Psychiatrists in Wethersfield, CT

Photo of Verona Gordon - Gordon Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Gordon Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome! I’m Verona, a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I specialize in teens, adults, and geriatrics who are struggling with anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment. I provide medication management and individual therapy to teens, adults, and geriatrics. During our initial sessions, you can expect a nonjudgmental and confidential environment where you are heard and respected. I believe healing is a holistic journey encompassing the mind, body,  and soul. Through compassionate listening and collaborative exploration
Welcome! I’m Verona, a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I specialize in teens, adults, and geriatrics who are struggling with anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment. I provide medication management and individual therapy to teens, adults, and geriatrics. During our initial sessions, you can expect a nonjudgmental and confidential environment where you are heard and respected. I believe healing is a holistic journey encompassing the mind, body,  and soul. Through compassionate listening and collaborative exploration
(860) 606-4156 View (860) 606-4156
Photo of Jenna Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNP
Jenna Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Wethersfield, CT 06109
I am currently offering admissions within the same week, in person or telehealth. I provide services for children ages 6 and up, as well as adults. I have Saturday and Evening hours. Please visit my website jennasmithaprn.com and complete prospective patient tab for fastest appointment! Are you or your child struggling with mental health concerns? I am a psychiatric prescriber with 20+ years of experience within the field in different roles. I provide a patient centered and collaborative space for us to create and tailor a care plan specific to your goals.
I am currently offering admissions within the same week, in person or telehealth. I provide services for children ages 6 and up, as well as adults. I have Saturday and Evening hours. Please visit my website jennasmithaprn.com and complete prospective patient tab for fastest appointment! Are you or your child struggling with mental health concerns? I am a psychiatric prescriber with 20+ years of experience within the field in different roles. I provide a patient centered and collaborative space for us to create and tailor a care plan specific to your goals.
(860) 864-4761 View (860) 864-4761
Photo of Ali Rodriguez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Ali Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! Looking for balance in your life? I am a board certified psychiatric APRN. I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, and perinatal mental health. Whether you're a new mother, navigating infertility, or struggling to focus at school or in your relationships, I understand the unique challenges you face. If you're feeling lonely, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed, I'm here to help you find healing and relief. I have extensive experience working with pregnant women, new moms, and those coping with the emotional challenges that come with postpartum life.
Hi! Looking for balance in your life? I am a board certified psychiatric APRN. I specialize in ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, and perinatal mental health. Whether you're a new mother, navigating infertility, or struggling to focus at school or in your relationships, I understand the unique challenges you face. If you're feeling lonely, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed, I'm here to help you find healing and relief. I have extensive experience working with pregnant women, new moms, and those coping with the emotional challenges that come with postpartum life.
(860) 364-8228 View (860) 364-8228
Photo of Maria D Ruiz - Sana² Colita Adult Behavioral Health Rx Treatment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Sana² Colita Adult Behavioral Health Rx Treatment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Wethersfield, CT 06109
Hello there! Are you looking for help? I am here to tell you that; "You are not alone" Find your strength, find your support. I am available now and accepting new patients. My approach is to start with an evaluation to help identify your individual treatment needs and provide you with treatment options. Following will create a personalized treatment plan to guide, encourage, support you in reaching your treatment goals these may include: behavioral interventions, medication options, psychotherapy, and or other wellness/treatment recommendations based on your individual needs.
Hello there! Are you looking for help? I am here to tell you that; "You are not alone" Find your strength, find your support. I am available now and accepting new patients. My approach is to start with an evaluation to help identify your individual treatment needs and provide you with treatment options. Following will create a personalized treatment plan to guide, encourage, support you in reaching your treatment goals these may include: behavioral interventions, medication options, psychotherapy, and or other wellness/treatment recommendations based on your individual needs.
(860) 650-2441 View (860) 650-2441
Photo of Olubunmi Olugbile, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olubunmi Olugbile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Practitioner based in Connecticut. I provide effective mental health treatment for patients across the lifespan. I received my master's degree from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in 2022. My mission is to assess, diagnose, and manage a range of mental illnesses, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychosis. I am deeply committed to empowering individuals and their families as they navigate the complexities of psychiatric challenges.
I am a Board-Certified Practitioner based in Connecticut. I provide effective mental health treatment for patients across the lifespan. I received my master's degree from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in 2022. My mission is to assess, diagnose, and manage a range of mental illnesses, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychosis. I am deeply committed to empowering individuals and their families as they navigate the complexities of psychiatric challenges.
(860) 419-4159 View (860) 419-4159
Photo of Shahana Ayub, Psychiatrist, MD
Shahana Ayub
Psychiatrist, MD
Wethersfield, CT 06109
Dr. Ayub is a Board-Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. She completed her psychiatry residency training at Drexel University College of Medicine and pursued specialized child and adolescent psychiatry training through a fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis. Dr. Ayub has extensive experience in diverse clinical settings, including inpatient child and adolescent psychiatric units, outpatient academic treatment centers, emergency psychiatric care, and community mental health.
Dr. Ayub is a Board-Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. She completed her psychiatry residency training at Drexel University College of Medicine and pursued specialized child and adolescent psychiatry training through a fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis. Dr. Ayub has extensive experience in diverse clinical settings, including inpatient child and adolescent psychiatric units, outpatient academic treatment centers, emergency psychiatric care, and community mental health.
(860) 421-6523 View (860) 421-6523
Photo of Ogechi Ebere - Sound Mynd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Sound Mynd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
(860) 775-6069 View (860) 775-6069
Photo of Kelly K. Prior, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Kelly K. Prior
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
6 Endorsed
Wethersfield, CT 06109
I have opening on panel again and I am taking referrals! Are you having difficulties focusing and concentrating on your work? Are you a mother having a rough time managing "having it all?" I have a special interest in helping mothers, working professionals, nurses, therapists, gamer geeks, and graduate students. I specialize in treating ADHD. I strive to have an office that supports the needs of neurodiverse population, and I offer a prospective of skill building along with medications to help you be at your best.
I have opening on panel again and I am taking referrals! Are you having difficulties focusing and concentrating on your work? Are you a mother having a rough time managing "having it all?" I have a special interest in helping mothers, working professionals, nurses, therapists, gamer geeks, and graduate students. I specialize in treating ADHD. I strive to have an office that supports the needs of neurodiverse population, and I offer a prospective of skill building along with medications to help you be at your best.
(860) 855-3561 View (860) 855-3561
Photo of Mohammad Farooq Dada - Central Connecticut Behavioral Health, LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Central Connecticut Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Providing quality care to all our satisfied clients through a comprehensive array of services, convenience and timely access. Our Expert, and caring team of clinicians with more than 30 yrs in the field of Psychiatry. We are multilingual with fluency in English, Urdu, Hindi, and Punjabi and treat patients age 18 and over. We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation including thorough evaluation of your medical records, Extensive psychiatric interview and explanation of treatment plan .
Providing quality care to all our satisfied clients through a comprehensive array of services, convenience and timely access. Our Expert, and caring team of clinicians with more than 30 yrs in the field of Psychiatry. We are multilingual with fluency in English, Urdu, Hindi, and Punjabi and treat patients age 18 and over. We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation including thorough evaluation of your medical records, Extensive psychiatric interview and explanation of treatment plan .
(860) 248-2391 View (860) 248-2391
Photo of Katie L Scheinberg - Nourish Psychiatric- Katie Scheinberg, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, APRN, MSN, BSN
Nourish Psychiatric- Katie Scheinberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, APRN, MSN, BSN
Serves Area
Accepting new patients February 2025! Some people find that therapy alone does not allow them to reach their mental health potential and may be considering starting medication, changing medication or looking to continue medication. No matter where you are on your journey to mental wellness, there are options. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, health/nutrition/sleep education, and therapeutic support to children, adolescents, and emerging adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep and eating issues and other mental health concerns.
Accepting new patients February 2025! Some people find that therapy alone does not allow them to reach their mental health potential and may be considering starting medication, changing medication or looking to continue medication. No matter where you are on your journey to mental wellness, there are options. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, health/nutrition/sleep education, and therapeutic support to children, adolescents, and emerging adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep and eating issues and other mental health concerns.
(860) 968-0168 View (860) 968-0168
Photo of Milind Kale - Milind Kale, MD LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Milind Kale, MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Taking your child to a psychiatrist is not an easy decision. Many parents have concerns about unnecessarily medicating their child or labeling them with a diagnosis at such a young age. As a physician and as a parent, I take those concerns very seriously. I do a lot of groundwork before I diagnose a child. I use validated rating scales completed by multiple sources and I always work in conjunction with a therapist. I take a family-centric approach to treatment. For school evaluations, I see my role as an advocate for the child, while not losing sight of the school's perspective.
Taking your child to a psychiatrist is not an easy decision. Many parents have concerns about unnecessarily medicating their child or labeling them with a diagnosis at such a young age. As a physician and as a parent, I take those concerns very seriously. I do a lot of groundwork before I diagnose a child. I use validated rating scales completed by multiple sources and I always work in conjunction with a therapist. I take a family-centric approach to treatment. For school evaluations, I see my role as an advocate for the child, while not losing sight of the school's perspective.
(860) 780-5455 View (860) 780-5455
Photo of Lexus Tabshey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lexus Tabshey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Wethersfield, CT 06109
(860) 288-3508 View (860) 288-3508

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ivie Okunbor - CareVille Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP
CareVille Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ivie Okunbor, the owner of CareVille Psychiatry, stands out by providing culturally sensitive, compassionate, person-centered, and evidence-based care. She fosters a safe, nonjudgmental environment where patients feel supported and empowered. She develops individualized treatment plans that cater to each patient's unique needs, incorporating psychotherapy and medication management to achieve optimal outcomes. She offers in-person and telehealth services through secure platforms, allowing patients to receive therapy and medication management from the comfort of their homes. This approach ensures convenience and continuity of care
Ivie Okunbor, the owner of CareVille Psychiatry, stands out by providing culturally sensitive, compassionate, person-centered, and evidence-based care. She fosters a safe, nonjudgmental environment where patients feel supported and empowered. She develops individualized treatment plans that cater to each patient's unique needs, incorporating psychotherapy and medication management to achieve optimal outcomes. She offers in-person and telehealth services through secure platforms, allowing patients to receive therapy and medication management from the comfort of their homes. This approach ensures convenience and continuity of care
(475) 471-0125 View (475) 471-0125
Photo of Carlos A Gonzalez, Psychiatrist, MD
Carlos A Gonzalez
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06117
I am a native of Puerto Rico and a transplanted New Yorker. I graduated from Cornell University Medical College and completed a residency at St. Vincent's Hospital, followed by a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in New York. I have been in CT since 1989, initially as an assistant professor of psychiatry at Yale and director of the Connecticut Mental Health Center's Hispanic Clinic. I subsequently worked extensively as chief of the psychiatric crisis service at Griffin Hospital. I am currently the medical director of the Community Child Guidance Clinic in Manchester, CT.
I am a native of Puerto Rico and a transplanted New Yorker. I graduated from Cornell University Medical College and completed a residency at St. Vincent's Hospital, followed by a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in New York. I have been in CT since 1989, initially as an assistant professor of psychiatry at Yale and director of the Connecticut Mental Health Center's Hispanic Clinic. I subsequently worked extensively as chief of the psychiatric crisis service at Griffin Hospital. I am currently the medical director of the Community Child Guidance Clinic in Manchester, CT.
(860) 880-3214 View (860) 880-3214
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 Jewel Walters-Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jewel Walters-Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Through medication management and supportive psychotherapy, I treat clients from childhood to older adulthood with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress and obsessive-compulsive disorders, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, ADHD etc. I hope to collaborate with clients to establish an individualized treatment plan. Treatment goals are best reached through a holistic approach; I encourage clients to participate in therapy in addition to medication management and lifestyle modifications. I help empower clients to understand that they are one of the most important members of their care team.
Through medication management and supportive psychotherapy, I treat clients from childhood to older adulthood with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress and obsessive-compulsive disorders, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, ADHD etc. I hope to collaborate with clients to establish an individualized treatment plan. Treatment goals are best reached through a holistic approach; I encourage clients to participate in therapy in addition to medication management and lifestyle modifications. I help empower clients to understand that they are one of the most important members of their care team.
(860) 792-5434 View (860) 792-5434
Photo of Morgan L Jennings - BC Psychiatry of Farmington Valley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
BC Psychiatry of Farmington Valley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At BC Psychiatry of Farmington Valley, we specialize in providing remote telehealth psychiatry services that bring expert mental health care to the comfort of your home. Led by a knowledgable and compassionate APRN, we offer personalized medication management and, if applicable, therapy services designed to meet your unique needs in this busy world. Our modern, accessible approach ensures high quality care that fits seamlessly into your life.
At BC Psychiatry of Farmington Valley, we specialize in providing remote telehealth psychiatry services that bring expert mental health care to the comfort of your home. Led by a knowledgable and compassionate APRN, we offer personalized medication management and, if applicable, therapy services designed to meet your unique needs in this busy world. Our modern, accessible approach ensures high quality care that fits seamlessly into your life.
View
Photo of Theresa Webster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Theresa Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Do you feel like you are constantly fighting with your own brain? You try to concentrate on a task but your mind constantly wanders off. Your friends joke that you have no concept of time but you wonder when they will tire of your inconsistency. You struggle in social settings with worry that you are talking too much or lose track of what someone is talking with you about when in conversation. Your finances are a mess or you just can’t seem to hold on to savings. Social media has you thinking you might have ADHD and you are ready to find answers.
Do you feel like you are constantly fighting with your own brain? You try to concentrate on a task but your mind constantly wanders off. Your friends joke that you have no concept of time but you wonder when they will tire of your inconsistency. You struggle in social settings with worry that you are talking too much or lose track of what someone is talking with you about when in conversation. Your finances are a mess or you just can’t seem to hold on to savings. Social media has you thinking you might have ADHD and you are ready to find answers.
(702) 830-7193 View (702) 830-7193
Photo of Renee Clunie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Renee Clunie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Rocky Hill, CT 06067
Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a nursing background in addiction medicine and psychiatry. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my mission is to support individuals navigating the complex challenges of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders and PTSD. These conditions often come with deep emotional pain, internal conflict, and functional impairment. I am committed to partnering with clients on their journey toward stability, self-discovery, and hope using a personalized treatment plan that honors their unique story.
Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a nursing background in addiction medicine and psychiatry. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my mission is to support individuals navigating the complex challenges of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders and PTSD. These conditions often come with deep emotional pain, internal conflict, and functional impairment. I am committed to partnering with clients on their journey toward stability, self-discovery, and hope using a personalized treatment plan that honors their unique story.
(860) 847-8730 View (860) 847-8730
Photo of Jeffrey Naarden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Jeffrey Naarden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I am an Aprn carn-ap who specializes in treating mental health impairments across the lifespan. I have been working in health care for over 35 years in a variety of settings, including inpatient, outpatient, substance use, and crisis care. I use a patient-centered collaborative approach, utilizing the most up-to-date treatments that focus on interventions for psychiatric conditions that generally cause dysfunction in patients' lives.
I am an Aprn carn-ap who specializes in treating mental health impairments across the lifespan. I have been working in health care for over 35 years in a variety of settings, including inpatient, outpatient, substance use, and crisis care. I use a patient-centered collaborative approach, utilizing the most up-to-date treatments that focus on interventions for psychiatric conditions that generally cause dysfunction in patients' lives.
(475) 242-0607 View (475) 242-0607

See more therapy options for Wethersfield

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Wethersfield, CT

10+

Average cost per session

$275

Psychiatrists in Wethersfield, CT who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
83% Depression
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Medication Management
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
78% Cigna and Evernorth
78% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Wethersfield, CT see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Wethersfield?

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.