Psychiatrists in Madison, CT
![Photo of Lauren J. Janush, MSN, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5159c730-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients via telehealth and in-person. I am an APRN who specializes in & treats only children & adolescents ages 4-17 with behavioral & mental health issues. Unlike other practitioners who treat individuals of all ages, treating this age group is my sole area of expertise. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, OCD & other disorders first diagnosed in childhood/adolescence. I believe physical health, sleep, diet, lifestyle & family participation are integral to one's mental health. I will work with your child and family to ensure all aspects of your child's care are addressed as well as discuss & explore medication options.
Accepting new clients via telehealth and in-person. I am an APRN who specializes in & treats only children & adolescents ages 4-17 with behavioral & mental health issues. Unlike other practitioners who treat individuals of all ages, treating this age group is my sole area of expertise. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, OCD & other disorders first diagnosed in childhood/adolescence. I believe physical health, sleep, diet, lifestyle & family participation are integral to one's mental health. I will work with your child and family to ensure all aspects of your child's care are addressed as well as discuss & explore medication options.
![Photo of Emily Marie Peluso, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef1933fe-3add-48f9-be82-07b6d2cb69ac/3/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Marie Peluso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443 (Online Only)
In the words of Helen Keller, "Although the world is very full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it". I am a Yale trained advanced practice registered nurse with a post-master's in psychiatry from the University of Cincinnati with over 20 years experience in healthcare. I am passionate about partnering with patients and their families, empowering individuals to live their best life.
In the words of Helen Keller, "Although the world is very full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it". I am a Yale trained advanced practice registered nurse with a post-master's in psychiatry from the University of Cincinnati with over 20 years experience in healthcare. I am passionate about partnering with patients and their families, empowering individuals to live their best life.
![Photo of Michael Espelin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/119a9202-6b32-44fb-b184-b3ce69ca2773/1/320x400.png)
Michael Espelin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. My philosophy is an integrative approach in treating the whole person - including the biological, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual factors. I am a Connecticut native with European heritage and want to acknowledge the original habitants of the land I live on: the Hammonassets and Menunkatucks. I recognize myself as a privileged member of a white dominant world, and consistently try to challenge this norm. As a strong ally to marginalized communities, I do my best to promote inclusivity and improve access to psychiatric services.
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. My philosophy is an integrative approach in treating the whole person - including the biological, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual factors. I am a Connecticut native with European heritage and want to acknowledge the original habitants of the land I live on: the Hammonassets and Menunkatucks. I recognize myself as a privileged member of a white dominant world, and consistently try to challenge this norm. As a strong ally to marginalized communities, I do my best to promote inclusivity and improve access to psychiatric services.
![Photo of Jessika Brasseaux, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd93c42e-0d98-41cc-87cc-e6a5f5d593ea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessika Brasseaux
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
Not accepting new clients
Thorough evaluation & diagnosis are primary. Though, within each diagnosis specific symptoms may vary. Thus, I strive to understand you as a whole, unique person. My approach is to partner with and empower you through education & tailored interventions toward healing and living your best life. Interventions are integrative and may include medical review, lab work, computer administrated testing, genetic testing, medications, pharmaceutical grade vitamins/supplements, behavioral/environmental modifications, and collaboration other caregivers on your team. I specialize in adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar and PTSD.
Thorough evaluation & diagnosis are primary. Though, within each diagnosis specific symptoms may vary. Thus, I strive to understand you as a whole, unique person. My approach is to partner with and empower you through education & tailored interventions toward healing and living your best life. Interventions are integrative and may include medical review, lab work, computer administrated testing, genetic testing, medications, pharmaceutical grade vitamins/supplements, behavioral/environmental modifications, and collaboration other caregivers on your team. I specialize in adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar and PTSD.
![Photo of Leigh Nathan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8581097b-8d89-43f8-acc9-a72b1bc5e7ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leigh Nathan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
Not accepting new clients
I offer psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, and, when appropriate, medication management, including MOUD (medication for Opioid Use Disorder) / MAT (Medication assisted treatment) for people with history of addiction, as well as gentle reduction of medications that no longer align with your needs.
I offer psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, and, when appropriate, medication management, including MOUD (medication for Opioid Use Disorder) / MAT (Medication assisted treatment) for people with history of addiction, as well as gentle reduction of medications that no longer align with your needs.
![Photo of Richard Louis O'Sullivan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4399da43-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. O'Sullivan is a Harvard and Massachusetts General Hospital trained psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience practicing clinical psychiatry and conducting psychiatric research. He offers medication management, psychotherapy and psychiatric home visits services. He sees patients of all ages including the elderly.
Dr. O'Sullivan is a Harvard and Massachusetts General Hospital trained psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience practicing clinical psychiatry and conducting psychiatric research. He offers medication management, psychotherapy and psychiatric home visits services. He sees patients of all ages including the elderly.
![Photo of Dr. Diana Kurlyandchik, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e31c1d5f-96b4-476c-9aca-b5c5b46c4fb6/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Sunrise Med, we value the connection of the mind and body, and believe that true wellness can only be achieved by addressing both. I am a board certified psychiatrist with over a decade of worked experience, and am dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment for the complete spectrum of mental illnesses. In addition to traditional treatment methods, including CBT style therapy and medication management, my passion is to incorporate lifestyle modifications to promote your mental wellness. My aim is to empower clients to achieve optimal health, and to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.
At Sunrise Med, we value the connection of the mind and body, and believe that true wellness can only be achieved by addressing both. I am a board certified psychiatrist with over a decade of worked experience, and am dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment for the complete spectrum of mental illnesses. In addition to traditional treatment methods, including CBT style therapy and medication management, my passion is to incorporate lifestyle modifications to promote your mental wellness. My aim is to empower clients to achieve optimal health, and to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.
![Photo of Michael B Garland, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68a730f6-14d5-495b-b1c9-785fdae50f9d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome, I'm a therapist and psychiatrist with expertise in working with young children, adolescents, and their parents. I completed my medical training at the University of Chicago and the Yale Child Study Center. With your consent, I work collaboratively with the child, parents, schools, and other professionals to personalize a treatment that focuses on your goals, values, strengths, and needs. By integrating what works from up-to-date evidence-based treatments with neuroscience and psychoanalytic ways of understanding a mind's development, I seek to empower my patients to suffer less and live with more authenticity, creativity, and freedom.
Welcome, I'm a therapist and psychiatrist with expertise in working with young children, adolescents, and their parents. I completed my medical training at the University of Chicago and the Yale Child Study Center. With your consent, I work collaboratively with the child, parents, schools, and other professionals to personalize a treatment that focuses on your goals, values, strengths, and needs. By integrating what works from up-to-date evidence-based treatments with neuroscience and psychoanalytic ways of understanding a mind's development, I seek to empower my patients to suffer less and live with more authenticity, creativity, and freedom.
![Photo of Elizabeth L Halvorsen - Halvorsen Psychiatric LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f3c8ff3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy. I use a combination of incorporating my clients beliefs, mindful repeated positive self affirmations plus medication .
I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy. I use a combination of incorporating my clients beliefs, mindful repeated positive self affirmations plus medication .
![Photo of Lisa Mattern - Peace of Mind Mental Health Services PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/653333a0-8414-431b-b279-ef6cabd92ec3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Peace of Mind Mental Health Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
I welcome you to my practice! I can help guide you in finding that peace of mind that we all strive for. I can assist you in your process through medication management, and or psychotherapy. Life is ever-changing, I look forward to being a part of your changing process. •Initial medication intake appointment is $200 •Low complexity medication follow up appointments $150.
I welcome you to my practice! I can help guide you in finding that peace of mind that we all strive for. I can assist you in your process through medication management, and or psychotherapy. Life is ever-changing, I look forward to being a part of your changing process. •Initial medication intake appointment is $200 •Low complexity medication follow up appointments $150.
![Photo of Rory Condon, MA, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/051a3a65-6ba2-4cba-9ba9-f8100caa1725/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rory Condon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
Rory Condon APRN is a board-certified lifespan psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. He has been active in mental health care for over a decade in a variety of different patient centered roles. Rory's previous professional experience has been with individuals across the spectrum of psychiatric care from those requiring acute stabilization to ongoing maintenance care. He worked at Yale Psychiatric Hospital, the Yale Crisis Intervention Unit, and High Watch Recovery Center among other settings. Rory received the Outstanding Newcomer Award from Yale New Haven Health System, being named one of the best APRNs hired in 2018.
Rory Condon APRN is a board-certified lifespan psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. He has been active in mental health care for over a decade in a variety of different patient centered roles. Rory's previous professional experience has been with individuals across the spectrum of psychiatric care from those requiring acute stabilization to ongoing maintenance care. He worked at Yale Psychiatric Hospital, the Yale Crisis Intervention Unit, and High Watch Recovery Center among other settings. Rory received the Outstanding Newcomer Award from Yale New Haven Health System, being named one of the best APRNs hired in 2018.
![Photo of Dr. J. Craig Allen, MD, FASAM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a50aaa1-ca79-4032-a8c9-96ccb5a516f1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients. Board certified in adult, adolescent and child psychiatry and addiction medicine I have expertise in the most recent, “cutting edge”, strategies and interventions in behavioral health and can use this knowledge to help you, or your loved one.
Accepting new patients. Board certified in adult, adolescent and child psychiatry and addiction medicine I have expertise in the most recent, “cutting edge”, strategies and interventions in behavioral health and can use this knowledge to help you, or your loved one.
![Photo of Lee Weber, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/768cd1c1-58d8-4ae3-9cd7-c6511ac95144/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting NEW Child CLIENTS. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I specialize in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 5 - 24) who are struggling with mental health issues. I evaluate and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, and other psychiatric disorders. I provide psychiatric evaluations and consults, medication management, individual and group therapy, as well as ongoing management.
Accepting NEW Child CLIENTS. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I specialize in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 5 - 24) who are struggling with mental health issues. I evaluate and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, and other psychiatric disorders. I provide psychiatric evaluations and consults, medication management, individual and group therapy, as well as ongoing management.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Katrina Furey - Sound Psychiatry, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7773556-2311-4d44-8c1c-eaddd170ce20/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello. I am a Yale-trained board-certified adult psychiatrist offering combined psychotherapy with/without medication management and medication management alone in my private practice. I am also a clinical faculty member within Yale School of Medicine's Department of Psychiatry. My practice focuses on women's mental health, reproductive psychiatry, and psychodynamic psychotherapy. This type of insight-oriented psychotherapy promotes curiosity and self-awareness about how individuals' past experiences (including childhood dynamics) influence their present-day thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Such insights promote emotional relief.
Hello. I am a Yale-trained board-certified adult psychiatrist offering combined psychotherapy with/without medication management and medication management alone in my private practice. I am also a clinical faculty member within Yale School of Medicine's Department of Psychiatry. My practice focuses on women's mental health, reproductive psychiatry, and psychodynamic psychotherapy. This type of insight-oriented psychotherapy promotes curiosity and self-awareness about how individuals' past experiences (including childhood dynamics) influence their present-day thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Such insights promote emotional relief.
![Photo of Radmila Meyer, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54f04e75-4251-425c-ada2-3b30a6068f1e/1/320x400.png)
Radmila Meyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Guilford, CT 06437 (Online Only)
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, chronic illness, or work stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, chronic illness, or work stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
![Photo of Jay Seigel, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4895fe4e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jay Seigel has worked in clinical, academic and leadership capacities to improve the quality of life of his clients with addiction and mental health disorders. Jay has treated thousands of Clients in his private practice and countless impaired healthcare professionals with great success. Jay's goal of continually identifying and employing the most effective and innovative clinical treatment for his clients. Jay has a rarely found expertise utilizing evidence-based practice for work in insight oriented psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Jay is committed to collaborating with his Clients and their multidisciplinary providers to empower them to establish sustained recovery.
Jay Seigel has worked in clinical, academic and leadership capacities to improve the quality of life of his clients with addiction and mental health disorders. Jay has treated thousands of Clients in his private practice and countless impaired healthcare professionals with great success. Jay's goal of continually identifying and employing the most effective and innovative clinical treatment for his clients. Jay has a rarely found expertise utilizing evidence-based practice for work in insight oriented psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Jay is committed to collaborating with his Clients and their multidisciplinary providers to empower them to establish sustained recovery.
![Photo of Justin W Branham, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31d3772b-7d6e-4fd1-a5f5-9d8c618fb3c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Justin W Branham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Clinton, CT 06413 (Online Only)
Do you feel like no one is listening? At Bespoke Therapy, we have a different approach. We believe in teamwork between patient and provider, fostering an environment of acceptance, hope, authenticity, and healing. As we collaborate together, we will integrate therapeutic measures with medication management to provide individualized care.
Do you feel like no one is listening? At Bespoke Therapy, we have a different approach. We believe in teamwork between patient and provider, fostering an environment of acceptance, hope, authenticity, and healing. As we collaborate together, we will integrate therapeutic measures with medication management to provide individualized care.
I want to first work with my patients in a comprehensive way to come to a preliminary diagnosis and not ask them to fill out a form, in mental health, there is no cookie-cutter diagnosis. Once we have established a diagnosis we will work together to come up with the treatment plan which will take into account the unique person they are using latest diagnostic testing which will guide what medications will work best for them. My biggest struggle with practicing in other settings have been the changes in the guidelines and clinic setting which prevents building of long-term therapeutic relationships.
I want to first work with my patients in a comprehensive way to come to a preliminary diagnosis and not ask them to fill out a form, in mental health, there is no cookie-cutter diagnosis. Once we have established a diagnosis we will work together to come up with the treatment plan which will take into account the unique person they are using latest diagnostic testing which will guide what medications will work best for them. My biggest struggle with practicing in other settings have been the changes in the guidelines and clinic setting which prevents building of long-term therapeutic relationships.
![Photo of Carrie Fijal, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70ab0ce1-f71e-416d-9b10-02cbc80f20cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carrie Fijal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Guilford, CT 06437 (Online Only)
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, chronic illness, or work stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, chronic illness, or work stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
![Photo of Traci Marando- Holistic Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98dadf7d-9564-435f-94c9-e3a0a65dfaea/3/320x400.jpeg)
Traci Marando- Holistic Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Guilford, CT 06437 (Online Only)
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 23 years experience in the field, I’ve had the opportunity to work with patients of all ages and in a variety of treatment settings. Specialty areas are recovery from narcissistic abuse/domestic violence, attachment styles/traumas, OCD/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, anger management, postpartum, divorce/separation, and codependency. At my private practice, Family Psychiatric Services, I provide a holistic approach, utilizing intensive therapy, nutrition, and medication management, with the goal of helping patients become medication free (as appropriate).
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 23 years experience in the field, I’ve had the opportunity to work with patients of all ages and in a variety of treatment settings. Specialty areas are recovery from narcissistic abuse/domestic violence, attachment styles/traumas, OCD/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, anger management, postpartum, divorce/separation, and codependency. At my private practice, Family Psychiatric Services, I provide a holistic approach, utilizing intensive therapy, nutrition, and medication management, with the goal of helping patients become medication free (as appropriate).
See more therapy options for Madison
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Madison, CT
10+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Madison, CT who prioritize treating:
85% | Anxiety |
85% | Medication Management |
77% | Depression |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | ADHD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
67% | HUSKY Health |
50% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Madison, CT see their clients
93% | In Person and Online | |
7% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Madison?
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.