Psychiatrists in Shelton, CT

Photo of Maurice E Bunnell, DNP, APRN , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maurice E Bunnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Shelton, CT 06484
All of my clients face unique challenges in today's environment. My focus is to treat you with respect and dignity in a non-judgemental environment. My approach is personal and down-to-earth. My biggest strength is being able to relate to all my clients. I want to empower individuals, especially those who are marginalized.
All of my clients face unique challenges in today's environment. My focus is to treat you with respect and dignity in a non-judgemental environment. My approach is personal and down-to-earth. My biggest strength is being able to relate to all my clients. I want to empower individuals, especially those who are marginalized.
(203) 941-4928 View (203) 941-4928
Photo of Cassandra C Shepard - Cassandra Shepard Wellness of Mind LLC., DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cassandra Shepard Wellness of Mind LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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
Linda Grisgraber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Shelton, CT 06484
My goal is to help you feel well. I combine medication management with 50 minutes of psychotherapy. I practice this way so that I get to know you. Medication when indicated is only half of the equation. My initial evaluation is approximately one to two hours. I take a social, family, education, medical and personal history. I do this to make sure there are no issues that present with psychiatric symptoms but are medical or neurological in nature. My background includes research,medical and psychiatric nursing since 1979. I have been an APRN since 1997.
My goal is to help you feel well. I combine medication management with 50 minutes of psychotherapy. I practice this way so that I get to know you. Medication when indicated is only half of the equation. My initial evaluation is approximately one to two hours. I take a social, family, education, medical and personal history. I do this to make sure there are no issues that present with psychiatric symptoms but are medical or neurological in nature. My background includes research,medical and psychiatric nursing since 1979. I have been an APRN since 1997.
(203) 437-4101 View (203) 437-4101
Photo of Nanci Kaczegowicz, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nanci Kaczegowicz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Shelton, CT 06484
I am an experienced advanced practice holistic psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about educating and empowering clients to understand the root cause of psychological distress impacting their lives. I offer integrative psychotherapeutic support to clients that may include medication management, health and wellness coaching, mindfulness, stress reduction, and relaxation techniques to support well-being. I work with teens and adults who are experiencing anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, depression, insomnia, attentional difficulties and chronic stress.
I am an experienced advanced practice holistic psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about educating and empowering clients to understand the root cause of psychological distress impacting their lives. I offer integrative psychotherapeutic support to clients that may include medication management, health and wellness coaching, mindfulness, stress reduction, and relaxation techniques to support well-being. I work with teens and adults who are experiencing anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, depression, insomnia, attentional difficulties and chronic stress.
(475) 251-4081 View (475) 251-4081
Photo of Dr. Arleen Perdido, DNP, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Arleen Perdido
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming when you're weighed down by anxiety, racing thoughts, or feelings of being stuck. You might be struggling with anxious thoughts, feeling like you're constantly worrying about things outside your control. Perhaps you're feeling isolated, misunderstood, or hesitant to seek help because of the stigma surrounding mental health. You want to feel calm, balanced, and empowered but aren't sure how to get there. What you truly need is a safe space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment and find support in managing both the emotional and practical challenges you face.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're weighed down by anxiety, racing thoughts, or feelings of being stuck. You might be struggling with anxious thoughts, feeling like you're constantly worrying about things outside your control. Perhaps you're feeling isolated, misunderstood, or hesitant to seek help because of the stigma surrounding mental health. You want to feel calm, balanced, and empowered but aren't sure how to get there. What you truly need is a safe space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment and find support in managing both the emotional and practical challenges you face.
(475) 290-6186 View (475) 290-6186
Photo of Violet Moses - Light Of Mind Psychiatric Services , MSN , FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Light Of Mind Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello and thank you for viewing my profile. I am a Nurse Practitioner with dual Board Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I see clients in MA and CT. My current focus is in psychiatry with specialization in addiction medicine and eating disorders. I have experience in treating adolescents and adults with dual diagnosis, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, substance use disorder, binge eating disorder, and many other common mental health conditions.
Hello and thank you for viewing my profile. I am a Nurse Practitioner with dual Board Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I see clients in MA and CT. My current focus is in psychiatry with specialization in addiction medicine and eating disorders. I have experience in treating adolescents and adults with dual diagnosis, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, substance use disorder, binge eating disorder, and many other common mental health conditions.
(413) 240-3650 View (413) 240-3650
Photo of Ted Hendrickson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ted Hendrickson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Connecticut. I have spent the last 8 years training and working in the mental health space.
Hi! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Connecticut. I have spent the last 8 years training and working in the mental health space.
(203) 457-3120 View (203) 457-3120
Photo of Thamara Jonathas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thamara Jonathas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. I have 14 years of experience working in healthcare, providing care to patients of all ages. I am dedicated to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care and building strong relationships with my patients to ensure their overall health and well-being. I am passionate about patient education and empowerment. I am committed to staying current on the latest advancements in healthcare and to provide the best possible care for my patients.
Hello, I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. I have 14 years of experience working in healthcare, providing care to patients of all ages. I am dedicated to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care and building strong relationships with my patients to ensure their overall health and well-being. I am passionate about patient education and empowerment. I am committed to staying current on the latest advancements in healthcare and to provide the best possible care for my patients.
(203) 599-0864 View (203) 599-0864
Photo of Olanike Idowu, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olanike Idowu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN, NP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Yale University-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner with over 18 years of experience in Mental Health. I am lifespan board-certified to treat ages 5 to 70years old. I have subspecialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical research. I treat all psychiatric conditions including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD and abuse survivors, OCD, Eating Disorders, and ODD. I provide culturally sensitive integrative and holistic psychiatric services that are tailored to each individual patient's needs.
I am a Yale University-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner with over 18 years of experience in Mental Health. I am lifespan board-certified to treat ages 5 to 70years old. I have subspecialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical research. I treat all psychiatric conditions including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD and abuse survivors, OCD, Eating Disorders, and ODD. I provide culturally sensitive integrative and holistic psychiatric services that are tailored to each individual patient's needs.
(475) 255-6394 View (475) 255-6394
Photo of Karolina Dudzik, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karolina Dudzik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hey, I’m Karolina (like the state). Do you ever feel overwhelmed going through your day to day life? Are you feeling like you never have time to think about yourself? ? Is it hard for you to wind down after a long stressful day? I can help you learn to improve your overall self-care behaviors and understand your emotions through the therapeutic use of medications.
Hey, I’m Karolina (like the state). Do you ever feel overwhelmed going through your day to day life? Are you feeling like you never have time to think about yourself? ? Is it hard for you to wind down after a long stressful day? I can help you learn to improve your overall self-care behaviors and understand your emotions through the therapeutic use of medications.
(203) 408-6021 View (203) 408-6021
Photo of Janet Howe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janet Howe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am based in Connecticut. I earned my masters degree at Walden University. I enjoy working with adults and older adults that are experiencing challenges in their lives that they need support getting through, whether it's through talking or medications or both.
Hello! I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am based in Connecticut. I earned my masters degree at Walden University. I enjoy working with adults and older adults that are experiencing challenges in their lives that they need support getting through, whether it's through talking or medications or both.
(475) 250-1395 View (475) 250-1395
Photo of Sherieffa Jackson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sherieffa Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, my name is Sherieffa Jackson and I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, equipped with extensive experience in inpatient psychiatry hospital settings. I also see patients in my private practice via telehealth. I have experience treating patients with PTSD, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
Hi, my name is Sherieffa Jackson and I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, equipped with extensive experience in inpatient psychiatry hospital settings. I also see patients in my private practice via telehealth. I have experience treating patients with PTSD, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
(860) 813-6904 View (860) 813-6904
Photo of Juleen Mason, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Juleen Mason
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My name is Juleen L Mason I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I am dedicated in providing a holistic approach to treating patients who suffers form mental health issues. I come form a background that each individual is unique and should be treated as such.
My name is Juleen L Mason I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I am dedicated in providing a holistic approach to treating patients who suffers form mental health issues. I come form a background that each individual is unique and should be treated as such.
(959) 207-2682 View (959) 207-2682
Photo of Janet Rivera, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janet Rivera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
As Doctors of Nursing Practice (DNP), Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications judiciously, and only when necessary. As practitioners, we value our shared humanity, and encourage compassion, humility, connection and empathy. Please reach out to us directly by email to begin the enrollment process and to schedule an evaluation time, thank you.
As Doctors of Nursing Practice (DNP), Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications judiciously, and only when necessary. As practitioners, we value our shared humanity, and encourage compassion, humility, connection and empathy. Please reach out to us directly by email to begin the enrollment process and to schedule an evaluation time, thank you.
(203) 871-0775 View (203) 871-0775
Photo of Omolola Aragbada, PMHNP, APRN, MSNPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Omolola Aragbada
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSNPH
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi there, I'm Lola. Are you looking for a provider who makes you feel comfortable enough to reflect and express yourself as you wish? Do you need a provider who listens actively to your concerns? Are you seeking a participatory treatment where you can contribute to your individualized treatment plan?
Hi there, I'm Lola. Are you looking for a provider who makes you feel comfortable enough to reflect and express yourself as you wish? Do you need a provider who listens actively to your concerns? Are you seeking a participatory treatment where you can contribute to your individualized treatment plan?
(203) 718-0672 View (203) 718-0672
Photo of Jeffrey Gold, MD, Psychiatrist
Jeffrey Gold
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing for over thirty years. My training consisted in many rotations at Yale and the University of Illinois. Since training, I have spent most of my clinical practice in acute inpatient, which is high-intensity and the most conducive to perfecting my ability to practice psychiatry.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing for over thirty years. My training consisted in many rotations at Yale and the University of Illinois. Since training, I have spent most of my clinical practice in acute inpatient, which is high-intensity and the most conducive to perfecting my ability to practice psychiatry.
(484) 613-2952 View (484) 613-2952
Photo of Bhupinder Kaur, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bhupinder Kaur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Iam a dual-certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP).
Iam a dual-certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP).
(203) 516-4179 View (203) 516-4179

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Linton Kinlock, MSN, APRN, PMHN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Linton Kinlock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHN-BC
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06518
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to improving the lives of individuals living with mental illness. I believe that with the right care, support , people can achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. My passion stems from my own experiences with mental health, as well as my desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others. I have a strong background in both nursing and psychiatry, committed to staying current with the latest research, integrative treatments. I am a compassionate and empathetic practitioner who is dedicated to working with my patients to develop individualized treatment.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to improving the lives of individuals living with mental illness. I believe that with the right care, support , people can achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. My passion stems from my own experiences with mental health, as well as my desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others. I have a strong background in both nursing and psychiatry, committed to staying current with the latest research, integrative treatments. I am a compassionate and empathetic practitioner who is dedicated to working with my patients to develop individualized treatment.
(860) 254-6569 View (860) 254-6569
Photo of Despina O’Doherty - Mind Matters Therapeutics, PMHNP, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind Matters Therapeutics
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwalk, CT 06851
Common complaints: "my doctor doesn't listen to me"; "nobody told me or explained it to me"; "I can never get a hold of my provider". I listen. I spend the extra time to explain and teach how your diagnosis works with the chemicals in your mind and how your medications work to balance you. We make decisions together. I follow up when I say I will. I am very thorough; I use evidence-based measurements to identify diagnoses, and no stone is left unturned. You deserve answers, patience, respect, and discretion.
Common complaints: "my doctor doesn't listen to me"; "nobody told me or explained it to me"; "I can never get a hold of my provider". I listen. I spend the extra time to explain and teach how your diagnosis works with the chemicals in your mind and how your medications work to balance you. We make decisions together. I follow up when I say I will. I am very thorough; I use evidence-based measurements to identify diagnoses, and no stone is left unturned. You deserve answers, patience, respect, and discretion.
(475) 471-1755 View (475) 471-1755
Photo of Laura Petiford, PMHNP, LMFT, Psychiatric Nurse
Laura Petiford
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Southport, CT 06890
Being human isn't easy. Sometimes it's hard to make sense of it all and keep putting one foot in front of the other. If you find you are struggling to experience the joy you once had, you aren't alone. Cultivating and maintaining healthy behaviors and relationships, managing unhelpful thoughts and keeping anxiety from running the show are all achievable. You don't have to white knuckle your way through this alone.
Being human isn't easy. Sometimes it's hard to make sense of it all and keep putting one foot in front of the other. If you find you are struggling to experience the joy you once had, you aren't alone. Cultivating and maintaining healthy behaviors and relationships, managing unhelpful thoughts and keeping anxiety from running the show are all achievable. You don't have to white knuckle your way through this alone.
(203) 885-7215 View (203) 885-7215

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Shelton, CT

10+

Average cost per session

$212

Psychiatrists in Shelton, CT who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
88% Bipolar Disorder
56% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
56% Sleep or Insomnia
56% Medication Management
50% ADHD

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Shelton, CT see their clients

62% Online Only
38% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Shelton?

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.