Psychiatrists in Windham County, CT
![Photo of Rose Kihara - Family health care & walk in center, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bde445b6-5047-4b93-a843-75a7ec04452d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Family health care & walk in center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Woodstock, CT 06281
We provide individualize substance and alcohol treatment. We evaluate and manage depression, anxiety, ADHD and bipolar disorders.
We provide individualize substance and alcohol treatment. We evaluate and manage depression, anxiety, ADHD and bipolar disorders.
![Photo of Vanessa Krasinski, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/538b605c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Vanessa Krasinski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Putnam, CT 06260
Not accepting new clients
NOT accepting new patients.... You may have started therapy but see limited progress. Your doctor or loved one may have suggested that you consider medication to address symptoms of low mood or anxiety. You may be experiencing a major life transition - relationship stress, first-time parenthood, education or career change - and find that despite your best efforts to manage you feel constantly overwhelmed. Whether you are newly interested in medication or are seeking a second opinion, my approach is collaborative and evidence based.
NOT accepting new patients.... You may have started therapy but see limited progress. Your doctor or loved one may have suggested that you consider medication to address symptoms of low mood or anxiety. You may be experiencing a major life transition - relationship stress, first-time parenthood, education or career change - and find that despite your best efforts to manage you feel constantly overwhelmed. Whether you are newly interested in medication or are seeking a second opinion, my approach is collaborative and evidence based.
![Photo of Dr. Sarah Calnan, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e04afab-1ba8-4426-b53b-760cb3620efe/1/320x400.png)
Licensed in CT, MA, and NH, I am a double board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for integrative and holistic mental health care, who believes in compassionate, collaborative, and personalized care. I specialize in tailored treatments for adults, 18-55 years of age, struggling with the complexities of anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and substance use, and seeking a holistic approach to mental wellness. If you've been yearning for a psychiatrist who truly understands your unique struggles and is dedicated to your recovery, you've found your partner on the path to healing. Visit www.quietcornerpsychiatry.com to learn more.
Licensed in CT, MA, and NH, I am a double board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for integrative and holistic mental health care, who believes in compassionate, collaborative, and personalized care. I specialize in tailored treatments for adults, 18-55 years of age, struggling with the complexities of anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and substance use, and seeking a holistic approach to mental wellness. If you've been yearning for a psychiatrist who truly understands your unique struggles and is dedicated to your recovery, you've found your partner on the path to healing. Visit www.quietcornerpsychiatry.com to learn more.
![Photo of Messan Lawson, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79a46e2e-054b-4d87-abf4-f63589d88691/2/320x400.jpeg)
Messan Lawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashford, CT 06278 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at Genesis Therapeutics, LLC who provides medication management and talk therapy to adults of all demographics.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at Genesis Therapeutics, LLC who provides medication management and talk therapy to adults of all demographics.
![Photo of Bassam Awwa - Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b9bb4a6-49f3-4c7a-bdc1-2ea9a5be8479/1/320x400.jpeg)
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Plainfield, CT 06374
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Spravato treatment. Every member of our team strives towards the unified goal of making CBHA synonymous with excellent care, phenomenal customer service & an unmatched commitment to families, our communities and most of all, our clients.
Connecticut Behavioral Health Associates (CBHA) was established in 1989 by Dr. Bassam Awwa MD, who’s vision was to create a world-class treatment program that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of behavioral health disorders and addictive diseases, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Spravato treatment. Every member of our team strives towards the unified goal of making CBHA synonymous with excellent care, phenomenal customer service & an unmatched commitment to families, our communities and most of all, our clients.
![Photo of Linda Starr, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adf852c7-ae38-4d9b-a28e-e6606b764c5c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Starr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to delivering compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Recognizing the importance of perinatal mental health, I have additional training and certification in perinatal mental health to better provide support to individuals and families navigating the complexities of pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to delivering compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Recognizing the importance of perinatal mental health, I have additional training and certification in perinatal mental health to better provide support to individuals and families navigating the complexities of pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.
![Photo of Aurele Paula Kamm - Aurele Kamm APRN, LLC, MS, APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79eadb21-ac37-401e-8c3f-e88f73d02fe0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aurele Kamm APRN, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Putnam, CT 06260
Not accepting new clients
I have 40 years experience in the mental health field as a psychiatric nurse, and 24 years as a prescriber. I work with clients using a collaborative, holistic, compassionate approach that makes best use of my skills as a nurse. I work with children age 10 to adults, including elderly. I have a wide range of experience that varies from ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, dementia... life transitions... basically almost everything. I'm a strong believer in psychoeducation about medications and creating a partnership in the treatment process that is inclusive and empowering.
I have 40 years experience in the mental health field as a psychiatric nurse, and 24 years as a prescriber. I work with clients using a collaborative, holistic, compassionate approach that makes best use of my skills as a nurse. I work with children age 10 to adults, including elderly. I have a wide range of experience that varies from ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, dementia... life transitions... basically almost everything. I'm a strong believer in psychoeducation about medications and creating a partnership in the treatment process that is inclusive and empowering.
![Photo of Gengyun Wen - Northeast Wellness Clinic, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34f99886-61ff-490a-853b-2660612d363d/1/320x400.jpeg)
We are accepting new patients. Dr. Wen is a top-rated, board-certified adult psychiatrist dedicated to providing personalized mental health care. He founded Northeast Wellness Clinic. He offers personalized mental healthcare, collaborating with you and other providers as needed. Dr. Wen believes in a holistic approach, considering physical, psychological, and lifestyle factors to create a tailored treatment plan. His goal is to maximize symptom reduction with minimal medication side effects, leading to your full functional recovery. Patients and colleagues alike praise his compassionate and thorough care.
We are accepting new patients. Dr. Wen is a top-rated, board-certified adult psychiatrist dedicated to providing personalized mental health care. He founded Northeast Wellness Clinic. He offers personalized mental healthcare, collaborating with you and other providers as needed. Dr. Wen believes in a holistic approach, considering physical, psychological, and lifestyle factors to create a tailored treatment plan. His goal is to maximize symptom reduction with minimal medication side effects, leading to your full functional recovery. Patients and colleagues alike praise his compassionate and thorough care.
![Photo of Ashley LaBonte, PMHNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e129bdb-027e-47cf-bd79-c336db104a4e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley LaBonte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayville, CT 06241 (Online Only)
At Bloom Mental Health, LLC you can grow at your own pace. Ashley is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 15 years of experience working in the mental health field. Her philosophy when it comes to medication management is often “less is more”, minimizing medication regimens for better outcomes and encouraging individuals to participate in psychotherapy as well as self-care in order to lead a healthy, fulfilling lives. While she is experienced in treating clients ages 10 and older, she enjoys working with young women, those with a history of trauma as well as women who are in their perinatal phase of life.
At Bloom Mental Health, LLC you can grow at your own pace. Ashley is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 15 years of experience working in the mental health field. Her philosophy when it comes to medication management is often “less is more”, minimizing medication regimens for better outcomes and encouraging individuals to participate in psychotherapy as well as self-care in order to lead a healthy, fulfilling lives. While she is experienced in treating clients ages 10 and older, she enjoys working with young women, those with a history of trauma as well as women who are in their perinatal phase of life.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Jennifer Foresman - Balance Psychiatric Services, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ec52960-55c6-4d63-adc9-82e4179e5219/1/320x400.jpeg)
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Rocky Hill, CT 06067 (Online Only)
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
![Photo of Dr. Sherry Lucke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/470d1089-f5bf-4f5a-a5cc-f65b6a9edb6d/1/320x400.jpeg)
When I started working in healthcare as a cardiac nurse I saw the widespread effects of addiction. Since then, I’ve dedicated my career to helping people overcome substance use disorders. I use a compassionate and supportive approach along with the top medical interventions. The approach I take with clients has been influenced by my experience at the bedside as a clinical care nurse and my training as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. This enables me to support clients in their overall health as well as their behavioral health. Accepting new clients in CT and VA.
When I started working in healthcare as a cardiac nurse I saw the widespread effects of addiction. Since then, I’ve dedicated my career to helping people overcome substance use disorders. I use a compassionate and supportive approach along with the top medical interventions. The approach I take with clients has been influenced by my experience at the bedside as a clinical care nurse and my training as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. This enables me to support clients in their overall health as well as their behavioral health. Accepting new clients in CT and VA.
![Photo of Dr. Patricia Hardy, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d122434-a33b-4ace-b91a-bcb33e887c6a/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Patricia Hardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
I work with children, teens, women, and families, focusing on how behavioral changes (sometimes coupled with medication) can improve their psychological & physical well-being. When addressing the concerns of a child, I include the whole family system. I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner who has a special interest in working with adolescents and young adults. My practice focuses include emergency psychiatry, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
I work with children, teens, women, and families, focusing on how behavioral changes (sometimes coupled with medication) can improve their psychological & physical well-being. When addressing the concerns of a child, I include the whole family system. I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner who has a special interest in working with adolescents and young adults. My practice focuses include emergency psychiatry, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
![Photo of Suzanne Femino, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3389a3db-db21-49c2-86b8-aab9774a5461/1/320x400.jpeg)
It is important for each person to feel a connection with a provider. My hope is to individualize care, treat each person with respect, and enhance a sense of wellbeing. Although I work with different ages, I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults. I offer medication management and psychotherapy in Marblehead, MA and Glastonbury CT.
It is important for each person to feel a connection with a provider. My hope is to individualize care, treat each person with respect, and enhance a sense of wellbeing. Although I work with different ages, I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults. I offer medication management and psychotherapy in Marblehead, MA and Glastonbury CT.
![Photo of Katarzyna Tesz, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08e975ac-e3ad-4b12-9e97-cc09b24c6104/4/320x400.jpeg)
Katarzyna Tesz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kensington, CT 06037
Hello! My name is Katarzyna (Kat) Tesz. As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, comprehensive and evidence-based care. I’m committed to working collaboratively with my patients in a non-judgmental environment so you feel safe, accepted, supported, and comfortable. I’m also happy to work together with your psychotherapist and your medical providers so that your psychiatric, medical, and psychological care are well-coordinated to best serve you. I accept most insurances, have a flexible schedule, and offer office-based and telehealth appointments for your convenience.
Hello! My name is Katarzyna (Kat) Tesz. As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, comprehensive and evidence-based care. I’m committed to working collaboratively with my patients in a non-judgmental environment so you feel safe, accepted, supported, and comfortable. I’m also happy to work together with your psychotherapist and your medical providers so that your psychiatric, medical, and psychological care are well-coordinated to best serve you. I accept most insurances, have a flexible schedule, and offer office-based and telehealth appointments for your convenience.
![Photo of Michael Adusei, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4abf075-d52b-48d8-b076-ebe2320cf2b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Reflective Minds Mental Health is a private mental health practice that is currently accepting new patients. Our mission is to reduce the stigma of mental illness and provide patients and their families with tools to improve their quality of life and maximize their joy. Co-founder Dr. Adusei is a quadruple board-certified psychiatrist who provides comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and ongoing pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic treatment and focuses on creating a collaborative and comfortable environment for his patients, ensuring the highest quality of care for everyone he treats.
Reflective Minds Mental Health is a private mental health practice that is currently accepting new patients. Our mission is to reduce the stigma of mental illness and provide patients and their families with tools to improve their quality of life and maximize their joy. Co-founder Dr. Adusei is a quadruple board-certified psychiatrist who provides comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and ongoing pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic treatment and focuses on creating a collaborative and comfortable environment for his patients, ensuring the highest quality of care for everyone he treats.
![Photo of Randi Cohen, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c535358-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with anxiety, negativity, or a sense of worthlessness? Do you find yourself cut off from feelings or going in circles in your current relationship? Do you have trouble focusing and staying organized? Is it hard for you to get past things that bother you? I am extensively trained in cognitive, behavioral, mindfulness-based, and somatic awareness techniques to help you feel comfortable in your skin. I also offer an option for medications. I work with individuals or with couples. I specialize in addressing OCD, PTSD, Asperger's, ADHD, depression, anxiety, life issues, and relationship stressors.
Do you struggle with anxiety, negativity, or a sense of worthlessness? Do you find yourself cut off from feelings or going in circles in your current relationship? Do you have trouble focusing and staying organized? Is it hard for you to get past things that bother you? I am extensively trained in cognitive, behavioral, mindfulness-based, and somatic awareness techniques to help you feel comfortable in your skin. I also offer an option for medications. I work with individuals or with couples. I specialize in addressing OCD, PTSD, Asperger's, ADHD, depression, anxiety, life issues, and relationship stressors.
![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 Jennifer Marie Ross, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99cae0e6-60ed-4932-9f00-8570cf15ca0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an ANCC board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), with over 10 years of nursing and clinical experience in both inpatient and outpatient care. Offering patient-centered psychopharmacology and psychotherapy for children ages 5+, adolescents, adults, including couple and family counseling. I work in collaboration with various treatment providers from a holistic standpoint that is evidenced-based, while respecting the autonomy of the client. A compassionate therapeutic relationship is part of my practice that focuses on positive aspects to promote the healing process for various disorders..
I am an ANCC board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), with over 10 years of nursing and clinical experience in both inpatient and outpatient care. Offering patient-centered psychopharmacology and psychotherapy for children ages 5+, adolescents, adults, including couple and family counseling. I work in collaboration with various treatment providers from a holistic standpoint that is evidenced-based, while respecting the autonomy of the client. A compassionate therapeutic relationship is part of my practice that focuses on positive aspects to promote the healing process for various disorders..
![Photo of Dr. Lisa Harding, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37282461-243b-40c7-858d-97ea09331b19/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm an adult psychiatrist, fluent in English and Spanish who specializes in treating depression and treatment resistance depression. I completed my training at Yale School of Medicine as the chief resident of Intervention Psychiatry Services at Yale Psychiatric Hospital. I offer comprehensive diagnostic consultations with specific and individualized treatment recommendations. Should you choose me as your provider, I will monitor the effectiveness of your medication regimen over a course of time to determine if the treatment meets your goals.
I'm an adult psychiatrist, fluent in English and Spanish who specializes in treating depression and treatment resistance depression. I completed my training at Yale School of Medicine as the chief resident of Intervention Psychiatry Services at Yale Psychiatric Hospital. I offer comprehensive diagnostic consultations with specific and individualized treatment recommendations. Should you choose me as your provider, I will monitor the effectiveness of your medication regimen over a course of time to determine if the treatment meets your goals.
![Photo of Katie L Scheinberg - Nourish Psychiatric- Katie Scheinberg, PMH-NP, APRN, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/543209ef-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nourish Psychiatric- Katie Scheinberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, APRN, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Accepting new patients for June-July 2024! Some people find that therapy alone does not allow them to reach their mental health potential and may be considering starting medication, changing medication or looking to continue medication. No matter where you are on your journey to mental wellness, there are options. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, health/nutrition/sleep education, and therapeutic support to children, adolescents, and emerging adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep and eating issues and other mental health concerns.
Accepting new patients for June-July 2024! Some people find that therapy alone does not allow them to reach their mental health potential and may be considering starting medication, changing medication or looking to continue medication. No matter where you are on your journey to mental wellness, there are options. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, health/nutrition/sleep education, and therapeutic support to children, adolescents, and emerging adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep and eating issues and other mental health concerns.
See more therapy options for Windham County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Windham County, CT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Windham County, CT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Medication Management |
56% | ADHD |
56% | Stress |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | Aetna |
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Windham County, CT see their clients
78% | In Person and Online | |
22% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Windham County?
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.