Psychiatrists in Southington, CT

Photo of Kelli Bernier - North Star Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C
North Star Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489
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 Holly DeVylder, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Holly DeVylder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, it's so great to meet you! I’m Holly, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a robust background in psychiatry, internal medicine, and clinical research. This combination of experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of the unmet needs of mental health care within our communities as well as the importance of clinical trials proving drug efficacy and safety for patients. I also gladly offer (and encourage) GeneSight testing to patients who've previously failed mental health medications. My goal is to help bring the best version of you, to each day!
Hi, it's so great to meet you! I’m Holly, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a robust background in psychiatry, internal medicine, and clinical research. This combination of experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of the unmet needs of mental health care within our communities as well as the importance of clinical trials proving drug efficacy and safety for patients. I also gladly offer (and encourage) GeneSight testing to patients who've previously failed mental health medications. My goal is to help bring the best version of you, to each day!
(860) 467-7371 View (860) 467-7371
Photo of Bassam Awwa - Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC, Psychiatrist, MD
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases. Any individual in need is eligible to receive services regardless of race, religion, disability, national origin or gender, while protecting the dignity and privacy of all individuals served.
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases. Any individual in need is eligible to receive services regardless of race, religion, disability, national origin or gender, while protecting the dignity and privacy of all individuals served.
(860) 406-7650 x206 View (860) 406-7650 x206
Photo of Stephanie Settevendemie - Solstice Healthcare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Solstice Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
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) 255-2512 View (475) 255-2512
Photo of George J Costanzo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DC APRN
George J Costanzo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DC APRN
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (APRN), licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan. At our practice, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications conservatively, while always incorporating holistic methods to assist in recovery. I have 30 years of experience as a chiropractor, treating patients without the use of medication. Now, with the ability to prescribe medication, I carry with me the philosophy that judicious medication use is key in treatment plans. My strength is in adolescents, adults and geriatric patients.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (APRN), licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan. At our practice, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications conservatively, while always incorporating holistic methods to assist in recovery. I have 30 years of experience as a chiropractor, treating patients without the use of medication. Now, with the ability to prescribe medication, I carry with me the philosophy that judicious medication use is key in treatment plans. My strength is in adolescents, adults and geriatric patients.
(203) 680-0030 View (203) 680-0030
Photo of Julee Higgins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Julee Higgins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Connecticut. I received my master's degree from Fairfield University and have been practicing for 8 years. I help young adults/adults struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. Together, we determine the best pharmacological (and non-pharmacological) interventions to provide relief of symptoms.
Hi! I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Connecticut. I received my master's degree from Fairfield University and have been practicing for 8 years. I help young adults/adults struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. Together, we determine the best pharmacological (and non-pharmacological) interventions to provide relief of symptoms.
(475) 284-7165 View (475) 284-7165
Photo of Theresa Antwi - Wholistic Perspective, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Serves Area
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
(203) 433-6890 View (203) 433-6890
Photo of Daniel Kenny, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Daniel Kenny
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Everyone needs help sometimes. I am a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner, board-certified in treating mental health issues in children and adults. I believe in improving health through care that is both sensitive and scientific, with careful medication management and therapy. My goal is to meet clients where they are, and help them explore the big picture. Our past experiences shape who we are today, and I strive to enable clients to make informed decisions in their care, with their goals at the forefront.
Everyone needs help sometimes. I am a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner, board-certified in treating mental health issues in children and adults. I believe in improving health through care that is both sensitive and scientific, with careful medication management and therapy. My goal is to meet clients where they are, and help them explore the big picture. Our past experiences shape who we are today, and I strive to enable clients to make informed decisions in their care, with their goals at the forefront.
(475) 325-2817 View (475) 325-2817
Photo of Duyen Nguyen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-BC, RN
Duyen Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, PMH-BC, RN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when you're facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or trauma. You may feel stuck, unsure how to move forward, or simply need more support than you've been getting. Whether you're navigating the complexities of young adulthood, dealing with the stresses of later life, or managing a mental health condition, your goal is to find relief, regain control, and experience a better quality of life. With years of experience in inpatient and outpatient care, I offer compassionate, non-judgmental guidance, always working collaboratively to create a treatment plan that feels right for you.
Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when you're facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or trauma. You may feel stuck, unsure how to move forward, or simply need more support than you've been getting. Whether you're navigating the complexities of young adulthood, dealing with the stresses of later life, or managing a mental health condition, your goal is to find relief, regain control, and experience a better quality of life. With years of experience in inpatient and outpatient care, I offer compassionate, non-judgmental guidance, always working collaboratively to create a treatment plan that feels right for you.
(646) 832-2562 View (646) 832-2562

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Giovanni Pascal Pierre, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Giovanni Pascal Pierre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hey there! I am Giovanni Pierre, but you can call me Gio. First, thank you for taking this vital step towards better mental well-being. I get it—life is like a roller coaster, and sometimes, it’s the scary one you never wanted to get on. I own a practice called Safe Haven Health. Safe Haven Health is a virtual mental health clinic aiming to increase access to effective and efficient mental healthcare from the comfort of your home.
Hey there! I am Giovanni Pierre, but you can call me Gio. First, thank you for taking this vital step towards better mental well-being. I get it—life is like a roller coaster, and sometimes, it’s the scary one you never wanted to get on. I own a practice called Safe Haven Health. Safe Haven Health is a virtual mental health clinic aiming to increase access to effective and efficient mental healthcare from the comfort of your home.
(757) 209-9700 View (757) 209-9700
Photo of Dawn Erlingson - Seeds of Growth Psychiatric Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Seeds of Growth Psychiatric Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello from Dawn Erlingson, PMHNP-BC. I have been working in the mental health field for over a decade and practicing as a PMHNP since 2020. I feel strongly that mental health treatment should be accessible and compassionate. I have created Seeds of Growth Psychiatric Services to provide just that service. I have experience in treating a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, attention issues, and substance use disorders. Using a patient centered approach with evidence based practice, I strive to provide treatment that is right for you.
Hello from Dawn Erlingson, PMHNP-BC. I have been working in the mental health field for over a decade and practicing as a PMHNP since 2020. I feel strongly that mental health treatment should be accessible and compassionate. I have created Seeds of Growth Psychiatric Services to provide just that service. I have experience in treating a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, attention issues, and substance use disorders. Using a patient centered approach with evidence based practice, I strive to provide treatment that is right for you.
(860) 508-9938 View (860) 508-9938
Photo of Dr. Chanon C. Biceglia - Dr. Chanon C. Biceglia, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, NP-C, APRN
Dr. Chanon C. Biceglia, DNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, NP-C, APRN
Cheshire, CT 06410
With a strong passion for helping others succeed & work through obstacles in their life, I serve as both a psychiatric and medical provider, with a comprehensive education & experience of 25+ years. Holding a doctorate and double board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner & medical APRN, I hold full prescriptive authority to serve the needs of clients in Connecticut & Arizona. My background & experience includes trauma & crisis, primary care, inpatient hospital, out-patient, family/couples, school based intervention, ADD/ADHD, & ASD health and wellness.
With a strong passion for helping others succeed & work through obstacles in their life, I serve as both a psychiatric and medical provider, with a comprehensive education & experience of 25+ years. Holding a doctorate and double board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner & medical APRN, I hold full prescriptive authority to serve the needs of clients in Connecticut & Arizona. My background & experience includes trauma & crisis, primary care, inpatient hospital, out-patient, family/couples, school based intervention, ADD/ADHD, & ASD health and wellness.
(203) 806-9936 View (203) 806-9936
Photo of Scott Thomas Masse, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Scott Thomas Masse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You can keep your current therapist and I can provide medication management! I offer telehealth services for mental health assessments, diagnosis, medication prescriptions with ongoing management, as well as psychotherapy if you prefer not to retain a separate therapist. I have prescriptive authority in the State of Connecticut. I accept most major insurances and private pay options.
You can keep your current therapist and I can provide medication management! I offer telehealth services for mental health assessments, diagnosis, medication prescriptions with ongoing management, as well as psychotherapy if you prefer not to retain a separate therapist. I have prescriptive authority in the State of Connecticut. I accept most major insurances and private pay options.
(475) 255-3784 View (475) 255-3784
Photo of Dr. Emily Watkins, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Emily Watkins
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a psychiatrist, my work starts with listening. I try to not only hear a person’s story, but understand their unique perspective because meeting a person where they are at is a necessary foundation for healing. My goals are to alleviate suffering and help individuals reach greater self-understanding. Working towards these goals always involves partnering with a patient and deciding together what specific steps or treatment methods best fit their unique needs and preferences, whether that includes medication, psychotherapy, or both. While I’m trained in wide range of psychiatric conditions, I have several areas of expertise.
As a psychiatrist, my work starts with listening. I try to not only hear a person’s story, but understand their unique perspective because meeting a person where they are at is a necessary foundation for healing. My goals are to alleviate suffering and help individuals reach greater self-understanding. Working towards these goals always involves partnering with a patient and deciding together what specific steps or treatment methods best fit their unique needs and preferences, whether that includes medication, psychotherapy, or both. While I’m trained in wide range of psychiatric conditions, I have several areas of expertise.
(860) 851-4086 View (860) 851-4086
Photo of Sophia Lopez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Sophia Lopez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Enfield, CT 06082
Are you finding that your mood is impacting your relationships, your work or your daily tasks in a negative way? Sometimes your mood impacts your functioning in a way that makes life unmanageable. My approach is holistic, patient centered and focused on your goals.
Are you finding that your mood is impacting your relationships, your work or your daily tasks in a negative way? Sometimes your mood impacts your functioning in a way that makes life unmanageable. My approach is holistic, patient centered and focused on your goals.
(959) 207-2717 View (959) 207-2717
Photo of Anny Sigaran Aguasvivas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP
Anny Sigaran Aguasvivas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP
Hartford, CT 06106
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder, seeking a compassionate and holistic approach to healing. They want to regain control of their emotions, improve relationships, and develop coping skills. They value a supportive, nonjudgmental space where they can work towards stability, emotional resilience, and personal growth while receiving evidence-based treatment tailored to their unique needs.
My ideal client is someone struggling with anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder, seeking a compassionate and holistic approach to healing. They want to regain control of their emotions, improve relationships, and develop coping skills. They value a supportive, nonjudgmental space where they can work towards stability, emotional resilience, and personal growth while receiving evidence-based treatment tailored to their unique needs.
(347) 218-8220 View (347) 218-8220
Photo of Armand Ntchana - Integrated Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, MD
Integrated Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, MD
Online Only
As a Medical Doctor in Family Medicine and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (CT, TX), I bring a unique and comprehensive approach to mental health and substance abuse treatment. With a deep-seated passion for patient care, my career has spanned both outpatient and inpatient settings, allowing me to develop a broad and in-depth expertise in addressing the full spectrum of mental health challenges. Prior to becoming a physician, I dedicated over a decade to psychiatric care, ensuring that my patients receive a holistic, well-rounded treatment approach tailored to their unique needs.
As a Medical Doctor in Family Medicine and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (CT, TX), I bring a unique and comprehensive approach to mental health and substance abuse treatment. With a deep-seated passion for patient care, my career has spanned both outpatient and inpatient settings, allowing me to develop a broad and in-depth expertise in addressing the full spectrum of mental health challenges. Prior to becoming a physician, I dedicated over a decade to psychiatric care, ensuring that my patients receive a holistic, well-rounded treatment approach tailored to their unique needs.
(860) 846-3345 View (860) 846-3345
Photo of Shelly Foster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Shelly Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe in decreasing stigma and barriers that prevent individuals from seeking mental health treatment. I have a holistic view of a person’s health and integrate this into clinical decisions. I believe in creating a trusting therapeutic relationship where the individual feels supported, validated, and listened to in a non-judgmental manner. I am passionate about providing quality service with empathy and patience. I hope to work in conjunction with therapists in Connecticut with the understanding that psychotherapy and medication management are evidence-based interventions and when combined provide the safest and best outcome.
I believe in decreasing stigma and barriers that prevent individuals from seeking mental health treatment. I have a holistic view of a person’s health and integrate this into clinical decisions. I believe in creating a trusting therapeutic relationship where the individual feels supported, validated, and listened to in a non-judgmental manner. I am passionate about providing quality service with empathy and patience. I hope to work in conjunction with therapists in Connecticut with the understanding that psychotherapy and medication management are evidence-based interventions and when combined provide the safest and best outcome.
(860) 530-6033 View (860) 530-6033
Photo of Joana Lauture, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Joana Lauture
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bristol, CT 06010
Dr. Joana B. Lauture is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 2 years of experience in behavioral health and an extensive medical background in respiratory therapy, labor and delivery, and inpatient psychiatry. She is passionate about delivering comprehensive, empathetic, high-quality mental health services to adults and adolescents, specializing in anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, trauma, and grief. Dr. Lauture serves as both a mental health advocate and a therapist in her role as a PMHNP.
Dr. Joana B. Lauture is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 2 years of experience in behavioral health and an extensive medical background in respiratory therapy, labor and delivery, and inpatient psychiatry. She is passionate about delivering comprehensive, empathetic, high-quality mental health services to adults and adolescents, specializing in anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, trauma, and grief. Dr. Lauture serves as both a mental health advocate and a therapist in her role as a PMHNP.
(475) 258-7772 View (475) 258-7772
Photo of Maryfrances Lanosa-DeSteno, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Maryfrances Lanosa-DeSteno
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner (APRN), with a concentration as an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. I have years of mental health treatment experience, focusing with a holistic approach towards the adult and senior populations. Through lifestyle and behavioral therapy, coupled with the responsible use of medication when clinically indicated, I have realized tremendous success with my patients. Let's work together!
I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner (APRN), with a concentration as an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. I have years of mental health treatment experience, focusing with a holistic approach towards the adult and senior populations. Through lifestyle and behavioral therapy, coupled with the responsible use of medication when clinically indicated, I have realized tremendous success with my patients. Let's work together!
(203) 680-0030 View (203) 680-0030

See more therapy options for Southington

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Southington, CT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Southington, CT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
89% ADHD
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Bipolar Disorder
78% Medication Management
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
89% Cigna and Evernorth
89% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Southington, CT see their clients

56% Online Only
44% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Southington?

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.