Psychiatrists in Danbury, CT
![Photo of Betsy LaRose - SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services , APRN, PCCN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c56999a0-918f-4541-ae75-b84d08f018ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PCCN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06811
Have you tried medications for mental health conditions without success? Do you feel your medication prescriber doesn’t spend enough time with you? You want someone who will take a holistic approach when prescribing your mental health medications and listen to your experience and concerns about side effects. You want to manage your mental health conditions and get back to building the life you want. What if you could find a mental health practice that combines best practices in medication management with comprehensive therapy services? We’d be honored to help you achieve mental wellness.
Have you tried medications for mental health conditions without success? Do you feel your medication prescriber doesn’t spend enough time with you? You want someone who will take a holistic approach when prescribing your mental health medications and listen to your experience and concerns about side effects. You want to manage your mental health conditions and get back to building the life you want. What if you could find a mental health practice that combines best practices in medication management with comprehensive therapy services? We’d be honored to help you achieve mental wellness.
![Photo of Holly DeVylder, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e9d8298-ef80-44fb-ab71-1d35ea2b61c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holly DeVylder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
Do you feel paralyzed by anxiety? Are you struggling to find joy amidst depression? Are ADHD symptoms derailing your or your child’s day? Do you seek compassionate support to overcome these challenges? Holly DeVylder is committed to helping adolescents and adults navigate their mental health journey. In her practice, you will find a supportive space that fosters understanding and growth. Holly believes in empowering her clients to rebuild their lives and achieve lasting wellness. If you're looking for a path to recovery that respects your unique needs and personal history, Holly is here to guide and support you every step of the way
Do you feel paralyzed by anxiety? Are you struggling to find joy amidst depression? Are ADHD symptoms derailing your or your child’s day? Do you seek compassionate support to overcome these challenges? Holly DeVylder is committed to helping adolescents and adults navigate their mental health journey. In her practice, you will find a supportive space that fosters understanding and growth. Holly believes in empowering her clients to rebuild their lives and achieve lasting wellness. If you're looking for a path to recovery that respects your unique needs and personal history, Holly is here to guide and support you every step of the way
![Photo of Jennifer Marie Ross, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99cae0e6-60ed-4932-9f00-8570cf15ca0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an ANCC board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), with over 10 years of nursing and clinical experience in both inpatient and outpatient care. Offering patient-centered psychopharmacology and psychotherapy for children ages 5+, adolescents, adults, including couple and family counseling. I work in collaboration with various treatment providers from a holistic standpoint that is evidenced-based, while respecting the autonomy of the client. A compassionate therapeutic relationship is part of my practice that focuses on positive aspects to promote the healing process for various disorders..
I am an ANCC board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), with over 10 years of nursing and clinical experience in both inpatient and outpatient care. Offering patient-centered psychopharmacology and psychotherapy for children ages 5+, adolescents, adults, including couple and family counseling. I work in collaboration with various treatment providers from a holistic standpoint that is evidenced-based, while respecting the autonomy of the client. A compassionate therapeutic relationship is part of my practice that focuses on positive aspects to promote the healing process for various disorders..
![Photo of Ted Hendrickson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d7ef8ee-f3c7-449c-93f5-9e8dfc4320a3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ted Hendrickson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Connecticut. I have spent the last 8 years training and working in the mental health space.
Hi! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Connecticut. I have spent the last 8 years training and working in the mental health space.
![Photo of Varinder S Rathore - Suboxone Buprenorphine Treatment of Danbury, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ba7a3e5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Suboxone/Buprenorphine Treatment of Danbury. Opioid/Heroin Addiction is a national epidemic and our mission is to provide outpatient Suboxone/Buprenorphine treatment for patients with opioid dependence in a discreet manner. We also have state of the art therapist and counselors. Dr Varinder Rathore MD (“DR V”) is Double Board Certified in Adult & Addiction Psychiatry and an expert in MAT(Medication Assisted Treatment). We are conveniently located a mile from Danbury Hospital at 72 North Street, Danbury, CT 06810. https://www.suboxonedoctorny.com/
Welcome to Suboxone/Buprenorphine Treatment of Danbury. Opioid/Heroin Addiction is a national epidemic and our mission is to provide outpatient Suboxone/Buprenorphine treatment for patients with opioid dependence in a discreet manner. We also have state of the art therapist and counselors. Dr Varinder Rathore MD (“DR V”) is Double Board Certified in Adult & Addiction Psychiatry and an expert in MAT(Medication Assisted Treatment). We are conveniently located a mile from Danbury Hospital at 72 North Street, Danbury, CT 06810. https://www.suboxonedoctorny.com/
Sterling Institute Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810
Sterling Institute welcomes you to our customer service oriented practice where your health, comfort and well-being are always a priority.
Sterling Institute welcomes you to our customer service oriented practice where your health, comfort and well-being are always a priority.
![Photo of Mayumi Okuda Benavides, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ab1a8b2-5c74-4306-b072-28670c8c48de/3/320x400.png)
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
![Photo of Violet Moses - Light Of Mind Psychiatric Services , MSN , FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4f878e5-ce4f-4a89-bf81-4eb0b765005f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Light Of Mind Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
Violet Moses MSN APRN FNP-C PMHNP-BC is a Nurse Practitioner with dual Board Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Massachusetts. Currently, her focus is in psychiatry with specialties in addiction medicine and eating disorders. She has experience in treating adolescents and adults with dual diagnosis, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, substance use disorder, binge eating disorder, and many other common mental health conditions.https://headway.co/providers/violet-moses?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=22260
Violet Moses MSN APRN FNP-C PMHNP-BC is a Nurse Practitioner with dual Board Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Massachusetts. Currently, her focus is in psychiatry with specialties in addiction medicine and eating disorders. She has experience in treating adolescents and adults with dual diagnosis, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, substance use disorder, binge eating disorder, and many other common mental health conditions.https://headway.co/providers/violet-moses?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=22260
![Photo of Keisha Asante, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c588c78-c39f-4dcc-ba56-ca07454f0150/2/320x400.jpeg)
Keisha Asante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
Are you grappling with mental health challenges, seeking understanding, compassion, and personalized care? Have you tried navigating anxiety, and depression, but can’t seem to get a firm grasp? Perhaps you have tried medications in the past, but don’t see the changes you envision. You long for a professional who can truly connect with your unique journey. Taking the necessary steps to optimal mental wellness doesn’t have to be difficult. Keisha at Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts is ready to listen and provide you with a solid plan of action to achieve a more fulfilling life
Are you grappling with mental health challenges, seeking understanding, compassion, and personalized care? Have you tried navigating anxiety, and depression, but can’t seem to get a firm grasp? Perhaps you have tried medications in the past, but don’t see the changes you envision. You long for a professional who can truly connect with your unique journey. Taking the necessary steps to optimal mental wellness doesn’t have to be difficult. Keisha at Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts is ready to listen and provide you with a solid plan of action to achieve a more fulfilling life
![Photo of Thamara Jonathas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10e7050a-50fb-4e70-9605-3ad8ec0dbaf0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thamara Jonathas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
Hello, I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. I have 13 years of experience working in healthcare, providing care to patients of all ages. I am dedicated to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care and building strong relationships with my patients to ensure their overall health and well-being. I am passionate about patient education and empowerment. I am committed to staying current on the latest advancements in healthcare and to provide the best possible care for my patients.
Hello, I am a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry. I have 13 years of experience working in healthcare, providing care to patients of all ages. I am dedicated to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care and building strong relationships with my patients to ensure their overall health and well-being. I am passionate about patient education and empowerment. I am committed to staying current on the latest advancements in healthcare and to provide the best possible care for my patients.
![Photo of Heather Morrison, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e7cf51a-8e5a-4ebf-9d64-463bd7fbf37e/1/320x400.png)
Heather Morrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in mental health care for children in PreK-12 grade.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in mental health care for children in PreK-12 grade.
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SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06811 (Online Only)
Have you ever been prescribed medication and rushed out of the provider's door? No more! Are you in therapy now but feel like your symptoms are not improving? We are here to help you and your family. We have a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner since 2001. We have experience in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses. We help women and families.
Have you ever been prescribed medication and rushed out of the provider's door? No more! Are you in therapy now but feel like your symptoms are not improving? We are here to help you and your family. We have a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner since 2001. We have experience in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses. We help women and families.
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Dr. Aura Ardon - Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
Now accepting new Patients. Are you struggling to create meaningful relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed by the stressors of work and daily living? Do you have trouble caring for yourself because of your mental health? Is your family life unmanageable because of mental illness? You want to get your mental health back under control but feel stuck. As time passes you feel further and further from your goals. It’s time to find real solutions because you have a life to live. You don’t have to manage this alone. Working with a mental health expert who believes in a holistic approach to mental and physical wellness may be the missing
Now accepting new Patients. Are you struggling to create meaningful relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed by the stressors of work and daily living? Do you have trouble caring for yourself because of your mental health? Is your family life unmanageable because of mental illness? You want to get your mental health back under control but feel stuck. As time passes you feel further and further from your goals. It’s time to find real solutions because you have a life to live. You don’t have to manage this alone. Working with a mental health expert who believes in a holistic approach to mental and physical wellness may be the missing
![Photo of Christina Costa - SMPsychotherapy & Couseling Services , FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07143d2e-f250-4a9c-8d82-f2d86f81b4bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
SMPsychotherapy & Couseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06811
Now accepting new clients! Have you tried medications for mental health conditions without success? Do you feel your medication prescriber doesn’t spend enough time with you? You want someone who will take a holistic approach when prescribing your mental health medications and listen to your experience and concerns about side effects. You want to manage your mental health conditions and get back to building the life you want. What if you could find a mental health practice that combines best practices in medication management with comprehensive therapy services? We’d be honored to help you achieve mental wellness.
Now accepting new clients! Have you tried medications for mental health conditions without success? Do you feel your medication prescriber doesn’t spend enough time with you? You want someone who will take a holistic approach when prescribing your mental health medications and listen to your experience and concerns about side effects. You want to manage your mental health conditions and get back to building the life you want. What if you could find a mental health practice that combines best practices in medication management with comprehensive therapy services? We’d be honored to help you achieve mental wellness.
![Photo of Tarique Perera Contemporary Care, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/441699f2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with depression, anxiety, or debilitating symptoms? Traditional treatments might not always work. I offer advanced options: psychopharmacology, TMS therapy, ketamine infusions, and the latest Spravato esketamine treatments, combined with psychotherapy. Trained at Harvard, with a residency at New York Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, I am recognized as one of America's Top Psychiatrists. My approach focuses on full symptom remission, treating you as a whole. Welcome to a new chapter in your mental health journey at my practice.
Struggling with depression, anxiety, or debilitating symptoms? Traditional treatments might not always work. I offer advanced options: psychopharmacology, TMS therapy, ketamine infusions, and the latest Spravato esketamine treatments, combined with psychotherapy. Trained at Harvard, with a residency at New York Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, I am recognized as one of America's Top Psychiatrists. My approach focuses on full symptom remission, treating you as a whole. Welcome to a new chapter in your mental health journey at my practice.
![Photo of Kary Krochko, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73495e39-ccfa-4325-a491-0a52dce17236/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are currently accepting new clients. We offer Medical Marijuana Treatments for adults in the State of Connecticut.
We are currently accepting new clients. We offer Medical Marijuana Treatments for adults in the State of Connecticut.
![Photo of Aura Ardon - Altura Medical spa and Wellness center, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9e35b14-bba2-4cd3-9d30-950644938c4e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of struggling with weight gain and feeling like you've tried everything without success? We understand that achieving a healthy weight involves more than just counting calories—it's about addressing the psychological aspects that play a crucial role in your well-being. The role of medication, behavior modification, and an individualized plan are all crucial elements to the holistic approach leading to your transformation. Are you tired of night time eating "night time eating disorder" , craving foods all the time? we can help you.
Are you tired of struggling with weight gain and feeling like you've tried everything without success? We understand that achieving a healthy weight involves more than just counting calories—it's about addressing the psychological aspects that play a crucial role in your well-being. The role of medication, behavior modification, and an individualized plan are all crucial elements to the holistic approach leading to your transformation. Are you tired of night time eating "night time eating disorder" , craving foods all the time? we can help you.
![Photo of Beenu Karun, BHMS , DNP , PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1ec2098-71f5-4167-876e-d32824e47531/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beenu Karun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BHMS , DNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
I consider myself lucky to work in a progressive age of healthcare, and strongly believe that mental healthcare especially relies on a culture of acceptance and openness. As a Healthcare provider I not only care for patients, but share good practices in empathy and understanding. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care
I consider myself lucky to work in a progressive age of healthcare, and strongly believe that mental healthcare especially relies on a culture of acceptance and openness. As a Healthcare provider I not only care for patients, but share good practices in empathy and understanding. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care
Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts: Empowering, comprehensive mental health care for people of all ages in Connecticut. At Mar y Sol Mental Health Experts, we provide outpatient mental health care that works. We empower our patients across their lifespans to live the lives they want through individualized, holistic mental health treatment. Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts is the pinnacle of mental health treatment because we treat your entire being in ways that enhance happiness so you can reach your goals.
Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts: Empowering, comprehensive mental health care for people of all ages in Connecticut. At Mar y Sol Mental Health Experts, we provide outpatient mental health care that works. We empower our patients across their lifespans to live the lives they want through individualized, holistic mental health treatment. Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts is the pinnacle of mental health treatment because we treat your entire being in ways that enhance happiness so you can reach your goals.
![Photo of Brenda Alderete-Aragon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b78038a-964e-4bc5-bcac-24bce76f5e61/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brenda Alderete-Aragon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
Do you feel paralyzed by anxiety? Are you struggling to find joy amidst depression? Are bipolar disorder’s highs and lows disrupting your life? Or does PTSD intrude on your daily peace? Brenda Alderete-Aragon is dedicated to helping individuals navigate these complex emotional landscapes. In her practice, you will find a nurturing environment that promotes understanding and personal growth. Brenda believes in empowering her clients to reclaim their lives and achieve sustainable wellness. If you're searching for a path to recovery tailored to your unique needs and experiences, Brenda is ready to support you every step of the way.
Do you feel paralyzed by anxiety? Are you struggling to find joy amidst depression? Are bipolar disorder’s highs and lows disrupting your life? Or does PTSD intrude on your daily peace? Brenda Alderete-Aragon is dedicated to helping individuals navigate these complex emotional landscapes. In her practice, you will find a nurturing environment that promotes understanding and personal growth. Brenda believes in empowering her clients to reclaim their lives and achieve sustainable wellness. If you're searching for a path to recovery tailored to your unique needs and experiences, Brenda is ready to support you every step of the way.
See more therapy options for Danbury
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Danbury, CT
60+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Danbury, CT who prioritize treating:
91% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
79% | ADHD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Medication Management |
61% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Aetna |
85% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Danbury, CT see their clients
50% | Online Only | |
50% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Danbury?
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.