Psychiatrists in Bristol, CT

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 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 Radmila Meyer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Radmila Meyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bristol, CT 06010
My name is Radmila Meyer. I am APRN, PMHNP-BC and specialize in medication-assisted treatment and provide therapy for patients who have mental health concerns and needs. During my working experience, I use a wide range of nursing, psychosocial, and neurobiological expertise in evaluating patients with psychiatric illnesses and their mental health needs. I provide behavioral counseling and education of patients and their families about psychiatric symptoms, maintain compliance with treatment plans, and detect adverse effects from prescribed medication.
My name is Radmila Meyer. I am APRN, PMHNP-BC and specialize in medication-assisted treatment and provide therapy for patients who have mental health concerns and needs. During my working experience, I use a wide range of nursing, psychosocial, and neurobiological expertise in evaluating patients with psychiatric illnesses and their mental health needs. I provide behavioral counseling and education of patients and their families about psychiatric symptoms, maintain compliance with treatment plans, and detect adverse effects from prescribed medication.
(475) 284-8870 View (475) 284-8870
Photo of Beatrice Peku, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Beatrice Peku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bristol, CT 06010
Beatrice Peku, DNP, APRN, PMHNP - BC. Licensed in Connecticut. My approach to mental healthcare is evidence-based, client centered, integrative and holistic. I prioritize patient education, empowering those who come in contact with me to actively participate in their treatment. In my practice, I prioritize client-centered care, focusing on empathy and collaboration. I utilize an evidence-based approach and incorporate integrative practices including medication management as indicated to tailor treatment plans to each individual's need.
Beatrice Peku, DNP, APRN, PMHNP - BC. Licensed in Connecticut. My approach to mental healthcare is evidence-based, client centered, integrative and holistic. I prioritize patient education, empowering those who come in contact with me to actively participate in their treatment. In my practice, I prioritize client-centered care, focusing on empathy and collaboration. I utilize an evidence-based approach and incorporate integrative practices including medication management as indicated to tailor treatment plans to each individual's need.
(475) 250-1485 View (475) 250-1485
Photo of Diana Lankenau, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Diana Lankenau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bristol, CT 06010
Diana Lankenau graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor's in psychology and University of Miami bachelor's in nursing. She has a master's degree in nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialty Certificate and Nursing Education Certificate. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). She has proudly served the community by providing nursing services to children in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
Diana Lankenau graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor's in psychology and University of Miami bachelor's in nursing. She has a master's degree in nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialty Certificate and Nursing Education Certificate. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). She has proudly served the community by providing nursing services to children in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
(475) 255-2568 View (475) 255-2568
Photo of Serrita Roper, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serrita Roper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol, CT 06010
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer medication management for mood disorders and ADHD. I offer both in-person and telehealth (for established patients). I am passionate about mental health and helping my patients achieve the proper tools to be the best versions of themselves.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer medication management for mood disorders and ADHD. I offer both in-person and telehealth (for established patients). I am passionate about mental health and helping my patients achieve the proper tools to be the best versions of themselves.
(860) 485-7416 View (860) 485-7416
Photo of Georgina Twumasi - Psych On Demand, & Man Up Wellness, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psych On Demand, & Man Up Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Bristol, CT 06011  (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) 530-4191 View (860) 530-4191
Photo of Bella Tenenbaum, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bella Tenenbaum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, CT 06010  (Online Only)
Living with mental illness can be challenging, disheartening, and even exhausting at times. However finding a trusting provider should not be! I believe in the importance of building a reliable patient-provider relationship focused on holistic care and making sure that each individual's mental, emotional, and physical well-being is taken in to consideration during each session. My practice is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals with a variety of mental health challenges.
Living with mental illness can be challenging, disheartening, and even exhausting at times. However finding a trusting provider should not be! I believe in the importance of building a reliable patient-provider relationship focused on holistic care and making sure that each individual's mental, emotional, and physical well-being is taken in to consideration during each session. My practice is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals with a variety of mental health challenges.
(860) 854-7149 View (860) 854-7149
Photo of Sana Fuller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sana Fuller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bristol, CT 06010
What would you do if you were free from anxiety/depression/fear/regret...? Life challenges often exacerbate our worst fears and behaviors. Together, we will sort through issues, find the roots of the problem, and develop a plan. I want you to love your life again!
What would you do if you were free from anxiety/depression/fear/regret...? Life challenges often exacerbate our worst fears and behaviors. Together, we will sort through issues, find the roots of the problem, and develop a plan. I want you to love your life again!
(475) 255-3917 View (475) 255-3917
Photo of Theresa Antwi - Wholistic Perspective, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Bristol, CT 06010
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
Photo of Christta Sprott - Destination Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Destination Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, CT 06010
Are you experiencing struggles with your mental health? Are you anxious or depressed and don’t know where to turn? Have you been through significant traumas or life stressors and can’t figure out how to work through them? Healing is possible! Hi, I'm Christta and I am the owner and provider at Destination Psychiatry, conveniently and discreetly located for those who wish to maintain privacy in their mental health journey. The space is TRULY warm and inviting and promotes trust and healing. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations, medication management and individual therapy for anxiety, depression, mood disorders and much more!
Are you experiencing struggles with your mental health? Are you anxious or depressed and don’t know where to turn? Have you been through significant traumas or life stressors and can’t figure out how to work through them? Healing is possible! Hi, I'm Christta and I am the owner and provider at Destination Psychiatry, conveniently and discreetly located for those who wish to maintain privacy in their mental health journey. The space is TRULY warm and inviting and promotes trust and healing. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations, medication management and individual therapy for anxiety, depression, mood disorders and much more!
(475) 325-5847 View (475) 325-5847

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Bridgitte F Ackeifi - Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Britain, CT 06053  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Patients: Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC holistically works with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time. Thank you.
Accepting NEW Patients: Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC holistically works with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time. Thank you.
(860) 846-3775 View (860) 846-3775
Photo of Paul Furino, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Paul Furino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New Britain, CT 06050
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgemental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgemental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
(860) 390-4126 View (860) 390-4126
Photo of Caroline Polsky, BS, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Caroline Polsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06032  (Online Only)
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner trained throughout the lifespan with an additional certification in addictions, I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults with mental health and/or substance use concerns. I am skilled in treating anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders. Whether you're not feeling like yourself or feeling like your anxieties are controlling you I can help. In order to provide the best quality treatment I look at the client as a whole from a holistic perspective and provide individualized treatment.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner trained throughout the lifespan with an additional certification in addictions, I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults with mental health and/or substance use concerns. I am skilled in treating anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders. Whether you're not feeling like yourself or feeling like your anxieties are controlling you I can help. In order to provide the best quality treatment I look at the client as a whole from a holistic perspective and provide individualized treatment.
(475) 405-2930 View (475) 405-2930
Photo of Kary Krochko - SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06704  (Online Only)
Have you ever been prescribed medication and rushed out of the provider's door? No more! Are you in therapy now but feel like your symptoms are not improving? We are here to help you and your family. We have a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner since 2001. We have experience in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses. We help women and families.
Have you ever been prescribed medication and rushed out of the provider's door? No more! Are you in therapy now but feel like your symptoms are not improving? We are here to help you and your family. We have a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner since 2001. We have experience in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses. We help women and families.
(475) 242-0923 View (475) 242-0923
Photo of Betsy LaRose, PCCN, FNP-C, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Betsy LaRose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PCCN, FNP-C, APRN
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06702
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
(860) 813-3562 View (860) 813-3562
Photo of 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 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 Ayesha Ahmed, MD, Psychiatrist
Ayesha Ahmed
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06032
We are accepting new Patient (Adult,18 years and older). I am a 15+ years Experienced, Board Certified Physician specialized in Psychiatry, with Fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry. Depression, Anxiety, Sleep Disorders, Trauma, Phobias, Alzheimer, Postpartum Depression, Behavioral Disturbance, Senior-Geriatric conditions. My mission is to provide my patients with the best care in a confidential, relaxed environment through Evaluation and Medication Management. My office is in West Hartford Center, near by towns are Bloomfield, Avon, Granby, Simsbury, Canton, Windsor, Hartford, Newrington, Glastonbury, Danbury, Springfield-MA.
We are accepting new Patient (Adult,18 years and older). I am a 15+ years Experienced, Board Certified Physician specialized in Psychiatry, with Fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry. Depression, Anxiety, Sleep Disorders, Trauma, Phobias, Alzheimer, Postpartum Depression, Behavioral Disturbance, Senior-Geriatric conditions. My mission is to provide my patients with the best care in a confidential, relaxed environment through Evaluation and Medication Management. My office is in West Hartford Center, near by towns are Bloomfield, Avon, Granby, Simsbury, Canton, Windsor, Hartford, Newrington, Glastonbury, Danbury, Springfield-MA.
(860) 478-4341 View (860) 478-4341
Photo of Olivia Carter - Liv Well Behavioral Health Services, LLC, DNP,  APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Liv Well Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Britain, CT 06052
Serving individuals throughout the lifespan: Adolescents, young adult, mature adults, and geriatric population.
Serving individuals throughout the lifespan: Adolescents, young adult, mature adults, and geriatric population.
(860) 969-4411 View (860) 969-4411

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bristol, CT

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Bristol, CT who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
91% Bipolar Disorder
64% ADHD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
64% Trauma and PTSD
64% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
91% Cigna and Evernorth
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Bristol, CT see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bristol?

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.