Psychiatrists in Hamden, CT

Photo of Ellen Zummo, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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!
(475) 335-8054 View (475) 335-8054
Photo of Raymond Gunn, PhD, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Raymond Gunn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06518  (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a broad background in sociology. In my approach to treatment, I explore how culture, gender, and identity intersect with personality and neurochemical imbalances to produce psychiatric symptoms that impede daily functioning and interpersonal activities. Together with my clients, we determine the best pharmacological interventions to provide relief of these symptoms. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, assessment for post-traumatic stress disorder, Connecticut state registration for eligible clients for medical marijuana, and Suboxone treatment.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a broad background in sociology. In my approach to treatment, I explore how culture, gender, and identity intersect with personality and neurochemical imbalances to produce psychiatric symptoms that impede daily functioning and interpersonal activities. Together with my clients, we determine the best pharmacological interventions to provide relief of these symptoms. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, assessment for post-traumatic stress disorder, Connecticut state registration for eligible clients for medical marijuana, and Suboxone treatment.
(475) 234-0096 View (475) 234-0096
Photo of Daedly Potusek - New Leaf Psychiatry, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
New Leaf Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06518
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.
(203) 349-6832 View (203) 349-6832
Photo of Ajibola Ojo Adekanye, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ajibola Ojo Adekanye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06514  (Online Only)
My name is Ajibola Adekanye, DNP, PMHNP-BC, I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience working with individuals 18 years of age and over who are struggling with general mental health, schizophrenia, self-harm, suicidal ideations, anxiety and panic disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, and OCD. My approach combines medication management with comprehensive psychiatric evaluation tailored to each patient’s needs. I create a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic environment from a diverse, culturally competent background that allows me to treat and heal individual.
My name is Ajibola Adekanye, DNP, PMHNP-BC, I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience working with individuals 18 years of age and over who are struggling with general mental health, schizophrenia, self-harm, suicidal ideations, anxiety and panic disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, and OCD. My approach combines medication management with comprehensive psychiatric evaluation tailored to each patient’s needs. I create a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic environment from a diverse, culturally competent background that allows me to treat and heal individual.
(475) 290-6827 View (475) 290-6827
Photo of Adrienne Hicks - Dr Adrienne Hicks, LLC, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Dr Adrienne Hicks, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06518  (Online Only)
I treat patients with mental illnesses and manage general medical concerns.
I treat patients with mental illnesses and manage general medical concerns.
(203) 587-8295 View (203) 587-8295
Photo of Beatrice Peku, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Beatrice Peku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06518
Mental and behavioral health are crucial to our overall well-being. If you are among the over 57 million Americans experiencing mental illness, Thorough Immersion Health is here to help. I offer a patient-centered, holistic, and culturally sensitive approach to restoring health and well-being. My care prioritizes each patient’s unique biological, environmental, and socioeconomic factors to guide diagnosis and treatment. For your convenience, I provide both in-person and virtual consultations.
Mental and behavioral health are crucial to our overall well-being. If you are among the over 57 million Americans experiencing mental illness, Thorough Immersion Health is here to help. I offer a patient-centered, holistic, and culturally sensitive approach to restoring health and well-being. My care prioritizes each patient’s unique biological, environmental, and socioeconomic factors to guide diagnosis and treatment. For your convenience, I provide both in-person and virtual consultations.
(203) 904-2576 View (203) 904-2576
Photo of Dilice Robertson - Lifespan Collaborative Services, DNP, APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lifespan Collaborative Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06518
In the vast landscape of mental health, each individual's journey is a unique narrative, often filled with complexities, challenges, and ultimately, resilience. Welcome to Lifespan Collaborative Services a psychiatric mental health practice and sanctuary where healing transcends the boundaries of conventional therapy, embracing a holistic, integrative, and culturally supportive approach to mental wellness. Central to the Lifespan Collaborative Services approach is the integration of evidence-based therapeutic modalities with complementary healing practices drawn from diverse cultural traditions.
In the vast landscape of mental health, each individual's journey is a unique narrative, often filled with complexities, challenges, and ultimately, resilience. Welcome to Lifespan Collaborative Services a psychiatric mental health practice and sanctuary where healing transcends the boundaries of conventional therapy, embracing a holistic, integrative, and culturally supportive approach to mental wellness. Central to the Lifespan Collaborative Services approach is the integration of evidence-based therapeutic modalities with complementary healing practices drawn from diverse cultural traditions.
(475) 471-0631 View (475) 471-0631
Photo of Linton Kinlock, MSN, APRN, PMHN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Linton Kinlock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHN-BC
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06514  (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to improving the lives of individuals living with mental illness. I believe that with the right care, support , people can achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. My passion stems from my own experiences with mental health, as well as my desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others. I have a strong background in both nursing and psychiatry, committed to staying current with the latest research, integrative treatments. I am a compassionate and empathetic practitioner who is dedicated to working with my patients to develop individualized treatment.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am deeply committed to improving the lives of individuals living with mental illness. I believe that with the right care, support , people can achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. My passion stems from my own experiences with mental health, as well as my desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others. I have a strong background in both nursing and psychiatry, committed to staying current with the latest research, integrative treatments. I am a compassionate and empathetic practitioner who is dedicated to working with my patients to develop individualized treatment.
(860) 254-6569 View (860) 254-6569
Photo of Kathryn Camizzi - Willow Treatment and Associates, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Willow Treatment and Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06514  (Online Only)
Willow Treatment and Associates is a private practice offering therapy and medication management for teens through elders. We are a team of licensed social workers, professional counselors and advanced practice registered nurses who pride ourselves in working together to give each patient individualized complete care.
Willow Treatment and Associates is a private practice offering therapy and medication management for teens through elders. We are a team of licensed social workers, professional counselors and advanced practice registered nurses who pride ourselves in working together to give each patient individualized complete care.
(475) 267-1865 View (475) 267-1865
Photo of Jennifer landolt - A Brand New Day, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A Brand New Day, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06518
Have you tried many different medications and modalities and still not achieved optimal health? My practice will take these into consideration and build upon them. I am trained in diagnosing mental health disorders, addiction support and offering treatment options in the form of prescribing medication and other nonpharmacological interventions. I believe in the power of structure, exercise, diet, and sleep. My practice is trauma informed and we also can submit for genetic testing to see what medications might be the best fit for you.
Have you tried many different medications and modalities and still not achieved optimal health? My practice will take these into consideration and build upon them. I am trained in diagnosing mental health disorders, addiction support and offering treatment options in the form of prescribing medication and other nonpharmacological interventions. I believe in the power of structure, exercise, diet, and sleep. My practice is trauma informed and we also can submit for genetic testing to see what medications might be the best fit for you.
(475) 244-7556 View (475) 244-7556
Photo of John T Palma, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John T Palma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06518
I'm a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner that likes to take the appropriate time to get to know the needs and objectives of my clients. I specialize in adults but will see children 13 and older depending on the case. I treat individuals suffering from a variety of conditions, such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. I value the input of those I work with and through collaboration we will achieve the best possible outcome.
I'm a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner that likes to take the appropriate time to get to know the needs and objectives of my clients. I specialize in adults but will see children 13 and older depending on the case. I treat individuals suffering from a variety of conditions, such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. I value the input of those I work with and through collaboration we will achieve the best possible outcome.
(203) 404-6074 View (203) 404-6074
Photo of Office Manager - Solstice Healthcare, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Solstice Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06514  (Online Only)
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, chronic illness, or stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, chronic illness, or stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
(959) 265-4524 View (959) 265-4524
Photo of Fredo And Stéphane Clermont - NorthPoint Psychiatric Consultants, LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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 ).
(860) 854-1764 View (860) 854-1764

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jordan Sloshower, MD, MSc, Psychiatrist
Jordan Sloshower
Psychiatrist, MD, MSc
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06515
Jordan Sloshower, MD, MSc is a board-certified psychiatrist, researcher, and educator specializing in integrative approaches to mental health and psychedelic-assisted therapies. Along with my team at West Rock Wellness, I seek to offer with care and compassion, a spectrum of therapeutic and transformational services that address root causes of suffering. I view conditions, such as depression and anxiety, through a bio-psycho-social-spiritual lens and seek to help clients heal at those various levels. This involves creatively combining a variety of approaches, such as psychotherapy, medications, wellness and lifestyle interventions.
Jordan Sloshower, MD, MSc is a board-certified psychiatrist, researcher, and educator specializing in integrative approaches to mental health and psychedelic-assisted therapies. Along with my team at West Rock Wellness, I seek to offer with care and compassion, a spectrum of therapeutic and transformational services that address root causes of suffering. I view conditions, such as depression and anxiety, through a bio-psycho-social-spiritual lens and seek to help clients heal at those various levels. This involves creatively combining a variety of approaches, such as psychotherapy, medications, wellness and lifestyle interventions.
(203) 457-8085 View (203) 457-8085
Photo of Michael Espelin, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Espelin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New Haven, CT 06511
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. My philosophy is an integrative approach in treating the whole person - including the biological, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual factors. I am a Connecticut native with European heritage and want to acknowledge the original habitants of the land I live on: the Hammonassets and Menunkatucks. I recognize myself as a privileged member of a white dominant world, and consistently try to challenge this norm. As a strong ally to marginalized communities, I do my best to promote inclusivity and improve access to psychiatric services.
Welcome! I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. My philosophy is an integrative approach in treating the whole person - including the biological, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual factors. I am a Connecticut native with European heritage and want to acknowledge the original habitants of the land I live on: the Hammonassets and Menunkatucks. I recognize myself as a privileged member of a white dominant world, and consistently try to challenge this norm. As a strong ally to marginalized communities, I do my best to promote inclusivity and improve access to psychiatric services.
(203) 745-2368 View (203) 745-2368
Photo of Diana Lankenau, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Diana Lankenau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511
Diana Lankenau graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor's in psychology and University of Miami bachelor's in nursing. She has a master's degree in nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialty Certificate and Nursing Education Certificate. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). She has proudly served the community by providing nursing services to children in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
Diana Lankenau graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor's in psychology and University of Miami bachelor's in nursing. She has a master's degree in nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialty Certificate and Nursing Education Certificate. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). She has proudly served the community by providing nursing services to children in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
(475) 255-2568 View (475) 255-2568
Photo of Douglas Zelisko, MD, Psychiatrist
Douglas Zelisko
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511
Making the decision to seek help with your challenges can feel both empowering and vulnerable. I offer a safe and compassionate, non-judgmental space for us to start the process and talk. I strive to help adults with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, focus, and physical ailments among others. I provide both medication management, as well as individual psychotherapy. I primarily practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, however am trained in other modalities to best help you through the emotional challenges you face and allow a greater understanding of yourself.
Making the decision to seek help with your challenges can feel both empowering and vulnerable. I offer a safe and compassionate, non-judgmental space for us to start the process and talk. I strive to help adults with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, focus, and physical ailments among others. I provide both medication management, as well as individual psychotherapy. I primarily practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, however am trained in other modalities to best help you through the emotional challenges you face and allow a greater understanding of yourself.
(860) 854-7338 View (860) 854-7338
Photo of Juan Carlos Cleves-Bayon, MD, Psychiatrist
Juan Carlos Cleves-Bayon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511
Not accepting new clients
Emotional and mental health issues are always difficult and sometimes terrifying to deal with. Sometimes these problems are related to views you may hold about yourself, entrenched interpersonal conflicts or current life situations you may be dealing with. Past traumas, or experiences within your nuclear family can all play an important role as well. Conflict in your current social or cultural environment, or family stresses and life transitions also contribute to emotional problems. Physical factors such as illness or aging, also have a profound impact on your mental health.
Emotional and mental health issues are always difficult and sometimes terrifying to deal with. Sometimes these problems are related to views you may hold about yourself, entrenched interpersonal conflicts or current life situations you may be dealing with. Past traumas, or experiences within your nuclear family can all play an important role as well. Conflict in your current social or cultural environment, or family stresses and life transitions also contribute to emotional problems. Physical factors such as illness or aging, also have a profound impact on your mental health.
(203) 295-3307 View (203) 295-3307
Photo of Barbara Stoudmire, BA, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Barbara Stoudmire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511
There has been an increase in those suffering from anxiety and depression, especially after COVID. We watched in fear as the world slipped into a pandemic. I want you to know you are not alone! There are many sufferings from trauma related to a bad relationship, bullying or past abuse. Again, you are not alone! Have you been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or ADHD and have been struggling to manage your symptoms? I am here to help. Regardless of age or diagnosis everyone deserves peace of mind and a little understanding. I believe everyone deserves compassionate and empathetic mental health care. Let me help you.
There has been an increase in those suffering from anxiety and depression, especially after COVID. We watched in fear as the world slipped into a pandemic. I want you to know you are not alone! There are many sufferings from trauma related to a bad relationship, bullying or past abuse. Again, you are not alone! Have you been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or ADHD and have been struggling to manage your symptoms? I am here to help. Regardless of age or diagnosis everyone deserves peace of mind and a little understanding. I believe everyone deserves compassionate and empathetic mental health care. Let me help you.
(475) 264-4768 View (475) 264-4768
Photo of Radmila Meyer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Radmila Meyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511
My name is Radmila Meyer. I am APRN, PMHNP-BC and specialize in medication-assisted treatment and provide therapy for patients who have mental health concerns and needs. During my working experience, I use a wide range of nursing, psychosocial, and neurobiological expertise in evaluating patients with psychiatric illnesses and their mental health needs. I provide behavioral counseling and education of patients and their families about psychiatric symptoms, maintain compliance with treatment plans, and detect adverse effects from prescribed medication.
My name is Radmila Meyer. I am APRN, PMHNP-BC and specialize in medication-assisted treatment and provide therapy for patients who have mental health concerns and needs. During my working experience, I use a wide range of nursing, psychosocial, and neurobiological expertise in evaluating patients with psychiatric illnesses and their mental health needs. I provide behavioral counseling and education of patients and their families about psychiatric symptoms, maintain compliance with treatment plans, and detect adverse effects from prescribed medication.
(475) 284-8870 View (475) 284-8870

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Hamden, CT

10+

Average cost per session

$160

Psychiatrists in Hamden, CT who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
92% Depression
92% ADHD
85% Sleep or Insomnia
77% Trauma and PTSD
77% Bipolar Disorder
77% Medication Management

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Hamden, CT see their clients

53% Online Only
47% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Hamden?

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

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

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

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

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

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

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

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

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

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

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

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

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

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

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