Psychiatrists in Lyme, CT
![Photo of Michelle Harris, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fbce7d6-e852-4032-afa3-db9869190de8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Harris
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lyme, CT 06371
I have worked with a variety of populations including those with persistent mental illness, neurodivergence, dementia, and chronic medical illnesses. I have significant experience in providing care to individuals in the LGBTQ+ community. My experience includes medication management for mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders. I work with clients of all ages including children and geriatric clients.
I have worked with a variety of populations including those with persistent mental illness, neurodivergence, dementia, and chronic medical illnesses. I have significant experience in providing care to individuals in the LGBTQ+ community. My experience includes medication management for mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders. I work with clients of all ages including children and geriatric clients.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Theresa Antwi - Wholistic Perspective, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9831f45-1043-4fa7-800d-947c39f1be1c/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
Dr. Henry Crabbe is a Yale-trained and Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been in private practice in the community for more than 30 years. He also has been involved in research in the development of new medications in his specialty.
Dr. Henry Crabbe is a Yale-trained and Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been in private practice in the community for more than 30 years. He also has been involved in research in the development of new medications in his specialty.
![Photo of Jill Fischer, PsyA, APRN, BC, IAAP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bd86997-8915-48ea-82ca-59c1d4478983/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am Jill Fischer, PsyA, APRN, B.C., a Jungian Psychoanalyst, and a board certified, advanced nurse practitioner. With over fifty years of clinical experience, I have a private practice in Norwich, CT. and teach and hold workshops in Brief and In-Depth Analysis and embodied dreamwork worldwide. I am also Co- chair of the Ethics committee for the IAAP. During COVID19 I will be available for sessions online or on the phone. I will also be available to help you work those troubling dreams.
I am Jill Fischer, PsyA, APRN, B.C., a Jungian Psychoanalyst, and a board certified, advanced nurse practitioner. With over fifty years of clinical experience, I have a private practice in Norwich, CT. and teach and hold workshops in Brief and In-Depth Analysis and embodied dreamwork worldwide. I am also Co- chair of the Ethics committee for the IAAP. During COVID19 I will be available for sessions online or on the phone. I will also be available to help you work those troubling dreams.
![Photo of Elisabeth Maryke Kressley, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87d27a44-2dc4-4e57-a393-107eeb7029e4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, and Yale trained Adult psychiatrist. I enjoy treating all ages of people from as young as 3 thru adulthood. I treat ADHD, Depression Anxiety disorders along with behavioral disorders in childhood. I also treat adults, families and couples in addition to individuals with medication and or therapy.
I am Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, and Yale trained Adult psychiatrist. I enjoy treating all ages of people from as young as 3 thru adulthood. I treat ADHD, Depression Anxiety disorders along with behavioral disorders in childhood. I also treat adults, families and couples in addition to individuals with medication and or therapy.
![Photo of Julianne Steahr, APRN, PMHNP, ANP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7210d55e-7f59-42fe-8645-3d344b17fc12/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julianne Steahr
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP, ANP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Essex, CT 06426 (Online Only)
Hello, I practice as a certified APRN in Psychiatry and Primary Care. My current focus is on the treatment of psychiatric illnesses in adults that are motivated to maintain or regain mental and emotional wellness. I prescribe medications for the treatment of Acute and Chronic Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD, ASD, PTSD, Mood D/O, Obesity, Binge Eating, Substance Abuse, Pre and Post Partum, Sleep disorders, Thyroid and CFS. If seeking an initial assessment or continued care for a diagnosed condition or a reevaluation, my goal is to provide you comprehensive, wholistic care to regain or maintain wellness.
Hello, I practice as a certified APRN in Psychiatry and Primary Care. My current focus is on the treatment of psychiatric illnesses in adults that are motivated to maintain or regain mental and emotional wellness. I prescribe medications for the treatment of Acute and Chronic Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD, ASD, PTSD, Mood D/O, Obesity, Binge Eating, Substance Abuse, Pre and Post Partum, Sleep disorders, Thyroid and CFS. If seeking an initial assessment or continued care for a diagnosed condition or a reevaluation, my goal is to provide you comprehensive, wholistic care to regain or maintain wellness.
![Photo of Patricia McClure, MSN, APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c238433-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
With degrees in Medicine and Mental health and Board Certified as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I offer unique holistic care. Years of experience providing therapy and prescribing and managing psychiatric medications means you won't have the added frustration of seeing different practitioners for your care. Join me in a safe, comfortable, confidential atmosphere, where together, we work through the problems causing difficulties in your life. True healing occurs in the "therapeutic relationship" we develop together. Call for more information.
With degrees in Medicine and Mental health and Board Certified as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I offer unique holistic care. Years of experience providing therapy and prescribing and managing psychiatric medications means you won't have the added frustration of seeing different practitioners for your care. Join me in a safe, comfortable, confidential atmosphere, where together, we work through the problems causing difficulties in your life. True healing occurs in the "therapeutic relationship" we develop together. Call for more information.
![Photo of Joyce A Tinsley, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6831e50d-3c8f-49aa-87d7-aa3ef34c8c62/1/320x400.jpeg)
I bring experience and expertise through therapy & medication management. If your psychiatric medication does not relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety or mood instability, you may need a second opinion. Mindful moderation can help you cut down on drinking, stop smoking, or cope with binge eating. You don't have to do this alone. Another area I deal with is acceptance of aging. With older age comes more unwanted challenges than at any other phase of life. We don’t know what will alter our lives, nor when these changes may occur: illness, loss, memory or loneliness, I can help adapt and enjoy the pleasures that older age can bring.
I bring experience and expertise through therapy & medication management. If your psychiatric medication does not relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety or mood instability, you may need a second opinion. Mindful moderation can help you cut down on drinking, stop smoking, or cope with binge eating. You don't have to do this alone. Another area I deal with is acceptance of aging. With older age comes more unwanted challenges than at any other phase of life. We don’t know what will alter our lives, nor when these changes may occur: illness, loss, memory or loneliness, I can help adapt and enjoy the pleasures that older age can bring.
![Photo of Michael Valalik, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43998a91-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for considering my practice for your mental health care. I provide medication management services for adults who are already seeing a therapist regularly for psychotherapy.
Thank you for considering my practice for your mental health care. I provide medication management services for adults who are already seeing a therapist regularly for psychotherapy.
![Photo of Katrina Furey - Sound Psychiatry, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7773556-2311-4d44-8c1c-eaddd170ce20/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello. I am a Yale-trained board-certified adult psychiatrist offering combined psychotherapy with/without medication management and medication management alone in my private practice. I am also a clinical faculty member within Yale School of Medicine's Department of Psychiatry. My practice focuses on women's mental health, reproductive psychiatry, and psychodynamic psychotherapy. This type of insight-oriented psychotherapy promotes curiosity and self-awareness about how individuals' past experiences (including childhood dynamics) influence their present-day thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Such insights promote emotional relief.
Hello. I am a Yale-trained board-certified adult psychiatrist offering combined psychotherapy with/without medication management and medication management alone in my private practice. I am also a clinical faculty member within Yale School of Medicine's Department of Psychiatry. My practice focuses on women's mental health, reproductive psychiatry, and psychodynamic psychotherapy. This type of insight-oriented psychotherapy promotes curiosity and self-awareness about how individuals' past experiences (including childhood dynamics) influence their present-day thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Such insights promote emotional relief.
![Photo of Lee Weber, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/768cd1c1-58d8-4ae3-9cd7-c6511ac95144/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting NEW Child CLIENTS. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I specialize in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 5 - 24) who are struggling with mental health issues. I evaluate and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, and other psychiatric disorders. I provide psychiatric evaluations and consults, medication management, individual and group therapy, as well as ongoing management.
Accepting NEW Child CLIENTS. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I specialize in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 5 - 24) who are struggling with mental health issues. I evaluate and treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, and other psychiatric disorders. I provide psychiatric evaluations and consults, medication management, individual and group therapy, as well as ongoing management.
![Photo of Dr. Diana Kurlyandchik, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e31c1d5f-96b4-476c-9aca-b5c5b46c4fb6/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Sunrise Med, we value the connection of the mind and body, and believe that true wellness can only be achieved by addressing both. I am a board certified psychiatrist with over a decade of worked experience, and am dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment for the complete spectrum of mental illnesses. In addition to traditional treatment methods, including CBT style therapy and medication management, my passion is to incorporate lifestyle modifications to promote your mental wellness. My aim is to empower clients to achieve optimal health, and to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.
At Sunrise Med, we value the connection of the mind and body, and believe that true wellness can only be achieved by addressing both. I am a board certified psychiatrist with over a decade of worked experience, and am dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment for the complete spectrum of mental illnesses. In addition to traditional treatment methods, including CBT style therapy and medication management, my passion is to incorporate lifestyle modifications to promote your mental wellness. My aim is to empower clients to achieve optimal health, and to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.
![Photo of Cassandra C Shepard - Cassandra Shepard Wellness of Mind LLC., DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/633d1826-a8fc-42d2-9ef3-c8f08ac5a0bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cassandra Shepard Wellness of Mind LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475 (Online Only)
The approach is working collaboratively with the clients and focus on teaching, health promotion, clinical guidelines, and integrative care. Cassandra is dual-licensed as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP), board-certified and received her Doctorate of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing. She has experience in short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, inpatient, outpatient psychiatric treatment settings, teaching at a prestigious University, hospitalization care and partial hospitalization program services.
The approach is working collaboratively with the clients and focus on teaching, health promotion, clinical guidelines, and integrative care. Cassandra is dual-licensed as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP), board-certified and received her Doctorate of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing. She has experience in short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, inpatient, outpatient psychiatric treatment settings, teaching at a prestigious University, hospitalization care and partial hospitalization program services.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, chronic illness, or work stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, chronic illness, or work stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
![Photo of Lauren J. Janush, MSN, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5159c730-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients via telehealth and in-person. I am an APRN who specializes in & treats only children & adolescents ages 4-17 with behavioral & mental health issues. Unlike other practitioners who treat individuals of all ages, treating this age group is my sole area of expertise. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, OCD & other disorders first diagnosed in childhood/adolescence. I believe physical health, sleep, diet, lifestyle & family participation are integral to one's mental health. I will work with your child and family to ensure all aspects of your child's care are addressed as well as discuss & explore medication options.
Accepting new clients via telehealth and in-person. I am an APRN who specializes in & treats only children & adolescents ages 4-17 with behavioral & mental health issues. Unlike other practitioners who treat individuals of all ages, treating this age group is my sole area of expertise. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, OCD & other disorders first diagnosed in childhood/adolescence. I believe physical health, sleep, diet, lifestyle & family participation are integral to one's mental health. I will work with your child and family to ensure all aspects of your child's care are addressed as well as discuss & explore medication options.
![Photo of Stephanie Reilly, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca2c1aca-a130-470f-ba8f-f0902af760ea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Reilly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who assists clients in treatment of various mental health conditions. I have over 19 years of nursing experience focused in maternal mental health. I am currently offering both Telehealth and in person visits in Old Saybrook Connecticut. My treatment goals are focused on a client-centered approach to symptom management and resolution.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who assists clients in treatment of various mental health conditions. I have over 19 years of nursing experience focused in maternal mental health. I am currently offering both Telehealth and in person visits in Old Saybrook Connecticut. My treatment goals are focused on a client-centered approach to symptom management and resolution.
Online Psychiatrists
My goal is to help you feel well. I combine medication management with 50 minutes of psychotherapy. I practice this way so that I get to know you. Medication when indicated is only half of the equation. My initial evaluation is approximately one to two hours. I take a social, family, education, medical and personal history. I do this to make sure there are no issues that present with psychiatric symptoms but are medical or neurological in nature. My background includes research,medical and psychiatric nursing since 1979. I have been an APRN since 1997.
My goal is to help you feel well. I combine medication management with 50 minutes of psychotherapy. I practice this way so that I get to know you. Medication when indicated is only half of the equation. My initial evaluation is approximately one to two hours. I take a social, family, education, medical and personal history. I do this to make sure there are no issues that present with psychiatric symptoms but are medical or neurological in nature. My background includes research,medical and psychiatric nursing since 1979. I have been an APRN since 1997.
![Photo of Maegan Monterose, MSN, APRN, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/559a32f5-30f9-41d5-83e9-a9926ca6a3d3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maegan Monterose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410 (Online Only)
Struggling with mental health and feeling lost in the journey towards wellness? Are you seeking a compassionate expert to guide you towards a brighter, more stable future? I understand your search for relief and clarity amidst these challenges. As a dedicated mental health professional, my mission is to light your path towards healing and peace of mind. Together, we can create a treatment plan that you understand and actively participate in, paving the way towards a life of fulfillment and stability. I offer psychiatric medication management.
Struggling with mental health and feeling lost in the journey towards wellness? Are you seeking a compassionate expert to guide you towards a brighter, more stable future? I understand your search for relief and clarity amidst these challenges. As a dedicated mental health professional, my mission is to light your path towards healing and peace of mind. Together, we can create a treatment plan that you understand and actively participate in, paving the way towards a life of fulfillment and stability. I offer psychiatric medication management.
![Photo of Dr. Tiffani L Bell Washington, MD, MPH, FAPA, DipABOM, DipABLM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65b541e5-e9c1-44bc-9533-321fd01a2f5c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tiffani L Bell Washington
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, FAPA, DipABOM, DipABLM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Haven, CT 06510 (Online Only)
Are you a busy professional or parent struggling to balance work, family, and personal health while feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or depression? Are you struggling to maintain a healthy weight? If managing your weight seems impossible amid the pressures of daily life, you're not alone. I specialize in helping individuals like you regain control of their health by addressing both the mental and physical challenges you face. Together, we can develop personalized strategies that fit your lifestyle, helping you achieve a healthier, more balanced life. You don't have to do it all alone—let's find the support you need to thrive.
Are you a busy professional or parent struggling to balance work, family, and personal health while feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or depression? Are you struggling to maintain a healthy weight? If managing your weight seems impossible amid the pressures of daily life, you're not alone. I specialize in helping individuals like you regain control of their health by addressing both the mental and physical challenges you face. Together, we can develop personalized strategies that fit your lifestyle, helping you achieve a healthier, more balanced life. You don't have to do it all alone—let's find the support you need to thrive.
![Photo of Susan Dains, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/692c1d3c-7a45-4835-9038-93b6edf41c7b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Dains
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canton, CT 06019
Whether you are struggling with a new onset of symptoms or need therapy adjunct for chronic history/treatment. Assistance with treatment for substance use disorders; alcohol, opiates , cocaine and treatment resistant disorders. Medication management for all your behavioral health needs.
Whether you are struggling with a new onset of symptoms or need therapy adjunct for chronic history/treatment. Assistance with treatment for substance use disorders; alcohol, opiates , cocaine and treatment resistant disorders. Medication management for all your behavioral health needs.
See more therapy options for Lyme
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lyme, CT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lyme, CT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Autism |
100% | Transgender |
100% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Lyme, CT see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lyme?
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.