Psychiatrists in Old Saybrook, CT

Photo of Stephanie Reilly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Stephanie Reilly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who assists clients in treatment of various mental health conditions. I have over 19 years of nursing experience focused in maternal mental health. I am currently offering both Telehealth and in person visits in Old Saybrook Connecticut. My treatment goals are focused on a client-centered approach to symptom management and resolution.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who assists clients in treatment of various mental health conditions. I have over 19 years of nursing experience focused in maternal mental health. I am currently offering both Telehealth and in person visits in Old Saybrook Connecticut. My treatment goals are focused on a client-centered approach to symptom management and resolution.
(860) 864-4529 View (860) 864-4529
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 Lee Weber, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Lee Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Serves Area
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.
(860) 852-1566 View (860) 852-1566
Photo of Michael Valalik, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP
Michael Valalik
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Thank you for considering my practice for your mental health care. I provide medication management services for adults who are already seeing a therapist regularly for psychotherapy.
Thank you for considering my practice for your mental health care. I provide medication management services for adults who are already seeing a therapist regularly for psychotherapy.
(203) 479-9488 View (203) 479-9488
Photo of Cassandra C Shepard - Cassandra Shepard Wellness of Mind LLC., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Cassandra Shepard Wellness of Mind LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Online Only
The approach is working collaboratively with the clients and focus on teaching, health promotion, clinical guidelines, and integrative care. Cassandra is dual-licensed as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP), board-certified and received her Doctorate of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing. She has experience in short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, inpatient, outpatient psychiatric treatment settings, teaching at a prestigious University, hospitalization care and partial hospitalization program services.
The approach is working collaboratively with the clients and focus on teaching, health promotion, clinical guidelines, and integrative care. Cassandra is dual-licensed as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP), board-certified and received her Doctorate of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing. She has experience in short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, inpatient, outpatient psychiatric treatment settings, teaching at a prestigious University, hospitalization care and partial hospitalization program services.
(475) 241-0491 View (475) 241-0491
Photo of Dr. Diana Kurlyandchik, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Diana Kurlyandchik
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Sunrise Med, we value the connection of the mind and body and believe that true wellness can only be achieved by addressing both. Dr. Kurlyandchik understands that you have unique preferences, identities, and comfort levels, and offers flexible options to meet you where you feel most at ease. Care is inclusive of LGBTQIA+ communities, gender-affirming, and rooted in an awareness of the state of the world—with cultural humility and real-life understanding at the core of every interaction. Appointments are available via telehealth online, in-office in Madison, Connecticut, or a combination of both.
At Sunrise Med, we value the connection of the mind and body and believe that true wellness can only be achieved by addressing both. Dr. Kurlyandchik understands that you have unique preferences, identities, and comfort levels, and offers flexible options to meet you where you feel most at ease. Care is inclusive of LGBTQIA+ communities, gender-affirming, and rooted in an awareness of the state of the world—with cultural humility and real-life understanding at the core of every interaction. Appointments are available via telehealth online, in-office in Madison, Connecticut, or a combination of both.
(860) 590-4159 View (860) 590-4159

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Richard Louis O'Sullivan, Psychiatrist, MD
Richard Louis O'Sullivan
Psychiatrist, MD
Madison, CT 06443
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.
(203) 987-6466 View (203) 987-6466
Photo of Jena Mitchell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, FNP-C
Jena Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Jena! I'm a Family Nurse Practitioner and Owner of Revolutionary Recovery. At Revolutionary Recovery, we specialize in helping adults navigating opioid, alcohol, or substance use—as well as those also managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, insomnia or trauma. Whether you’re seeking Suboxone, Naltrexone, or simply a nonjudgmental provider who gets it, we’re here. We offer convenient telehealth access, clear follow-up plans, and holistic mental health care to help you stabilize, rebuild, and feel like yourself again. You deserve support that meets you where you are—and walks with you toward healing.
Hi, I'm Jena! I'm a Family Nurse Practitioner and Owner of Revolutionary Recovery. At Revolutionary Recovery, we specialize in helping adults navigating opioid, alcohol, or substance use—as well as those also managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, insomnia or trauma. Whether you’re seeking Suboxone, Naltrexone, or simply a nonjudgmental provider who gets it, we’re here. We offer convenient telehealth access, clear follow-up plans, and holistic mental health care to help you stabilize, rebuild, and feel like yourself again. You deserve support that meets you where you are—and walks with you toward healing.
(860) 321-4806 View (860) 321-4806
Photo of Fredo And Stéphane Clermont - NorthPoint Psychiatric Consultants, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
NorthPoint Psychiatric Consultants, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Middletown, CT 06457
Our group practice consists of Board-Certified providers. Our extensive inpatient and outpatient work history providing care to clients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions has contributed to our ability to assess each client from a holistic view and provide the best evidence-based recommendations. We are Currently ACCEPTING new patients on a limited basis for psychiatric evaluation. To request an appointment please visit our website and fill out the form (https://www.northpointpsychiatry.com/contact-us ).
Our group practice consists of Board-Certified providers. Our extensive inpatient and outpatient work history providing care to clients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions has contributed to our ability to assess each client from a holistic view and provide the best evidence-based recommendations. We are Currently ACCEPTING new patients on a limited basis for psychiatric evaluation. To request an appointment please visit our website and fill out the form (https://www.northpointpsychiatry.com/contact-us ).
(860) 854-1764 View (860) 854-1764
Photo of Deon Milardo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Deon Milardo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
2 Endorsed
Rocky Hill, CT 06067
Healing Haven Psychiatry LLC About the Owner Deon Milardo, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Founder & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Deon Milardo founded Healing Haven Psychiatry LLC in November 2024 with a mission to create a compassionate, client-centered space for individuals seeking mental health care across the lifespan. Deon’s path into nursing was driven by purpose and passion. After earning his foundational degree from Gateway Community College, he advanced through rigorous academic programs at Bridgeport University and Goodwin University, where he earned his Master of Science in Nursing with a focus in
Healing Haven Psychiatry LLC About the Owner Deon Milardo, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Founder & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Deon Milardo founded Healing Haven Psychiatry LLC in November 2024 with a mission to create a compassionate, client-centered space for individuals seeking mental health care across the lifespan. Deon’s path into nursing was driven by purpose and passion. After earning his foundational degree from Gateway Community College, he advanced through rigorous academic programs at Bridgeport University and Goodwin University, where he earned his Master of Science in Nursing with a focus in
(860) 406-5958 View (860) 406-5958
Photo of Eunice D Dunu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Eunice D Dunu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Middletown, CT 06457
Accepting new patients. I accept HUSKY Insurance. I provide mental health medication management services for patient in both CT and NY. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring considerable expertise to my position as a provider in an outpatient substance abuse clinic. With a solid background in psychiatric emergency room and inpatient care, I have refined my abilities over 7 years in high-patient volume settings. This experience has equipped me to better recognize and attend to the needs of individuals struggling with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and general psychiatric disorders.
Accepting new patients. I accept HUSKY Insurance. I provide mental health medication management services for patient in both CT and NY. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring considerable expertise to my position as a provider in an outpatient substance abuse clinic. With a solid background in psychiatric emergency room and inpatient care, I have refined my abilities over 7 years in high-patient volume settings. This experience has equipped me to better recognize and attend to the needs of individuals struggling with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and general psychiatric disorders.
(860) 321-1966 View (860) 321-1966
Photo of Hong Kim - One Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
One Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
(201) 969-5923 View (201) 969-5923
Photo of Stéphane P Clermont, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Stéphane P Clermont
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting New Patient. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
Accepting New Patient. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
(860) 431-3331 View (860) 431-3331
Photo of Jessica Levine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Jessica Levine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I am Yale-trained Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, and ADHD. I take a collaborative approach with my patients, and look at the whole picture to try to figure out both medication and lifestyle interventions. I aim to create a safe and welcoming environment, where you feel heard and are a big part in creating the treatment plan. I want you to feel empowered to make choices that support your mental health. I currently am only treating individuals 12-65 years old.
I am Yale-trained Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, and ADHD. I take a collaborative approach with my patients, and look at the whole picture to try to figure out both medication and lifestyle interventions. I aim to create a safe and welcoming environment, where you feel heard and are a big part in creating the treatment plan. I want you to feel empowered to make choices that support your mental health. I currently am only treating individuals 12-65 years old.
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Photo of Fredo J Clermont, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Fredo J Clermont
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Middletown, CT 06457
Waitlist for new clients
Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
(860) 901-0520 View (860) 901-0520
Photo of Dr. Shadontre’ Houston - Holistic Medical Care LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, PMHNP, CNP
Holistic Medical Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, PMHNP, CNP
Online Only
Text/Call 203-309-0623. I am experienced adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner that currently offers virtual consultations at Holistic Medical Care LLC. I am specialized in Mental Health and my goal is to promote psychological wellbeing. My philosophy is patient-centered, addressing the whole body, mind, social, and spiritual health and wellness. During consultations, I listens the patients, explains their conditions, discusses their goals, and prepares individualized treatment plans. I also educates caregivers on effective ways to support and care for the patient.
Text/Call 203-309-0623. I am experienced adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner that currently offers virtual consultations at Holistic Medical Care LLC. I am specialized in Mental Health and my goal is to promote psychological wellbeing. My philosophy is patient-centered, addressing the whole body, mind, social, and spiritual health and wellness. During consultations, I listens the patients, explains their conditions, discusses their goals, and prepares individualized treatment plans. I also educates caregivers on effective ways to support and care for the patient.
(504) 318-5267 View (504) 318-5267
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 Elisabeth Maryke Kressley, Psychiatrist, MD
Elisabeth Maryke Kressley
Psychiatrist, MD
Essex, CT 06426
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 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
Vida Sarkodie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Text 860-608-7579. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive number of years in behavioral health, both inpatient and outpatient. I provide empathetic, comprehensive and holistic approach to addressing mental health issues to adults and adolescents, specializing in depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and psychotic disorder
Text 860-608-7579. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive number of years in behavioral health, both inpatient and outpatient. I provide empathetic, comprehensive and holistic approach to addressing mental health issues to adults and adolescents, specializing in depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and psychotic disorder
(475) 445-1312 View (475) 445-1312

See more therapy options for Old Saybrook

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Old Saybrook, CT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Old Saybrook, CT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
83% ADHD
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
83% Trauma and PTSD
83% Medication Management
83% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Old Saybrook, CT see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Old Saybrook?

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.