Psychiatrists in Yalesville, CT
![Photo of Martha Lino, MS, RN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f98c5dc-9453-4895-ae6c-1931db291fb9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Martha Lino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, RN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Yalesville, CT 06492 (Online Only)
I am an ANCC board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from Vassar College with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Sociology. I completed my nursing education at Binghamton University (SUNY), earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing.
I am an ANCC board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from Vassar College with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Sociology. I completed my nursing education at Binghamton University (SUNY), earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Fredo And Stéphane Clermont - NorthPoint Psychiatric Consultants, LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71875648-360b-453b-ae94-d18b63f143ea/1/320x400.png)
NorthPoint Psychiatric Consultants, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06514
Our group practice consists of Board-Certified providers. Our extensive inpatient and outpatient work history providing care to clients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions has contributed to our ability to assess each client from a holistic view and provide the best evidence-based recommendations. We are Currently ACCEPTING new patients on a limited basis for psychiatric evaluation. To request an appointment please visit our website and fill out the form (https://www.northpointpsychiatry.com/contact-us ).
Our group practice consists of Board-Certified providers. Our extensive inpatient and outpatient work history providing care to clients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions has contributed to our ability to assess each client from a holistic view and provide the best evidence-based recommendations. We are Currently ACCEPTING new patients on a limited basis for psychiatric evaluation. To request an appointment please visit our website and fill out the form (https://www.northpointpsychiatry.com/contact-us ).
![Photo of Fredo J Clermont, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eea952c6-2145-41c4-81e6-eb73f049540b/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Adrienne Hicks - Dr Adrienne Hicks, LLC, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a05f31e-9e9e-4d64-b8fa-19da01408201/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat patients with mental illnesses and manage general medical concerns.
I treat patients with mental illnesses and manage general medical concerns.
![Photo of Daedly Potusek - New Leaf Psychiatry, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b356292e-1b0a-4d7c-9041-61a20c2f129e/1/320x400.png)
New Leaf Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06518
Not accepting new clients
At New Leaf Psychiatry, we provide psychiatric mental health care to adults. We believe in a holistic and patient centered approach and encourage our patients to be active participants in their treatment.
At New Leaf Psychiatry, we provide psychiatric mental health care to adults. We believe in a holistic and patient centered approach and encourage our patients to be active participants in their treatment.
![Photo of Emily Friedman, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27f779a5-513f-481f-ba0a-4e01792901ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Friedman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheshire, CT 06408 (Online Only)
With more than 8 years of experience working in the mental health field helping clients achieve their vision of wellness, stability and peace, I offer a safe, affirming, nonjudgmental space to share where you've been and envision where you'd like to go. I have worked in substance use disorder programs as well as intensive outpatient and inpatient psychiatric settings.
With more than 8 years of experience working in the mental health field helping clients achieve their vision of wellness, stability and peace, I offer a safe, affirming, nonjudgmental space to share where you've been and envision where you'd like to go. I have worked in substance use disorder programs as well as intensive outpatient and inpatient psychiatric settings.
![Photo of Ellen Zummo, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63cabeeb-7a89-43a3-a764-f7ed99850201/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ellen Zummo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06518 (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Ellen, and I am a certified Adult Nurse Practitioner. I have spent the last 3 years in the field of primary care, treating a range of illnesses in patients 18 years and older. I have experience in the treatment of anxiety, depression, adult ADHD. I pride myself in taking a compassionate and down to earth approach. When you feel as though life is becoming unmanageable...it does not have to be! Reach out to me today!
Hi! My name is Ellen, and I am a certified Adult Nurse Practitioner. I have spent the last 3 years in the field of primary care, treating a range of illnesses in patients 18 years and older. I have experience in the treatment of anxiety, depression, adult ADHD. I pride myself in taking a compassionate and down to earth approach. When you feel as though life is becoming unmanageable...it does not have to be! Reach out to me today!
![Photo of Kate Hanselman, PMNHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e652ea4-7533-4c53-8ac3-f6c32b4c2125/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Tonya Goodman, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73c8b161-9458-4ad1-8c8d-186ba0461a8a/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Tonya Goodman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prospect, CT 06712
Every client deserves to heal their mind, body, and soul. I understand that it is impossible to function at your best if your physical and mental health are not aligned. I aim to help you achieve complete remission of your symptoms by combining Western and holistic practices to treat the whole person. I work with each client's healthcare team to promote a collaborative approach to optimize every client's recovery and remission time. My goal is to create a safe and open space where you feel respected, heard, understood, and supported throughout your treatment.
Every client deserves to heal their mind, body, and soul. I understand that it is impossible to function at your best if your physical and mental health are not aligned. I aim to help you achieve complete remission of your symptoms by combining Western and holistic practices to treat the whole person. I work with each client's healthcare team to promote a collaborative approach to optimize every client's recovery and remission time. My goal is to create a safe and open space where you feel respected, heard, understood, and supported throughout your treatment.
![Photo of Betsy LaRose, PCCN, FNP-C, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7d391d2-abd5-4e20-bcdf-dd9ec2a3400a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
![Photo of Olga Selikhov, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/147020fe-cb58-41db-8ac7-a688f9ec3279/2/320x400.jpeg)
Olga Selikhov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Olga and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Connecticut. I specialize in Anger Management, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Illness, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Olga and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Connecticut. I specialize in Anger Management, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Illness, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
![Photo of Chanon C. Biceglia - Dr. Chanon C. Biceglia, DNP of Medica Today LLC, DNP, PMHNP, NP-C, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3c90c93-523b-49c0-8858-e7e574cbbbb7/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Holly Hillburn, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89ff7a20-ed70-4d0c-9316-5f6aeea93ce2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Holly Hillburn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Wallingford, CT 06492
Not accepting new clients
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.
![Photo of Susan Peters - ABetterU LLC, APRN, PMHNP, MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af6c1aea-7571-402d-818d-019543a097ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life is an amazing and unpredictable journey we all share. It can bring joy, success, love and optimism, and also present extreme challenges, loss, sadness, grief and despair. We can sometimes feel overwhelmed, stressed or "stuck" for many reasons involving relationships, life transitions, illness, trauma, and personal circumstances. This can lead to depression, anxiety, mood swings and uncertainty about how to feel better and move forward. Regardless of what challenges you are facing, no situation is hopeless and there is always a way forward to a better you and and a better life.
Life is an amazing and unpredictable journey we all share. It can bring joy, success, love and optimism, and also present extreme challenges, loss, sadness, grief and despair. We can sometimes feel overwhelmed, stressed or "stuck" for many reasons involving relationships, life transitions, illness, trauma, and personal circumstances. This can lead to depression, anxiety, mood swings and uncertainty about how to feel better and move forward. Regardless of what challenges you are facing, no situation is hopeless and there is always a way forward to a better you and and a better life.
![Photo of Gina M Reiners, PhD, APRN, PMHNP, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e887328-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gina M Reiners
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APRN, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410
Waitlist for new clients
I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), who is certified as Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with prescriptive rights to prescribe psychiatric medications. I possess over 30 years of experience as a clinician, director,and professor. My practice focuses on psychotherapy and/or medication management based on the needs of my patients. I work in partnership by assisting patients to better manage their stressors. I respect and actively listen to my patients so they attain their individualized goals. I am compassionate and passionate about helping patients discover how they can find balance in their lives.
I am an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), who is certified as Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with prescriptive rights to prescribe psychiatric medications. I possess over 30 years of experience as a clinician, director,and professor. My practice focuses on psychotherapy and/or medication management based on the needs of my patients. I work in partnership by assisting patients to better manage their stressors. I respect and actively listen to my patients so they attain their individualized goals. I am compassionate and passionate about helping patients discover how they can find balance in their lives.
![Photo of Amber Corbalis, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3414ee7-5e07-4463-98e4-2c0ed5f12eae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Corbalis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cheshire, CT 06408
Hi! I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about the mental health field. I continuously strive to help my patients find healing through individualized treatment modalities. There is truth to the common phrase “a sound mind in a sound body” as I believe there is a strong, bi-directional relationship between both physical & mental health. My commitment to purpose & resolve in medicine also drives me to the research field, where my work was recently published in Neurology, Psychiatry, & Brain Research.
Hi! I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about the mental health field. I continuously strive to help my patients find healing through individualized treatment modalities. There is truth to the common phrase “a sound mind in a sound body” as I believe there is a strong, bi-directional relationship between both physical & mental health. My commitment to purpose & resolve in medicine also drives me to the research field, where my work was recently published in Neurology, Psychiatry, & Brain Research.
![Photo of Advanced Telepsych - Advanced TelePsych, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3fd63ff-9f2a-4292-b4a8-b6a2f672325d/1/320x400.png)
Advanced TelePsych, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410 (Online Only)
At Advanced Telepsych, we have providers with extensive knowledge in mental health, in CT, FL, and MA. Our providers specialize in psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapy in a virtual care environment. We offer these services via live video, from the convenience of your own private space, on a confidential/HIPAA compliant, secure platform.
At Advanced Telepsych, we have providers with extensive knowledge in mental health, in CT, FL, and MA. Our providers specialize in psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapy in a virtual care environment. We offer these services via live video, from the convenience of your own private space, on a confidential/HIPAA compliant, secure platform.
![Photo of Kathryn Camizzi - Willow Treatment and Associates, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfcab31c-0350-416d-9714-aed7fccfe0f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Arthur Brouse, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1392e546-d56d-42d0-92c1-b435a988290e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Arthur Brouse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410 (Online Only)
Arthur "Eddie" Brouse is a board-certified, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specializing in psychiatric mental health, at Advanced TelePsych. In his own words, "Mental illness is something that is extremely personal, yet often affects more than just one person. Worry, sadness, or feeling overwhelmed are only a few symptoms which cause difficulty for a person to function normally. Is there something that isn’t quite right which causes you trouble? Have you noticed your mood or issues have been affecting not just you, but also those around you? Are you isolating, or feeling alone? Do you feel the roller coaster is out of control?"
Arthur "Eddie" Brouse is a board-certified, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specializing in psychiatric mental health, at Advanced TelePsych. In his own words, "Mental illness is something that is extremely personal, yet often affects more than just one person. Worry, sadness, or feeling overwhelmed are only a few symptoms which cause difficulty for a person to function normally. Is there something that isn’t quite right which causes you trouble? Have you noticed your mood or issues have been affecting not just you, but also those around you? Are you isolating, or feeling alone? Do you feel the roller coaster is out of control?"
![Photo of Yvon Mukunzi, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d224873c-6dab-42cf-a107-d3f90cf6011b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yvon Mukunzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck with life, struggling with stress , anxiety, depression, or finding it hard to manage your mood? Yvon Mukunzi is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping navigate the challenges that life may present to you. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, daily stress, mood and emotional regulation, relationship struggles or a life transition, we are here to help, to empower you, and partner with you through your mental health journey.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck with life, struggling with stress , anxiety, depression, or finding it hard to manage your mood? Yvon Mukunzi is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping navigate the challenges that life may present to you. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, daily stress, mood and emotional regulation, relationship struggles or a life transition, we are here to help, to empower you, and partner with you through your mental health journey.
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Yalesville, CT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Yalesville, CT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Humana |
How Psychiatrists in Yalesville, CT see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Yalesville?
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.