Psychiatrists in Greenwich, CT
![Photo of John S Tamerin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2bc577c-832e-49f6-beaa-5bcb271753ac/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client is someone who wants more out of life than symptom removal. I want to work with people who want to find meaning, purpose and passion in their lives. Certainly, I want to help people diminish suffering but a lasting approach must involve a determined commitment to living a fulfilling life.
My ideal client is someone who wants more out of life than symptom removal. I want to work with people who want to find meaning, purpose and passion in their lives. Certainly, I want to help people diminish suffering but a lasting approach must involve a determined commitment to living a fulfilling life.
![Photo of Clare Swanson, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc288050-37f5-4f44-9b84-e8dd1e03cc82/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Swanson treats a spectrum of psychiatric and psychological concerns, focusing on individual challenges such as relationship difficulties, life transitions, personal fulfillment, and identity, in addition to addressing psychiatric issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and OCD. In my practice, treatments are tailored to each individual's needs and preferences, and can incorporate psychotherapy, medications, or both. Because I believe change happens most easily when we don’t feel judged, I aim for a warm and compassionate stance towards the challenges my patients face.
Dr. Swanson treats a spectrum of psychiatric and psychological concerns, focusing on individual challenges such as relationship difficulties, life transitions, personal fulfillment, and identity, in addition to addressing psychiatric issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and OCD. In my practice, treatments are tailored to each individual's needs and preferences, and can incorporate psychotherapy, medications, or both. Because I believe change happens most easily when we don’t feel judged, I aim for a warm and compassionate stance towards the challenges my patients face.
Aurora Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board-certified adult and child & adolescent psychiatrist providing therapy and psychiatric medication management for individuals seeking care for a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, school and behavioral difficulties. I also have expertise in working with gender diverse youth and their families.
I am a board-certified adult and child & adolescent psychiatrist providing therapy and psychiatric medication management for individuals seeking care for a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, school and behavioral difficulties. I also have expertise in working with gender diverse youth and their families.
![Photo of Margaret Miller, DNP, LMSW, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0d342d8-76da-4956-9437-17a4702a175e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, LMSW, MSN
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
Dr. Miller DNP treats individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, PTSD and ADHD. If you are struggling with a mood disorder or chronic inattention impacting work and relationships Dr. Miller will tailor treatment holistically and individually to your needs. Integrating an understanding of your lifestyle and needs into your treatment allows Dr. Miller to treat you as a whole person, understanding your symptoms in the context of your life.
Dr. Miller DNP treats individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, PTSD and ADHD. If you are struggling with a mood disorder or chronic inattention impacting work and relationships Dr. Miller will tailor treatment holistically and individually to your needs. Integrating an understanding of your lifestyle and needs into your treatment allows Dr. Miller to treat you as a whole person, understanding your symptoms in the context of your life.
![Photo of Alessandra Buonopane, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49f12c9a-b9d7-4d84-84e7-28c1cd8beece/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Buonopane is Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She obtained her medical degree with Laude from the University of Rome, La Sapienza, and completed her residency in Psychiatry from Yale School of Medicine. Dr. Buonopane has extensive experience in psychopharmacology and offers state-of-the art medication management with compassion and empathy. She practices a holistic approach, combining psychiatric medications with elements of psychotherapy and mindfulness.
Dr. Buonopane is Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She obtained her medical degree with Laude from the University of Rome, La Sapienza, and completed her residency in Psychiatry from Yale School of Medicine. Dr. Buonopane has extensive experience in psychopharmacology and offers state-of-the art medication management with compassion and empathy. She practices a holistic approach, combining psychiatric medications with elements of psychotherapy and mindfulness.
![Photo of Holly Greenfield, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8c73730-afe8-4d5f-88f3-455c5a725d2f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Holly Greenfield attended medical school at New York Medical College. She went on to do an internal medicine internship at Tulane followed by Psychiatry residency at Beth Israel Medical Center. She has been a board-certified psychiatrist for more than 30 years. She has experience in inpatient psychiatry, outpatient psychiatry, and Consult Liaison Psychiatry. She has worked in a private freestanding psychiatric hospital in Connecticut as well as the state hospital in Colorado. She has been the Medical Director for Jefferson Center for Mental Health in Colorado.
Dr. Holly Greenfield attended medical school at New York Medical College. She went on to do an internal medicine internship at Tulane followed by Psychiatry residency at Beth Israel Medical Center. She has been a board-certified psychiatrist for more than 30 years. She has experience in inpatient psychiatry, outpatient psychiatry, and Consult Liaison Psychiatry. She has worked in a private freestanding psychiatric hospital in Connecticut as well as the state hospital in Colorado. She has been the Medical Director for Jefferson Center for Mental Health in Colorado.
![Photo of Joyce Z Pere - Joyce Z. Pere, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9fa27d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I approach each new patient as a caring, sympathetic practitioner, taking the time to assess the challenges facing both the patient and their family. My main objective is to help children, adolescents, adults and their families by providing Psychodynamic Therapies to enable patients to develop a variety of coping skills that will help balance life. Medication management is offered with a careful, cautious approach.
I approach each new patient as a caring, sympathetic practitioner, taking the time to assess the challenges facing both the patient and their family. My main objective is to help children, adolescents, adults and their families by providing Psychodynamic Therapies to enable patients to develop a variety of coping skills that will help balance life. Medication management is offered with a careful, cautious approach.
As a psychiatrist in Greenwich, Connecticut (CT), I specialize in treating an array of mental disorders and illnesses, including addiction disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders and depressive disorders. My training is in Relational Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Treatments consist of: Neuropsychopharmacology, certification in Buprenorphine (Suboxone), Naltrexone maintenance therapy and Psychotherapy.
I am dedicated to providing my patients with the highest level of personalized, authentic and therapeutic care. My goal is to build collaborative relationships with patients that creates a platform for greater insight into ones self understanding, which in turn leads to goal achievement.
As a psychiatrist in Greenwich, Connecticut (CT), I specialize in treating an array of mental disorders and illnesses, including addiction disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders and depressive disorders. My training is in Relational Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Treatments consist of: Neuropsychopharmacology, certification in Buprenorphine (Suboxone), Naltrexone maintenance therapy and Psychotherapy.
I am dedicated to providing my patients with the highest level of personalized, authentic and therapeutic care. My goal is to build collaborative relationships with patients that creates a platform for greater insight into ones self understanding, which in turn leads to goal achievement.
![Photo of Olga Selikhov, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/147020fe-cb58-41db-8ac7-a688f9ec3279/2/320x400.jpeg)
Olga Selikhov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Olga and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Connecticut. I specialize in Anger Management, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Illness, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Olga and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Connecticut. I specialize in Anger Management, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Illness, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
![Photo of Robert Werner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4c32414-67d3-4b40-8944-cde1a735c177/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Blake Werner is an adult and addiction psychiatry board-certified physician who has been in practice for the past 4 years. He received his medical degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, TX, before moving to charming Charleston, SC to complete his residency in adult psychiatry. Following residency, Dr. Werner completed a fellowship in addiction psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine. Post-fellowship, Dr. Werner joined the Yale faculty as an assistant professor and was employed through the Veterans Affairs, treating substance use disorders in an outpatient clinical setting.
Dr. Blake Werner is an adult and addiction psychiatry board-certified physician who has been in practice for the past 4 years. He received his medical degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, TX, before moving to charming Charleston, SC to complete his residency in adult psychiatry. Following residency, Dr. Werner completed a fellowship in addiction psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine. Post-fellowship, Dr. Werner joined the Yale faculty as an assistant professor and was employed through the Veterans Affairs, treating substance use disorders in an outpatient clinical setting.
![Photo of Michael Roman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e446b47-2404-42db-9cdc-79f60dbfeea3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Roman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Michael Roman is currently a Staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He completed his adult psychiatry residency training at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Roman is a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist and a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). Dr. Roman’s clinical practice centers primarily around medication management and psychopharmacological treatment approaches. He also specializes in a variety of psychotherapeutic modalities which he utilizes in conjunction with medication management in order to provide patients with the best possible treatment outcomes.
Dr. Michael Roman is currently a Staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He completed his adult psychiatry residency training at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Roman is a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist and a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). Dr. Roman’s clinical practice centers primarily around medication management and psychopharmacological treatment approaches. He also specializes in a variety of psychotherapeutic modalities which he utilizes in conjunction with medication management in order to provide patients with the best possible treatment outcomes.
15 Second Videos
Olga Selikhov
Sofia Noori
Destination Psychiatry
We specialize in cases where traditional methods fall short. Our focus is using MeRT (Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy), a safe, gentle, non-invasive and personalized treatment which is FDA-approved and insurance reimbursed (depression). It has demonstrated remarkable success in modulating neural activity and promoting neuroplasticity, particularly in treatment-resistant conditions. Notably, MeRT employs Dry-Lead EEG technology to guide treatment, allowing us to tailor interventions with unprecedented speed and precision based on each patient's unique brain activity.
We specialize in cases where traditional methods fall short. Our focus is using MeRT (Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy), a safe, gentle, non-invasive and personalized treatment which is FDA-approved and insurance reimbursed (depression). It has demonstrated remarkable success in modulating neural activity and promoting neuroplasticity, particularly in treatment-resistant conditions. Notably, MeRT employs Dry-Lead EEG technology to guide treatment, allowing us to tailor interventions with unprecedented speed and precision based on each patient's unique brain activity.
![Photo of Ruslan Berdichevsky - MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66d4a4f7-829a-42d3-9732-daa99ba39e33/1/320x400.png)
MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830 (Online Only)
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
![Photo of Sheila Devlin-Craane, DNP, NPP, MSN, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80a5a1ec-2ea9-4c57-a010-9eb786bc09f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila Devlin-Craane
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, NPP, MSN, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
Dr Sheila Devlin-Craane - Counseling Associates Inc / EMDR for Trauma is a DNP, & Clinical Specialist, board certified in psychiatric mental health with more than 35 years’ experience. She obtained a doctorate at Fairfield University as a psychiatric DNP. She is also nationally certified in EMDR which is a preferred treatment for trauma and PTSD. Dr. Devlin has prescriptive authority in both New York and Ct. Treatment and medication management for psychiatric conditions such as: depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief/ loss. & PTSD. Contact the office 914 727-0621 or 203 733-0054
Dr Sheila Devlin-Craane - Counseling Associates Inc / EMDR for Trauma is a DNP, & Clinical Specialist, board certified in psychiatric mental health with more than 35 years’ experience. She obtained a doctorate at Fairfield University as a psychiatric DNP. She is also nationally certified in EMDR which is a preferred treatment for trauma and PTSD. Dr. Devlin has prescriptive authority in both New York and Ct. Treatment and medication management for psychiatric conditions such as: depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief/ loss. & PTSD. Contact the office 914 727-0621 or 203 733-0054
![Photo of Swathi Reddy Moylan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/990db1e8-6d07-4bfa-a464-74d0d4809a15/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist licensed in Connecticut and New York. I have extensive experience in diagnosing and practicing evidence-based medicine in children, adolescents, and adults who have anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and eating disorders as well as providing parenting and behavioral strategies. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, family-based therapy, and supportive psychotherapy with my patients.
I am a board certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist licensed in Connecticut and New York. I have extensive experience in diagnosing and practicing evidence-based medicine in children, adolescents, and adults who have anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and eating disorders as well as providing parenting and behavioral strategies. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, family-based therapy, and supportive psychotherapy with my patients.
![Photo of Sheera Gerber, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f44c32cc-e981-4496-806a-0513ebfe8a43/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you or a loved one seeking expert guidance and compassionate care on your journey towards mental wellness? Look no further. I am a distinguished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in general psychiatry and addiction treatment for individuals aged 17 years and older.
Are you or a loved one seeking expert guidance and compassionate care on your journey towards mental wellness? Look no further. I am a distinguished Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in general psychiatry and addiction treatment for individuals aged 17 years and older.
![Photo of Tara Thompson-Felix, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24d4809e-77db-421a-aa78-01721ba465f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tara Thompson-Felix is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Dr. Thompson-Felix has specialized training in perinatal mental health and believes that improving outcomes during pregnancy and the postpartum period has a long-lasting impact on outcomes for a mother and child. She also specializes in treating a wide array of psychiatric conditions affecting children, adolescents and young adults. She earned her medical degree at Rutgers, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and trained in adult psychiatry at Temple University Medical School.
Dr. Tara Thompson-Felix is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Dr. Thompson-Felix has specialized training in perinatal mental health and believes that improving outcomes during pregnancy and the postpartum period has a long-lasting impact on outcomes for a mother and child. She also specializes in treating a wide array of psychiatric conditions affecting children, adolescents and young adults. She earned her medical degree at Rutgers, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and trained in adult psychiatry at Temple University Medical School.
![Photo of Jill Ahluwalia, NP, MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e19c5fc-224f-4f30-9d76-8683efeb9fbb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Ahluwalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MPH
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06831 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified, Columbia University-trained psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) specializing in psychiatric evaluation, medication management, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments to improve mental health. My holistic approach combines personalized medicine with my passion for listening deeply to your experience. By going beyond the symptoms that bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more joy and fulfillment in your life.
I am a board-certified, Columbia University-trained psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) specializing in psychiatric evaluation, medication management, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments to improve mental health. My holistic approach combines personalized medicine with my passion for listening deeply to your experience. By going beyond the symptoms that bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more joy and fulfillment in your life.
Anxiety, depression, irritability, overwhelming stress, and obsessive worries can be debilitating and significantly limit your capacity to live life. These feelings lead to self doubt, relationship conflict, feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, uncertainty about direction in life, and potentially to substance use to lift depression or ease anxiety.
My treatment philosophy draws from diverse experience and theoretical approaches. Treatment is individualized, collaborative, and aimed at understanding underlying conflicts, clarifying life goals, and making substantive behavioral change to enable you to live life in a more introspective, mindful way that leads to greater fulfillment.
Anxiety, depression, irritability, overwhelming stress, and obsessive worries can be debilitating and significantly limit your capacity to live life. These feelings lead to self doubt, relationship conflict, feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, uncertainty about direction in life, and potentially to substance use to lift depression or ease anxiety.
My treatment philosophy draws from diverse experience and theoretical approaches. Treatment is individualized, collaborative, and aimed at understanding underlying conflicts, clarifying life goals, and making substantive behavioral change to enable you to live life in a more introspective, mindful way that leads to greater fulfillment.
![Photo of Sana Fuller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f9d6198-f2eb-44a2-8450-e3d78b5207b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
What would you do if you were free from fear, ... addiction, ...jealousy? Professional insight helps to sort through feelings and unpack the thoughts that fuel them. Anxiety, depression, anger, and addiction are signals of conflicts, sometimes, subconscious. Let's read the signals with care and get to the bottom of it. Together, we will dive into the roots of the issues, providing a solid foundation for you to emerge stronger and wiser. Your journey toward strength and wisdom begins here!
What would you do if you were free from fear, ... addiction, ...jealousy? Professional insight helps to sort through feelings and unpack the thoughts that fuel them. Anxiety, depression, anger, and addiction are signals of conflicts, sometimes, subconscious. Let's read the signals with care and get to the bottom of it. Together, we will dive into the roots of the issues, providing a solid foundation for you to emerge stronger and wiser. Your journey toward strength and wisdom begins here!
See more therapy options for Greenwich
Nearby Searches for Greenwich
- Bridgeport
- Darien
- Fairfield
- New Canaan
- Norwalk
- Old Greenwich
- Ridgefield
- Southport
- Stamford
- Weston
- Westport
- Wilton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Greenwich, CT
70+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Greenwich, CT who prioritize treating:
88% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
84% | Medication Management |
72% | ADHD |
70% | Bipolar Disorder |
64% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | Cigna and Evernorth |
76% | Aetna |
65% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Greenwich, CT see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
35% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Greenwich?
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.