Psychiatrists in Newington, CT
![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
Newington, CT 06111
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.
Professional Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Professional Nurse Practitioner offers affordable tele-psych services to everyone with busy demanding lifestyles. Make an appointment today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting most insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Professional Nurse Practitioner offers affordable tele-psych services to everyone with busy demanding lifestyles. Make an appointment today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting most insurances.
![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 Katarzyna Tesz, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08e975ac-e3ad-4b12-9e97-cc09b24c6104/4/320x400.jpeg)
Katarzyna Tesz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111
Hello! My name is Katarzyna (Kat) Tesz. As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, comprehensive and evidence-based care. I’m committed to working collaboratively with my patients in a non-judgmental environment so you feel safe, accepted, supported, and comfortable. I’m also happy to work together with your psychotherapist and your medical providers so that your psychiatric, medical, and psychological care are well-coordinated to best serve you. I accept most insurances, have a flexible schedule, and offer office-based and telehealth appointments for your convenience.
Hello! My name is Katarzyna (Kat) Tesz. As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing quality, comprehensive and evidence-based care. I’m committed to working collaboratively with my patients in a non-judgmental environment so you feel safe, accepted, supported, and comfortable. I’m also happy to work together with your psychotherapist and your medical providers so that your psychiatric, medical, and psychological care are well-coordinated to best serve you. I accept most insurances, have a flexible schedule, and offer office-based and telehealth appointments for your convenience.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Hye Sil Adams, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36b72a70-027c-4e5c-b0b1-46e63a4b6f7d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hye Sil Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06106
Currently accepting new clients through a waitlist. Please inquire for details. Are you grappling with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or ADHD? Perhaps you're seeking ways to cope with life's challenges or transitions. At Simply Lotus Health PLLC, I offer medication management and psychotherapy tailored to your unique needs. Explore www.simplylotushealth.com to learn about our philosophy and approach to care, which is rooted in resilience and personal growth.
Currently accepting new clients through a waitlist. Please inquire for details. Are you grappling with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or ADHD? Perhaps you're seeking ways to cope with life's challenges or transitions. At Simply Lotus Health PLLC, I offer medication management and psychotherapy tailored to your unique needs. Explore www.simplylotushealth.com to learn about our philosophy and approach to care, which is rooted in resilience and personal growth.
![Photo of Olivia Carter - Liv Well Behavioral Health Services (LWBHS), DNP, , APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fba6672e-675f-4147-9d87-5a7fd49ec455/3/320x400.jpeg)
Liv Well Behavioral Health Services (LWBHS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06102 (Online Only)
Doctorate Degree studies the impact of trauma-informed therapies throughout the life span. Chief Researcher: Building Resilience Among Veterans: TRM, CRM, EMDR to reduce PTSD, depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms. Principal Research Investigator of EMDR Therapy for inner-city adolescents to enhance resiliency. Licensed, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Yale-New Haven Psych & Medical Attending for Adult & Geriatrics Inpatient units, and Adjunct Professor at FFU Fairfield University in Psychiatry/Mental Health. Expertise in Psychopathology, Psychopharmacology, Psychotherapy, and Cultural Diversity.
Doctorate Degree studies the impact of trauma-informed therapies throughout the life span. Chief Researcher: Building Resilience Among Veterans: TRM, CRM, EMDR to reduce PTSD, depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms. Principal Research Investigator of EMDR Therapy for inner-city adolescents to enhance resiliency. Licensed, Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Yale-New Haven Psych & Medical Attending for Adult & Geriatrics Inpatient units, and Adjunct Professor at FFU Fairfield University in Psychiatry/Mental Health. Expertise in Psychopathology, Psychopharmacology, Psychotherapy, and Cultural Diversity.
![Photo of Gladys Quinones - Psych Solutions/ Gladys Quinones, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, ANP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4925aa8-4a1b-4f5c-ac67-9293611c8092/2/320x400.png)
Psych Solutions/ Gladys Quinones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNP, ANP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartford, CT 06102 (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients who are struggling with a broad range of psychiatric issues including Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Mood Disorders, OCD, PTSD, ADHD Bipolar Disorder, Sleeping Disorders and other mental health conditions. I treat clients throughout the life span.
I have experience working with clients who are struggling with a broad range of psychiatric issues including Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Mood Disorders, OCD, PTSD, ADHD Bipolar Disorder, Sleeping Disorders and other mental health conditions. I treat clients throughout the life span.
![Photo of Ashley Sweeney, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ab5e82d-055d-4f85-8119-e1472c665bdf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Sweeney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06102 (Online Only)
Ashley Sweeney is a Christian based Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. She believes in establishing trusting relationships, strengthening her client's decision-making process, and providing evidence-based information. She believes education and collaboration are the best methods to sustain long-term treatment success. Ashey offers faith-based services when requested. She is passionate about helping her clients become the best version of themselves while they walk their life's journey. She sees children, adolescents, and adults.
Ashley Sweeney is a Christian based Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. She believes in establishing trusting relationships, strengthening her client's decision-making process, and providing evidence-based information. She believes education and collaboration are the best methods to sustain long-term treatment success. Ashey offers faith-based services when requested. She is passionate about helping her clients become the best version of themselves while they walk their life's journey. She sees children, adolescents, and adults.
![Photo of David A. Krulee, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbccedca-6e0a-4e93-8623-423d404ca30a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Landmark Center for Behavior Health is a multi-disciplinary, mental health practice offering a wide range of counseling and psychiatric services. We treat children, adolescents, adults, couples and families using comprehensive, evidenced-based, and eclectic approaches. Whether you are looking for therapy, medication-management, or both, those services are available from a member of our team.
Landmark Center for Behavior Health is a multi-disciplinary, mental health practice offering a wide range of counseling and psychiatric services. We treat children, adolescents, adults, couples and families using comprehensive, evidenced-based, and eclectic approaches. Whether you are looking for therapy, medication-management, or both, those services are available from a member of our team.
![Photo of Mekessia Richards-Carby, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd5e093c-a8e3-4c4f-a511-5ab0837a7dca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am Mekessia Richards-Carby, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience working in healthcare. My experience in psychiatry ranges from treating children and adolescents in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs to adults in addiction treatment, as well as older adults as they transition through life changes. I treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, Bipolar/mood disorders, OCD, sleep disorders, and more.
Welcome! I am Mekessia Richards-Carby, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience working in healthcare. My experience in psychiatry ranges from treating children and adolescents in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs to adults in addiction treatment, as well as older adults as they transition through life changes. I treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, Bipolar/mood disorders, OCD, sleep disorders, and more.
![Photo of Richard S. Goldberg, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/400ff366-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Richard S. Goldberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06119
Not accepting new clients
I'm an old-fashioned psychiatrist, trained and experienced in psychotherapy as well as in pharmacology. I offer either treatment alone, or the two combined. I have a solo practice in a private, quiet setting.
I'm an old-fashioned psychiatrist, trained and experienced in psychotherapy as well as in pharmacology. I offer either treatment alone, or the two combined. I have a solo practice in a private, quiet setting.
![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 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 Katie L Scheinberg - Nourish Psychiatric- Katie Scheinberg, PMH-NP, APRN, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/543209ef-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nourish Psychiatric- Katie Scheinberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, APRN, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Wethersfield, CT 06109
Accepting new patients for June-July 2024! Some people find that therapy alone does not allow them to reach their mental health potential and may be considering starting medication, changing medication or looking to continue medication. No matter where you are on your journey to mental wellness, there are options. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, health/nutrition/sleep education, and therapeutic support to children, adolescents, and emerging adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep and eating issues and other mental health concerns.
Accepting new patients for June-July 2024! Some people find that therapy alone does not allow them to reach their mental health potential and may be considering starting medication, changing medication or looking to continue medication. No matter where you are on your journey to mental wellness, there are options. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, health/nutrition/sleep education, and therapeutic support to children, adolescents, and emerging adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep and eating issues and other mental health concerns.
![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 Ogechi Ebere - Sound Mynd, MSN,, APRN, FNP-C, PMHPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/098ca3d7-4350-4bd6-80c3-daeec5aca811/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sound Mynd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN,, APRN, FNP-C, PMHPBC
Verified Verified
Wethersfield, CT 06109
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
![Photo of Theresa Webster, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6a6b863-96fe-4a7a-9eda-2d04452964be/1/320x400.png)
Theresa Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06109 (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are constantly fighting with your own brain? You try to concentrate on a task but your mind constantly wanders off. Your friends joke that you have no concept of time but you wonder when they will tire of your inconsistency. You struggle in social settings with worry that you are talking too much or lose track of what someone is talking with you about when in conversation. Your finances are a mess or you just can’t seem to hold on to savings. Social media has you thinking you might have ADHD and you are ready to find answers.
Do you feel like you are constantly fighting with your own brain? You try to concentrate on a task but your mind constantly wanders off. Your friends joke that you have no concept of time but you wonder when they will tire of your inconsistency. You struggle in social settings with worry that you are talking too much or lose track of what someone is talking with you about when in conversation. Your finances are a mess or you just can’t seem to hold on to savings. Social media has you thinking you might have ADHD and you are ready to find answers.
![Photo of Todd A Perkins, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33d81599-94b4-4dd8-ab03-c3b8c42a2e8a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Todd A Perkins
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hartford, CT 06103 (Online Only)
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and Adult Nurse Practitioner, I offer you the mental health and medical background to answer the important questions about your psychiatric symptoms and relief. This is step-one in a process of wellness that may include prescribing medication to you, psychotherapy, or both.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and Adult Nurse Practitioner, I offer you the mental health and medical background to answer the important questions about your psychiatric symptoms and relief. This is step-one in a process of wellness that may include prescribing medication to you, psychotherapy, or both.
![Photo of Sheneese Charles - BE VEry Resilient, L.L.C., MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a61f9540-4058-4d53-a6cc-34b815c39954/2/320x400.jpeg)
BE VEry Resilient, L.L.C.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06110
Not accepting new clients
The mission of BE VEry Resilient is to foster resilience by encouraging, uplifting, restoring, and renewing emotional strength, promoting balanced and stable emotions. Our goal for each individual is to cultivate therapeutic skills that enhance mental well-being and empower effective management of daily challenges. Sheneese, the owner/founder of BE VEry Resilient, brings over 10 years of experience in the nursing field, with a significant focus on mental health. Having practiced as a mental health provider in community outpatient settings, Sheneese has dedicated her career to supporting adults from diverse backgrounds.
The mission of BE VEry Resilient is to foster resilience by encouraging, uplifting, restoring, and renewing emotional strength, promoting balanced and stable emotions. Our goal for each individual is to cultivate therapeutic skills that enhance mental well-being and empower effective management of daily challenges. Sheneese, the owner/founder of BE VEry Resilient, brings over 10 years of experience in the nursing field, with a significant focus on mental health. Having practiced as a mental health provider in community outpatient settings, Sheneese has dedicated her career to supporting adults from diverse backgrounds.
See more therapy options for Newington
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Newington, CT
< 10
Psychiatrists in Newington, CT who prioritize treating:
75% | Depression |
75% | Anxiety |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
50% | Trauma and PTSD |
50% | Other |
50% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Newington, CT see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Newington?
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.