Psychiatrists in West Simsbury, CT
![Photo of Meesha Jemison - MJ Psychiatry LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bff76da0-56eb-4d3e-99c0-dae1a96f1417/1/320x400.jpeg)
MJ Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Simsbury, CT 06092 (Online Only)
I am Meesha Jemison, a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a wealth of experience and expertise in mental health. I am licensed in CT and NY. I specialize in providing comprehensive care for individuals aged 21 and over, focusing on conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, insomnia, and addressing various life stressors & changes.
I am Meesha Jemison, a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a wealth of experience and expertise in mental health. I am licensed in CT and NY. I specialize in providing comprehensive care for individuals aged 21 and over, focusing on conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, insomnia, and addressing various life stressors & changes.
![Photo of Cynthia Chouinard - CRB Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50f9f25c-0779-4268-b2c9-3fd20355f5b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
CRB Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PHMNP
Verified Verified
West Simsbury, CT 06092 (Online Only)
My name is Cynthia Roman-Chouinard, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I'm committed to collaborating with you on your mental health journey. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, incorporating physical health, lifestyle changes, and mental well-being into your treatment plan. We'll communicate openly about your needs and challenges and explore various therapeutic modalities to achieve your treatment goals.
My name is Cynthia Roman-Chouinard, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I'm committed to collaborating with you on your mental health journey. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, incorporating physical health, lifestyle changes, and mental well-being into your treatment plan. We'll communicate openly about your needs and challenges and explore various therapeutic modalities to achieve your treatment goals.
![Photo of Miranda Mitchell, MSN, PHMNP, CPNP-PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abbe5ade-e8ef-4582-9bd3-9566a9d961de/1/320x400.png)
Miranda Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PHMNP, CPNP-PC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Simsbury, CT 06092
I'm passionate about a functional approach to psychiatry, where I believe true healing goes beyond just prescribing medication. While medication can be a powerful tool, I believe that if we don't consider your unique biological makeup and the environmental influences you're navigating, we're missing a big part of the picture. I enjoy a collaborative process with my clients, where we work together to find the best path forward. It’s important you feel heard and have a sense of agency in your care, which is why I value sharing the science and evidence behind my recommendations. Let’s explore your path to wellness together.
I'm passionate about a functional approach to psychiatry, where I believe true healing goes beyond just prescribing medication. While medication can be a powerful tool, I believe that if we don't consider your unique biological makeup and the environmental influences you're navigating, we're missing a big part of the picture. I enjoy a collaborative process with my clients, where we work together to find the best path forward. It’s important you feel heard and have a sense of agency in your care, which is why I value sharing the science and evidence behind my recommendations. Let’s explore your path to wellness together.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Angela Olivia Roberts, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99b920c5-53e7-4ea6-863a-ac7338838d57/3/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Olivia Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, CT 06002 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion to help others create a life filled with purpose, intention, and happiness. I possess over 10 years of experience in the mental health field- both inpatient and outpatient. My extensive work history has afforded me the opportunity to provide care to patients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions. I have been providing medication management and supportive therapy for patients between the ages of 14-98 years old and enjoy helping others.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion to help others create a life filled with purpose, intention, and happiness. I possess over 10 years of experience in the mental health field- both inpatient and outpatient. My extensive work history has afforded me the opportunity to provide care to patients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions. I have been providing medication management and supportive therapy for patients between the ages of 14-98 years old and enjoy helping others.
![Photo of Ifeyinwa Utoh-Ofodile, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/760a89bb-b78e-4c85-815b-b28ad6ab0264/1/320x400.png)
Ifeyinwa Utoh-Ofodile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burlington, CT 06013 (Online Only)
Ideal clients are adults facing mood swings, anxiety, life adjustments, or attention challenges. They seek understanding, support, and evidence-based interventions to navigate their mental health journey toward improved well-being and fulfillment.
Ideal clients are adults facing mood swings, anxiety, life adjustments, or attention challenges. They seek understanding, support, and evidence-based interventions to navigate their mental health journey toward improved well-being and fulfillment.
![Photo of Thamara Jonathas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10e7050a-50fb-4e70-9605-3ad8ec0dbaf0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thamara Jonathas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06107 (Online Only)
Hello, I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. I have 13 years of experience working in healthcare, providing care to patients of all ages. I am dedicated to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care and building strong relationships with my patients to ensure their overall health and well-being. I am passionate about patient education and empowerment. I am committed to staying current on the latest advancements in healthcare and to provide the best possible care for my patients.
Hello, I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. I have 13 years of experience working in healthcare, providing care to patients of all ages. I am dedicated to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care and building strong relationships with my patients to ensure their overall health and well-being. I am passionate about patient education and empowerment. I am committed to staying current on the latest advancements in healthcare and to provide the best possible care for my patients.
![Photo of William Yang, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cdb6ee0-159d-4ad9-a49f-592a544eec6d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Virtual appointments only - I am a dedicated and compassionate board certified psychiatrist committed to helping individuals achieve optimal mental health and well-being. I help my patients better understand the complex nature of the human mind and address the diverse range of mental health challenges that they may be facing. I believe in a person-centered approach, incorporating evidence-based treatments and therapeutic interventions to support my patients on their journey towards healing and growth.
Virtual appointments only - I am a dedicated and compassionate board certified psychiatrist committed to helping individuals achieve optimal mental health and well-being. I help my patients better understand the complex nature of the human mind and address the diverse range of mental health challenges that they may be facing. I believe in a person-centered approach, incorporating evidence-based treatments and therapeutic interventions to support my patients on their journey towards healing and growth.
![Photo of Maria Manuela Da Costa, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be0e193-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that the key to effective treatment depends upon a strong collaborative alliance between patient and physician. The difficulties you are experiencing are most likely a combination of physiological and psychological problems.Treatment begins with a comprehensive review of your physical, emotional state and social well being. If you need medication we will discuss the various options. Together we will take into account your unique circumstances and arrive at a personalized treatment plan. Subsequent visits will moniter your response to the medication and help you learn how the medication works.
I believe that the key to effective treatment depends upon a strong collaborative alliance between patient and physician. The difficulties you are experiencing are most likely a combination of physiological and psychological problems.Treatment begins with a comprehensive review of your physical, emotional state and social well being. If you need medication we will discuss the various options. Together we will take into account your unique circumstances and arrive at a personalized treatment plan. Subsequent visits will moniter your response to the medication and help you learn how the medication works.
![Photo of Sadaf M Hashmi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a03ebb7-9cde-49a4-a616-f8997e920451/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified Adult and Forensic psychiatrist, trained at University of Connecticut and Yale School of Medicine. My background is in outpatient, correctional, emergency and forensic psychiatry. I am currently employed at Boston University (BMC), have a private practice in Back Bay, Boston (since 2018), and a new practice in Connecticut.
I am a board certified Adult and Forensic psychiatrist, trained at University of Connecticut and Yale School of Medicine. My background is in outpatient, correctional, emergency and forensic psychiatry. I am currently employed at Boston University (BMC), have a private practice in Back Bay, Boston (since 2018), and a new practice in Connecticut.
![Photo of Carlos A Gonzalez, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4521e173-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a native of Puerto Rico and a transplanted New Yorker. I graduated from Cornell University Medical College and completed a residency at St. Vincent's Hospital, followed by a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in New York. I have been in CT since 1989, initially as an assistant professor of psychiatry at Yale and director of the Connecticut Mental Health Center's Hispanic Clinic. I subsequently worked extensively as chief of the psychiatric crisis service at Griffin Hospital. I am currently the medical director of the Community Child Guidance Clinic in Manchester, CT.
I am a native of Puerto Rico and a transplanted New Yorker. I graduated from Cornell University Medical College and completed a residency at St. Vincent's Hospital, followed by a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in New York. I have been in CT since 1989, initially as an assistant professor of psychiatry at Yale and director of the Connecticut Mental Health Center's Hispanic Clinic. I subsequently worked extensively as chief of the psychiatric crisis service at Griffin Hospital. I am currently the medical director of the Community Child Guidance Clinic in Manchester, CT.
![Photo of Brian Eddy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5c88fa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling tired, can't keep up with your daily routine, emotional for no reason, dealing with overwhelming stress? You may be struggling with untreated medical symptoms. These symptoms can be treated with the guidance of a physician.
"Let's talk and see what happens."
I hope to keep things as open as possible, because not every patient will present with a textbook case of issues. I strive to find a way to connect with each patient in a way that respects their autonomy and dignity.
Are you feeling tired, can't keep up with your daily routine, emotional for no reason, dealing with overwhelming stress? You may be struggling with untreated medical symptoms. These symptoms can be treated with the guidance of a physician.
"Let's talk and see what happens."
I hope to keep things as open as possible, because not every patient will present with a textbook case of issues. I strive to find a way to connect with each patient in a way that respects their autonomy and dignity.
![Photo of Clarisse Fairbanks, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a04c3621-35ba-4d4e-a82f-f02d24e56baa/3/320x400.jpeg)
Clarisse Fairbanks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06117 (Online Only)
I am an experienced psychiatric advanced practice nurse (APRN) specializing in supportive psychotherapy and medication management. Telehealth is available for your convenience.
I am an experienced psychiatric advanced practice nurse (APRN) specializing in supportive psychotherapy and medication management. Telehealth is available for your convenience.
![Photo of Kimberly Milaney - Thrive Behavioral Health, PLLC, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2cbd78f3-40f4-4a7a-ad70-dd6f2ae37069/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thrive Behavioral Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06119 (Online Only)
Do you struggle with depression or find anxiety interferes with your ability to function? Do you have difficulty concentrating or staying on task? Do you experience sleep issues or low energy? Your struggles do not define you. You are worthy of happiness and peace of mind. Mental health treatment is a journey and there is no shame in seeking help. Mental health is as important as physical health. I want to help improve your quality of life and function by setting you on a path of hope and wellness, in order to see the light at the end of your road. This is my goal as a mental health provider. I offer treatment to all CT residents.
Do you struggle with depression or find anxiety interferes with your ability to function? Do you have difficulty concentrating or staying on task? Do you experience sleep issues or low energy? Your struggles do not define you. You are worthy of happiness and peace of mind. Mental health treatment is a journey and there is no shame in seeking help. Mental health is as important as physical health. I want to help improve your quality of life and function by setting you on a path of hope and wellness, in order to see the light at the end of your road. This is my goal as a mental health provider. I offer treatment to all CT residents.
![Photo of Zoey Walker, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e158d9a4-0d11-4d28-a05d-0b33cc5a4d83/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zoey Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Zoey Walker is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, she places great value on patient centered care and believes a team-based healthcare approach uniquely contributes to best practice. She provides medication management support to individuals across the lifespan, who are experiencing challenges related to their mental health. She has extensive experience in providing psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, and ongoing assessments to determine the right treatment. She provides treatment for numerous mental health disorders to include anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar and acute sleep disturbances.
Zoey Walker is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, she places great value on patient centered care and believes a team-based healthcare approach uniquely contributes to best practice. She provides medication management support to individuals across the lifespan, who are experiencing challenges related to their mental health. She has extensive experience in providing psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, and ongoing assessments to determine the right treatment. She provides treatment for numerous mental health disorders to include anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar and acute sleep disturbances.
![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
![Photo of Zack Doubleday, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8aef9d9f-cf65-4bc8-a261-1ae14ff8d3ab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zack Doubleday
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering telehealth only medication management to Connecticut residents. I specialize in treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Binge Eating Disorder, BPD, Depression, PTSD, Insomnia, and various other mental and behavioral health diagnoses. I also provide supportive therapy on a case-by-case basis.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering telehealth only medication management to Connecticut residents. I specialize in treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Binge Eating Disorder, BPD, Depression, PTSD, Insomnia, and various other mental and behavioral health diagnoses. I also provide supportive therapy on a case-by-case basis.
![Photo of Briana Komar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49e50217-1eab-4da0-bbff-88cb7a8b36a1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Everyone has a unique story to tell, and by getting to know people on a deeper level, I believe it is possible to address traumatic histories, problematic belief systems, physical ailments, and lifestyle issues which may be manifesting themselves as psychiatric symptoms.
Everyone has a unique story to tell, and by getting to know people on a deeper level, I believe it is possible to address traumatic histories, problematic belief systems, physical ailments, and lifestyle issues which may be manifesting themselves as psychiatric symptoms.
![Photo of Mekessia Richards-Carby, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd5e093c-a8e3-4c4f-a511-5ab0837a7dca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mekessia Richards-Carby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06032
Welcome! I am Mekessia Richards-Carby, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience working in healthcare. My experience in psychiatry ranges from treating children and adolescents in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs to adults in addiction treatment, as well as older adults as they transition through life changes. I treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, Bipolar/mood disorders, OCD, sleep disorders, and more.
Welcome! I am Mekessia Richards-Carby, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience working in healthcare. My experience in psychiatry ranges from treating children and adolescents in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs to adults in addiction treatment, as well as older adults as they transition through life changes. I treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, Bipolar/mood disorders, OCD, sleep disorders, and more.
![Photo of Lukasz Junger - Leading Psychiatry of Connecticut, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51dc125c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leading Psychiatry of Connecticut
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Simsbury, CT 06070 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that specializes in medication management and treatment planning. Experienced in psychiatry and addiction, but also having worked in medicine and surgery, provides me with a unique skill set and ability to incorporate knowledge from multiple specialties when developing a targeted and personalized treatment plan.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner that specializes in medication management and treatment planning. Experienced in psychiatry and addiction, but also having worked in medicine and surgery, provides me with a unique skill set and ability to incorporate knowledge from multiple specialties when developing a targeted and personalized treatment plan.
![Photo of Kelli Bernier - North Star Wellness, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0905b08e-35a6-4dba-9540-6e6354f561d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
North Star Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avon, CT 06001
At North Star Wellness, we are dedicated to guiding you on your journey to mental wellness. We understand the challenges that individuals and families face when dealing with mental health concerns, and we are here to provide you with the highest level of care and support throughout your healing process.
At North Star Wellness, we are dedicated to guiding you on your journey to mental wellness. We understand the challenges that individuals and families face when dealing with mental health concerns, and we are here to provide you with the highest level of care and support throughout your healing process.
See more therapy options for West Simsbury
Nearby Searches for West Simsbury
- Avon
- Bloomfield
- Bristol
- Canton
- Farmington
- Hartford
- New Britain
- Newington
- Simsbury
- West Hartford
- Wethersfield
- Windsor
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in West Simsbury, CT
< 10
Psychiatrists in West Simsbury, CT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Stress |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Elevance |
How Psychiatrists in West Simsbury, CT see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in West Simsbury?
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.