Psychiatrists in Greenwich, CT

Photo of Dr. Ernesto Gonzalez, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ernesto Gonzalez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Ernesto Gonzalez is a board certified adult psychiatrist. He completed his undergraduate training at Yale University and received his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. He completed his residency training at the Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School Adult Psychiatry Training Program. Dr. Gonzalez prefers a holistic approach that takes the time to know the whole patient, incorporating biological, psychological, social, and cultural perspectives in crafting a comprehensive, individualized, treatment plan.
Dr. Ernesto Gonzalez is a board certified adult psychiatrist. He completed his undergraduate training at Yale University and received his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. He completed his residency training at the Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School Adult Psychiatry Training Program. Dr. Gonzalez prefers a holistic approach that takes the time to know the whole patient, incorporating biological, psychological, social, and cultural perspectives in crafting a comprehensive, individualized, treatment plan.
(475) 265-6576 View (475) 265-6576
Photo of Dr. David Whitehouse, Psychiatrist
Dr. David Whitehouse
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Whitehouse is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with a strong background in neuroscience and psychopharmacology who has been in practice for over 25 years. At the heart of Dr. Whitehouse’s clinical approach is a strong emphasis on establishing trust, building a therapeutic relationship to help patients achieve their goals, and helping people better understand their brain, its strengths, and vulnerabilities and how to use assessment and training to maximize everyone’s unique emotional and cognitive capacity.
Dr. Whitehouse is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with a strong background in neuroscience and psychopharmacology who has been in practice for over 25 years. At the heart of Dr. Whitehouse’s clinical approach is a strong emphasis on establishing trust, building a therapeutic relationship to help patients achieve their goals, and helping people better understand their brain, its strengths, and vulnerabilities and how to use assessment and training to maximize everyone’s unique emotional and cognitive capacity.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Photo of Dr. Alessandra Buonopane, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Alessandra Buonopane
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Buonopane is Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She obtained her medical degree with Laude from the University of Rome, La Sapienza, and completed her residency in Psychiatry from Yale School of Medicine. Dr. Buonopane has extensive experience in psychopharmacology and offers state-of-the art medication management with compassion and empathy. She practices a holistic approach, combining psychiatric medications with elements of psychotherapy and mindfulness.
Dr. Buonopane is Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She obtained her medical degree with Laude from the University of Rome, La Sapienza, and completed her residency in Psychiatry from Yale School of Medicine. Dr. Buonopane has extensive experience in psychopharmacology and offers state-of-the art medication management with compassion and empathy. She practices a holistic approach, combining psychiatric medications with elements of psychotherapy and mindfulness.
(475) 271-2085 View (475) 271-2085
Photo of Jill Ahluwalia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MPH
Jill Ahluwalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MPH
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified, Columbia University-trained psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) specializing in psychiatric evaluation, medication management, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments to improve mental health. My holistic approach combines personalized medicine with my passion for listening deeply to your experience. By going beyond the symptoms that bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more joy and fulfillment in your life. Many people choose to see me because I provide combined treatment - medications and therapy.
I am a board-certified, Columbia University-trained psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) specializing in psychiatric evaluation, medication management, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments to improve mental health. My holistic approach combines personalized medicine with my passion for listening deeply to your experience. By going beyond the symptoms that bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more joy and fulfillment in your life. Many people choose to see me because I provide combined treatment - medications and therapy.
(718) 690-7460 View (718) 690-7460
Photo of Margaret Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, LMSW, MSN
Margaret Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, LMSW, MSN
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
Dr. Miller DNP treats individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, PTSD and ADHD. If you are struggling with a mood disorder or chronic inattention impacting work and relationships Dr. Miller will tailor treatment holistically and individually to your needs. Integrating an understanding of your lifestyle and needs into your treatment allows Dr. Miller to treat you as a whole person, understanding your symptoms in the context of your life.
Dr. Miller DNP treats individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, PTSD and ADHD. If you are struggling with a mood disorder or chronic inattention impacting work and relationships Dr. Miller will tailor treatment holistically and individually to your needs. Integrating an understanding of your lifestyle and needs into your treatment allows Dr. Miller to treat you as a whole person, understanding your symptoms in the context of your life.
(888) 334-2500 View (888) 334-2500
Photo of Michael Robbins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michael Robbins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Michael Robbins is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 17 years of experience specializing in psychiatric medication management. He earned his MSN from the University of Tennessee in 2006. His career spans various settings, including acute inpatient care, private practice, community mental health, and substance abuse treatment. Michael treats conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
Michael Robbins is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 17 years of experience specializing in psychiatric medication management. He earned his MSN from the University of Tennessee in 2006. His career spans various settings, including acute inpatient care, private practice, community mental health, and substance abuse treatment. Michael treats conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
(475) 281-3668 View (475) 281-3668
Photo of Sana Fuller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sana Fuller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
What would you do if you were free from fear, ... addiction, ...jealousy? Professional insight helps to sort through feelings and unpack the thoughts that fuel them. Anxiety, depression, anger, and addiction are signals of conflicts, sometimes, subconscious. Let's read the signals with care and get to the bottom of it. Together, we will dive into the roots of the issues, providing a solid foundation for you to emerge stronger and wiser. Your journey toward strength and wisdom begins here!
What would you do if you were free from fear, ... addiction, ...jealousy? Professional insight helps to sort through feelings and unpack the thoughts that fuel them. Anxiety, depression, anger, and addiction are signals of conflicts, sometimes, subconscious. Let's read the signals with care and get to the bottom of it. Together, we will dive into the roots of the issues, providing a solid foundation for you to emerge stronger and wiser. Your journey toward strength and wisdom begins here!
(475) 264-6789 View (475) 264-6789
Photo of Swathi Reddy Moylan, Psychiatrist, MD
Swathi Reddy Moylan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenwich, CT 06830
I am a board certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist licensed in Connecticut and New York. I have extensive experience in diagnosing and practicing evidence-based medicine in children, adolescents, and adults who have anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and eating disorders as well as providing parenting and behavioral strategies. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, family-based therapy, and supportive psychotherapy with my patients.
I am a board certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist licensed in Connecticut and New York. I have extensive experience in diagnosing and practicing evidence-based medicine in children, adolescents, and adults who have anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and eating disorders as well as providing parenting and behavioral strategies. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, family-based therapy, and supportive psychotherapy with my patients.
(475) 242-8513 View (475) 242-8513
Photo of Dr. Seth Sherman, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Seth Sherman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
Seth Sherman, M.D., is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who has been in practice for over ten years. At the heart of Dr. Sherman’s clinical approach is a strong emphasis one stablishing trust, rapport, and therapeutic alliance to help persons to feel and live well and to progress toward their goals, both in treatment and in life. Dr. Sherman begins with a consultation, a compassionate, collaborative process of discovery that culminates in a working diagnostic impression and, in turn, treatment recommendations.
Seth Sherman, M.D., is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who has been in practice for over ten years. At the heart of Dr. Sherman’s clinical approach is a strong emphasis one stablishing trust, rapport, and therapeutic alliance to help persons to feel and live well and to progress toward their goals, both in treatment and in life. Dr. Sherman begins with a consultation, a compassionate, collaborative process of discovery that culminates in a working diagnostic impression and, in turn, treatment recommendations.
(475) 244-7509 View (475) 244-7509
Photo of Shweta Kapoor, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Shweta Kapoor
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Psychiatrist extensively trained in therapy and offering weekly sessions. I am one of the few psychiatrists in US with dual training in clinical psychology (PhD). Patients have direct access to me outside of sessions as I keep a small patient panel. I believe in addressing human suffering and treating the human behind diagnostic labels. In the past, I have worked at Mayo Clinic, Emory, Baylor, and Menninger Clinic. I am a trauma-informed psychiatrist and treat patients with childhood abuse and complex trauma. Helping you gain a deeper understanding of your life to achieve peace and closure is one of my hopes as your psychiatrist.
Psychiatrist extensively trained in therapy and offering weekly sessions. I am one of the few psychiatrists in US with dual training in clinical psychology (PhD). Patients have direct access to me outside of sessions as I keep a small patient panel. I believe in addressing human suffering and treating the human behind diagnostic labels. In the past, I have worked at Mayo Clinic, Emory, Baylor, and Menninger Clinic. I am a trauma-informed psychiatrist and treat patients with childhood abuse and complex trauma. Helping you gain a deeper understanding of your life to achieve peace and closure is one of my hopes as your psychiatrist.
(475) 323-4270 View (475) 323-4270
Aurora Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board-certified adult and child & adolescent psychiatrist providing therapy and psychiatric medication management for individuals seeking care for a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, school and behavioral difficulties. I also have expertise in working with gender diverse youth and their families.
I am a board-certified adult and child & adolescent psychiatrist providing therapy and psychiatric medication management for individuals seeking care for a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, school and behavioral difficulties. I also have expertise in working with gender diverse youth and their families.
(475) 262-9649 View (475) 262-9649
Photo of John Ewing, Psychiatrist, MD
John Ewing
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Ewing is a board-certified psychiatrist who did his undergraduate degree at the University of Texas in Austin, Texas, and then completed his medical training at the University of Texas, in Houston, Texas, where he was inducted into the AOA honor society. After a medical internship in Seattle, he did his psychiatric residency at the University of California, San Diego where he was chief resident. He went on to complete a child and adolescent fellowship at Columbia University in New York, where he was also chief resident, and earned additional board certification in addiction psychiatry.
Dr. Ewing is a board-certified psychiatrist who did his undergraduate degree at the University of Texas in Austin, Texas, and then completed his medical training at the University of Texas, in Houston, Texas, where he was inducted into the AOA honor society. After a medical internship in Seattle, he did his psychiatric residency at the University of California, San Diego where he was chief resident. He went on to complete a child and adolescent fellowship at Columbia University in New York, where he was also chief resident, and earned additional board certification in addiction psychiatry.
(475) 291-4338 View (475) 291-4338
Photo of Grace Onovo - Cowries Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, -BC
Cowries Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
Cowries Mental Health Services (CMHS) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practice. CMHS manages and treats adults and children with Alcohol Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Sleep Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, OCD and much more. This practice offers Individual, Group, Family, and Support Therapies in addition to Motivational Interview Therapy.
Cowries Mental Health Services (CMHS) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practice. CMHS manages and treats adults and children with Alcohol Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Sleep Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, OCD and much more. This practice offers Individual, Group, Family, and Support Therapies in addition to Motivational Interview Therapy.
(475) 405-3696 View (475) 405-3696
Photo of Dr. Sheila Devlin-Craane, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, NPP, MSN, APRN-BC
Dr. Sheila Devlin-Craane
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, NPP, MSN, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
Dr Sheila Devlin-Craane - Counseling Associates Inc / EMDR for Trauma is a DNP, & Clinical Specialist, board certified in psychiatric mental health with more than 35 years’ experience. She obtained a doctorate at Fairfield University as a psychiatric DNP. She is also nationally certified in EMDR which is a preferred treatment for trauma and PTSD. Dr. Devlin has prescriptive authority in both New York and Ct. Treatment and medication management for psychiatric conditions and addictions. Specialty: PTSD, EMDR, Addictions. Treatment for depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief/ loss. Contact the office 917 577-2129
Dr Sheila Devlin-Craane - Counseling Associates Inc / EMDR for Trauma is a DNP, & Clinical Specialist, board certified in psychiatric mental health with more than 35 years’ experience. She obtained a doctorate at Fairfield University as a psychiatric DNP. She is also nationally certified in EMDR which is a preferred treatment for trauma and PTSD. Dr. Devlin has prescriptive authority in both New York and Ct. Treatment and medication management for psychiatric conditions and addictions. Specialty: PTSD, EMDR, Addictions. Treatment for depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief/ loss. Contact the office 917 577-2129
(917) 577-2129 View (917) 577-2129
Photo of Misty Stafford, Psychiatrist, MD
Misty Stafford
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services via telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe it reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services via telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe it reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
(860) 718-4351 View (860) 718-4351
Brittany Dudas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
Anxiety, depression, irritability, overwhelming stress, and obsessive worries can be debilitating and significantly limit your capacity to live life. These feelings lead to self doubt, relationship conflict, feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, uncertainty about direction in life, and potentially to substance use to lift depression or ease anxiety. My treatment philosophy draws from diverse experience and theoretical approaches. Treatment is individualized, collaborative, and aimed at understanding underlying conflicts, clarifying life goals, and making substantive behavioral change to enable you to live life in a more introspective, mindful way that leads to greater fulfillment.
Anxiety, depression, irritability, overwhelming stress, and obsessive worries can be debilitating and significantly limit your capacity to live life. These feelings lead to self doubt, relationship conflict, feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, uncertainty about direction in life, and potentially to substance use to lift depression or ease anxiety. My treatment philosophy draws from diverse experience and theoretical approaches. Treatment is individualized, collaborative, and aimed at understanding underlying conflicts, clarifying life goals, and making substantive behavioral change to enable you to live life in a more introspective, mindful way that leads to greater fulfillment.
(917) 725-5165 View (917) 725-5165
Photo of Dr. Tara Thompson-Felix, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Tara Thompson-Felix
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Tara Thompson-Felix is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Dr. Thompson-Felix has specialized training in perinatal mental health and believes that improving outcomes during pregnancy and the postpartum period has a long-lasting impact on outcomes for a mother and child. She also specializes in treating a wide array of psychiatric conditions affecting children, adolescents and young adults. She earned her medical degree at Rutgers, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and trained in adult psychiatry at Temple University Medical School.
Dr. Tara Thompson-Felix is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Dr. Thompson-Felix has specialized training in perinatal mental health and believes that improving outcomes during pregnancy and the postpartum period has a long-lasting impact on outcomes for a mother and child. She also specializes in treating a wide array of psychiatric conditions affecting children, adolescents and young adults. She earned her medical degree at Rutgers, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and trained in adult psychiatry at Temple University Medical School.
(475) 325-5962 View (475) 325-5962
Photo of Sheera Gerber, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Sheera Gerber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
Are you or a loved one seeking expert guidance and compassionate care on your journey towards mental wellness? Look no further. I am a distinguished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in general psychiatry and addiction treatment for individuals aged 17 years and older.
Are you or a loved one seeking expert guidance and compassionate care on your journey towards mental wellness? Look no further. I am a distinguished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in general psychiatry and addiction treatment for individuals aged 17 years and older.
(475) 472-9563 View (475) 472-9563
Kasey Spoonamore
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
As a psychiatrist in Greenwich, Connecticut (CT), I specialize in treating an array of mental disorders and illnesses, including addiction disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders and depressive disorders. My training is in Relational Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Treatments consist of: Neuropsychopharmacology, certification in Buprenorphine (Suboxone), Naltrexone maintenance therapy and Psychotherapy. I am dedicated to providing my patients with the highest level of personalized, authentic and therapeutic care. My goal is to build collaborative relationships with patients that creates a platform for greater insight into ones self understanding, which in turn leads to goal achievement.
As a psychiatrist in Greenwich, Connecticut (CT), I specialize in treating an array of mental disorders and illnesses, including addiction disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders and depressive disorders. My training is in Relational Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Treatments consist of: Neuropsychopharmacology, certification in Buprenorphine (Suboxone), Naltrexone maintenance therapy and Psychotherapy. I am dedicated to providing my patients with the highest level of personalized, authentic and therapeutic care. My goal is to build collaborative relationships with patients that creates a platform for greater insight into ones self understanding, which in turn leads to goal achievement.
(203) 433-5469 View (203) 433-5469
Photo of John S Tamerin, Psychiatrist, MD
John S Tamerin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06831
My ideal client is someone who wants more out of life than symptom removal. I want to work with people who want to find meaning, purpose and passion in their lives. Certainly, I want to help people diminish suffering but a lasting approach must involve a determined commitment to living a fulfilling life.
My ideal client is someone who wants more out of life than symptom removal. I want to work with people who want to find meaning, purpose and passion in their lives. Certainly, I want to help people diminish suffering but a lasting approach must involve a determined commitment to living a fulfilling life.
(203) 941-6659 View (203) 941-6659
1

See more therapy options for Greenwich

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Greenwich, CT

100+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Greenwich, CT who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
93% Anxiety
88% Medication Management
75% ADHD
71% Bipolar Disorder
69% Trauma and PTSD
68% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
70% Optum
63% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Greenwich, CT see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Female
34% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Greenwich?

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.