Psychiatrists in New London, CT

Photo of Jay Seigel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Jay Seigel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
New London, CT 06320
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.
(203) 717-4433 View (203) 717-4433
Photo of Henry F Crabbe - Henry F. Crabbe MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Henry F. Crabbe MD
Psychiatrist, MD
New London, CT 06320
Dr. Henry Crabbe is a Yale-trained and Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been in private practice in the community for more than 30 years. He also has been involved in research in the development of new medications in his specialty.
Dr. Henry Crabbe is a Yale-trained and Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been in private practice in the community for more than 30 years. He also has been involved in research in the development of new medications in his specialty.
(860) 512-7188 View (860) 512-7188
Photo of Elisabeth Maryke Kressley, Psychiatrist, MD
Elisabeth Maryke Kressley
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am accepting new patients of all ages for medications and therapy. I am Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, and Yale trained Adult psychiatrist. I enjoy treating all ages of people from as young as 3 thru adulthood. I treat ADHD, Depression Anxiety disorders along with behavioral disorders in childhood. I also treat adults, families and couples in addition to individuals with medication and or therapy. Understanding people where they are at and assisting them thru their treatment is the most rewarding experience.
I am accepting new patients of all ages for medications and therapy. I am Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, and Yale trained Adult psychiatrist. I enjoy treating all ages of people from as young as 3 thru adulthood. I treat ADHD, Depression Anxiety disorders along with behavioral disorders in childhood. I also treat adults, families and couples in addition to individuals with medication and or therapy. Understanding people where they are at and assisting them thru their treatment is the most rewarding experience.
(860) 544-5856 View (860) 544-5856
Photo of Joshua Valinsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Joshua Valinsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Welcoming new patients and now accepting insurance. Joshua Valinsky, APRN, is a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. Ivy League educated, he attended University of Pennsylvania and has been working in private practice psychiatry since 2018. He collaborates with a large number of area therapists to offer medication management services to their therapy clientele. Specialties include psychopharmacology for anxiety, depression, and attention deficit disorders (ADD, ADHD). Joshua founded Westport Mental Health to provide the ultimate, affordable, patient experience in Westport, Connecticut.
Welcoming new patients and now accepting insurance. Joshua Valinsky, APRN, is a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. Ivy League educated, he attended University of Pennsylvania and has been working in private practice psychiatry since 2018. He collaborates with a large number of area therapists to offer medication management services to their therapy clientele. Specialties include psychopharmacology for anxiety, depression, and attention deficit disorders (ADD, ADHD). Joshua founded Westport Mental Health to provide the ultimate, affordable, patient experience in Westport, Connecticut.
(475) 323-6869 View (475) 323-6869
Photo of Sasha Graham Givans - Pathway Psychiatric Services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Pathway Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome to Pathway Psychiatric Services. Our goal is to provide high-quality behavioral health care. Managed by a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, whose background in behavioral health spans over 14 years. Services include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy. We believe that an integrative treatment approach is crucial to quality patient care and treatment outcomes. This includes the delivery of individualized care; valuing the unique needs of each client.
Welcome to Pathway Psychiatric Services. Our goal is to provide high-quality behavioral health care. Managed by a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, whose background in behavioral health spans over 14 years. Services include psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy. We believe that an integrative treatment approach is crucial to quality patient care and treatment outcomes. This includes the delivery of individualized care; valuing the unique needs of each client.
(860) 981-0806 View (860) 981-0806
Photo of Alma R Barreto, Psychiatric Nurse, APRN-C, MSN, BSN, CARN-AP
Alma R Barreto
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN-C, MSN, BSN, CARN-AP
Online Only
My great reward as a prescriber is when my clients do well. I can help you reach your goals but we have to work together and find best treatment options. I started this practice to help patients needing psychiatric med management . I do not prescribe Benzo's or stimulants (no control substances). My practice hours are M-W-TH 5-7:30 pm some Saturdays. If you are interested please email me at barretoaprn@ gmail.com with your name and date of birth and i will call you back and send you forms to complete. Please do not call me before 5 pm.
My great reward as a prescriber is when my clients do well. I can help you reach your goals but we have to work together and find best treatment options. I started this practice to help patients needing psychiatric med management . I do not prescribe Benzo's or stimulants (no control substances). My practice hours are M-W-TH 5-7:30 pm some Saturdays. If you are interested please email me at barretoaprn@ gmail.com with your name and date of birth and i will call you back and send you forms to complete. Please do not call me before 5 pm.
(959) 210-0046 View (959) 210-0046
Photo of Brandon Davar Pervis - Emerald Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-C
Emerald Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-C
Online Only
You’re holding everything together, but inside, you feel heavy, anxious, or just… off. Maybe you’ve tried to “figure it out” alone, or maybe no one’s ever really seen the full you. You’re not looking for quick fixes—you want to feel safe, heard, and supported. You want peace, emotional clarity, and space to rediscover the version of you that feels most alive. You’re ready for care that actually cares.
You’re holding everything together, but inside, you feel heavy, anxious, or just… off. Maybe you’ve tried to “figure it out” alone, or maybe no one’s ever really seen the full you. You’re not looking for quick fixes—you want to feel safe, heard, and supported. You want peace, emotional clarity, and space to rediscover the version of you that feels most alive. You’re ready for care that actually cares.
(475) 242-0897 View (475) 242-0897
Photo of Julianne Steahr, Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP, ANP
Julianne Steahr
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP, ANP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I practice as a certified APRN in Psychiatry and Primary Care. My current focus is on the treatment of psychiatric illnesses in adults that are motivated to maintain or regain mental and emotional wellness. I prescribe medications for the treatment of Acute and Chronic Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD, ASD, PTSD, Mood D/O, Obesity, Binge Eating, Substance Abuse, Pre and Post Partum, Sleep disorders, Thyroid and CFS. If seeking an initial assessment or continued care for a diagnosed condition or a reevaluation, my goal is to provide you comprehensive, wholistic care to regain or maintain wellness.
Hello, I practice as a certified APRN in Psychiatry and Primary Care. My current focus is on the treatment of psychiatric illnesses in adults that are motivated to maintain or regain mental and emotional wellness. I prescribe medications for the treatment of Acute and Chronic Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD, ASD, PTSD, Mood D/O, Obesity, Binge Eating, Substance Abuse, Pre and Post Partum, Sleep disorders, Thyroid and CFS. If seeking an initial assessment or continued care for a diagnosed condition or a reevaluation, my goal is to provide you comprehensive, wholistic care to regain or maintain wellness.
(860) 458-4828 View (860) 458-4828
Photo of Nickesha Mckenzie - Precision Mental Health and Consulting services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP -, BC
Precision Mental Health and Consulting services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP -, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Precision Mental Health and Consulting Services, we focus on understanding the unique needs of each client. Our personalized care approach combines evidence-based practices with a holistic view of mental health. Our experienced team is dedicated to empowering clients with the tools and strategies needed for optimal mental well-being. Whether you seek therapy, counseling, or consulting, we are here to support your journey toward improved mental health and unlocking your full potential.
At Precision Mental Health and Consulting Services, we focus on understanding the unique needs of each client. Our personalized care approach combines evidence-based practices with a holistic view of mental health. Our experienced team is dedicated to empowering clients with the tools and strategies needed for optimal mental well-being. Whether you seek therapy, counseling, or consulting, we are here to support your journey toward improved mental health and unlocking your full potential.
(860) 590-9989 View (860) 590-9989

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Samantha Shawn-Marsh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-B
Samantha Shawn-Marsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Dr. Samantha Shawn-Marsh is a Doctoral and Board Certified Child and Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who works with children and adults providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management to those experiencing bipolar disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders. She is the founder and owner of Remedy Wellness Center, Inc. and welcomes new patients at this time.
Dr. Samantha Shawn-Marsh is a Doctoral and Board Certified Child and Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who works with children and adults providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management to those experiencing bipolar disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders. She is the founder and owner of Remedy Wellness Center, Inc. and welcomes new patients at this time.
(401) 205-8481 View (401) 205-8481
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 Olubunmi Olugbile, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olubunmi Olugbile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Practitioner based in Connecticut. I provide effective mental health treatment for patients across the lifespan. I received my master's degree from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in 2022. My mission is to assess, diagnose, and manage a range of mental illnesses, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychosis. I am deeply committed to empowering individuals and their families as they navigate the complexities of psychiatric challenges.
I am a Board-Certified Practitioner based in Connecticut. I provide effective mental health treatment for patients across the lifespan. I received my master's degree from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in 2022. My mission is to assess, diagnose, and manage a range of mental illnesses, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychosis. I am deeply committed to empowering individuals and their families as they navigate the complexities of psychiatric challenges.
(860) 419-4159 View (860) 419-4159
Photo of Bella Tenenbaum, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Bella Tenenbaum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Online Only
I believe in the importance of building a reliable patient-provider relationship focused on holistic care and making sure that each individual's mental, emotional, and physical well-being is taken in to consideration during each session. My practice is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals with a variety of mental health challenges.
I believe in the importance of building a reliable patient-provider relationship focused on holistic care and making sure that each individual's mental, emotional, and physical well-being is taken in to consideration during each session. My practice is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals with a variety of mental health challenges.
(860) 854-7149 View (860) 854-7149
Photo of Oyewole G Ogunnaike, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Oyewole G Ogunnaike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
We listen, care, you have a voice in your care, and you are never alone. Needing help with anxiety/panic attacks, depression, mood/bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, PTSD, ADHD/Impulse control disorder, anger management, personality disorders, alcohol use disorder, adjustment disorder, and psychosis.
We listen, care, you have a voice in your care, and you are never alone. Needing help with anxiety/panic attacks, depression, mood/bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, PTSD, ADHD/Impulse control disorder, anger management, personality disorders, alcohol use disorder, adjustment disorder, and psychosis.
(860) 650-1861 View (860) 650-1861
Photo of Joyce A Tinsley, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Joyce A Tinsley
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
1 Endorsed
Old Lyme, CT 06371
I bring experience and expertise through therapy & medication management. If your psychiatric medication does not relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety or mood instability, you may need a second opinion. Mindful moderation can help you cut down on drinking, stop smoking, or cope with binge eating. You don't have to do this alone. Another area I deal with is acceptance of aging. With older age comes more unwanted challenges than at any other phase of life. We don’t know what will alter our lives, nor when these changes may occur: illness, loss, memory or loneliness, I can help adapt and enjoy the pleasures that older age can bring.
I bring experience and expertise through therapy & medication management. If your psychiatric medication does not relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety or mood instability, you may need a second opinion. Mindful moderation can help you cut down on drinking, stop smoking, or cope with binge eating. You don't have to do this alone. Another area I deal with is acceptance of aging. With older age comes more unwanted challenges than at any other phase of life. We don’t know what will alter our lives, nor when these changes may occur: illness, loss, memory or loneliness, I can help adapt and enjoy the pleasures that older age can bring.
(860) 407-3994 View (860) 407-3994
Photo of Carrie Fijal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Carrie Fijal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel tired, foggy, or not like yourself? Some clients come to us with anxiety, depression, or trouble focusing. Others are struggling with fatigue, mood shifts, poor sleep, or unexplained weight changes. You may have tried therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes — but nothing has fully worked. Whether the issue is hormonal, psychological, or both, you want answers and lasting relief. You’re ready to feel balanced, clear, and like yourself again.
Do you feel tired, foggy, or not like yourself? Some clients come to us with anxiety, depression, or trouble focusing. Others are struggling with fatigue, mood shifts, poor sleep, or unexplained weight changes. You may have tried therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes — but nothing has fully worked. Whether the issue is hormonal, psychological, or both, you want answers and lasting relief. You’re ready to feel balanced, clear, and like yourself again.
(475) 472-9579 View (475) 472-9579
Photo of Brittany Molkenthin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CPNP-PC, MSN
Brittany Molkenthin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CPNP-PC, MSN
Online Only
My name is Brittany Molkenthin, CPNP-PC and I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a specialty in Pediatrics. I see children from their first days in this world until they graduate from college. As an APRN in the primary care setting, I am well versed in many mental health conditions including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autistic disorder. An integral part of my practice is emphasizing the importance of therapy and counseling as a means to treat and assist those with mental health concerns.
My name is Brittany Molkenthin, CPNP-PC and I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a specialty in Pediatrics. I see children from their first days in this world until they graduate from college. As an APRN in the primary care setting, I am well versed in many mental health conditions including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autistic disorder. An integral part of my practice is emphasizing the importance of therapy and counseling as a means to treat and assist those with mental health concerns.
(860) 962-4925 View (860) 962-4925
Photo of Kelli Bernier - North Star Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C
North Star Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At North Star Wellness, we are dedicated to guiding you on your journey to mental wellness. We understand the challenges that individuals and families face when dealing with mental health concerns, and we are here to provide you with the highest level of care and support throughout your healing process.
At North Star Wellness, we are dedicated to guiding you on your journey to mental wellness. We understand the challenges that individuals and families face when dealing with mental health concerns, and we are here to provide you with the highest level of care and support throughout your healing process.
(860) 851-4494 View (860) 851-4494
Photo of Cristin Teutul, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MC, PMHNP, RN
Cristin Teutul
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MC, PMHNP, RN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I partner with clients to explore their unique mental health & wellness path in a warm, empathetic, safe environment. Trust, communication, shared humanity & authenticity are fundamental to the therapeutic relationship. I believe mental health support begins with treating the whole person, which includes but is not limited to gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, culture & core values. I’m passionate about working with clients to find peace, balance & respect for body image, food & movement. I treat anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, panic disorder, substance use issues, eating disorders & sleep issues.
I partner with clients to explore their unique mental health & wellness path in a warm, empathetic, safe environment. Trust, communication, shared humanity & authenticity are fundamental to the therapeutic relationship. I believe mental health support begins with treating the whole person, which includes but is not limited to gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, culture & core values. I’m passionate about working with clients to find peace, balance & respect for body image, food & movement. I treat anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, panic disorder, substance use issues, eating disorders & sleep issues.
(475) 405-3931 View (475) 405-3931
Photo of Trina Martin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Trina Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06119
I value the opportunity to build strong, therapeutic relationships with my clients. I strive to optimize a holistic approach, combining both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Medications are just one piece of the puzzle, as I work to provide my clients with as many tools as possible for future successes. As a George Washington University trained nurse practitioner with over 30 years of clinical experience, in various settings, I tailor my therapeutic approach to the individual's particular circumstances and goals. I understand that we are all unique, with vastly different lived experiences.
I value the opportunity to build strong, therapeutic relationships with my clients. I strive to optimize a holistic approach, combining both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Medications are just one piece of the puzzle, as I work to provide my clients with as many tools as possible for future successes. As a George Washington University trained nurse practitioner with over 30 years of clinical experience, in various settings, I tailor my therapeutic approach to the individual's particular circumstances and goals. I understand that we are all unique, with vastly different lived experiences.
(860) 831-3274 View (860) 831-3274

See more therapy options for New London

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in New London, CT

< 10

Psychiatrists in New London, CT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Medication Management
89% ADHD
89% Bipolar Disorder
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% Anthem
56% Aetna
56% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in New London, CT see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

56% Female
44% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in New London?

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.