Psychiatrists in Cheshire, CT

Photo of Melissa Gad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
Melissa Gad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410  (Online Only)
Melissa Gad is a board-certified, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) specializing in psychiatric-mental health, at Advanced TelePsych. With 18 years experience as an APRN, and a combined total of 33 years experience working as a Registered Nurse, she has helped a diverse array of patients tackle various mental health concerns. These range from anxiety and depression, to more complex psychiatric disorders.
Melissa Gad is a board-certified, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) specializing in psychiatric-mental health, at Advanced TelePsych. With 18 years experience as an APRN, and a combined total of 33 years experience working as a Registered Nurse, she has helped a diverse array of patients tackle various mental health concerns. These range from anxiety and depression, to more complex psychiatric disorders.
(475) 405-1605 View (475) 405-1605
Photo of John M. de Figueiredo, M.D., LLC, Psychiatrist in Cheshire, CT
John M. de Figueiredo, M.D., LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
Dr. de Figueiredo is a Johns Hopkins trained psychiatrist and Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Yale. He has been in practice over 30 years. He offers telepsychiatry (appointments through video conferencing) throughout Connecticut, New York, Florida, and Arizona. He typically offers medication management for depression and anxiety and supportive psychotherapy for dealing effectively with stressful situations and restoring the balance and harmony in life. He is the recipient of several awards, including the Exemplary Psychiatrist Award of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). He participates in most insurance plans.
Dr. de Figueiredo is a Johns Hopkins trained psychiatrist and Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Yale. He has been in practice over 30 years. He offers telepsychiatry (appointments through video conferencing) throughout Connecticut, New York, Florida, and Arizona. He typically offers medication management for depression and anxiety and supportive psychotherapy for dealing effectively with stressful situations and restoring the balance and harmony in life. He is the recipient of several awards, including the Exemplary Psychiatrist Award of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). He participates in most insurance plans.
(475) 253-3762 View (475) 253-3762
Photo of ABetterU LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
ABetterU LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MPH
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
Life is an amazing and unpredictable journey we all share. It can bring joy, success, love and optimism, and also present extreme challenges, loss, sadness, grief and despair. We can sometimes feel overwhelmed, stressed or "stuck" for many reasons involving relationships, life transitions, illness, trauma, and personal circumstances. This can lead to depression, anxiety, mood swings and uncertainty about how to feel better and move forward. Regardless of what challenges you are facing, no situation is hopeless and there is always a way forward to a better you and and a better life.
Life is an amazing and unpredictable journey we all share. It can bring joy, success, love and optimism, and also present extreme challenges, loss, sadness, grief and despair. We can sometimes feel overwhelmed, stressed or "stuck" for many reasons involving relationships, life transitions, illness, trauma, and personal circumstances. This can lead to depression, anxiety, mood swings and uncertainty about how to feel better and move forward. Regardless of what challenges you are facing, no situation is hopeless and there is always a way forward to a better you and and a better life.
(203) 590-8859 View (203) 590-8859
Photo of Ashley LaBonte, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
Ashley LaBonte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410  (Online Only)
Ashley LaBonte is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, receiving her Master’s Degree in Nursing from the University of Saint Joseph in 2018. Since that time, she has worked in a variety of settings, including inpatient psychiatric units, intensive outpatient treatment programs and more recently in outpatient community mental health.
Ashley LaBonte is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, receiving her Master’s Degree in Nursing from the University of Saint Joseph in 2018. Since that time, she has worked in a variety of settings, including inpatient psychiatric units, intensive outpatient treatment programs and more recently in outpatient community mental health.
(888) 344-3893 View (888) 344-3893
Photo of Arthur Brouse, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
Arthur Brouse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410  (Online Only)
Arthur "Eddie" Brouse is a board-certified, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specializing in psychiatric mental health, at Advanced TelePsych. In his own words, "Mental illness is something that is extremely personal, yet often affects more than just one person. Worry, sadness, or feeling overwhelmed are only a few symptoms which cause difficulty for a person to function normally. Is there something that isn’t quite right which causes you trouble? Have you noticed your mood or issues have been affecting not just you, but also those around you? Are you isolating, or feeling alone? Do you feel the roller coaster is out of control?"
Arthur "Eddie" Brouse is a board-certified, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specializing in psychiatric mental health, at Advanced TelePsych. In his own words, "Mental illness is something that is extremely personal, yet often affects more than just one person. Worry, sadness, or feeling overwhelmed are only a few symptoms which cause difficulty for a person to function normally. Is there something that isn’t quite right which causes you trouble? Have you noticed your mood or issues have been affecting not just you, but also those around you? Are you isolating, or feeling alone? Do you feel the roller coaster is out of control?"
(203) 872-5829 View (203) 872-5829
Photo of Johnson-Allen Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
Johnson-Allen Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410  (Online Only)
My name is Deon and I’m YOUR Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-practicing in the Hartford County and NYC. I try to find +ve meaning in everyday's life events, even amidst chaos and stress. I utilize mindfulness and spirituality and integrating it with psychiatric treatments ,incl. complementary approaches to helping people manage depression, anxiety, PTSD and stress, and to live happier and more fulfilling lives. Through stories of human resilience, the power of love and support, I have come to believe that you can achieve anything. My goal is to create a safe and nonjudgemental space for you to receive excellent care. BELIEVE !
My name is Deon and I’m YOUR Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-practicing in the Hartford County and NYC. I try to find +ve meaning in everyday's life events, even amidst chaos and stress. I utilize mindfulness and spirituality and integrating it with psychiatric treatments ,incl. complementary approaches to helping people manage depression, anxiety, PTSD and stress, and to live happier and more fulfilling lives. Through stories of human resilience, the power of love and support, I have come to believe that you can achieve anything. My goal is to create a safe and nonjudgemental space for you to receive excellent care. BELIEVE !
(475) 255-7411 View (475) 255-7411
Photo of Maegan Monterose, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
Maegan Monterose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410  (Online Only)
Struggling with mental health and feeling lost in the journey towards wellness? Are you seeking a compassionate expert to guide you towards a brighter, more stable future? I understand your search for relief and clarity amidst these challenges. As a dedicated mental health professional, my mission is to light your path towards healing and peace of mind. Together, we can create a treatment plan that you understand and actively participate in, paving the way towards a life of fulfillment and stability. I offer psychiatric medication management.
Struggling with mental health and feeling lost in the journey towards wellness? Are you seeking a compassionate expert to guide you towards a brighter, more stable future? I understand your search for relief and clarity amidst these challenges. As a dedicated mental health professional, my mission is to light your path towards healing and peace of mind. Together, we can create a treatment plan that you understand and actively participate in, paving the way towards a life of fulfillment and stability. I offer psychiatric medication management.
(860) 854-9237 View (860) 854-9237
Photo of John T Palma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
John T Palma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
I'm a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner that likes to take the appropriate time to get to know the needs and objectives of my clients. I specialize in adults but will see children 13 and older depending on the case. I treat individuals suffering from a variety of conditions, such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. I value the input of those I work with and through collaboration we will achieve the best possible outcome.
I'm a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner that likes to take the appropriate time to get to know the needs and objectives of my clients. I specialize in adults but will see children 13 and older depending on the case. I treat individuals suffering from a variety of conditions, such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. I value the input of those I work with and through collaboration we will achieve the best possible outcome.
(203) 404-6074 View (203) 404-6074
Photo of Advanced TelePsych, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
Advanced TelePsych, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410  (Online Only)
At Advanced Telepsych, we have providers with extensive knowledge in mental health, in CT, FL, and MA. Our providers specialize in psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapy in a virtual care environment. We offer these services via live video, from the convenience of your own private space, on a confidential/HIPAA compliant, secure platform.
At Advanced Telepsych, we have providers with extensive knowledge in mental health, in CT, FL, and MA. Our providers specialize in psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapy in a virtual care environment. We offer these services via live video, from the convenience of your own private space, on a confidential/HIPAA compliant, secure platform.
(860) 590-8457 View (860) 590-8457
Photo of Christine Aigbobun, Physician Assistant in Cheshire, CT
Christine Aigbobun
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410  (Online Only)
Christine believes in treating people so that their individual and therapeutic goals are met and is dedicated to serving and healing the community through patient-centered care. Treatment should be an avenue to show compassion and understanding to patients and their needs without judgment or stigma whether it is through mediation, therapy, or both.
Christine believes in treating people so that their individual and therapeutic goals are met and is dedicated to serving and healing the community through patient-centered care. Treatment should be an avenue to show compassion and understanding to patients and their needs without judgment or stigma whether it is through mediation, therapy, or both.
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Photo of Gina M Reiners, Psychiatric Nurse in Cheshire, CT
Gina M Reiners
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APRN, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
Waitlist for new clients
I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), who is certified as Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with prescriptive rights to prescribe psychiatric medications. I possess over 30 years of experience as a clinician, director,and professor. My practice focuses on psychotherapy and/or medication management based on the needs of my patients. I work in partnership by assisting patients to better manage their stressors. I respect and actively listen to my patients so they attain their individualized goals. I am compassionate and passionate about helping patients discover how they can find balance in their lives.
I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), who is certified as Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with prescriptive rights to prescribe psychiatric medications. I possess over 30 years of experience as a clinician, director,and professor. My practice focuses on psychotherapy and/or medication management based on the needs of my patients. I work in partnership by assisting patients to better manage their stressors. I respect and actively listen to my patients so they attain their individualized goals. I am compassionate and passionate about helping patients discover how they can find balance in their lives.
(203) 819-7785 View (203) 819-7785
Photo of Dr. Chanon C. Biceglia, DNP of Medica Today LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
Dr. Chanon C. Biceglia, DNP of Medica Today LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, NP-C, APRN
Verified Verified
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 Wholistic Perspective, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
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.
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Photo of Back to Balance LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
Back to Balance LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with anxiety, panic, depression, mood swings, difficulty focusing, poor motivation, insomnia or do you know anyone who does? If you are in a need of help, support, or guidance I may be able to help. I'm an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) holding full prescriptive authority to serve the needs of clients in Connecticut. My unique approach involves providing holistic mental health intervention that include acupuncture, cupping, aromatherapy, and supplements including injectable Vitamin B12, D3, and Tri-Boost in addition to traditional psychiatric medication.
Are you struggling with anxiety, panic, depression, mood swings, difficulty focusing, poor motivation, insomnia or do you know anyone who does? If you are in a need of help, support, or guidance I may be able to help. I'm an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) holding full prescriptive authority to serve the needs of clients in Connecticut. My unique approach involves providing holistic mental health intervention that include acupuncture, cupping, aromatherapy, and supplements including injectable Vitamin B12, D3, and Tri-Boost in addition to traditional psychiatric medication.
(203) 403-6232 View (203) 403-6232
Photo of Diana Lankenau, Psychiatric Nurse in Cheshire, CT
Diana Lankenau
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
Diana Lankenau is a board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specialized in psychiatric mental health at Lankenau Health Services. In her own words: “Life is a journey. We all struggle in understanding our own thoughts, emotions, insecurities, perceptions, and behaviors. Often times, we compare ourselves to others in search for the self”. Diana attempts to help others in understanding that mental health conflicts are very common. Showing emotion during these hard times is not a sign of weakness, or vulnerability but inner strength.
Diana Lankenau is a board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specialized in psychiatric mental health at Lankenau Health Services. In her own words: “Life is a journey. We all struggle in understanding our own thoughts, emotions, insecurities, perceptions, and behaviors. Often times, we compare ourselves to others in search for the self”. Diana attempts to help others in understanding that mental health conflicts are very common. Showing emotion during these hard times is not a sign of weakness, or vulnerability but inner strength.
(786) 743-4825 View (786) 743-4825
Photo of Beatrice Peku, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
Beatrice Peku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheshire, CT 06410
Mental and behavioral health are integral parts of our overall health and wellbeing. If you are one of over 57 million Americans suffering from mental illness, Thorough Immersion Health is here to help. Our approach to restoring health and wellbeing is patient centered, holistic, and culturally sensitive. We prioritize fleshing out each patient’s unique underlying biological, environmental, and socioeconomic factors to inform diagnosis and direct treatment. We offer both in-person and virtual consults for convenience.
Mental and behavioral health are integral parts of our overall health and wellbeing. If you are one of over 57 million Americans suffering from mental illness, Thorough Immersion Health is here to help. Our approach to restoring health and wellbeing is patient centered, holistic, and culturally sensitive. We prioritize fleshing out each patient’s unique underlying biological, environmental, and socioeconomic factors to inform diagnosis and direct treatment. We offer both in-person and virtual consults for convenience.
(203) 904-2576 View (203) 904-2576
Photo of Celeste Foster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
Celeste Foster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheshire, CT 06408  (Online Only)
My personal experience gives me the ability to be more empathic with the clients that I treat. I am able to bring a different perspective to treating my clients, as I have been on both sides. I am hardworking and dedicated, always looking for additional training to broaden my knowledge and better my care. I'm dedicated to the well-being of my clients and helping them achieve their optimal level of emotional wellness. I am ready to embark on the journey of collaborating and welcoming input from client's to help them become successful.
My personal experience gives me the ability to be more empathic with the clients that I treat. I am able to bring a different perspective to treating my clients, as I have been on both sides. I am hardworking and dedicated, always looking for additional training to broaden my knowledge and better my care. I'm dedicated to the well-being of my clients and helping them achieve their optimal level of emotional wellness. I am ready to embark on the journey of collaborating and welcoming input from client's to help them become successful.
(334) 463-3660 View (334) 463-3660
Photo of Amber Corbalis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
Amber Corbalis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheshire, CT 06408
Hi! I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about the mental health field. I continuously strive to help my patients find healing through individualized treatment modalities. There is truth to the common phrase “a sound mind in a sound body” as I believe there is a strong, bi-directional relationship between both physical & mental health. My commitment to purpose & resolve in medicine also drives me to the research field, where my work was recently published in Neurology, Psychiatry, & Brain Research.
Hi! I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about the mental health field. I continuously strive to help my patients find healing through individualized treatment modalities. There is truth to the common phrase “a sound mind in a sound body” as I believe there is a strong, bi-directional relationship between both physical & mental health. My commitment to purpose & resolve in medicine also drives me to the research field, where my work was recently published in Neurology, Psychiatry, & Brain Research.
(860) 792-4667 View (860) 792-4667
Photo of Liv Well Behavioral Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
Liv Well Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheshire, CT 06411
Serving individuals throughout the lifespan: Adolescents, young adult, mature adults, and geriatric population.
Serving individuals throughout the lifespan: Adolescents, young adult, mature adults, and geriatric population.
(860) 485-7309 View (860) 485-7309
Photo of Emily Friedman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cheshire, CT
Emily Friedman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheshire, CT 06408  (Online Only)
With more than 8 years of experience working in the mental health field helping clients achieve their vision of wellness, stability and peace, I offer a safe, affirming, nonjudgmental space to share where you've been and envision where you'd like to go. I have worked in substance use disorder programs as well as intensive outpatient and inpatient psychiatric settings.
With more than 8 years of experience working in the mental health field helping clients achieve their vision of wellness, stability and peace, I offer a safe, affirming, nonjudgmental space to share where you've been and envision where you'd like to go. I have worked in substance use disorder programs as well as intensive outpatient and inpatient psychiatric settings.
(475) 897-5578 View (475) 897-5578

See more therapy options for Cheshire

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Cheshire, CT

20+

Average cost per session

$215

Psychiatrists in Cheshire, CT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
87% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
87% Bipolar Disorder
83% ADHD
70% Medication Management
65% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Cheshire, CT see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Cheshire?

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.