Psychiatrists in Suffield, CT
![Photo of Christine L Doucette, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f26f429d-04b8-4188-923c-8b8903e7c7f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine L Doucette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Suffield, CT 06078 (Online Only)
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric evaluations diagnosis & medication management. I work with children adolescents & adults. My experience includes clinic-based settings, collaborating with therapists, DCF, Guardian Ad Litem, nursing services, & PCPs. My specialties include Depression Anxiety Bipolar & Thought Disorders. I have experience with complicated Trauma/PTSD. I practice in CT & MA. At an initial visit, patients can expect a comprehensive evaluation discussing reasons for their visit, psychiatric & medical history, medication review, family/social history review.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric evaluations diagnosis & medication management. I work with children adolescents & adults. My experience includes clinic-based settings, collaborating with therapists, DCF, Guardian Ad Litem, nursing services, & PCPs. My specialties include Depression Anxiety Bipolar & Thought Disorders. I have experience with complicated Trauma/PTSD. I practice in CT & MA. At an initial visit, patients can expect a comprehensive evaluation discussing reasons for their visit, psychiatric & medical history, medication review, family/social history review.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![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
Windsor, CT 06095
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 Janice Reeder - Janice Reeder APRN, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47d89be1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Janice Reeder APRN, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Granby, CT 06035
Janice Reeder is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is dedicated to delivering client-centered medication management support to adolescents and adults who are experiencing challenges related to mental health and substance use disorders. She is skilled at performing psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and ongoing clinical assessments to inform medication strategies.
Janice Reeder is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is dedicated to delivering client-centered medication management support to adolescents and adults who are experiencing challenges related to mental health and substance use disorders. She is skilled at performing psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and ongoing clinical assessments to inform medication strategies.
![Photo of Sherieffa Jackson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9c9c460-085d-4e8a-986e-6318a2546715/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sherieffa Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
South Windsor, CT 06074 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Sherieffa Jackson and I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, equipped with extensive experience in inpatient psychiatry hospital settings. I also see patients in my private practice via telehealth. I have experience treating patients with PTSD, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
Hi, my name is Sherieffa Jackson and I am a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, equipped with extensive experience in inpatient psychiatry hospital settings. I also see patients in my private practice via telehealth. I have experience treating patients with PTSD, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
![Photo of Kaitlin Schmidt - Inner Vibrance, LLC, MSN, NP-C, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f908721-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Inner Vibrance, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP-C, APRN
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095 (Online Only)
Now in network with Cigna, United/Optum/Connecticare. With offices in both Windsor and Greenwich, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve their optimal level of mental health. With over 7 years of experience in the field, I have developed a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric symptoms, medications, and the role therapy plays in helping you be the best version of yourself! My approach is patient-centered, and I work closely with each individual to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique medication goals and to optimize health.
Now in network with Cigna, United/Optum/Connecticare. With offices in both Windsor and Greenwich, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve their optimal level of mental health. With over 7 years of experience in the field, I have developed a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric symptoms, medications, and the role therapy plays in helping you be the best version of yourself! My approach is patient-centered, and I work closely with each individual to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique medication goals and to optimize health.
![Photo of Agnes K Arhin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6e403c8-2060-4ac0-b4c6-2eacca28ebdb/1/320x400.png)
Agnes K Arhin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Broad Brook, CT 06016 (Online Only)
I believe that mental health care is not one-size-fits-all. I personalize each treatment plan to optimize outcomes, integrating evidence-based treatment and patient-centered strategies. I'm a compassionate listener dedicated to helping my patients thrive emotionally and achieve the high quality of life they deserve. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan. I work closely with my patients, their therapists, and primary care physicians to develop individualized treatment plans that suit their specific needs.
I believe that mental health care is not one-size-fits-all. I personalize each treatment plan to optimize outcomes, integrating evidence-based treatment and patient-centered strategies. I'm a compassionate listener dedicated to helping my patients thrive emotionally and achieve the high quality of life they deserve. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan. I work closely with my patients, their therapists, and primary care physicians to develop individualized treatment plans that suit their specific needs.
![Photo of Sana Fuller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7c693f2-6cb0-443a-a116-8f7b9582bd2d/1/320x400.jpeg)
What would you do if you were free from anxiety/depression/fear/regret...? Life challenges often exacerbate our worst fears and behaviors. Together, we will sort through issues, find the roots of the problem, and develop a plan. I want you to love your life again!
What would you do if you were free from anxiety/depression/fear/regret...? Life challenges often exacerbate our worst fears and behaviors. Together, we will sort through issues, find the roots of the problem, and develop a plan. I want you to love your life again!
![Photo of Dr. Jennifer Benjamin - Just4U Behavioral &Mental Health Services, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4001c416-a395-45b7-a9b1-20b43f521a8b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Just4U Behavioral &Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095 (Online Only)
Do you work in corrections? Do you struggle with life stressors or, immigration issues? Do you have post traumatic stress syndrome(PTSD) or other related life crisis? Let Just4U help you process your feelings due to life stressors such as; immigration concerns, trauma, working as a correctional staff, death of a loved one, anxious feelings or depression. Just4U will help you to get your life back! JUST4U uses different types of therapies and or medications to make you feel better. JUST4U will help you reach individualized goals. We got you!
Do you work in corrections? Do you struggle with life stressors or, immigration issues? Do you have post traumatic stress syndrome(PTSD) or other related life crisis? Let Just4U help you process your feelings due to life stressors such as; immigration concerns, trauma, working as a correctional staff, death of a loved one, anxious feelings or depression. Just4U will help you to get your life back! JUST4U uses different types of therapies and or medications to make you feel better. JUST4U will help you reach individualized goals. We got you!
![Photo of Sophia Lopez, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8562201-8064-4c3b-a7cd-d3007c3a2009/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you finding that your mood is impacting your relationships, your work or your daily tasks in a negative way? Sometimes your mood impacts your functioning in a way that makes life unmanageable. My approach is holistic, patient centered and focused on your goals.
Are you finding that your mood is impacting your relationships, your work or your daily tasks in a negative way? Sometimes your mood impacts your functioning in a way that makes life unmanageable. My approach is holistic, patient centered and focused on your goals.
![Photo of Amber Irimia, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ce88892-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am taking new patients! My approach to care is collaborative, I will work with you and anyone else you wish to be part of your care. Together, we will identify your unique needs and work to improve your mental health and overall well being.
I am taking new patients! My approach to care is collaborative, I will work with you and anyone else you wish to be part of your care. Together, we will identify your unique needs and work to improve your mental health and overall well being.
![Photo of John Graziano, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf8756f0-6d0d-4b2e-8f81-5fb9172840a9/2/320x400.jpeg)
John Graziano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Windsor Locks, CT 06096
John Graziano, APRN, PMHNP has a philosophy that care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with John, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfillment. That’s because – with a board certification in psychiatry and experience in a variety of settings such as inpatient, community, and outpatient – John is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
John Graziano, APRN, PMHNP has a philosophy that care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with John, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfillment. That’s because – with a board certification in psychiatry and experience in a variety of settings such as inpatient, community, and outpatient – John is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
![Photo of Julio R Duran, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f271a7c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julio R Duran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Enfield, CT 06082
Thank you for viewing my profile. My name is Julio Duran and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (Bilingual – Spanish) in Enfield, Connecticut. My primary focus is treating individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder and many other psychiatric conditions. For those struggling with opiate and alcohol dependence I prescribe medications to promote and regain a substance free lifestyle. My focus is on the adult population from 18 to 65 years old. Please call my office at anytime and my friendly staff will make an appointment for you.
Thank you for viewing my profile. My name is Julio Duran and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (Bilingual – Spanish) in Enfield, Connecticut. My primary focus is treating individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder and many other psychiatric conditions. For those struggling with opiate and alcohol dependence I prescribe medications to promote and regain a substance free lifestyle. My focus is on the adult population from 18 to 65 years old. Please call my office at anytime and my friendly staff will make an appointment for you.
![Photo of Shaylice Meserole Pmhnp-Bc Rn Msed, PMHNP-B, APRN, MSEd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dab8f494-7304-444f-a773-10fa904a66a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shaylice Meserole Pmhnp-Bc Rn Msed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN, MSEd
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095 (Online Only)
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 who graduated from the University of Connecticut with a Bachelor's of Art in Human Development and Family Studies. I attended Fordham University to pursue a Master in Psychological Counseling, and attended Yale University to pursue a Masters in Nursing, specializing in psychiatric-mental health.
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 who graduated from the University of Connecticut with a Bachelor's of Art in Human Development and Family Studies. I attended Fordham University to pursue a Master in Psychological Counseling, and attended Yale University to pursue a Masters in Nursing, specializing in psychiatric-mental health.
![Photo of Janet Yager - Latham Psychiatric NP Care, DNP, RN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39b3c03c-220f-4a28-ae9d-2c34160a2709/2/320x400.jpeg)
Latham Psychiatric NP Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095 (Online Only)
My family is my reason for everything. I have two beautiful daughters, a living husband and three very spoiled pups. I love learning. (
My family is my reason for everything. I have two beautiful daughters, a living husband and three very spoiled pups. I love learning. (
![Photo of Zenna E Bell - Zen Wellness Care LLC, AGNP-BC, RN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f416646-f39d-4e87-af09-6ff8d2934608/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zen Wellness Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-BC, RN, MSN
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095
I am a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner serving the Greater Hartford. My profound passion for holistic health and well-being began during my childhood in Jamaica and has continued to flourish throughout my career. With a focus on a conservative and holistic approach, my mission is to empower individuals to recognize their complete selves, addressing physical, mental, emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual aspects. I Emphasize preventive measures, symptom management, problem-solving, and medication management to achieve and maintain well-being. Ensuring that clients are heard and understood.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner serving the Greater Hartford. My profound passion for holistic health and well-being began during my childhood in Jamaica and has continued to flourish throughout my career. With a focus on a conservative and holistic approach, my mission is to empower individuals to recognize their complete selves, addressing physical, mental, emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual aspects. I Emphasize preventive measures, symptom management, problem-solving, and medication management to achieve and maintain well-being. Ensuring that clients are heard and understood.
![Photo of Debra Sicilian, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/299a1abe-e600-45ea-ade6-3e0aeb452e59/1/320x400.jpeg)
Debra Sicilian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095 (Online Only)
My name is Debra Sicilian, and I am a dedicated psychiatric consultant offering open and genuine support for your well-being. With extensive clinical experience, I deeply grasp brain function, medications, and treatments. My unwavering commitment to uncovering the root causes behind distressing symptoms is what sets me apart. The complexity of the brain, governing various aspects of our being, drives my fascination. I acknowledge the uniqueness of each individual's neurodiversity, influencing treatment responses.
My name is Debra Sicilian, and I am a dedicated psychiatric consultant offering open and genuine support for your well-being. With extensive clinical experience, I deeply grasp brain function, medications, and treatments. My unwavering commitment to uncovering the root causes behind distressing symptoms is what sets me apart. The complexity of the brain, governing various aspects of our being, drives my fascination. I acknowledge the uniqueness of each individual's neurodiversity, influencing treatment responses.
![Photo of Janet Howe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f5ae142-0f0b-4a2f-90b5-ea985b4329a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am based in Connecticut. I earned my masters degree at Walden University. I enjoy working with adults and older adults that are experiencing challenges in their lives that they need support getting through, whether it's through talking or medications or both.
Hello! I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I am based in Connecticut. I earned my masters degree at Walden University. I enjoy working with adults and older adults that are experiencing challenges in their lives that they need support getting through, whether it's through talking or medications or both.
![Photo of Jeffrey Gold, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dcc91a7-c100-43f0-b9f3-d4741ba51b40/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing for over thirty years. My training consisted in many rotations at Yale and the University of Illinois. Since training, I have spent most of my clinical practice in acute inpatient, which is high-intensity and the most conducive to perfecting my ability to practice psychiatry.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing for over thirty years. My training consisted in many rotations at Yale and the University of Illinois. Since training, I have spent most of my clinical practice in acute inpatient, which is high-intensity and the most conducive to perfecting my ability to practice psychiatry.
![Photo of Dr. Kathryn Spencer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32dc35b3-d7fb-4216-9b63-d0e5a180ebba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kathryn Spencer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095 (Online Only)
I am Dr. Kathryn Spencer, PMHNP-BC. I am a graduate of Fairfield University Doctorate of Nursing Practice program. I graduated with the highest honor the University offered. My clinical experience is deep and diverse.
I am Dr. Kathryn Spencer, PMHNP-BC. I am a graduate of Fairfield University Doctorate of Nursing Practice program. I graduated with the highest honor the University offered. My clinical experience is deep and diverse.
![Photo of Deborah S Greene - Deborah S. Greene APRN, APRN, PMHCNS-, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f49c6e0-1da4-4d9e-8354-4b6f57fe1c20/3/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah S. Greene APRN
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHCNS-
Verified Verified
Simsbury, CT 06070 (Online Only)
Mood Disorders and Anxiety are medical illnesses. Successful treatment is available. Treatment may involve various types of psychotherapy. It may also involve in the addition of medication which can successfully target symptoms. The word therapy stems for the Latin word for healing; the term nurse stems from the Latin word for care. Psychiatric nurses care for their patients who are suffering; while assisting our patients in the healing process
Mood Disorders and Anxiety are medical illnesses. Successful treatment is available. Treatment may involve various types of psychotherapy. It may also involve in the addition of medication which can successfully target symptoms. The word therapy stems for the Latin word for healing; the term nurse stems from the Latin word for care. Psychiatric nurses care for their patients who are suffering; while assisting our patients in the healing process
See more therapy options for Suffield
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Suffield, CT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Suffield, CT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Suffield, CT see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Suffield?
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.