Psychiatrists in Hartford County, CT

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Photo of Zack Doubleday, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Zack Doubleday
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering telehealth only medication management to Connecticut residents. I specialize in treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Binge Eating Disorder, Depression, PTSD, Insomnia, and various other mental and behavioral health diagnoses. I also provide supportive therapy on a case-by-case basis.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering telehealth only medication management to Connecticut residents. I specialize in treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Binge Eating Disorder, Depression, PTSD, Insomnia, and various other mental and behavioral health diagnoses. I also provide supportive therapy on a case-by-case basis.
(860) 784-7103 x203 View (860) 784-7103 x203
Photo of Melissa Shulman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Melissa Shulman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
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Photo of Lukasz Junger - Leading Psychiatry of Connecticut, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Leading Psychiatry of Connecticut
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that specializes in medication management and treatment planning. Experienced in psychiatry and addiction, but also having worked in medicine and surgery, provides me with a unique skill set and ability to incorporate knowledge from multiple specialties when developing a targeted and personalized treatment plan.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that specializes in medication management and treatment planning. Experienced in psychiatry and addiction, but also having worked in medicine and surgery, provides me with a unique skill set and ability to incorporate knowledge from multiple specialties when developing a targeted and personalized treatment plan.
(860) 431-3521 View (860) 431-3521
Photo of Gladys Quinones - Psych Solutions/ Gladys Quinones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, ANP-BC
Psych Solutions/ Gladys Quinones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, ANP-BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have experience working with clients who are struggling with a broad range of psychiatric issues including Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Mood Disorders, OCD, PTSD, ADHD Bipolar Disorder, Sleeping Disorders and other mental health conditions. I treat clients throughout the life span.
I have experience working with clients who are struggling with a broad range of psychiatric issues including Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Mood Disorders, OCD, PTSD, ADHD Bipolar Disorder, Sleeping Disorders and other mental health conditions. I treat clients throughout the life span.
(860) 845-0989 View (860) 845-0989
Photo of Milton J Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Milton J Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Now accepting new patients. I have worked with outpatient clients of all ages that are struggling with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, gender identity issues, and psychiatric symptoms associated with chronic medical disorders.
Now accepting new patients. I have worked with outpatient clients of all ages that are struggling with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, gender identity issues, and psychiatric symptoms associated with chronic medical disorders.
(860) 864-5528 View (860) 864-5528
Photo of Deborah Collins-Perrica, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMH-CNS
Deborah Collins-Perrica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMH-CNS
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.
(860) 356-3756 View (860) 356-3756
Photo of Adam Mikiewicz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Adam Mikiewicz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
4 Endorsed
Rocky Hill, CT 06067
I have many years of experience treating anxiety, depression, psychosis, ADHD, substance use (Suboxone/buprenorphine/Vivitrol), ABI/TBI in a multitude of settings (inpatient, outpatient, group home, correctional). I am also able to certify patients for medical marijuana. Please feel free to contact me and allow me the opportunity to see if I can help you. I am currently in-network with Cigna and Aetna but also accept self-pay patients. I offer the choice of coming into my Rocky Hill office for in-person appointments or telehealth appointments where you can attend from the comfort of your own home. I do offer evening appointments.
I have many years of experience treating anxiety, depression, psychosis, ADHD, substance use (Suboxone/buprenorphine/Vivitrol), ABI/TBI in a multitude of settings (inpatient, outpatient, group home, correctional). I am also able to certify patients for medical marijuana. Please feel free to contact me and allow me the opportunity to see if I can help you. I am currently in-network with Cigna and Aetna but also accept self-pay patients. I offer the choice of coming into my Rocky Hill office for in-person appointments or telehealth appointments where you can attend from the comfort of your own home. I do offer evening appointments.
(959) 214-2040 View (959) 214-2040
Photo of Sabine Cayo-Saylor - H.O.P.E through Healing Wellness Center PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
H.O.P.E through Healing Wellness Center PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
NOT currently accepting new clients. Welcome to H.O.P.E through Healing Wellness Center, where your journey to mental health wellness begins. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion to help others, create a life filled with purpose, intention, and happiness. We provide virtual mental health services where you need it, at your comfort. We promote overall wellness, elevating/excelling through healing with pharmacotherapy in diagnosing, treating and managing common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD for individuals age 18+. Psychotherapy is not currently offered.
NOT currently accepting new clients. Welcome to H.O.P.E through Healing Wellness Center, where your journey to mental health wellness begins. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion to help others, create a life filled with purpose, intention, and happiness. We provide virtual mental health services where you need it, at your comfort. We promote overall wellness, elevating/excelling through healing with pharmacotherapy in diagnosing, treating and managing common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD for individuals age 18+. Psychotherapy is not currently offered.
(860) 792-4118 View (860) 792-4118
Photo of Sheldon L Hollins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Sheldon L Hollins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
East Hartford, CT 06108
People often encounter difficult times in their lives. I aim to help them navigate those times and offer a treatment plan that fits their needs. My practice also has a therapist who can provide treatment in Spanish. My practice office is in-office treatment, in addition to Telehealth.
People often encounter difficult times in their lives. I aim to help them navigate those times and offer a treatment plan that fits their needs. My practice also has a therapist who can provide treatment in Spanish. My practice office is in-office treatment, in addition to Telehealth.
(860) 854-9746 View (860) 854-9746
Photo of Jennifer Samuda - Renewed Hearts Behavioral Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Renewed Hearts Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Renewed Hearts Behavioral Health LLC, I provide compassionate, evidence-based medication management for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health challenges. My goal is to create a personalized treatment plan that balances symptom relief with overall well-being. I take the time to listen, educate, and adjust medications as needed, ensuring each client feels supported in their journey. With a focus on safety and effectiveness, I strive to help individuals regain stability, confidence, and a renewed sense of hope.
At Renewed Hearts Behavioral Health LLC, I provide compassionate, evidence-based medication management for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health challenges. My goal is to create a personalized treatment plan that balances symptom relief with overall well-being. I take the time to listen, educate, and adjust medications as needed, ensuring each client feels supported in their journey. With a focus on safety and effectiveness, I strive to help individuals regain stability, confidence, and a renewed sense of hope.
(860) 530-2347 View (860) 530-2347
Photo of Kelly Pfeiffer - Emmaus Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CARN-AP
Emmaus Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CARN-AP
1 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06040
Not accepting new clients
Our small, outpatient private practice creates a welcoming, personalized treatment environment without stigma for adults seeking treatment for substance-use disorders. We offer education, options, and peer support. We will partner with you to develop a long-term plan for your health and well-being. Our method blends Medication for Addiction Treatment (MAT) with psychosocial nursing interventions and recovery coaching. We individualize your care based on past experiences and your current goals. Our patients receive thorough screening, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment with availability of 24 hour, on-call care.
Our small, outpatient private practice creates a welcoming, personalized treatment environment without stigma for adults seeking treatment for substance-use disorders. We offer education, options, and peer support. We will partner with you to develop a long-term plan for your health and well-being. Our method blends Medication for Addiction Treatment (MAT) with psychosocial nursing interventions and recovery coaching. We individualize your care based on past experiences and your current goals. Our patients receive thorough screening, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment with availability of 24 hour, on-call care.
(860) 791-4010 View (860) 791-4010
Photo of Sara Kurker - Holistic Connections LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Holistic Connections LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, my name is Sara. I am a dedicated and compassionate medical professional with a strong focus on patient advocacy. I began my career as a Registered Nurse after graduating from Curry College in Milton, MA in 2014, and went on to earn my Family Nurse Practitioner degree in 2018, followed by a Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatry in 2024—both from the University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford, CT. My approach to care is holistic. I offer integrative psychiatry which simplified is functional psychiatry; focusing on mind, body, and lifestyle given the effects of the mind body connection which I have witnessed in practice.
Hello, my name is Sara. I am a dedicated and compassionate medical professional with a strong focus on patient advocacy. I began my career as a Registered Nurse after graduating from Curry College in Milton, MA in 2014, and went on to earn my Family Nurse Practitioner degree in 2018, followed by a Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatry in 2024—both from the University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford, CT. My approach to care is holistic. I offer integrative psychiatry which simplified is functional psychiatry; focusing on mind, body, and lifestyle given the effects of the mind body connection which I have witnessed in practice.
(860) 261-2710 View (860) 261-2710
Photo of Elaine Barclay, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Elaine Barclay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Windsor, CT 06095
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in providing comprehensive mental health care to diverse patient populations. I'm proficient in conducting psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing mental health disorders, and developing evidence-based treatment plans. I'm also skilled in medication management, psychotherapy, and crisis intervention. I collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to promote holistic client care. I'm dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and reducing stigma associated with mental illness.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in providing comprehensive mental health care to diverse patient populations. I'm proficient in conducting psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing mental health disorders, and developing evidence-based treatment plans. I'm also skilled in medication management, psychotherapy, and crisis intervention. I collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to promote holistic client care. I'm dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and reducing stigma associated with mental illness.
(860) 590-8425 View (860) 590-8425
Photo of Mariela Podolski, Psychiatrist, MD
Mariela Podolski
Psychiatrist, MD
West Hartford, CT 06110
I am a psychiatrist, with board certifications from ABPN in both, Psychiatry, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Prior to pursuing my psychiatry career, I worked as a general physician in primary care, an experience that taught me skills I still use today. Practicing psychiatry since 2012, I have worked with patients with diverse diagnoses, particularly individuals suffering with Eating Disorders. If you are struggling, I would like to help you.
I am a psychiatrist, with board certifications from ABPN in both, Psychiatry, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Prior to pursuing my psychiatry career, I worked as a general physician in primary care, an experience that taught me skills I still use today. Practicing psychiatry since 2012, I have worked with patients with diverse diagnoses, particularly individuals suffering with Eating Disorders. If you are struggling, I would like to help you.
(959) 600-6640 View (959) 600-6640
Photo of Amit Rathi - Novel Solutions, LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Novel Solutions, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06117
At Novel Solutions, we understand that seeking help for treatment resistant depression or OCD is a courageous step, and building trust is the cornerstone of our patient care. If you are considering Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation or Esketamine, you are exploring innovative pathways towards renewed well-being, and we are honored to walk alongside you. Our commitment is to provide you with compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. Our team of experienced professionals are dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and confidential environment where you feel heard and respected.
At Novel Solutions, we understand that seeking help for treatment resistant depression or OCD is a courageous step, and building trust is the cornerstone of our patient care. If you are considering Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation or Esketamine, you are exploring innovative pathways towards renewed well-being, and we are honored to walk alongside you. Our commitment is to provide you with compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. Our team of experienced professionals are dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and confidential environment where you feel heard and respected.
(860) 421-9446 View (860) 421-9446
Photo of Michael Lu, Psychiatric Nurse
Michael Lu
Psychiatric Nurse
1 Endorsed
Bristol, CT 06010
July 1 - 31st, 2025: I am still currently accepting new patients. Schedule your own new patient appointment to see me using our Online Scheduler: (AspenPsychiatry.clientsecure.me) - please call or email me personally with any questions or concerns: 847-909-6575 available 7am - 7pm
July 1 - 31st, 2025: I am still currently accepting new patients. Schedule your own new patient appointment to see me using our Online Scheduler: (AspenPsychiatry.clientsecure.me) - please call or email me personally with any questions or concerns: 847-909-6575 available 7am - 7pm
(860) 792-8222 View (860) 792-8222
Photo of Dr. Emily Watkins, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Emily Watkins
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a psychiatrist, my work starts with listening. I try to not only hear a person’s story, but understand their unique perspective because meeting a person where they are at is a necessary foundation for healing. My goals are to alleviate suffering and help individuals reach greater self-understanding. Working towards these goals always involves partnering with a patient and deciding together what specific steps or treatment methods best fit their unique needs and preferences, whether that includes medication, psychotherapy, or both. While I’m trained in wide range of psychiatric conditions, I have several areas of expertise.
As a psychiatrist, my work starts with listening. I try to not only hear a person’s story, but understand their unique perspective because meeting a person where they are at is a necessary foundation for healing. My goals are to alleviate suffering and help individuals reach greater self-understanding. Working towards these goals always involves partnering with a patient and deciding together what specific steps or treatment methods best fit their unique needs and preferences, whether that includes medication, psychotherapy, or both. While I’m trained in wide range of psychiatric conditions, I have several areas of expertise.
(860) 851-4086 View (860) 851-4086
Photo of Tiffany Otto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, FNP, PMHN
Tiffany Otto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, FNP, PMHN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(860) 512-9619 View (860) 512-9619
Photo of Anne Koneru, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Anne Koneru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I completed my training at Johns Hopkins University, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I also have over a decade of experience working as an FNP in primary care. I provide holistic care with evidence-based medication management.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I completed my training at Johns Hopkins University, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I also have over a decade of experience working as an FNP in primary care. I provide holistic care with evidence-based medication management.
(860) 590-3311 View (860) 590-3311
Photo of Verona Gordon - Gordon Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Gordon Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome! I’m Verona, a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I specialize in teens, adults, and geriatrics who are struggling with anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment. I provide medication management and individual therapy to teens, adults, and geriatrics. During our initial sessions, you can expect a nonjudgmental and confidential environment where you are heard and respected. I believe healing is a holistic journey encompassing the mind, body,  and soul. Through compassionate listening and collaborative exploration
Welcome! I’m Verona, a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I specialize in teens, adults, and geriatrics who are struggling with anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment. I provide medication management and individual therapy to teens, adults, and geriatrics. During our initial sessions, you can expect a nonjudgmental and confidential environment where you are heard and respected. I believe healing is a holistic journey encompassing the mind, body,  and soul. Through compassionate listening and collaborative exploration
(860) 606-4156 View (860) 606-4156

See more therapy options for Hartford County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Hartford County, CT

200+

Average cost per session

$180

Psychiatrists in Hartford County, CT who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
93% Anxiety
77% Bipolar Disorder
76% ADHD
71% Medication Management
68% Trauma and PTSD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
90% Cigna and Evernorth
77% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Hartford County, CT see their clients

56% Online Only
44% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
24% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Hartford County?

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.