Psychiatrists in Bethel, CT
![Photo of Dr. Sherry Lucke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/470d1089-f5bf-4f5a-a5cc-f65b6a9edb6d/1/320x400.jpeg)
When I started working in healthcare as a cardiac nurse I saw the widespread effects of addiction. Since then, I’ve dedicated my career to helping people overcome substance use disorders. I use a compassionate and supportive approach along with the top medical interventions. The approach I take with clients has been influenced by my experience at the bedside as a clinical care nurse and my training as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. This enables me to support clients in their overall health as well as their behavioral health. Accepting new clients in CT and VA.
When I started working in healthcare as a cardiac nurse I saw the widespread effects of addiction. Since then, I’ve dedicated my career to helping people overcome substance use disorders. I use a compassionate and supportive approach along with the top medical interventions. The approach I take with clients has been influenced by my experience at the bedside as a clinical care nurse and my training as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. This enables me to support clients in their overall health as well as their behavioral health. Accepting new clients in CT and VA.
![Photo of Dr. Enoh Ekokotu, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4bc1934-fc6a-4f23-b8ea-4adc0bd49889/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Enoh Ekokotu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethel, CT 06801 (Online Only)
Dr. Ekokotu is a skilled Doctor of Nursing Practice and board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Connecticut and New York with a specialized focus on treating depression and anxiety disorders. She is committed to providing holistic and patient-centered care, Dr. Ekokotu integrates supportive therapy, spirituality, and pharmacotherapy in her practice.
Dr. Ekokotu is a skilled Doctor of Nursing Practice and board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Connecticut and New York with a specialized focus on treating depression and anxiety disorders. She is committed to providing holistic and patient-centered care, Dr. Ekokotu integrates supportive therapy, spirituality, and pharmacotherapy in her practice.
![Photo of Kristen Sadana, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc4ca0bb-68ee-44e6-9584-5cdb9bec59a3/1/320x400.png)
Our mission is to provide high quality, collaborative, therapy-focused psychiatric care that centers the whole person and empowers the patient in their own treatment. We seek to provide a therapeutic environment where people of all neurotypes, gender identities, religious beliefs, and ethnicities feel welcome and safe. We hope to provide a judgment free space that will work to destigmatize mental health disorders, as these disorders arise out of the most basic experiences that make us human.
Our mission is to provide high quality, collaborative, therapy-focused psychiatric care that centers the whole person and empowers the patient in their own treatment. We seek to provide a therapeutic environment where people of all neurotypes, gender identities, religious beliefs, and ethnicities feel welcome and safe. We hope to provide a judgment free space that will work to destigmatize mental health disorders, as these disorders arise out of the most basic experiences that make us human.
![Photo of Margaret Mary Scalia, APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d08017a6-1977-4948-8ad8-6631f7f1968c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Mary Scalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Bethel, CT 06801 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety , lack of focus , insomnia and perhaps some unresolved past issues and trauma ? Do you feel alone, unheard ,overwhelmed taking care of a loved elder or recently lost someone or your job or part of your identity? I have 38 years in the medical field ,much of my interest in psychiatric, palliative ,elder care and chronic diseases. Maybe you need emotional support , psychotherapy and perhaps medications ? I can help ! I’m also well versed in issues related to partnerships , lifestyle transitions , health and wellness as well as wellness and adjunctive options . So, what are you waiting for?
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety , lack of focus , insomnia and perhaps some unresolved past issues and trauma ? Do you feel alone, unheard ,overwhelmed taking care of a loved elder or recently lost someone or your job or part of your identity? I have 38 years in the medical field ,much of my interest in psychiatric, palliative ,elder care and chronic diseases. Maybe you need emotional support , psychotherapy and perhaps medications ? I can help ! I’m also well versed in issues related to partnerships , lifestyle transitions , health and wellness as well as wellness and adjunctive options . So, what are you waiting for?
![Photo of Tarique Perera Contemporary Care, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/441699f2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with depression, anxiety, or debilitating symptoms? Traditional treatments might not always work. I offer advanced options: psychopharmacology, TMS therapy, ketamine infusions, and the latest Spravato esketamine treatments, combined with psychotherapy. Trained at Harvard, with a residency at New York Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, I am recognized as one of America's Top Psychiatrists. My approach focuses on full symptom remission, treating you as a whole. Welcome to a new chapter in your mental health journey at my practice.
Struggling with depression, anxiety, or debilitating symptoms? Traditional treatments might not always work. I offer advanced options: psychopharmacology, TMS therapy, ketamine infusions, and the latest Spravato esketamine treatments, combined with psychotherapy. Trained at Harvard, with a residency at New York Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, I am recognized as one of America's Top Psychiatrists. My approach focuses on full symptom remission, treating you as a whole. Welcome to a new chapter in your mental health journey at my practice.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Lyndsie Ryalls, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20fa6526-7dfc-4712-aced-5b163281505b/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide compassionate, respectful evaluation and psychopharmacologic treatment. I primarily work with adolescents and adults seeking medication evaluation and ongoing medication management for a range of issues including anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and comorbid mental health and substance abuse.
I provide compassionate, respectful evaluation and psychopharmacologic treatment. I primarily work with adolescents and adults seeking medication evaluation and ongoing medication management for a range of issues including anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and comorbid mental health and substance abuse.
![Photo of Eric W Voide - CT Center for Psychiatric Wellness- CCPW, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67b7d971-1bf6-489e-af1b-8cc5b6cd7e4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Centered around a telemedicine model, we are expanding the reach of mental health services to those who might not be able to regularly travel to office visits. From Anxiety & Depression, to ADHD, PTSD, Addiction and LGBTQIA, our providers at CCPW are contemporary with their training and provide therapist designed to maximize every patient's quality of life.
Centered around a telemedicine model, we are expanding the reach of mental health services to those who might not be able to regularly travel to office visits. From Anxiety & Depression, to ADHD, PTSD, Addiction and LGBTQIA, our providers at CCPW are contemporary with their training and provide therapist designed to maximize every patient's quality of life.
![Photo of Maria Tapia - WCT Behavioral Health & Medication Management, APRN, PMHNP, LCSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a635a78c-65c6-4516-bb0d-52b31848d03c/1/320x400.jpeg)
WCT Behavioral Health & Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810
My passion for empowering and aiding individuals in their wellness journey began 20 years ago. While working with under-served communities in New Haven and Hartford Counties, I was fortunate enough to interact and develop meaningful relationships with individuals of various cultural backgrounds. I continue to apply this philosophical thinking and practice while serving my patients in order to provide an individualized, holistic treatment.
My passion for empowering and aiding individuals in their wellness journey began 20 years ago. While working with under-served communities in New Haven and Hartford Counties, I was fortunate enough to interact and develop meaningful relationships with individuals of various cultural backgrounds. I continue to apply this philosophical thinking and practice while serving my patients in order to provide an individualized, holistic treatment.
Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts: Empowering, comprehensive mental health care for people of all ages in Connecticut. At Mar y Sol Mental Health Experts, we provide outpatient mental health care that works. We empower our patients across their lifespans to live the lives they want through individualized, holistic mental health treatment. Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts is the pinnacle of mental health treatment because we treat your entire being in ways that enhance happiness so you can reach your goals.
Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts: Empowering, comprehensive mental health care for people of all ages in Connecticut. At Mar y Sol Mental Health Experts, we provide outpatient mental health care that works. We empower our patients across their lifespans to live the lives they want through individualized, holistic mental health treatment. Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts is the pinnacle of mental health treatment because we treat your entire being in ways that enhance happiness so you can reach your goals.
![Photo of Olanike O Kekere, MSN, APRN, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f373c1da-9e15-4327-987f-e950f82d1fb1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olanike O Kekere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Danbury, CT 06810
I am a Yale University-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner with over 18 years of experience in Mental Health. I am lifespan board-certified to treat ages 5 to 70years old. I have subspecialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical research. I treat all psychiatric conditions including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD and abuse survivors, OCD, Eating Disorders, and ODD. I provide culturally sensitive integrative and holistic psychiatric services that are tailored to each individual patient's needs.
I am a Yale University-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner with over 18 years of experience in Mental Health. I am lifespan board-certified to treat ages 5 to 70years old. I have subspecialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical research. I treat all psychiatric conditions including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD and abuse survivors, OCD, Eating Disorders, and ODD. I provide culturally sensitive integrative and holistic psychiatric services that are tailored to each individual patient's needs.
![Photo of Aura Marisol Ardon - Dr. Aura Ardon - Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/845f1c1a-fbe1-46fa-b3b8-6ae78d986455/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Aura Ardon - Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
Now accepting new Patients. Are you struggling to create meaningful relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed by the stressors of work and daily living? Do you have trouble caring for yourself because of your mental health? Is your family life unmanageable because of mental illness? You want to get your mental health back under control but feel stuck. As time passes you feel further and further from your goals. It’s time to find real solutions because you have a life to live. You don’t have to manage this alone. Working with a mental health expert who believes in a holistic approach to mental and physical wellness may be the missing
Now accepting new Patients. Are you struggling to create meaningful relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed by the stressors of work and daily living? Do you have trouble caring for yourself because of your mental health? Is your family life unmanageable because of mental illness? You want to get your mental health back under control but feel stuck. As time passes you feel further and further from your goals. It’s time to find real solutions because you have a life to live. You don’t have to manage this alone. Working with a mental health expert who believes in a holistic approach to mental and physical wellness may be the missing
![Photo of Rose Shea, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fa83129-f70f-4ae5-8299-6b694967d01f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rose Shea
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
Welcome to your healing journey! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing degree. I have over 15 years of experience as a nurse with the last 8 years focused on mental health and substance use. I pride myself in taking a humanistic, person-centered approach to helping individuals manage mental illness through psychopharmacological, psychotherapeutic, and lifestyle interventions. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to receive care. I provide a compassionate and supportive environment to work with my individuals to develop a plan of care.
Welcome to your healing journey! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing degree. I have over 15 years of experience as a nurse with the last 8 years focused on mental health and substance use. I pride myself in taking a humanistic, person-centered approach to helping individuals manage mental illness through psychopharmacological, psychotherapeutic, and lifestyle interventions. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to receive care. I provide a compassionate and supportive environment to work with my individuals to develop a plan of care.
![Photo of Tiffany Otto, RN, FNP, PMHN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07212794-c29d-4b8b-b85a-ecf91f2f2aca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Otto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, FNP, PMHN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
With over 13 years in mental health, I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a comprehensive background in both inpatient and private practice settings. My career spans from acute care on inpatient units to personalized treatment in private practice, reflecting my broad expertise in psychiatric nursing. This experience has equipped me with a nuanced understanding of the unique needs at various life stages, allowing me to provide tailored, effective care.
With over 13 years in mental health, I am a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a comprehensive background in both inpatient and private practice settings. My career spans from acute care on inpatient units to personalized treatment in private practice, reflecting my broad expertise in psychiatric nursing. This experience has equipped me with a nuanced understanding of the unique needs at various life stages, allowing me to provide tailored, effective care.
![Photo of Chengping Wang - WCT Health & Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3edbe8f-d666-460c-a24f-7de6ab8fdeab/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! We are a group practice of 60 licensed counselors and medication providers. We have a multi disciplinary team which is trained in several models to tailor each of our clients needs. Our biggest focus, is you, our client. We provide family, couples and individual counseling. Medication management for psychiatry and also offer Primary Care Services.
Welcome! We are a group practice of 60 licensed counselors and medication providers. We have a multi disciplinary team which is trained in several models to tailor each of our clients needs. Our biggest focus, is you, our client. We provide family, couples and individual counseling. Medication management for psychiatry and also offer Primary Care Services.
![Photo of Leshawna Murrell, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c467d8f-bba6-4cad-8ef9-791c07652f63/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leshawna Murrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Danbury, CT 06810
If you or your child are experiencing extreme stress and life changes, it can be overwhelming to navigate distressing symptoms. You may feel helpless as to how to help yourself or your child cope with symptoms and maintain the overwhelming activities and requirements of daily life. As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am here to listen to your unique story, family history, and symptoms, to help you find peace in your life, body, and mind. I am here to listen to your concerns and symptoms and provide a full evaluation to consider tools that may be helpful for you to feel better mentally and physically.
If you or your child are experiencing extreme stress and life changes, it can be overwhelming to navigate distressing symptoms. You may feel helpless as to how to help yourself or your child cope with symptoms and maintain the overwhelming activities and requirements of daily life. As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am here to listen to your unique story, family history, and symptoms, to help you find peace in your life, body, and mind. I am here to listen to your concerns and symptoms and provide a full evaluation to consider tools that may be helpful for you to feel better mentally and physically.
![Photo of Emily Chelso, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9e47f42-0696-427d-b1fc-2c664ccdc67d/4/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Chelso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
The way in which you see a medical doctor for a broken bone or stomach ache, I believe the same should be done when you are experiencing difficulties with mental health, without the fear of being judged. I have a strong passion for understanding the ups and downs of life that all humans experience, and I believe everyone deserves to be heard in a compassionate, understanding, and nonjudgemental manner. My personal goal is to remove the stigma surrounding seeking mental health treatment, to foster a safe and efficient avenue for clients to access care, and to assist my clients in their journey to health and recovery.
The way in which you see a medical doctor for a broken bone or stomach ache, I believe the same should be done when you are experiencing difficulties with mental health, without the fear of being judged. I have a strong passion for understanding the ups and downs of life that all humans experience, and I believe everyone deserves to be heard in a compassionate, understanding, and nonjudgemental manner. My personal goal is to remove the stigma surrounding seeking mental health treatment, to foster a safe and efficient avenue for clients to access care, and to assist my clients in their journey to health and recovery.
![Photo of Dr. Arleen Perdido, DNP, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52e9ac86-43e2-4383-b43b-93dce20b8979/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Arleen Perdido
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Danbury, CT 06810
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received my Doctorate of Nursing Practice and Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Loma Linda University in Southern California.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received my Doctorate of Nursing Practice and Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Loma Linda University in Southern California.
![Photo of Yvonne Amune, PMHNP, APRN-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a06f3e3f-79d7-4c7a-9a39-f4bf517cb326/3/320x400.jpeg)
Yvonne Amune
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
![Photo of Marlene Chelso, APN, MSN, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c54ba98-bca9-4541-a815-0cb421a0cefb/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marlene Chelso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
I have had a private practice in medication management for 21 years in several locations; am currently licensed in Connecticut and New Jersey, but am able to do telehealth appointments wherever you are located. Patients have found this to be very helpful, as we can connect from your home or work. My experience is in multiple settings: inpatient, outpatient, and crisis intervention. I have also served as a consultant to patients with mental health concerns in a neurology practice and in an HIV clinic. I have held faculty positions at several universities, and currently serve as an associate professor at UPENN's School of Nursing.
I have had a private practice in medication management for 21 years in several locations; am currently licensed in Connecticut and New Jersey, but am able to do telehealth appointments wherever you are located. Patients have found this to be very helpful, as we can connect from your home or work. My experience is in multiple settings: inpatient, outpatient, and crisis intervention. I have also served as a consultant to patients with mental health concerns in a neurology practice and in an HIV clinic. I have held faculty positions at several universities, and currently serve as an associate professor at UPENN's School of Nursing.
![Photo of Hong Kim - One Psychiatry, PMHNP, NP-P, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5eed65ea-19e3-49fd-82a7-92d473786d92/2/320x400.jpeg)
One Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
See more therapy options for Bethel
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bethel, CT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Bethel, CT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Behavioral Issues |
80% | Medication Management |
60% | Relationship Issues |
Average years in practice
22 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Bethel, CT see their clients
80% | Online Only | |
20% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bethel?
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.