Psychiatrists in Oxford, CT
![Photo of Christta Sprott - Destination Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fca0f20d-feb7-4f47-9d1f-eb81b0f50983/1/320x400.png)
Destination Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oxford, CT 06478
Now treating clients in CT and NY! 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. Telehealth is also available for those who wish to receive services in the comfort of their own home. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations, medication management and individual therapy for anxiety, depression, mood disorders and much more!
Now treating clients in CT and NY! 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. Telehealth is also available for those who wish to receive services in the comfort of their own home. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations, medication management and individual therapy for anxiety, depression, mood disorders and much more!
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Barbara Stoudmire, BA, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/468ece56-ce52-455b-9cf2-ed3c5fe7d562/1/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara Stoudmire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525
There has been an increase in those suffering from anxiety and depression, especially after COVID. We watched in fear as the world slipped into a pandemic. I want you to know you are not alone! There are many sufferings from trauma related to a bad relationship, bullying or past abuse. Again, you are not alone! Have you been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or ADHD and have been struggling to manage your symptoms? I am here to help. Regardless of age or diagnosis everyone deserves peace of mind and a little understanding. I believe everyone deserves compassionate and empathetic mental health care. Let me help you.
There has been an increase in those suffering from anxiety and depression, especially after COVID. We watched in fear as the world slipped into a pandemic. I want you to know you are not alone! There are many sufferings from trauma related to a bad relationship, bullying or past abuse. Again, you are not alone! Have you been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or ADHD and have been struggling to manage your symptoms? I am here to help. Regardless of age or diagnosis everyone deserves peace of mind and a little understanding. I believe everyone deserves compassionate and empathetic mental health care. Let me help you.
![Photo of Omolola Aragbada, PMHNP, APRN, MSNPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87a5e457-d135-4934-bebf-12d2d00bc2d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Omolola Aragbada
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSNPH
Verified Verified
Shelton, CT 06484
Hi there, I'm Lola. Are you looking for a provider who makes you feel comfortable enough to reflect and express yourself as you wish? Do you need a provider who listens actively to your concerns? Are you seeking a participatory treatment where you can contribute to your individualized treatment plan?
Hi there, I'm Lola. Are you looking for a provider who makes you feel comfortable enough to reflect and express yourself as you wish? Do you need a provider who listens actively to your concerns? Are you seeking a participatory treatment where you can contribute to your individualized treatment plan?
![Photo of Dr. Gordon Hill, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/662ce536-62cd-42dd-9258-d97b75f220ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an internist and addiction medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to individuals with substance use disorders. I graduated from the addiction medicine fellowship at Yale University and completed my residency in internal medicine at Temple University Hospital, a national epicenter for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). I have years of experience managing advanced use disorders and their complications.
I am an internist and addiction medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to individuals with substance use disorders. I graduated from the addiction medicine fellowship at Yale University and completed my residency in internal medicine at Temple University Hospital, a national epicenter for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). I have years of experience managing advanced use disorders and their complications.
![Photo of Jennifer Marie Ross, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99cae0e6-60ed-4932-9f00-8570cf15ca0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an ANCC board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), with over 10 years of nursing and clinical experience in both inpatient and outpatient care. Offering patient-centered psychopharmacology and psychotherapy for children ages 5+, adolescents, adults, including couple and family counseling. I work in collaboration with various treatment providers from a holistic standpoint that is evidenced-based, while respecting the autonomy of the client. A compassionate therapeutic relationship is part of my practice that focuses on positive aspects to promote the healing process for various disorders..
I am an ANCC board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), with over 10 years of nursing and clinical experience in both inpatient and outpatient care. Offering patient-centered psychopharmacology and psychotherapy for children ages 5+, adolescents, adults, including couple and family counseling. I work in collaboration with various treatment providers from a holistic standpoint that is evidenced-based, while respecting the autonomy of the client. A compassionate therapeutic relationship is part of my practice that focuses on positive aspects to promote the healing process for various disorders..
![Photo of Mark D Stracks, MD, MS, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d6a7ba5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to understand each of my clients as an individual and to craft treatment options that are most appropriate to their needs and preferences. I have found that, where possible, it is best to take a minimalist approach to medication interventions, balancing these with appropriate therapy interventions and focus on life changes that can improve a client's mental health or addiction difficulties. I bring many years of caring treatment experience to each of my client's individual needs. I look forward to working with you.
I strive to understand each of my clients as an individual and to craft treatment options that are most appropriate to their needs and preferences. I have found that, where possible, it is best to take a minimalist approach to medication interventions, balancing these with appropriate therapy interventions and focus on life changes that can improve a client's mental health or addiction difficulties. I bring many years of caring treatment experience to each of my client's individual needs. I look forward to working with you.
![Photo of Sharda Belcher - The Fiercest Mind LLc, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c77cbb6-a043-4886-a7ca-e23b59488a31/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Fiercest Mind LLc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterbury, CT 06708
The mind is an infinite treasure! I am a Psychiatric nurse practitioner with over ten years of behavioral health experience, with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field that I am eager to share. Looking to connect, engage, and treat individuals age 6-55 years old. Treatment modalities include a combination of individual psychotherapy, and medication management in a safe and professional space. For individuals seeking treatment in mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, psychosis. sleep disorders and more. Specializing in children with ADHD and social and emotional challenges.
The mind is an infinite treasure! I am a Psychiatric nurse practitioner with over ten years of behavioral health experience, with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field that I am eager to share. Looking to connect, engage, and treat individuals age 6-55 years old. Treatment modalities include a combination of individual psychotherapy, and medication management in a safe and professional space. For individuals seeking treatment in mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, psychosis. sleep disorders and more. Specializing in children with ADHD and social and emotional challenges.
![Photo of Office Manager - Solstice Healthcare, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/503c2e5c-c409-4940-a772-f6ac1b22874d/1/320x400.png)
Solstice Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Bethany, CT 06524 (Online Only)
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, chronic illness, or 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 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 Maria Tapia - WCT Health & Wellness, PMHNP, LCSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc52d1ae-e7aa-48a8-9f55-bf1f9f385a90/1/320x400.jpeg)
WCT Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middlebury, CT 06762
My passion for empowering and aiding individuals in their wellness journey began 20 years ago. While working with under-served communities in New Haven and Hartford Counties, I was fortunate enough to interact and develop meaningful relationships with individuals of various cultural backgrounds. I continue to apply this philosophical thinking and practice while serving my patients in order to provide an individualized, holistic treatment. I utilize various forms of psychotherapy, complimentary approaches and/or medications to help ease mental health struggles.
My passion for empowering and aiding individuals in their wellness journey began 20 years ago. While working with under-served communities in New Haven and Hartford Counties, I was fortunate enough to interact and develop meaningful relationships with individuals of various cultural backgrounds. I continue to apply this philosophical thinking and practice while serving my patients in order to provide an individualized, holistic treatment. I utilize various forms of psychotherapy, complimentary approaches and/or medications to help ease mental health struggles.
![Photo of Shaylice M. Meserole, DNP, PMHNP, MSEd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdc8dffa-deb3-48e4-9550-5b4f19c410ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shaylice M. Meserole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, MSEd
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525
Hey there, I'm Shay. I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner, a wife, a mom but most importantly your biggest supporter in achieving your goals for overall improved mental health and well-being. I am highly rated board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and a double degree graduate of Yale University. I treat patients across the country, across the lifespan and have focused my doctoral work on increasing access and adherence to trauma focused care.
Hey there, I'm Shay. I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner, a wife, a mom but most importantly your biggest supporter in achieving your goals for overall improved mental health and well-being. I am highly rated board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and a double degree graduate of Yale University. I treat patients across the country, across the lifespan and have focused my doctoral work on increasing access and adherence to trauma focused care.
![Photo of Lyndsie Ryalls, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20fa6526-7dfc-4712-aced-5b163281505b/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide compassionate, respectful evaluation and psychopharmacologic treatment. I primarily work with adolescents and adults seeking medication evaluation and ongoing medication management for a range of issues including anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and comorbid mental health and substance abuse.
I provide compassionate, respectful evaluation and psychopharmacologic treatment. I primarily work with adolescents and adults seeking medication evaluation and ongoing medication management for a range of issues including anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and comorbid mental health and substance abuse.
![Photo of Shakeria C Brown - Renew Your Mind LLC, MSN , APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0854b2de-ab26-426a-b6d0-3d75ccb394a2/2/320x400.png)
Renew Your Mind LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Southbury, CT 06488 (Online Only)
Welcome! We are a practice that provides mental health needs to all ages. Mental Health is an area of service that needs more compassion, so we are here to help you with that. We offer medication management with our APRN and we also provide tele-health visits. Our clinicians are caring and compassionate and they try to go above and beyond for all their clients. We will try to help you find the right treatment plan for your mental health needs. Our practice focuses on you as a whole person. We discuss and provide realistic goals together with compassion in mind. Contact Us today and we are here to help!
Welcome! We are a practice that provides mental health needs to all ages. Mental Health is an area of service that needs more compassion, so we are here to help you with that. We offer medication management with our APRN and we also provide tele-health visits. Our clinicians are caring and compassionate and they try to go above and beyond for all their clients. We will try to help you find the right treatment plan for your mental health needs. Our practice focuses on you as a whole person. We discuss and provide realistic goals together with compassion in mind. Contact Us today and we are here to help!
![Photo of Rose Yu-Chin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1dc9dc93-fd0d-4449-b0b6-1c68c4e5f020/2/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to get you better through a comprehensive assessment, supportive psychotherapy , and medication evaluation/management so that you can function at your best. I have 40 + years of clinical work in New York & Connecticut. I am accessible. Success for me is to see you have a life. Main work will be telehealth, which is effective and convenient.
My goal is to get you better through a comprehensive assessment, supportive psychotherapy , and medication evaluation/management so that you can function at your best. I have 40 + years of clinical work in New York & Connecticut. I am accessible. Success for me is to see you have a life. Main work will be telehealth, which is effective and convenient.
![Photo of Christina Costa - SMPsychotherapy & Couseling Services , FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07143d2e-f250-4a9c-8d82-f2d86f81b4bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
SMPsychotherapy & Couseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Southbury, CT 06488
Now accepting new clients! Have you tried medications for mental health conditions without success? Do you feel your medication prescriber doesn’t spend enough time with you? You want someone who will take a holistic approach when prescribing your mental health medications and listen to your experience and concerns about side effects. You want to manage your mental health conditions and get back to building the life you want. What if you could find a mental health practice that combines best practices in medication management with comprehensive therapy services? We’d be honored to help you achieve mental wellness.
Now accepting new clients! Have you tried medications for mental health conditions without success? Do you feel your medication prescriber doesn’t spend enough time with you? You want someone who will take a holistic approach when prescribing your mental health medications and listen to your experience and concerns about side effects. You want to manage your mental health conditions and get back to building the life you want. What if you could find a mental health practice that combines best practices in medication management with comprehensive therapy services? We’d be honored to help you achieve mental wellness.
![Photo of Gony Alexandra Weiss, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea88f3e4-0247-4fcf-8c1b-5ab08a55ad07/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, poor motivation, difficulty focusing or general dissatisfaction with where you are in life? Are you wanting help, guidance, and support in creating a life that you love? If so, I am happy to help. I am a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist, voted Top Doctor in CT, and was awarded an Excellence in Healthcare Award. My mission is to help you live your best life. I provide a caring, compassionate, and comprehensive approach to patient care and utilize Functional Medicine assessment and treatment protocols to get at the source of disease and treat the source, not just the symptoms.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, poor motivation, difficulty focusing or general dissatisfaction with where you are in life? Are you wanting help, guidance, and support in creating a life that you love? If so, I am happy to help. I am a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist, voted Top Doctor in CT, and was awarded an Excellence in Healthcare Award. My mission is to help you live your best life. I provide a caring, compassionate, and comprehensive approach to patient care and utilize Functional Medicine assessment and treatment protocols to get at the source of disease and treat the source, not just the symptoms.
![Photo of Sarah Phillips, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/409f8817-5fb0-4646-8ffd-e5d4310e6e27/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 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 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 Sally Romano, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23751412-e5c2-47da-a6cb-d1f9f232c28d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sally Romano
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, CT 06798
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in treating patients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, erratic moods, attentional difficulties, eating concerns, or the after-effects of trauma. I provide thorough psychiatric evaluations, with attention to the psychological and social aspects of your distress, as well as to possible underlying medical factors. After an initial evaluation, usually completed in one 90-minute session, we discuss treatment options. If medication is being considered, we discuss the risks and benefits before making any decisions. Ultimately, I offer information and recommendations but respect your choices.
I specialize in treating patients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, erratic moods, attentional difficulties, eating concerns, or the after-effects of trauma. I provide thorough psychiatric evaluations, with attention to the psychological and social aspects of your distress, as well as to possible underlying medical factors. After an initial evaluation, usually completed in one 90-minute session, we discuss treatment options. If medication is being considered, we discuss the risks and benefits before making any decisions. Ultimately, I offer information and recommendations but respect your choices.
![Photo of Avi Mitra, MD, MS, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fc88451-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Mayo Clinic trained Adult Psychiatrist. I have trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Yale University's Child Study Center. I have 19 years of experience practicing Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am a Fellow of the American Psychiatry Association.
I am a Mayo Clinic trained Adult Psychiatrist. I have trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Yale University's Child Study Center. I have 19 years of experience practicing Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am a Fellow of the American Psychiatry Association.
![Photo of Mayumi Okuda Benavides, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ab1a8b2-5c74-4306-b072-28670c8c48de/3/320x400.png)
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
![Photo of Maria Tapia - WCT Behavioral Health & Medication Management, APRN, PMHNP, LCSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a635a78c-65c6-4516-bb0d-52b31848d03c/1/320x400.jpeg)
WCT Behavioral Health & Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middlebury, CT 06762
My passion for empowering and aiding individuals in their wellness journey began 20 years ago. While working with under-served communities in New Haven and Hartford Counties, I was fortunate enough to interact and develop meaningful relationships with individuals of various cultural backgrounds. I continue to apply this philosophical thinking and practice while serving my patients in order to provide an individualized, holistic treatment.
My passion for empowering and aiding individuals in their wellness journey began 20 years ago. While working with under-served communities in New Haven and Hartford Counties, I was fortunate enough to interact and develop meaningful relationships with individuals of various cultural backgrounds. I continue to apply this philosophical thinking and practice while serving my patients in order to provide an individualized, holistic treatment.
See more therapy options for Oxford
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Oxford, CT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Oxford, CT who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Parenting |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Oxford |
How Psychiatrists in Oxford, CT see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Oxford?
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.