Psychiatrists in Old Saybrook, CT

Photo of Stephanie Reilly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Old Saybrook, CT
Stephanie Reilly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who assists clients in treatment of various mental health conditions. I have over 19 years of nursing experience focused in maternal mental health. I am currently offering both Telehealth and in person visits in Old Saybrook Connecticut. My treatment goals are focused on a client-centered approach to symptom management and resolution.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who assists clients in treatment of various mental health conditions. I have over 19 years of nursing experience focused in maternal mental health. I am currently offering both Telehealth and in person visits in Old Saybrook Connecticut. My treatment goals are focused on a client-centered approach to symptom management and resolution.
(860) 864-4529 View (860) 864-4529
Photo of Julianne Steahr, Psychiatric Nurse in Old Saybrook, CT
Julianne Steahr
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP, ANP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Saybrook, CT 06475  (Online Only)
Hello, I practice as a certified APRN in Psychiatry and Primary Care. My current focus is on the treatment of psychiatric illnesses in adults that are motivated to maintain or regain mental and emotional wellness. I prescribe medications for the treatment of Acute and Chronic Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD, ASD, PTSD, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, Pre and Post Partum, Sleep disorders, Thyroid and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. If you are seeking an initial assessment or continued care for a diagnosed condition or a reevaluation, my goal is to provide you comprehensive, wholistic care to regain or maintain wellness.
Hello, I practice as a certified APRN in Psychiatry and Primary Care. My current focus is on the treatment of psychiatric illnesses in adults that are motivated to maintain or regain mental and emotional wellness. I prescribe medications for the treatment of Acute and Chronic Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD, ASD, PTSD, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, Pre and Post Partum, Sleep disorders, Thyroid and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. If you are seeking an initial assessment or continued care for a diagnosed condition or a reevaluation, my goal is to provide you comprehensive, wholistic care to regain or maintain wellness.
(860) 458-4828 View (860) 458-4828
Photo of Dr. Diana Kurlyandchik, Psychiatrist in Old Saybrook, CT
Dr. Diana Kurlyandchik
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
At Sunrise Med, we value the connection of the mind and body, and believe that true wellness can only be achieved by addressing both. I am a board certified psychiatrist with over a decade of worked experience, and am dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment for the complete spectrum of mental illnesses. In addition to traditional treatment methods, including CBT style therapy and medication management, my passion is to incorporate lifestyle modifications to promote your mental wellness. My aim is to empower clients to achieve optimal health, and to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.
At Sunrise Med, we value the connection of the mind and body, and believe that true wellness can only be achieved by addressing both. I am a board certified psychiatrist with over a decade of worked experience, and am dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment for the complete spectrum of mental illnesses. In addition to traditional treatment methods, including CBT style therapy and medication management, my passion is to incorporate lifestyle modifications to promote your mental wellness. My aim is to empower clients to achieve optimal health, and to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.
(860) 590-4159 View (860) 590-4159
Photo of Michael Valalik, Psychiatric Nurse in Old Saybrook, CT
Michael Valalik
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
Thank you for considering my practice for your mental health care. I provide medication management services for adults who are already seeing a therapist regularly for psychotherapy.
Thank you for considering my practice for your mental health care. I provide medication management services for adults who are already seeing a therapist regularly for psychotherapy.
(203) 479-9488 View (203) 479-9488
Photo of Lee Weber, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Old Saybrook, CT
Lee Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
Accepting NEW Child CLIENTS. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I specialize in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 5 - 24) who are struggling with mental health issues. I evaluate and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, and other psychiatric disorders. I provide psychiatric evaluations and consults, medication management, individual and group therapy, as well as ongoing management.
Accepting NEW Child CLIENTS. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I specialize in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 5 - 24) who are struggling with mental health issues. I evaluate and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, and other psychiatric disorders. I provide psychiatric evaluations and consults, medication management, individual and group therapy, as well as ongoing management.
(860) 852-1566 View (860) 852-1566
Photo of Lauren J. Janush, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Old Saybrook, CT
Lauren J. Janush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
Accepting new clients via telehealth and in-person. I am an APRN who specializes in & treats only children & adolescents ages 4-17 with behavioral & mental health issues. Unlike other practitioners who treat individuals of all ages, treating this age group is my sole area of expertise. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, OCD & other disorders first diagnosed in childhood/adolescence. I believe physical health, sleep, diet, lifestyle & family participation are integral to one's mental health. I will work with your child and family to ensure all aspects of your child's care are addressed as well as discuss & explore medication options.
Accepting new clients via telehealth and in-person. I am an APRN who specializes in & treats only children & adolescents ages 4-17 with behavioral & mental health issues. Unlike other practitioners who treat individuals of all ages, treating this age group is my sole area of expertise. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, OCD & other disorders first diagnosed in childhood/adolescence. I believe physical health, sleep, diet, lifestyle & family participation are integral to one's mental health. I will work with your child and family to ensure all aspects of your child's care are addressed as well as discuss & explore medication options.
(475) 234-4113 View (475) 234-4113
Photo of Cassandra Shepard Wellness of Mind LLC., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Old Saybrook, CT
Cassandra Shepard Wellness of Mind LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475  (Online Only)
My approach is to work collaboratively with the clients and focus on teaching, health promotion, clinical guidelines, and integrative care. Cassandra Shepard is dual-licensed as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP), board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center received her Doctorate, Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing from the University of Saint Joseph. I have experience in short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, inpatient, outpatient psychiatric treatment settings, and partial hospitalization program services.
My approach is to work collaboratively with the clients and focus on teaching, health promotion, clinical guidelines, and integrative care. Cassandra Shepard is dual-licensed as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP), board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center received her Doctorate, Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing from the University of Saint Joseph. I have experience in short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, inpatient, outpatient psychiatric treatment settings, and partial hospitalization program services.
(475) 241-0491 View (475) 241-0491

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Irene Topping
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426  (Online Only)
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, school issues, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, school issues, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
(475) 262-9657 View (475) 262-9657
Photo of Wholistic Perspective, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Old Saybrook, CT
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Niantic, CT 06357
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.
View
Photo of Sarah Phillips, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Old Saybrook, CT
Sarah Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Westbrook, CT 06498  (Online Only)
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, school issues, bipolar disorder, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, school issues, bipolar disorder, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
(860) 898-9216 View (860) 898-9216
Photo of Richard Louis O'Sullivan, Psychiatrist in Old Saybrook, CT
Richard Louis O'Sullivan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Clinton, CT 06413
Dr. O'Sullivan is a Harvard and Massachusetts General Hospital trained psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience practicing clinical psychiatry and conducting psychiatric research. He offers medication management, psychotherapy and psychiatric home visits services. He sees patients of all ages including the elderly.
Dr. O'Sullivan is a Harvard and Massachusetts General Hospital trained psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience practicing clinical psychiatry and conducting psychiatric research. He offers medication management, psychotherapy and psychiatric home visits services. He sees patients of all ages including the elderly.
(203) 987-6466 View (203) 987-6466
Photo of Justin W Branham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Old Saybrook, CT
Justin W Branham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, CT 06413  (Online Only)
Welcome to Bespoke Therapy. Justin W. Branham, APRN created this solo practice to offer personalized, high quality treatment that isn’t possible at larger practices. We offer medication management within the frame that it is just one of many possible tools in mental health treatment. We're thrilled that you're considering Bespoke Therapy, and look forward to meeting you.
Welcome to Bespoke Therapy. Justin W. Branham, APRN created this solo practice to offer personalized, high quality treatment that isn’t possible at larger practices. We offer medication management within the frame that it is just one of many possible tools in mental health treatment. We're thrilled that you're considering Bespoke Therapy, and look forward to meeting you.
(860) 854-7112 View (860) 854-7112
Photo of Sound Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatrist in Old Saybrook, CT
Sound Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Essex, CT 06426
Hello. I am a Yale-trained board-certified adult psychiatrist offering combined psychotherapy with/without medication management and medication management alone in my private practice. I am also a clinical faculty member within Yale School of Medicine's Department of Psychiatry. My practice focuses on women's mental health, reproductive psychiatry, and psychodynamic psychotherapy. This type of insight-oriented psychotherapy promotes curiosity and self-awareness about how individuals' past experiences (including childhood dynamics) influence their present-day thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Such insights promote emotional relief.
Hello. I am a Yale-trained board-certified adult psychiatrist offering combined psychotherapy with/without medication management and medication management alone in my private practice. I am also a clinical faculty member within Yale School of Medicine's Department of Psychiatry. My practice focuses on women's mental health, reproductive psychiatry, and psychodynamic psychotherapy. This type of insight-oriented psychotherapy promotes curiosity and self-awareness about how individuals' past experiences (including childhood dynamics) influence their present-day thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Such insights promote emotional relief.
(203) 896-8903 View (203) 896-8903
Photo of Jessika Brasseaux, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Old Saybrook, CT
Jessika Brasseaux
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clinton, CT 06413
Not accepting new clients
Thorough evaluation & diagnosis are primary. Though, within each diagnosis specific symptoms may vary. Thus, I strive to understand you as a whole, unique person. My approach is to partner with and empower you through education & tailored interventions toward healing and living your best life. Interventions are integrative and may include medical review, lab work, computer administrated testing, genetic testing, medications, pharmaceutical grade vitamins/supplements, behavioral/environmental modifications, and collaboration other caregivers on your team. I specialize in adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar and PTSD.
Thorough evaluation & diagnosis are primary. Though, within each diagnosis specific symptoms may vary. Thus, I strive to understand you as a whole, unique person. My approach is to partner with and empower you through education & tailored interventions toward healing and living your best life. Interventions are integrative and may include medical review, lab work, computer administrated testing, genetic testing, medications, pharmaceutical grade vitamins/supplements, behavioral/environmental modifications, and collaboration other caregivers on your team. I specialize in adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar and PTSD.
(860) 390-4883 View (860) 390-4883
Photo of Elisabeth Maryke Kressley, Psychiatrist in Old Saybrook, CT
Elisabeth Maryke Kressley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426
I am Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, and Yale trained Adult psychiatrist. I enjoy treating all ages of people from as young as 3 thru adulthood. I treat ADHD, Depression Anxiety disorders along with behavioral disorders in childhood. I also treat adults, families and couples in addition to individuals with medication and or therapy.
I am Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, and Yale trained Adult psychiatrist. I enjoy treating all ages of people from as young as 3 thru adulthood. I treat ADHD, Depression Anxiety disorders along with behavioral disorders in childhood. I also treat adults, families and couples in addition to individuals with medication and or therapy.
(860) 544-5856 View (860) 544-5856
Photo of Joyce A Tinsley, Psychiatrist in Old Saybrook, CT
Joyce A Tinsley
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Old Lyme, CT 06371
I bring experience and expertise through therapy & medication management. If your psychiatric medication does not relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety or mood instability, you may need a second opinion. Mindful moderation can help you cut down on drinking, stop smoking, or cope with binge eating. You don't have to do this alone. Another area I deal with is acceptance of aging. With older age comes more unwanted challenges than at any other phase of life. We don’t know what will alter our lives, nor when these changes may occur: illness, loss, memory or loneliness, I can help adapt and enjoy the pleasures that older age can bring.
I bring experience and expertise through therapy & medication management. If your psychiatric medication does not relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety or mood instability, you may need a second opinion. Mindful moderation can help you cut down on drinking, stop smoking, or cope with binge eating. You don't have to do this alone. Another area I deal with is acceptance of aging. With older age comes more unwanted challenges than at any other phase of life. We don’t know what will alter our lives, nor when these changes may occur: illness, loss, memory or loneliness, I can help adapt and enjoy the pleasures that older age can bring.
(860) 407-3994 View (860) 407-3994

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Cheryl Henrietta Cottrol, Psychiatrist in Old Saybrook, CT
Cheryl Henrietta Cottrol
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06901
As a Board Certified physician with over 20 years of practice in both Psychiatry and Neurology I have treated patients in academic, public, private and research settings. Whether you have migraines or anxiety; seizures or movement disorders from medications; are feeling depressed or are cognitively impaired; I can work with you to optimize your health.
As a Board Certified physician with over 20 years of practice in both Psychiatry and Neurology I have treated patients in academic, public, private and research settings. Whether you have migraines or anxiety; seizures or movement disorders from medications; are feeling depressed or are cognitively impaired; I can work with you to optimize your health.
(833) 339-0508 View (833) 339-0508
Photo of Sara Khalid, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Old Saybrook, CT
Sara Khalid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
I am a Yale University-educated, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management. One of my favorite concepts is the art of "kintsugi" - when a piece of pottery breaks, it is not hidden or discarded. Instead, it is repaired with gold. The result is a piece that is not just repaired but is even more unique and valuable than before. The cracks are not signs of weakness but marks of resilience, a testament to overcoming adversity. My approach to mental health is similar. The aim is to equip you with tools that highlight your resilience and strength.
I am a Yale University-educated, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management. One of my favorite concepts is the art of "kintsugi" - when a piece of pottery breaks, it is not hidden or discarded. Instead, it is repaired with gold. The result is a piece that is not just repaired but is even more unique and valuable than before. The cracks are not signs of weakness but marks of resilience, a testament to overcoming adversity. My approach to mental health is similar. The aim is to equip you with tools that highlight your resilience and strength.
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Photo of Kary Krochko, Psychiatric Nurse in Old Saybrook, CT
Kary Krochko
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06811
We are currently accepting new clients. We offer Medical Marijuana Treatments for adults in the State of Connecticut.
We are currently accepting new clients. We offer Medical Marijuana Treatments for adults in the State of Connecticut.
(203) 408-7805 View (203) 408-7805
Photo of Rishon Stember, M.D., F.A.C.P., Psychiatrist in Old Saybrook, CT
Rishon Stember, M.D., F.A.C.P.
Psychiatrist, MD, FACP
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CT 06851
I am a psychiatrist, Columbia trained, board certified in general psychiatry, with an extensive background in medicine. I specialize in treating attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, anxiety disorders (panic, phobias, generalized anxiety), mood disorders (depression, bipolar), obsessive compulsive states and post traumatic stress disorder. Treatment is with psychotherapy alone or medication plus psychotherapy. Medication management is offered when another therapist is involved. Appointments are given quickly in a warm and welcoming environment that is confidential. With collaboration, patients are encouraged to make their own treatment decisions.
I am a psychiatrist, Columbia trained, board certified in general psychiatry, with an extensive background in medicine. I specialize in treating attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, anxiety disorders (panic, phobias, generalized anxiety), mood disorders (depression, bipolar), obsessive compulsive states and post traumatic stress disorder. Treatment is with psychotherapy alone or medication plus psychotherapy. Medication management is offered when another therapist is involved. Appointments are given quickly in a warm and welcoming environment that is confidential. With collaboration, patients are encouraged to make their own treatment decisions.
(203) 916-5052 View (203) 916-5052

See more therapy options for Old Saybrook

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Old Saybrook, CT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Old Saybrook, CT who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
86% Depression
86% ADHD
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Medication Management
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Anthem | Elevance

How Psychiatrists in Old Saybrook, CT see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male

FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Old Saybrook?

The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.