe Haven Health. Safe Haven Health is a virtual mental health clinic aiming to increase access to effective and efficient mental healthcare from the comfort of your home. Safe Haven Health specializes in mental health medication management, at-home ketamine treatment for depression and anxiety, ADHD testing and treatment, and more.
Flourishing Minds Mental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Glastonbury, CT 06033
I provide care for a range of mental health concerns including the following: depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, thought disorders, personality disorders, and substance use disorders. If you are looking for a provider who has a non-judgmental approach and takes into account the whole person, I may be a good fit for you. My goal is to promote health, physically, mentally, and spiritually. If I am unable to provide care that I feel is adequate enough to support your treatment goals, I will always refer out to another provider as continuity of care is paramount in my practice.
I provide care for a range of mental health concerns including the following: depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, thought disorders, personality disorders, and substance use disorders. If you are looking for a provider who has a non-judgmental approach and takes into account the whole person, I may be a good fit for you. My goal is to promote health, physically, mentally, and spiritually. If I am unable to provide care that I feel is adequate enough to support your treatment goals, I will always refer out to another provider as continuity of care is paramount in my practice.
Ali Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Hi there. Looking for balance in your mental health journey? I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, and perinatal mental health. Whether you're a new mother, navigating infertility, or struggling to focus at school or in your relationships, I understand the unique challenges you face. If you're feeling lonely, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed, I'm here to help you find healing and relief. I have extensive experience working with pregnant women, new moms, and those coping with the emotional challenges that come with postpartum life.
Hi there. Looking for balance in your mental health journey? I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, and perinatal mental health. Whether you're a new mother, navigating infertility, or struggling to focus at school or in your relationships, I understand the unique challenges you face. If you're feeling lonely, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed, I'm here to help you find healing and relief. I have extensive experience working with pregnant women, new moms, and those coping with the emotional challenges that come with postpartum life.
See more therapy options for Glastonbury
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Glastonbury, CT
30+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Glastonbury, CT who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
97% | Depression |
93% | Medication Management |
83% | ADHD |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | Aetna |
67% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Glastonbury, CT see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Glastonbury?
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.