Psychiatrists in Southington, CT

Alessandra Buonopane
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Buonopane is a Psychiatrist who is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She obtained her degree in Psychiatry in 2000 from the Yale School of Medicine, where she also received an award in Excellence in Teaching and an award in Research on Severe Mental Illness by the American Psychiatric Association. She treats patients suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and PTSD. Her practice has a holistic approach, which combines pharmacology with mindfulness, meditation, diet and exercise. Dr. Buonopane supports Ukraine working as volunteer Psychiatrist with TelehelpUkraine.
Dr. Buonopane is a Psychiatrist who is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She obtained her degree in Psychiatry in 2000 from the Yale School of Medicine, where she also received an award in Excellence in Teaching and an award in Research on Severe Mental Illness by the American Psychiatric Association. She treats patients suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and PTSD. Her practice has a holistic approach, which combines pharmacology with mindfulness, meditation, diet and exercise. Dr. Buonopane supports Ukraine working as volunteer Psychiatrist with TelehelpUkraine.
(475) 219-1050 View (475) 219-1050
Photo of Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC, Psychiatrist in Southington, CT
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases. Any individual in need is eligible to receive services regardless of race, religion, disability, national origin or gender, while protecting the dignity and privacy of all individuals served.
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases. Any individual in need is eligible to receive services regardless of race, religion, disability, national origin or gender, while protecting the dignity and privacy of all individuals served.
(860) 406-7650 x206 View (860) 406-7650 x206
Photo of North Star Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
North Star Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489
At North Star Wellness, we are dedicated to guiding you on your journey to mental wellness. We understand the challenges that individuals and families face when dealing with mental health concerns, and we are here to provide you with the highest level of care and support throughout your healing process.
At North Star Wellness, we are dedicated to guiding you on your journey to mental wellness. We understand the challenges that individuals and families face when dealing with mental health concerns, and we are here to provide you with the highest level of care and support throughout your healing process.
(860) 851-4494 View (860) 851-4494
Photo of George J Costanzo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
George J Costanzo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DC APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489  (Online Only)
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (APRN), licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan. At our practice, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications conservatively, while always incorporating holistic methods to assist in recovery. I have 30 years of experience as a chiropractor, treating patients without the use of medication. Now, with the ability to prescribe medication, I carry with me the philosophy that judicious medication use is key in treatment plans. My strength is in adolescents, adults and geriatric patients.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (APRN), licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan. At our practice, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications conservatively, while always incorporating holistic methods to assist in recovery. I have 30 years of experience as a chiropractor, treating patients without the use of medication. Now, with the ability to prescribe medication, I carry with me the philosophy that judicious medication use is key in treatment plans. My strength is in adolescents, adults and geriatric patients.
(860) 863-1289 View (860) 863-1289
Photo of Kary Krochko, Psychiatric Nurse in Southington, CT
Kary Krochko
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN
Verified Verified
Southington, CT 06489
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 Wholistic Perspective, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Southington, CT 06489
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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More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Psych Solutions/ Gladys Quinones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Psych Solutions/ Gladys Quinones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, ANP-BC
Verified Verified
New Britain, CT 06050  (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients who are struggling with a broad range of psychiatric issues including Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Mood Disorders, OCD, PTSD, ADHD Bipolar Disorder, Sleeping Disorders and other mental health conditions. I treat clients throughout the life span.
I have experience working with clients who are struggling with a broad range of psychiatric issues including Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Mood Disorders, OCD, PTSD, ADHD Bipolar Disorder, Sleeping Disorders and other mental health conditions. I treat clients throughout the life span.
(860) 845-0989 View (860) 845-0989
Photo of Ashley LaBonte, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, 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 Serrita Roper, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Serrita Roper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06110
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer medication management for mood disorders and ADHD. I offer both in-person and telehealth (for established patients). I am passionate about mental health and helping my patients achieve the proper tools to be the best versions of themselves.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer medication management for mood disorders and ADHD. I offer both in-person and telehealth (for established patients). I am passionate about mental health and helping my patients achieve the proper tools to be the best versions of themselves.
(860) 485-7416 View (860) 485-7416
Photo of Katarzyna Tesz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Katarzyna Tesz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kensington, CT 06037
Hello! My name is Katarzyna (Kat) Tesz. As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, comprehensive and evidence-based care. I’m committed to working collaboratively with my patients in a non-judgmental environment so you feel safe, accepted, supported, and comfortable. I’m also happy to work together with your psychotherapist and your medical providers so that your psychiatric, medical, and psychological care are well-coordinated to best serve you. I accept most insurances, have a flexible schedule, and offer office-based and telehealth appointments for your convenience.
Hello! My name is Katarzyna (Kat) Tesz. As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, comprehensive and evidence-based care. I’m committed to working collaboratively with my patients in a non-judgmental environment so you feel safe, accepted, supported, and comfortable. I’m also happy to work together with your psychotherapist and your medical providers so that your psychiatric, medical, and psychological care are well-coordinated to best serve you. I accept most insurances, have a flexible schedule, and offer office-based and telehealth appointments for your convenience.
(860) 851-4856 x203 View (860) 851-4856 x203
Photo of BE VEry Resilient, L.L.C., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
BE VEry Resilient, L.L.C.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Britain, CT 06052
The mission of BE VEry Resilient is to foster resilience by encouraging, uplifting, restoring, and renewing emotional strength, promoting balanced and stable emotions. Our goal for each individual is to cultivate therapeutic skills that enhance mental well-being and empower effective management of daily challenges. Sheneese, the owner/founder of BE VEry Resilient, brings over 10 years of experience in the nursing field, with a significant focus on mental health. Having practiced as a mental health provider in community outpatient settings, Sheneese has dedicated her career to supporting adults from diverse backgrounds.
The mission of BE VEry Resilient is to foster resilience by encouraging, uplifting, restoring, and renewing emotional strength, promoting balanced and stable emotions. Our goal for each individual is to cultivate therapeutic skills that enhance mental well-being and empower effective management of daily challenges. Sheneese, the owner/founder of BE VEry Resilient, brings over 10 years of experience in the nursing field, with a significant focus on mental health. Having practiced as a mental health provider in community outpatient settings, Sheneese has dedicated her career to supporting adults from diverse backgrounds.
(203) 350-7077 View (203) 350-7077
Photo of Zen Wellness Care LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Zen Wellness Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-BC, RN, MSN
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06032
I am a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner serving the Greater Hartford. My profound passion for holistic health and well-being began during my childhood in Jamaica and has continued to flourish throughout my career. With a focus on a conservative and holistic approach, my mission is to empower individuals to recognize their complete selves, addressing physical, mental, emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual aspects. I Emphasize preventive measures, symptom management, problem-solving, and medication management to achieve and maintain well-being. Ensuring that clients are heard and understood.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner serving the Greater Hartford. My profound passion for holistic health and well-being began during my childhood in Jamaica and has continued to flourish throughout my career. With a focus on a conservative and holistic approach, my mission is to empower individuals to recognize their complete selves, addressing physical, mental, emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual aspects. I Emphasize preventive measures, symptom management, problem-solving, and medication management to achieve and maintain well-being. Ensuring that clients are heard and understood.
(860) 362-3214 View (860) 362-3214
Photo of Liv Well Behavioral Health Services (LWBHS), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Liv Well Behavioral Health Services (LWBHS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
New Britain, CT 06052  (Online Only)
Doctorate Degree studies the impact of trauma-informed therapies throughout the life span. Chief Researcher: Building Resilience Among Veterans: TRM, CRM, EMDR to reduce PTSD, depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms. Principal Research Investigator of EMDR Therapy for inner-city adolescents to enhance resiliency. Licensed, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Yale-New Haven Psych & Medical Attending for Adult & Geriatrics Inpatient units, and Adjunct Professor at FFU Fairfield University in Psychiatry/Mental Health. Expertise in Psychopathology, Psychopharmacology, Psychotherapy, and Cultural Diversity.
Doctorate Degree studies the impact of trauma-informed therapies throughout the life span. Chief Researcher: Building Resilience Among Veterans: TRM, CRM, EMDR to reduce PTSD, depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms. Principal Research Investigator of EMDR Therapy for inner-city adolescents to enhance resiliency. Licensed, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Yale-New Haven Psych & Medical Attending for Adult & Geriatrics Inpatient units, and Adjunct Professor at FFU Fairfield University in Psychiatry/Mental Health. Expertise in Psychopathology, Psychopharmacology, Psychotherapy, and Cultural Diversity.
(959) 207-2714 View (959) 207-2714
Photo of Amber Corbalis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Amber Corbalis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol, CT 06010
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 SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PCCN, APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
New Britain, CT 06050
Have you ever been prescribed medication and rushed out of the provider's door? No more! Are you in therapy now but feel like your symptoms are not improving? We are here to help you and your family. We have a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner. We have experience in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses. We help women and families.
Have you ever been prescribed medication and rushed out of the provider's door? No more! Are you in therapy now but feel like your symptoms are not improving? We are here to help you and your family. We have a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner. We have experience in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses. We help women and families.
(860) 591-8115 View (860) 591-8115
Photo of Wilmot lambert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Wilmot lambert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Berlin, CT 06023  (Online Only)
I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.
I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.
(203) 318-9159 View (203) 318-9159
Professional Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newington, CT 06111  (Online Only)
My name is Alisa DaCosta Rodrigues. I'm currently based in Connecticut but I am originally from New York City. I completed my graduate degree at Catholic University of America and I am a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner with specialty in psychiatry. I am skilled in assessing and treating a variety of mental health disorders including anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Depression, Bipolar, and so forth. My hobbies outside of work are hiking, biking, and spending time with my family. I look forward in helping you in achieving optimal level of health!"
My name is Alisa DaCosta Rodrigues. I'm currently based in Connecticut but I am originally from New York City. I completed my graduate degree at Catholic University of America and I am a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner with specialty in psychiatry. I am skilled in assessing and treating a variety of mental health disorders including anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Depression, Bipolar, and so forth. My hobbies outside of work are hiking, biking, and spending time with my family. I look forward in helping you in achieving optimal level of health!"
(860) 813-3672 View (860) 813-3672
Photo of Daley Prayer NP, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Daley Prayer NP, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Berlin, CT 06023  (Online Only)
am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who received my degree from Walden University, with over 20 years of experience in healthcare. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and a certified medical marijuana provider, I treat adolescents, adults, and geriatric clients. My focus areas are treating clients with Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Mood disorders, and Substance use disorders.
am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who received my degree from Walden University, with over 20 years of experience in healthcare. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and a certified medical marijuana provider, I treat adolescents, adults, and geriatric clients. My focus areas are treating clients with Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Mood disorders, and Substance use disorders.
(914) 873-4180 View (914) 873-4180
Photo of Betsy LaRose, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Betsy LaRose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PCCN, FNP-C, APRN
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06702
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
(860) 813-3562 View (860) 813-3562
Photo of Sound Mynd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Sound Mynd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN,, APRN, FNP-C, PMHPBC
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06030
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, ADHD 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, ADHD 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

See more therapy options for Southington

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Southington, CT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Southington, CT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Bipolar Disorder
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
83% Medication Management
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Optum
80% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Southington, CT see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Southington?

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.