Psychiatrists in West Hartford, CT
![Photo of Ericka Gardener, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa2cdb5a-5d7b-4e23-aa41-d34a611450b4/1/320x400.png)
Ericka Gardener
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06119 (Online Only)
Ericka is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who treats a wide range of mental health concerns including adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, thought disorders, sleep issues, and substance use disorders. She is passionate about providing holistic care and is a fervent client advocate, ensuring that the client's needs are at the center of care and ensuring that clients are connected to appropriate resources when gaps in healthcare are identified. Ericka received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Saint Joseph.
Ericka is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who treats a wide range of mental health concerns including adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, thought disorders, sleep issues, and substance use disorders. She is passionate about providing holistic care and is a fervent client advocate, ensuring that the client's needs are at the center of care and ensuring that clients are connected to appropriate resources when gaps in healthcare are identified. Ericka received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Saint Joseph.
![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 Jill White, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56f090c9-437e-442a-9ac1-e8062ee68668/1/320x400.png)
Jill White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06119 (Online Only)
Jill White is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works with patients in many areas of mental health including depression, anxiety, trauma, work and life stressors, and navigating life changes. Jill is focused and is eager to work with adult patients by providing comprehensive mental health services that are tailored to support their individual needs.
Jill White is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works with patients in many areas of mental health including depression, anxiety, trauma, work and life stressors, and navigating life changes. Jill is focused and is eager to work with adult patients by providing comprehensive mental health services that are tailored to support their individual needs.
![Photo of Mitchelee Dunbar, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/510c27ed-8cad-407d-b862-a3d16762053d/1/320x400.png)
Mitchelee Dunbar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06119 (Online Only)
Mitchelee Dunbar is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with years of experience in behavioral health in both inpatient and outpatient treatment settings. She diagnoses and treats a wide range of mental health concerns with a holistic and comprehensive approach. She has experience treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, adjustment disorders, and mood disorders. She provides quality, compassionate, patient-centered, and culturally sensitive mental health services to adult clients. Mitchelee is passionate about empowering clients to take control of their lives.
Mitchelee Dunbar is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with years of experience in behavioral health in both inpatient and outpatient treatment settings. She diagnoses and treats a wide range of mental health concerns with a holistic and comprehensive approach. She has experience treating depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, adjustment disorders, and mood disorders. She provides quality, compassionate, patient-centered, and culturally sensitive mental health services to adult clients. Mitchelee is passionate about empowering clients to take control of their lives.
![Photo of Dorothy Washington, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0083e8bb-0640-4eac-8652-a6e708b27470/1/320x400.png)
Dorothy Washington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06119 (Online Only)
Dorothy Washington is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has 20 years of experience treating depression, anxiety, and many other severe and persistent mental illnesses in individuals across the lifespan. She seeks to maintain a collaborative, caring, trusting, and professional rapport with you in order to meet your emotional and mental health needs so that you can live your life with the feeling of normalcy that you deserve.
Dorothy Washington is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has 20 years of experience treating depression, anxiety, and many other severe and persistent mental illnesses in individuals across the lifespan. She seeks to maintain a collaborative, caring, trusting, and professional rapport with you in order to meet your emotional and mental health needs so that you can live your life with the feeling of normalcy that you deserve.
![Photo of Rangsun Sitthichai, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/991d2ad7-b35b-40fd-9352-d34bc623b00c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rangsun Sitthichai
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06117 (Online Only)
I approach the clients by understanding each client as a whole person, deep respect for individuals as unique human beings by using a creative process and open-ended communication. I am mindful in prescribing medications. My ultimate treatment goals not only target the treatment of mental health problems, but I will take effort to facilitate clients’ personal growth and improve their vitality.
I approach the clients by understanding each client as a whole person, deep respect for individuals as unique human beings by using a creative process and open-ended communication. I am mindful in prescribing medications. My ultimate treatment goals not only target the treatment of mental health problems, but I will take effort to facilitate clients’ personal growth and improve their vitality.
![Photo of Dr. Debra Forrest, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4501ddf7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you find yourself retreating from your usual activities and you want to get back to truly living, I'd like to help. I am a board-certified Psychiatrist, and I am looking for patients who are ready to work on themselves. I enjoy working closely with people, and getting to know their preferences and needs before beginning treatment. Since medications can have risks and benefits, I am always very mindful and careful. Let's see if we can work together to get your life back on track!
If you find yourself retreating from your usual activities and you want to get back to truly living, I'd like to help. I am a board-certified Psychiatrist, and I am looking for patients who are ready to work on themselves. I enjoy working closely with people, and getting to know their preferences and needs before beginning treatment. Since medications can have risks and benefits, I am always very mindful and careful. Let's see if we can work together to get your life back on track!
![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 Serrita Roper, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e3adea3-c212-4da6-9a3b-2bcc02159fe6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Serrita Roper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06110
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer medication management for mood disorders and ADHD. I offer both in-person and telehealth (for established patients). I am passionate about mental health and helping my patients achieve the proper tools to be the best versions of themselves.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer medication management for mood disorders and ADHD. I offer both in-person and telehealth (for established patients). I am passionate about mental health and helping my patients achieve the proper tools to be the best versions of themselves.
![Photo of Christopher Hammel, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff6373f0-8a2a-4a2c-981a-e0c59bbd093d/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a board-certified psychiatrist trained and experienced in both talk therapy and medication management, I offer a holistic approach to your treatment: Whether you would benefit from medication, therapy, or both, I'm here to help. I work with adult patients of all ages.
As a board-certified psychiatrist trained and experienced in both talk therapy and medication management, I offer a holistic approach to your treatment: Whether you would benefit from medication, therapy, or both, I'm here to help. I work with adult patients of all ages.
![Photo of Ayesha Ahmed, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d43a991-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
We are accepting new Patient (Adult,18 years and older). I am a 15+ years Experienced, Board Certified Physician specialized in Psychiatry, with Fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry. Depression, Anxiety, Sleep Disorders, Trauma, Phobias, Alzheimer, Postpartum Depression, Behavioral Disturbance, Senior-Geriatric conditions. My mission is to provide my patients with the best care in a confidential, relaxed environment through Evaluation and Medication Management. My office is in West Hartford Center, near by towns are Bloomfield, Avon, Granby, Simsbury, Canton, Windsor, Hartford, Newrington, Glastonbury, Danbury, Springfield-MA.
We are accepting new Patient (Adult,18 years and older). I am a 15+ years Experienced, Board Certified Physician specialized in Psychiatry, with Fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry. Depression, Anxiety, Sleep Disorders, Trauma, Phobias, Alzheimer, Postpartum Depression, Behavioral Disturbance, Senior-Geriatric conditions. My mission is to provide my patients with the best care in a confidential, relaxed environment through Evaluation and Medication Management. My office is in West Hartford Center, near by towns are Bloomfield, Avon, Granby, Simsbury, Canton, Windsor, Hartford, Newrington, Glastonbury, Danbury, Springfield-MA.
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![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 Dr. Emily Watkins, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23a3436b-3d75-488a-82bd-e89ad88dcb24/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist, my work starts with listening. I try to not only hear a person’s story, but understand their unique perspective because meeting a person where they are at is a necessary foundation for healing. My goals are to alleviate suffering and help individuals reach greater self-understanding. Working towards these goals always involves partnering with a patient and deciding together what specific steps or treatment methods best fit their unique needs and preferences, whether that includes medication, psychotherapy, or both. While I’m trained in wide range of psychiatric conditions, I have several areas of expertise.
As a psychiatrist, my work starts with listening. I try to not only hear a person’s story, but understand their unique perspective because meeting a person where they are at is a necessary foundation for healing. My goals are to alleviate suffering and help individuals reach greater self-understanding. Working towards these goals always involves partnering with a patient and deciding together what specific steps or treatment methods best fit their unique needs and preferences, whether that includes medication, psychotherapy, or both. While I’m trained in wide range of psychiatric conditions, I have several areas of expertise.
![Photo of Francisco A Ripepi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42f32dbe-dcfb-4f9f-9f04-b5b0497b097f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New patients at this time. I am a Child and adolescent psychiatrist as well as adult psychiatrist who specializes in Developmental Disorders, including Autism and intellectual disabilities. I also specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, OCD and mood disorders in all ages. My training in child and adolescent psychiatry is tailored to help children and families. I believe that the modality of treatment should be appropriate to the patient's needs.
Accepting New patients at this time. I am a Child and adolescent psychiatrist as well as adult psychiatrist who specializes in Developmental Disorders, including Autism and intellectual disabilities. I also specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, OCD and mood disorders in all ages. My training in child and adolescent psychiatry is tailored to help children and families. I believe that the modality of treatment should be appropriate to the patient's needs.
![Photo of Elizabeth Alve-Hedegaard - Elizabeth Alve-Hedegaard APRN , APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/806a7d3b-5666-45b5-a388-8e658c1cf03e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Alve-Hedegaard APRN
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107 (Online Only)
5/21/24: I am accepting new patients with Cigna, Aetna, and private pay. Approximately a one-week wait time for new patient appointments.
5/21/24: I am accepting new patients with Cigna, Aetna, and private pay. Approximately a one-week wait time for new patient appointments.
![Photo of Amit Rathi MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e49f364-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist, treating a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and relational difficulties. I specialize in problems of mood (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety (panic attacks, OCD, phobias, generalized anxiety), childhood behavior (ADHD, oppositionality), autism spectrum disorders, and thought disorders. I believe strongly in the importance of psychotherapy as well as the balanced, evidence-based use of medications, where necessary.
I am a child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist, treating a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and relational difficulties. I specialize in problems of mood (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety (panic attacks, OCD, phobias, generalized anxiety), childhood behavior (ADHD, oppositionality), autism spectrum disorders, and thought disorders. I believe strongly in the importance of psychotherapy as well as the balanced, evidence-based use of medications, where necessary.
![Photo of Yvonne Amune, PMHNP, APRN-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a06f3e3f-79d7-4c7a-9a39-f4bf517cb326/3/320x400.jpeg)
Yvonne Amune
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107 (Online Only)
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
![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 Stephen E Lee, PA-C, DBH, MS, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df2ff8d1-9397-423e-9187-fa62e447db9c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cathexis is the investment energy into another form which can be a person, idea, or object. When we cathect, we form more profound connections with others which comes from a place of authenticity and passion. Cathexis is a critical part of personal development. I believe the synergistic effort of cathexis between provider AND patient elicits positive change in a patient's life. I offer solution-focused behavioral interventions and medication management to my patients.
Cathexis is the investment energy into another form which can be a person, idea, or object. When we cathect, we form more profound connections with others which comes from a place of authenticity and passion. Cathexis is a critical part of personal development. I believe the synergistic effort of cathexis between provider AND patient elicits positive change in a patient's life. I offer solution-focused behavioral interventions and medication management to my patients.
![Photo of Sheldon L Hollins, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eaf97e5d-194c-4e30-adb6-597918d0ade1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sheldon L Hollins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06110
People often encounter difficult times in their lives. My aim is to help people to navigate through those times and offer a treatment plan that fits their specific needs.
People often encounter difficult times in their lives. My aim is to help people to navigate through those times and offer a treatment plan that fits their specific needs.
See more therapy options for West Hartford
Nearby Searches for West Hartford
- Avon
- Bloomfield
- East Hartford
- Farmington
- Glastonbury
- Hartford
- New Britain
- Newington
- Rocky Hill
- Simsbury
- Wethersfield
- Windsor
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in West Hartford, CT
40+
Average cost per session
$237
Psychiatrists in West Hartford, CT who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
86% | ADHD |
81% | Trauma and PTSD |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Medication Management |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
72% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in West Hartford, CT see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in West Hartford?
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.