Psychiatrists in Hamden, CT
![Photo of Adrienne Hicks - Dr Adrienne Hicks, LLC, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a05f31e-9e9e-4d64-b8fa-19da01408201/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat patients with mental illnesses and manage general medical concerns.
I treat patients with mental illnesses and manage general medical concerns.
![Photo of Linton Kinlock, MSN, APRN, PMHN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6f12ea2-1a18-4b9a-a620-e24aefab91a8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Linton Kinlock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHN-BC
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06518 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to improving the lives of individuals living with mental illness. I believe that with the right care, support , people can achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. My passion stems from my own experiences with mental health, as well as my desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others. I have a strong background in both nursing and psychiatry, committed to staying current with the latest research, integrative treatments. I am a compassionate and empathetic practitioner who is dedicated to working with my patients to develop individualized treatment.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to improving the lives of individuals living with mental illness. I believe that with the right care, support , people can achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. My passion stems from my own experiences with mental health, as well as my desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others. I have a strong background in both nursing and psychiatry, committed to staying current with the latest research, integrative treatments. I am a compassionate and empathetic practitioner who is dedicated to working with my patients to develop individualized treatment.
![Photo of Beatrice Peku, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/586adc18-934e-4af4-9e8d-ebda7dc763dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Beatrice Peku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06518
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, finding it hard to shake off depression, or struggling to manage mood and ADHD symptoms? Maybe you’re dealing with constant worry that’s affecting your sleep, or you feel distracted and forgetful, making it hard to keep up at work or stay present in your relationships? You’re not alone, and there is hope! Together, we can create a personalized plan that addresses your unique challenges, utilizing evidence-based medication management alongside holistic and integrative practices to ease these struggles, reduce your symptoms, and improve your quality of life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, finding it hard to shake off depression, or struggling to manage mood and ADHD symptoms? Maybe you’re dealing with constant worry that’s affecting your sleep, or you feel distracted and forgetful, making it hard to keep up at work or stay present in your relationships? You’re not alone, and there is hope! Together, we can create a personalized plan that addresses your unique challenges, utilizing evidence-based medication management alongside holistic and integrative practices to ease these struggles, reduce your symptoms, and improve your quality of life.
![Photo of Daedly Potusek - New Leaf Psychiatry, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b356292e-1b0a-4d7c-9041-61a20c2f129e/1/320x400.png)
New Leaf Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06518
Not accepting new clients
At New Leaf Psychiatry, we provide psychiatric mental health care to adults. We believe in a holistic and patient centered approach and encourage our patients to be active participants in their treatment.
At New Leaf Psychiatry, we provide psychiatric mental health care to adults. We believe in a holistic and patient centered approach and encourage our patients to be active participants in their treatment.
![Photo of Raymond Gunn, PhD, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abc9dec3-be62-48f0-a5e1-011bbc70ac68/2/320x400.jpeg)
Raymond Gunn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06518 (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a broad background in sociology. In my approach to treatment, I explore how culture, gender, and identity intersect with personality and neurochemical imbalances to produce psychiatric symptoms that impede daily functioning and interpersonal activities. Together with my clients, we determine the best pharmacological interventions to provide relief of these symptoms. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, assessment for post-traumatic stress disorder, Connecticut state registration for eligible clients for medical marijuana, and Suboxone treatment.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a broad background in sociology. In my approach to treatment, I explore how culture, gender, and identity intersect with personality and neurochemical imbalances to produce psychiatric symptoms that impede daily functioning and interpersonal activities. Together with my clients, we determine the best pharmacological interventions to provide relief of these symptoms. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, assessment for post-traumatic stress disorder, Connecticut state registration for eligible clients for medical marijuana, and Suboxone treatment.
![Photo of Kathryn Camizzi - Willow Treatment and Associates, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfcab31c-0350-416d-9714-aed7fccfe0f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Willow Treatment and Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06514 (Online Only)
Willow Treatment and Associates is a private practice offering therapy and medication management for teens through elders. We are a team of licensed social workers, professional counselors and advanced practice registered nurses who pride ourselves in working together to give each patient individualized complete care.
Willow Treatment and Associates is a private practice offering therapy and medication management for teens through elders. We are a team of licensed social workers, professional counselors and advanced practice registered nurses who pride ourselves in working together to give each patient individualized complete care.
![Photo of Falashade Adewuyi - New Leaf Psychiatry, LLC, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da6669a1-a18e-4b71-a667-9e72a3bcbf78/1/320x400.jpeg)
New Leaf Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06518
Falashade Adewuyi is board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who treats individuals with mental health illnesses. She has been caring for patients with psychiatric illness for over 19 years. She specializes in the treatment of adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum disorders, ADHD, PTSD, substance abuse, and other psychiatric disorders.
Falashade Adewuyi is board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who treats individuals with mental health illnesses. She has been caring for patients with psychiatric illness for over 19 years. She specializes in the treatment of adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum disorders, ADHD, PTSD, substance abuse, and other psychiatric disorders.
![Photo of Ajibola Ojo Adekanye, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6ef4ab6-a5bd-4fba-a636-473d31eb2bfa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ajibola Ojo Adekanye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06514 (Online Only)
My name is Ajibola Adekanye, DNP, PMHNP-BC, I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience working with individuals 18 years of age and over who are struggling with general mental health, schizophrenia, self-harm, suicidal ideations, anxiety and panic disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, and OCD. My approach combines medication management with comprehensive psychiatric evaluation tailored to each patient’s needs. I create a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic environment from a diverse, culturally competent background that allows me to treat and heal individual.
My name is Ajibola Adekanye, DNP, PMHNP-BC, I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience working with individuals 18 years of age and over who are struggling with general mental health, schizophrenia, self-harm, suicidal ideations, anxiety and panic disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, and OCD. My approach combines medication management with comprehensive psychiatric evaluation tailored to each patient’s needs. I create a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic environment from a diverse, culturally competent background that allows me to treat and heal individual.
![Photo of Ellen Zummo, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63cabeeb-7a89-43a3-a764-f7ed99850201/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ellen Zummo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06518 (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Ellen, and I am a certified Adult Nurse Practitioner. I have spent the last 3 years in the field of primary care, treating a range of illnesses in patients 18 years and older. I have experience in the treatment of anxiety, depression, adult ADHD. I pride myself in taking a compassionate and down to earth approach. When you feel as though life is becoming unmanageable...it does not have to be! Reach out to me today!
Hi! My name is Ellen, and I am a certified Adult Nurse Practitioner. I have spent the last 3 years in the field of primary care, treating a range of illnesses in patients 18 years and older. I have experience in the treatment of anxiety, depression, adult ADHD. I pride myself in taking a compassionate and down to earth approach. When you feel as though life is becoming unmanageable...it does not have to be! Reach out to me today!
![Photo of Dilice Robertson - Lifespan Collaborative Services, DNP, APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cf81a7e-08e7-4a30-873e-94a05ff6d1da/1/320x400.png)
Lifespan Collaborative Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06518
In the vast landscape of mental health, each individual's journey is a unique narrative, often filled with complexities, challenges, and ultimately, resilience. Welcome to Lifespan Collaborative Services a psychiatric mental health practice and sanctuary where healing transcends the boundaries of conventional therapy, embracing a holistic, integrative, and culturally supportive approach to mental wellness. Central to the Lifespan Collaborative Services approach is the integration of evidence-based therapeutic modalities with complementary healing practices drawn from diverse cultural traditions.
In the vast landscape of mental health, each individual's journey is a unique narrative, often filled with complexities, challenges, and ultimately, resilience. Welcome to Lifespan Collaborative Services a psychiatric mental health practice and sanctuary where healing transcends the boundaries of conventional therapy, embracing a holistic, integrative, and culturally supportive approach to mental wellness. Central to the Lifespan Collaborative Services approach is the integration of evidence-based therapeutic modalities with complementary healing practices drawn from diverse cultural traditions.
![Photo of Jennifer landolt - A Brand New Day, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1670bda2-f4f6-4135-bb6d-c0fe0105bf76/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you tried many different medications and modalities and still not achieved optimal health? My practice will take these into consideration and build upon them. I am trained in diagnosing mental health disorders, addiction support and offering treatment options in the form of prescribing medication and other nonpharmacological interventions. I believe in the power of structure, exercise, diet, and sleep. My practice is trauma informed and we also can submit for genetic testing to see what medications might be the best fit for you.
Have you tried many different medications and modalities and still not achieved optimal health? My practice will take these into consideration and build upon them. I am trained in diagnosing mental health disorders, addiction support and offering treatment options in the form of prescribing medication and other nonpharmacological interventions. I believe in the power of structure, exercise, diet, and sleep. My practice is trauma informed and we also can submit for genetic testing to see what medications might be the best fit for you.
![Photo of John T Palma, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45e9d9b1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner that likes to take the appropriate time to get to know the needs and objectives of my clients. I specialize in adults but will see children 13 and older depending on the case. I treat individuals suffering from a variety of conditions, such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. I value the input of those I work with and through collaboration we will achieve the best possible outcome.
I'm a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner that likes to take the appropriate time to get to know the needs and objectives of my clients. I specialize in adults but will see children 13 and older depending on the case. I treat individuals suffering from a variety of conditions, such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. I value the input of those I work with and through collaboration we will achieve the best possible outcome.
![Photo of Office Manager - Solstice Healthcare, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/503c2e5c-c409-4940-a772-f6ac1b22874d/1/320x400.png)
Solstice Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06514 (Online Only)
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, chronic illness, or work stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, chronic illness, or work stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
![Photo of Fredo And Stéphane Clermont - NorthPoint Psychiatric Consultants, LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71875648-360b-453b-ae94-d18b63f143ea/1/320x400.png)
NorthPoint Psychiatric Consultants, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06514
Our group practice consists of Board-Certified providers. Our extensive inpatient and outpatient work history providing care to clients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions has contributed to our ability to assess each client from a holistic view and provide the best evidence-based recommendations. We are Currently ACCEPTING new patients on a limited basis for psychiatric evaluation. To request an appointment please visit our website and fill out the form (https://www.northpointpsychiatry.com/contact-us ).
Our group practice consists of Board-Certified providers. Our extensive inpatient and outpatient work history providing care to clients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions has contributed to our ability to assess each client from a holistic view and provide the best evidence-based recommendations. We are Currently ACCEPTING new patients on a limited basis for psychiatric evaluation. To request an appointment please visit our website and fill out the form (https://www.northpointpsychiatry.com/contact-us ).
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jane Kelly Regan, MSN, PMHNP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/976c1b24-4bf9-4645-b27d-eade2045b3e8/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with over 30 years in the nursing profession, I am currently focusing on my private practice. My area of expertise is Anxiety, Depression, PTSD and ADD. I provide psychiatric evaluations for medication management. I am also able to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for Post-traumatic stress disorder in adults. I provide telehealth (2 way video sessions) currently being covered by all major Insurances, Husky and Medicare. For telehealth sessions all you need is a phone that will accept a text.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with over 30 years in the nursing profession, I am currently focusing on my private practice. My area of expertise is Anxiety, Depression, PTSD and ADD. I provide psychiatric evaluations for medication management. I am also able to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for Post-traumatic stress disorder in adults. I provide telehealth (2 way video sessions) currently being covered by all major Insurances, Husky and Medicare. For telehealth sessions all you need is a phone that will accept a text.
![Photo of Victoria Morrow, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/437e3f9a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Whether practicing insight-oriented psychotherapy or psychoanalysis, I listen to the way a person tries to solve his or her problems and help them to come to a new understanding based on greater tolerance for what they feel. My medical background helps me to be aware of the complicated interplay between what is physical and what is psychological. I help my patients sort out what we can treat with psychotherapy and when medications may make a difference.
Whether practicing insight-oriented psychotherapy or psychoanalysis, I listen to the way a person tries to solve his or her problems and help them to come to a new understanding based on greater tolerance for what they feel. My medical background helps me to be aware of the complicated interplay between what is physical and what is psychological. I help my patients sort out what we can treat with psychotherapy and when medications may make a difference.
![Photo of Douglas Zelisko, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dff9a1b1-d7f6-43d3-a313-eac28fb3b9ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Making the decision to seek help with your challenges can feel both empowering and vulnerable. I offer a safe and compassionate, non-judgmental space for us to start the process and talk. I strive to help adults with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, focus, and physical ailments among others. I provide both medication management, as well as individual psychotherapy. I primarily practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, however am trained in other modalities to best help you through the emotional challenges you face and allow a greater understanding of yourself.
Making the decision to seek help with your challenges can feel both empowering and vulnerable. I offer a safe and compassionate, non-judgmental space for us to start the process and talk. I strive to help adults with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, focus, and physical ailments among others. I provide both medication management, as well as individual psychotherapy. I primarily practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, however am trained in other modalities to best help you through the emotional challenges you face and allow a greater understanding of yourself.
![Photo of Felicia Hassan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2fd3df9-5dbd-4667-a8b0-d4d0a79640cd/1/320x400.png)
Felicia Hassan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511 (Online Only)
Felicia is a doctorly prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 20 years in the mental health care field. Felicia also holds two master's degrees and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Felicia finds joy in helping others feel better and achieve their full potential. Her dedication to providing equitable care drives her passion for telepsychiatry, enabling her to reach patients wherever they are. She specializes in treating a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, Bipolar II, PTSD, and PMDD.
Felicia is a doctorly prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 20 years in the mental health care field. Felicia also holds two master's degrees and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Felicia finds joy in helping others feel better and achieve their full potential. Her dedication to providing equitable care drives her passion for telepsychiatry, enabling her to reach patients wherever they are. She specializes in treating a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, Bipolar II, PTSD, and PMDD.
![Photo of Tamanna Rahman - Holistic Psychiatry CT, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f48a749-abe9-46f8-a85a-fecfb9d505b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
My practice style is holistic, collaborative, trauma informed, evidence based, and socially conscious. While my work is grounded in my medical training at Yale, I believe that DSM diagnoses can't capture the complexity of human experience. I explore alternative understandings of mental health alongside my clients. I treat people with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma (including race and identity based traumas), and bipolar disorder. I also enjoy working with people who hear voices or see things. My clients are motivated to explore a broad range of tools for wellness, with medication as one tool in the toolbox.
My practice style is holistic, collaborative, trauma informed, evidence based, and socially conscious. While my work is grounded in my medical training at Yale, I believe that DSM diagnoses can't capture the complexity of human experience. I explore alternative understandings of mental health alongside my clients. I treat people with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma (including race and identity based traumas), and bipolar disorder. I also enjoy working with people who hear voices or see things. My clients are motivated to explore a broad range of tools for wellness, with medication as one tool in the toolbox.
![Photo of Dr. Hamilton Gaiani, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88a05611-fac9-45aa-a6da-7f0a45122a4a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients via telehealth or in-person. I am a Yale trained, Board-Certified Adult and Addiction Psychiatrist providing the highest quality of evidence-based care. I provide comprehensive treatment across the complete spectrum of mental illnesses, and specialize in alcohol/drug disorders, as well as LGBTQIA+ issues. Treatment includes medication management and an optional therapy component. You may also request comprehensive evaluations, and if appropriate, medication assisted treatment (Suboxone). I have extensive knowledge of the latest research and am a strong advocate for the patients I work with.
Accepting new patients via telehealth or in-person. I am a Yale trained, Board-Certified Adult and Addiction Psychiatrist providing the highest quality of evidence-based care. I provide comprehensive treatment across the complete spectrum of mental illnesses, and specialize in alcohol/drug disorders, as well as LGBTQIA+ issues. Treatment includes medication management and an optional therapy component. You may also request comprehensive evaluations, and if appropriate, medication assisted treatment (Suboxone). I have extensive knowledge of the latest research and am a strong advocate for the patients I work with.
See more therapy options for Hamden
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hamden, CT
10+
Average cost per session
$160
Psychiatrists in Hamden, CT who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
93% | ADHD |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | Sleep or Insomnia |
71% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Hamden, CT see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hamden?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs 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 psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
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 psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, 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 and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.