Psychiatrists in Southington, CT

Photo of Kelli Bernier - North Star Wellness, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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 Bassam Awwa - Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC, MD, Psychiatrist
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, DC APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(203) 680-0030 View (203) 680-0030
Photo of Kary Krochko, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse
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 Theresa Antwi - Wholistic Perspective, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(203) 433-6890 View (203) 433-6890

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Georgina Twumasi - Psych On Demand and Man Up Wellness, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psych On Demand and Man Up Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Britain, CT 06053  (Online Only)
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering 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 Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am an expert in clinical psychopharmacology and I treat all adult and pediatric disorders I see individuals from their early teens through middle age and beyond.
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering 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 Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am an expert in clinical psychopharmacology and I treat all adult and pediatric disorders I see individuals from their early teens through middle age and beyond.
(860) 288-5571 View (860) 288-5571
Photo of Gladys Quinones - Psych Solutions/ Gladys Quinones, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, ANP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psych Solutions/ Gladys Quinones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, ANP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Amber Corbalis, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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 Holly Hillburn, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holly Hillburn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111
I specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry and work with kids, ages 4 to 21. Please visit www.centralpsychiatry.com for details. I've been a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse since 2010 and graduated from the University of Rochester School of Nursing, in Western New York. I have worked alongside child psychiatrists for over a decade and attend the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry annual training academy. These experiences have enhanced my knowledge of pediatric psychopharmacology. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, clarify psychiatric diagnoses, and prescribe psychotropic medication.
I specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry and work with kids, ages 4 to 21. Please visit www.centralpsychiatry.com for details. I've been a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse since 2010 and graduated from the University of Rochester School of Nursing, in Western New York. I have worked alongside child psychiatrists for over a decade and attend the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry annual training academy. These experiences have enhanced my knowledge of pediatric psychopharmacology. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, clarify psychiatric diagnoses, and prescribe psychotropic medication.
(860) 467-0559 View (860) 467-0559
Photo of Maryfrances Lanosa-DeSteno, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maryfrances Lanosa-DeSteno
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06032  (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner (APRN), with a concentration as an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. I have years of mental health treatment experience, focusing with a holistic approach towards the adult and senior populations. Through lifestyle and behavioral therapy, coupled with the responsible use of medication when clinically indicated, I have realized tremendous success with my patients. Let's work together!
I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner (APRN), with a concentration as an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. I have years of mental health treatment experience, focusing with a holistic approach towards the adult and senior populations. Through lifestyle and behavioral therapy, coupled with the responsible use of medication when clinically indicated, I have realized tremendous success with my patients. Let's work together!
(203) 680-0030 View (203) 680-0030
Photo of Hye Sil Adams, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hye Sil Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Berlin, CT 06023
Currently accepting new clients through a waitlist. Please inquire for details. Are you grappling with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or ADHD? Perhaps you're seeking ways to cope with life's challenges or transitions. At Simply Lotus Health PLLC, I offer medication management and psychotherapy tailored to your unique needs. Explore www.simplylotushealth.com to learn about our philosophy and approach to care, which is rooted in resilience and personal growth.
Currently accepting new clients through a waitlist. Please inquire for details. Are you grappling with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or ADHD? Perhaps you're seeking ways to cope with life's challenges or transitions. At Simply Lotus Health PLLC, I offer medication management and psychotherapy tailored to your unique needs. Explore www.simplylotushealth.com to learn about our philosophy and approach to care, which is rooted in resilience and personal growth.
(860) 544-5625 View (860) 544-5625
Photo of Ogechi Ebere - Sound Mynd, MSN,, APRN, FNP-C, PMHPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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 Martha Stewart - Five Corners Behavioral Health, MS,  MPH, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Five Corners Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MPH, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06032
Marti Stewart is a Nurse Practitioner who is board certified in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine. She sees patients age 16 and up. Marti’s specialties include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Depression.
Marti Stewart is a Nurse Practitioner who is board certified in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine. She sees patients age 16 and up. Marti’s specialties include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Depression.
(860) 821-7678 View (860) 821-7678
Photo of Milton Jason Brown, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Milton Jason Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Meriden, CT 06451  (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients. I have worked with outpatient clients of all ages that are struggling with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, gender identity issues, and psychiatric symptoms associated with chronic medical disorders.
Now accepting new patients. I have worked with outpatient clients of all ages that are struggling with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, gender identity issues, and psychiatric symptoms associated with chronic medical disorders.
(860) 864-5528 View (860) 864-5528
Photo of David A. Krulee, MD, Psychiatrist
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 Evelyn Boateng, FNP, PMHNP , APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Evelyn Boateng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP , APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol, CT 06010
I am board certified in both family medicine, psychiatric mental health and therapy. I treat the whole person as a primary care provider, PCP. I believe that taking care of your physical and mental health is holistic and deeply personal. Compassionate and knowledgeable care is the key to successful wellness.
I am board certified in both family medicine, psychiatric mental health and therapy. I treat the whole person as a primary care provider, PCP. I believe that taking care of your physical and mental health is holistic and deeply personal. Compassionate and knowledgeable care is the key to successful wellness.
(860) 901-0611 View (860) 901-0611
Photo of Onyebuchi Ogbo - Good Path Health Services, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Good Path Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Berlin, CT 06023
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired, depressed, lack concentration or motivation? Are you having trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you awaken? If any of the above describes you, it takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. We understand and have experienced the emotional challenges that life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop personalized treatment approach that can help you on your mental health journey. You are not alone.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired, depressed, lack concentration or motivation? Are you having trouble sleeping at night and feel tired when you awaken? If any of the above describes you, it takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. We understand and have experienced the emotional challenges that life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop personalized treatment approach that can help you on your mental health journey. You are not alone.
(475) 323-6012 View (475) 323-6012
Photo of Olivia Carter - Liv Well Behavioral Health Services (LWBHS), DNP,  , APRN,  PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(860) 891-2936 View (860) 891-2936
Photo of Cassandra C Shepard - Cassandra Shepard Wellness of Mind LLC., DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cassandra Shepard Wellness of Mind LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06110  (Online Only)
The approach is working collaboratively with the clients and focus on teaching, health promotion, clinical guidelines, and integrative care. Cassandra is dual-licensed as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP), board-certified and received her Doctorate of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing. She has experience in short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, inpatient, outpatient psychiatric treatment settings, teaching at a prestigious University, hospitalization care and partial hospitalization program services.
The approach is working collaboratively with the clients and focus on teaching, health promotion, clinical guidelines, and integrative care. Cassandra is dual-licensed as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP), board-certified and received her Doctorate of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing. She has experience in short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, inpatient, outpatient psychiatric treatment settings, teaching at a prestigious University, hospitalization care and partial hospitalization program services.
(475) 241-0491 View (475) 241-0491
Photo of Kelly K. Prior, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly K. Prior
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Newington, CT 06111  (Online Only)
Jenna Smith APRN at jennasmithaprn.com is my former student and has same week admissions! I am directing people to her as I am currently full. Are you struggling with feelings of sadness and inability to enjoy things that used to make you happy? Are you a mother having a rough time managing "having it all?" Are you having difficulties focusing on your work? I have a special interest in helping mothers, working professionals, nurses, therapists, gamer geeks, and graduate students. I strive to have an office that supports the needs of neurodiverse population.
Jenna Smith APRN at jennasmithaprn.com is my former student and has same week admissions! I am directing people to her as I am currently full. Are you struggling with feelings of sadness and inability to enjoy things that used to make you happy? Are you a mother having a rough time managing "having it all?" Are you having difficulties focusing on your work? I have a special interest in helping mothers, working professionals, nurses, therapists, gamer geeks, and graduate students. I strive to have an office that supports the needs of neurodiverse population.
(860) 855-3561 View (860) 855-3561

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
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Medication Management
60% Addiction

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Optum
75% Aetna
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Southington, CT see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% 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.