Psychiatrists in Southington, CT

Photo of North Star Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
North Star Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C
Verified Verified
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
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 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 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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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 Destination Psychiatry, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Destination Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489
Life is just really challenging right now. On the outside, you look like you have it all together. But on the inside, you're falling apart. You think something is wrong but can't quite put your finger on it. You know you need to reach out for help but can’t muster up the energy to do so. Chances are, you have too much on your plate and feel like you’re missing balance and stability. You know you need to take that first step.
Life is just really challenging right now. On the outside, you look like you have it all together. But on the inside, you're falling apart. You think something is wrong but can't quite put your finger on it. You know you need to reach out for help but can’t muster up the energy to do so. Chances are, you have too much on your plate and feel like you’re missing balance and stability. You know you need to take that first step.
(475) 325-5847 View (475) 325-5847

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Britain, CT 06053  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Patients: Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC holistically works with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time. Thank you.
Accepting NEW Patients: Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC holistically works with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time. Thank you.
(860) 846-3775 View (860) 846-3775
Photo of Zack Doubleday, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Zack Doubleday
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, CT 06037  (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering telehealth only medication management to Connecticut residents. I specialize in treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Binge Eating Disorder, BPD, Depression, PTSD, Insomnia, and various other mental and behavioral health diagnoses. I also provide supportive therapy on a case-by-case basis.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering telehealth only medication management to Connecticut residents. I specialize in treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Binge Eating Disorder, BPD, Depression, PTSD, Insomnia, and various other mental and behavioral health diagnoses. I also provide supportive therapy on a case-by-case basis.
(860) 784-7103 x203 View (860) 784-7103 x203
Photo of SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06704  (Online Only)
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 since 2001. 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 since 2001. We have experience in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses. We help women and families.
(475) 242-0923 View (475) 242-0923
Photo of Dr. Amy R. Salerno, Psychiatrist in Southington, CT
Dr. Amy R. Salerno
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmington, CT 06030
PLEASE note: I am out-of-network and do NOT accept insurance. SPRING is around the corner! This is the season for change. I’m glad you’ve taken this step to learn more about yourself. I am a Board Certified Physician with extensive experience in mental health issues across all life stages. I am Fellowship trained in both Integrative Psychiatry and Maternal Child Health. I offer holistic, culturally competent care, in both English and Spanish.
PLEASE note: I am out-of-network and do NOT accept insurance. SPRING is around the corner! This is the season for change. I’m glad you’ve taken this step to learn more about yourself. I am a Board Certified Physician with extensive experience in mental health issues across all life stages. I am Fellowship trained in both Integrative Psychiatry and Maternal Child Health. I offer holistic, culturally competent care, in both English and Spanish.
(860) 935-6556 View (860) 935-6556
Photo of Infinity Mental Wellness PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Infinity Mental Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmington, CT 06032
Not accepting new clients
Awaken to your unlimited potential for growth and healing with Infinity Mental Wellness. My practice is rooted in a patient-centered approach, where I treat the whole person— mind, brain, body, and soul. As a holistically minded provider, I believe that psychotherapy is an integral tool to expressing our authentic selves and living a limitless life. When indicated, I combine short-term medication management to help with symptom relief, while doing inner-work on processing emotions and healing past trauma.
Awaken to your unlimited potential for growth and healing with Infinity Mental Wellness. My practice is rooted in a patient-centered approach, where I treat the whole person— mind, brain, body, and soul. As a holistically minded provider, I believe that psychotherapy is an integral tool to expressing our authentic selves and living a limitless life. When indicated, I combine short-term medication management to help with symptom relief, while doing inner-work on processing emotions and healing past trauma.
(860) 773-0802 View (860) 773-0802
Photo of Stéphane P Clermont, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Stéphane P Clermont
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06704  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patient. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
Accepting New Patient. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
(860) 431-3331 View (860) 431-3331
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
Photo of Marie Joseph, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Marie Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Berlin, CT 06023
I am a highly skilled and accomplished Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry. During a significant portion of my career, I worked in different healthcare settings, including the primary care setting, home care setting, and psychiatric mental health. She collaborated with interdisciplinary team members from initial patient assessments to treatment planning, medication management, counseling, and discharge. I have maintained a strong commitment to Best Practices, standards of excellence, and continuous improvement.
I am a highly skilled and accomplished Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry. During a significant portion of my career, I worked in different healthcare settings, including the primary care setting, home care setting, and psychiatric mental health. She collaborated with interdisciplinary team members from initial patient assessments to treatment planning, medication management, counseling, and discharge. I have maintained a strong commitment to Best Practices, standards of excellence, and continuous improvement.
(860) 775-4975 View (860) 775-4975
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 David A. Krulee, Psychiatrist in Southington, CT
David A. Krulee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheshire, CT 06410
Landmark Center for Behavior Health is a multi-disciplinary, mental health practice offering a wide range of counseling and psychiatric services. We treat children, adolescents, adults, couples and families using comprehensive, evidenced-based, and eclectic approaches. Whether you are looking for therapy, medication-management, or both, those services are available from a member of our team.
Landmark Center for Behavior Health is a multi-disciplinary, mental health practice offering a wide range of counseling and psychiatric services. We treat children, adolescents, adults, couples and families using comprehensive, evidenced-based, and eclectic approaches. Whether you are looking for therapy, medication-management, or both, those services are available from a member of our team.
(860) 631-4415 View (860) 631-4415
Photo of Debra Sicilian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Debra Sicilian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Berlin, CT 06023  (Online Only)
My name is Debra Sicilian, and I am a dedicated psychiatric consultant offering open and genuine support for your well-being. With extensive clinical experience, I deeply grasp brain function, medications, and treatments. My unwavering commitment to uncovering the root causes behind distressing symptoms is what sets me apart. The complexity of the brain, governing various aspects of our being, drives my fascination. I acknowledge the uniqueness of each individual's neurodiversity, influencing treatment responses.
My name is Debra Sicilian, and I am a dedicated psychiatric consultant offering open and genuine support for your well-being. With extensive clinical experience, I deeply grasp brain function, medications, and treatments. My unwavering commitment to uncovering the root causes behind distressing symptoms is what sets me apart. The complexity of the brain, governing various aspects of our being, drives my fascination. I acknowledge the uniqueness of each individual's neurodiversity, influencing treatment responses.
(475) 405-2067 View (475) 405-2067
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 Merit Nwosu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Southington, CT
Merit Nwosu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06702  (Online Only)
Are you suffering from a mood disorder such as depression or anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder, or OCD? Have you tried therapy before, but you just don’t seem to find someone you feel a connection with? Mental health challenges can keep you from living the life you want. You may feel lost, hopeless, or disempowered, but you don’t have to struggle alone. Connect with Merit today to learn important tools to nurture your mental health and make life more enjoyable and fulfilling. Merit offers a blend of individual therapy and medication management and is ready to help you reach the fulfilling life you deserve.
Are you suffering from a mood disorder such as depression or anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder, or OCD? Have you tried therapy before, but you just don’t seem to find someone you feel a connection with? Mental health challenges can keep you from living the life you want. You may feel lost, hopeless, or disempowered, but you don’t have to struggle alone. Connect with Merit today to learn important tools to nurture your mental health and make life more enjoyable and fulfilling. Merit offers a blend of individual therapy and medication management and is ready to help you reach the fulfilling life you deserve.
(860) 791-1805 View (860) 791-1805

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% Bipolar Disorder
86% ADHD
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Medication Management
71% 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

72% In Person and Online
28% 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.