Psychiatrists in Wallingford, CT

Photo of Avi Mitra, MD, MS, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Avi Mitra
Psychiatrist, MD, MS, FAPA
Verified Verified
Wallingford, CT 06492
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.
(203) 590-5778 View (203) 590-5778
Photo of Traci Marando- Holistic Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Traci Marando- Holistic Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wallingford, CT 06492  (Online Only)
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 23 years experience in the field, I’ve had the opportunity to work with patients of all ages and in a variety of treatment settings. Specialty areas are recovery from narcissistic abuse/domestic violence, attachment styles/traumas, OCD/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, anger management, postpartum, divorce/separation, and codependency. At my private practice, Family Psychiatric Services, I provide a holistic approach, utilizing intensive therapy, nutrition, and medication management, with the goal of helping patients become medication free (as appropriate).
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 23 years experience in the field, I’ve had the opportunity to work with patients of all ages and in a variety of treatment settings. Specialty areas are recovery from narcissistic abuse/domestic violence, attachment styles/traumas, OCD/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, anger management, postpartum, divorce/separation, and codependency. At my private practice, Family Psychiatric Services, I provide a holistic approach, utilizing intensive therapy, nutrition, and medication management, with the goal of helping patients become medication free (as appropriate).
(203) 403-6580 View (203) 403-6580
Photo of Holly Hillburn, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holly Hillburn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Wallingford, CT 06492
I specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry and work with kids, ages 4 to 21. Please visit www.centralpsychiatry.com for details. I've been a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse since 2010 and graduated from the University of Rochester School of Nursing, in Western New York. I have worked alongside child psychiatrists for over a decade and attend the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry annual training academy. These experiences have enhanced my knowledge of pediatric psychopharmacology. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, clarify psychiatric diagnoses, and prescribe psychotropic medication.
I specialize in child and adolescent psychiatry and work with kids, ages 4 to 21. Please visit www.centralpsychiatry.com for details. I've been a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse since 2010 and graduated from the University of Rochester School of Nursing, in Western New York. I have worked alongside child psychiatrists for over a decade and attend the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry annual training academy. These experiences have enhanced my knowledge of pediatric psychopharmacology. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, clarify psychiatric diagnoses, and prescribe psychotropic medication.
(860) 467-0559 View (860) 467-0559
Photo of Dr. Nikita Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Nikita Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wallingford, CT 06492  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I completed a six-year combined undergraduate-graduate medical school program at the University of Missouri, earning my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Doctorate of Medicine. I completed my residency at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt program in Baltimore, followed by a Forensic Psychiatry fellowship through Columbia University in New York City.
I completed a six-year combined undergraduate-graduate medical school program at the University of Missouri, earning my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Doctorate of Medicine. I completed my residency at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt program in Baltimore, followed by a Forensic Psychiatry fellowship through Columbia University in New York City.
(929) 209-6091 View (929) 209-6091
Photo of Lisa Killips, APRN, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisa Killips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Wallingford, CT 06494  (Online Only)
I am accepting new Clients. My goal is to treat clients with an individual, holistic approach in an effort to strive for a healthy, balanced, quality of life. I am an empathetic listener utilizing integrative treatment strategies of medication management, complimentary therapies, mindfulness, nutrition, exercise and more. Treatment is with thoughtful consideration of the Client as a whole.
I am accepting new Clients. My goal is to treat clients with an individual, holistic approach in an effort to strive for a healthy, balanced, quality of life. I am an empathetic listener utilizing integrative treatment strategies of medication management, complimentary therapies, mindfulness, nutrition, exercise and more. Treatment is with thoughtful consideration of the Client as a whole.
(860) 590-8236 View (860) 590-8236
Photo of Fredo J Clermont, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fredo J Clermont
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Wallingford, CT 06492
Waitlist for new clients
Accepting New Patient on a limited basis. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
Accepting New Patient on a limited basis. Experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues specializing in medication management with an integrative treatment approach. As a Doctorally-prepared Double Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), My extensive work history providing care to patients with comorbid psychiatric issues (Anxiety, OCD, Mood Disorders, Depression including postpartum depression, PTSD, Bipolar) and medical conditions has contributed to my ability to assess each patient from a holistic view while focusing on the treatment of mental health.
(860) 901-0520 View (860) 901-0520

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Olanike Idowu, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olanike Idowu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN, NP
Verified Verified
Prospect, CT 06712
I am a Yale University-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner with over 18 years of experience in Mental Health. I am lifespan board-certified to treat ages 5 to 70years old. I have subspecialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical research. I treat all psychiatric conditions including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD and abuse survivors, OCD, Eating Disorders, and ODD. I provide culturally sensitive integrative and holistic psychiatric services that are tailored to each individual patient's needs.
I am a Yale University-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner with over 18 years of experience in Mental Health. I am lifespan board-certified to treat ages 5 to 70years old. I have subspecialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical research. I treat all psychiatric conditions including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD and abuse survivors, OCD, Eating Disorders, and ODD. I provide culturally sensitive integrative and holistic psychiatric services that are tailored to each individual patient's needs.
(475) 255-6394 View (475) 255-6394
Photo of Jennifer landolt - A Brand New Day, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A Brand New Day, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06518
Have you tried many different medications and modalities and still not achieved optimal health? My practice will take these into consideration and build upon them. I am trained in diagnosing mental health disorders, addiction support and offering treatment options in the form of prescribing medication and other nonpharmacological interventions. I believe in the power of structure, exercise, diet, and sleep. My practice is trauma informed and we also can submit for genetic testing to see what medications might be the best fit for you.
Have you tried many different medications and modalities and still not achieved optimal health? My practice will take these into consideration and build upon them. I am trained in diagnosing mental health disorders, addiction support and offering treatment options in the form of prescribing medication and other nonpharmacological interventions. I believe in the power of structure, exercise, diet, and sleep. My practice is trauma informed and we also can submit for genetic testing to see what medications might be the best fit for you.
(475) 244-7556 View (475) 244-7556
Photo of Diana Lankenau, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse
Diana Lankenau
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410  (Online Only)
Diana Lankenau is a board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specialized in psychiatric mental health at Lankenau Health Services. In her own words: “Life is a journey. We all struggle in understanding our own thoughts, emotions, insecurities, perceptions, and behaviors. Often times, we compare ourselves to others in search for the self”. Diana attempts to help others in understanding that mental health conflicts are very common. Showing emotion during these hard times is not a sign of weakness, or vulnerability but inner strength.
Diana Lankenau is a board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specialized in psychiatric mental health at Lankenau Health Services. In her own words: “Life is a journey. We all struggle in understanding our own thoughts, emotions, insecurities, perceptions, and behaviors. Often times, we compare ourselves to others in search for the self”. Diana attempts to help others in understanding that mental health conflicts are very common. Showing emotion during these hard times is not a sign of weakness, or vulnerability but inner strength.
(786) 743-4825 View (786) 743-4825
Photo of Dr. Bruce A Fischer - Bruce A Fischer MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Bruce A Fischer MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
I have been providing mental health care for for people in Connecticut and Rhode Island for over 36 years before more recently adding online access for people in Massachusetts. Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication management, and applications of mindfulness, positive psychology, diet and exercise.
I have been providing mental health care for for people in Connecticut and Rhode Island for over 36 years before more recently adding online access for people in Massachusetts. Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication management, and applications of mindfulness, positive psychology, diet and exercise.
(508) 290-5146 View (508) 290-5146
Photo of Christine Aigbobun, PA, Physician Assistant
Christine Aigbobun
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410  (Online Only)
Christine believes in treating people so that their individual and therapeutic goals are met and is dedicated to serving and healing the community through patient-centered care. Treatment should be an avenue to show compassion and understanding to patients and their needs without judgment or stigma whether it is through mediation, therapy, or both.
Christine believes in treating people so that their individual and therapeutic goals are met and is dedicated to serving and healing the community through patient-centered care. Treatment should be an avenue to show compassion and understanding to patients and their needs without judgment or stigma whether it is through mediation, therapy, or both.
(475) 275-6779 View (475) 275-6779
Photo of Chanon C. Biceglia - Dr. Chanon  C.  Biceglia, DNP of Medica Today LLC, DNP, PMHNP, NP-C, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Chanon C. Biceglia, DNP of Medica Today LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, NP-C, APRN
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
With a strong passion for helping others succeed & work through obstacles in their life, I serve as both a psychiatric and medical provider, with a comprehensive education & experience of 25+ years. Holding a doctorate and double board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner & medical APRN, I hold full prescriptive authority to serve the needs of clients in Connecticut & Arizona. My background & experience includes trauma & crisis, primary care, inpatient hospital, out-patient, family/couples, school based intervention, ADD/ADHD, & ASD health and wellness.
With a strong passion for helping others succeed & work through obstacles in their life, I serve as both a psychiatric and medical provider, with a comprehensive education & experience of 25+ years. Holding a doctorate and double board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner & medical APRN, I hold full prescriptive authority to serve the needs of clients in Connecticut & Arizona. My background & experience includes trauma & crisis, primary care, inpatient hospital, out-patient, family/couples, school based intervention, ADD/ADHD, & ASD health and wellness.
(203) 806-9936 View (203) 806-9936
Dr Lal Cares
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
North Haven, CT 06473  (Online Only)
I want to first work with my patients in a comprehensive way to come to a preliminary diagnosis and not ask them to fill out a form, in mental health, there is no cookie-cutter diagnosis. Once we have established a diagnosis we will work together to come up with the treatment plan which will take into account the unique person they are using latest diagnostic testing which will guide what medications will work best for them. My biggest struggle with practicing in other settings have been the changes in the guidelines and clinic setting which prevents building of long-term therapeutic relationships.
I want to first work with my patients in a comprehensive way to come to a preliminary diagnosis and not ask them to fill out a form, in mental health, there is no cookie-cutter diagnosis. Once we have established a diagnosis we will work together to come up with the treatment plan which will take into account the unique person they are using latest diagnostic testing which will guide what medications will work best for them. My biggest struggle with practicing in other settings have been the changes in the guidelines and clinic setting which prevents building of long-term therapeutic relationships.
(203) 433-6407 View (203) 433-6407
Photo of John M de Figueiredo - John M. de Figueiredo, M.D., LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
John M. de Figueiredo, M.D., LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
Dr. de Figueiredo is a Johns Hopkins trained psychiatrist and Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Yale. He has been in practice over 30 years. He offers telepsychiatry (appointments through video conferencing) throughout Connecticut, New York, Florida, and Arizona. He typically offers medication management for depression and anxiety and supportive psychotherapy for dealing effectively with stressful situations and restoring the balance and harmony in life. He is the recipient of several awards, including the Exemplary Psychiatrist Award of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). He participates in most insurance plans.
Dr. de Figueiredo is a Johns Hopkins trained psychiatrist and Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Yale. He has been in practice over 30 years. He offers telepsychiatry (appointments through video conferencing) throughout Connecticut, New York, Florida, and Arizona. He typically offers medication management for depression and anxiety and supportive psychotherapy for dealing effectively with stressful situations and restoring the balance and harmony in life. He is the recipient of several awards, including the Exemplary Psychiatrist Award of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). He participates in most insurance plans.
(475) 253-3762 View (475) 253-3762
Photo of Adrienne Hicks - Dr Adrienne Hicks, LLC, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Dr Adrienne Hicks, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06518  (Online Only)
I treat patients with mental illnesses and manage general medical concerns.
I treat patients with mental illnesses and manage general medical concerns.
(203) 587-8295 View (203) 587-8295
Photo of Kathryn Camizzi - Willow Treatment and Associates, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Willow Treatment and Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06514  (Online Only)
Willow Treatment and Associates is a private practice offering therapy and medication management for teens through elders. We are a team of licensed social workers, professional counselors and advanced practice registered nurses who pride ourselves in working together to give each patient individualized complete care.
Willow Treatment and Associates is a private practice offering therapy and medication management for teens through elders. We are a team of licensed social workers, professional counselors and advanced practice registered nurses who pride ourselves in working together to give each patient individualized complete care.
(475) 267-1865 View (475) 267-1865
Photo of Kate Hanselman, PMNHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kate Hanselman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06517  (Online Only)
Kate Hanselman is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of professional experience working with adults and seniors who are dealing with a wide variety of issues, including family conflict, transgender issues, grief, sexual orientation issues, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, anger issues, dysfunctional relationships, ADHD, behavioral issues, women’s issues, and more. Kate earned a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s in Science from King’s College London.
Kate Hanselman is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of professional experience working with adults and seniors who are dealing with a wide variety of issues, including family conflict, transgender issues, grief, sexual orientation issues, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, anger issues, dysfunctional relationships, ADHD, behavioral issues, women’s issues, and more. Kate earned a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s in Science from King’s College London.
(475) 219-7056 View (475) 219-7056
Photo of Ajibola Ojo Adekanye, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ajibola Ojo Adekanye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06514  (Online Only)
My name is Ajibola Adekanye, DNP, PMHNP-BC, I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience working with individuals 18 years of age and over who are struggling with general mental health, schizophrenia, self-harm, suicidal ideations, anxiety and panic disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, and OCD. My approach combines medication management with comprehensive psychiatric evaluation tailored to each patient’s needs. I create a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic environment from a diverse, culturally competent background that allows me to treat and heal individual.
My name is Ajibola Adekanye, DNP, PMHNP-BC, I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience working with individuals 18 years of age and over who are struggling with general mental health, schizophrenia, self-harm, suicidal ideations, anxiety and panic disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, and OCD. My approach combines medication management with comprehensive psychiatric evaluation tailored to each patient’s needs. I create a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic environment from a diverse, culturally competent background that allows me to treat and heal individual.
(475) 290-6827 View (475) 290-6827
Photo of Nathan Tyson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nathan Tyson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410  (Online Only)
Nathan Tyson is a board-certified, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, specializing in psychiatric mental health, at Advanced TelePsych. In his own words, "It is essential that we trust our health care providers. My goal is to provide an atmosphere for patients that makes them feel safe, heard, and cared for in a telehealth environment. Patients that are making the effort to provide for their mental and emotional wellness expect equal effort from their providers, and that’s what you’ll get." His treatment approach focuses on thoughtful, personalized, and confidential care that can be delivered directly to your home.
Nathan Tyson is a board-certified, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, specializing in psychiatric mental health, at Advanced TelePsych. In his own words, "It is essential that we trust our health care providers. My goal is to provide an atmosphere for patients that makes them feel safe, heard, and cared for in a telehealth environment. Patients that are making the effort to provide for their mental and emotional wellness expect equal effort from their providers, and that’s what you’ll get." His treatment approach focuses on thoughtful, personalized, and confidential care that can be delivered directly to your home.
(888) 344-3893 View (888) 344-3893
Photo of Theresa Antwi - Wholistic Perspective, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
(203) 433-6890 View (203) 433-6890

See more therapy options for Wallingford

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Wallingford, CT

< 10

Psychiatrists in Wallingford, CT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
83% Medication Management
67% Other
67% Bipolar Disorder
67% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Wallingford, CT see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Wallingford?

The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations. While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.