Psychiatrists in New Haven, CT
![Photo of Summer Paradise, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce94aa6a-84c6-4759-8976-a8113712938b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I will work with you to find holistic and humanistic approaches to achieving wellness. At the core of many symptoms, there is trauma and grief, and I will support you in your efforts to heal and construct a life that feels authentic. I will also offer medications that are appropriate when needed.
I will work with you to find holistic and humanistic approaches to achieving wellness. At the core of many symptoms, there is trauma and grief, and I will support you in your efforts to heal and construct a life that feels authentic. I will also offer medications that are appropriate when needed.
![Photo of Juan Carlos Cleves-Bayon, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4080f3b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Andrew Ding, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4608cfeb-b6dd-4f94-a212-419b78175e7a/9/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a psychotherapist and integrative psychiatrist specializing in existential and spiritual issues with a focus on psychedelic medicine. I aim to foster not only self-knowledge, but progress from insight to embodiment, contradiction to paradox, and alienation to connection. Informed by influences ranging from modern, evidence-informed Western medicine, to Eastern spirituality, to psychoanalysis, I support growth through a bespoke therapeutic alliance that integrates various psychotherapies, lifestyle medicine, and judicious prescribing within a single relationship. — Please reach out via www.AximMedicine.com —
I’m a psychotherapist and integrative psychiatrist specializing in existential and spiritual issues with a focus on psychedelic medicine. I aim to foster not only self-knowledge, but progress from insight to embodiment, contradiction to paradox, and alienation to connection. Informed by influences ranging from modern, evidence-informed Western medicine, to Eastern spirituality, to psychoanalysis, I support growth through a bespoke therapeutic alliance that integrates various psychotherapies, lifestyle medicine, and judicious prescribing within a single relationship. — Please reach out via www.AximMedicine.com —
![Photo of Kate Hanselman, PMNHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e652ea4-7533-4c53-8ac3-f6c32b4c2125/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Hanselman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511 (Online Only)
Kate Hanselman is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of professional experience working with adults and seniors who are dealing with a wide variety of issues, including family conflict, transgender issues, grief, sexual orientation issues, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, anger issues, dysfunctional relationships, ADHD, behavioral issues, women’s issues, and more. Kate earned a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s in Science from King’s College London.
Kate Hanselman is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of professional experience working with adults and seniors who are dealing with a wide variety of issues, including family conflict, transgender issues, grief, sexual orientation issues, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, anger issues, dysfunctional relationships, ADHD, behavioral issues, women’s issues, and more. Kate earned a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s in Science from King’s College London.
![Photo of Craig Riccelli, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/797deb94-dc4e-4584-92f8-66776d0efc32/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to provide the space for people to better understand themselves. As you share your story, we began to understand how your past experiences may be causing distress or dysfunction in the present day. Gaining this understanding can provide genuine relief and allow you to experience life more fully. I enjoy working with adults of all ages.
My goal is to provide the space for people to better understand themselves. As you share your story, we began to understand how your past experiences may be causing distress or dysfunction in the present day. Gaining this understanding can provide genuine relief and allow you to experience life more fully. I enjoy working with adults of all ages.
![Photo of Davar B - Emerald Health & Wellness, MSN, APRN-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2c49248-b88b-4f59-b67c-90da0c17721b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emerald Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-C
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511
At Emerald Health and Wellness, we are now welcoming new patients, including those on Medicaid. Our ideal clients face mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and trauma and seek compassionate, comprehensive care. They desire personalized, holistic treatment that promotes growth and transformation. Their goals include emotional stability, self-discovery, and empowerment. We help clients, aged 13 and up, rediscover themselves, achieve holistic wellness, and live fulfilling lives through integrative telehealth services. Our experienced team ensures each individual feels heard, understood, and empowered.
At Emerald Health and Wellness, we are now welcoming new patients, including those on Medicaid. Our ideal clients face mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and trauma and seek compassionate, comprehensive care. They desire personalized, holistic treatment that promotes growth and transformation. Their goals include emotional stability, self-discovery, and empowerment. We help clients, aged 13 and up, rediscover themselves, achieve holistic wellness, and live fulfilling lives through integrative telehealth services. Our experienced team ensures each individual feels heard, understood, and empowered.
![Photo of Omolola Aragbada, PMHNP, APRN, MSNPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87a5e457-d135-4934-bebf-12d2d00bc2d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Omolola Aragbada
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSNPH
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06510
Hi there, I'm Lola. Are you looking for a provider who makes you feel comfortable enough to reflect and express yourself as you wish? Do you need a provider who listens actively to your concerns? Are you seeking a participatory treatment where you can contribute to your individualized treatment plan?
Hi there, I'm Lola. Are you looking for a provider who makes you feel comfortable enough to reflect and express yourself as you wish? Do you need a provider who listens actively to your concerns? Are you seeking a participatory treatment where you can contribute to your individualized treatment plan?
![Photo of Anastasia Okoniewski, RN, APRN, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43ac8292-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Anastasia Okoniewski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, APRN, DNP
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511
I am a child and adolescent mental health clinical nurse specialist and lifespan psychiatric nurse practitioner. I love working with children, adolescents and adults with ADHD, those folk on the autism spectrum and the cooccurring disorders often seen in those with learning and neuro-cognitive differences, including anxiety, trauma and depression. I also have experience helping young women with hormone imbalances related to endometriosis, PCOS and other autoimmune or endocrine disorders. My specialty is in mindful neuropharmacology and medication management as well as integrating complementary and alternative treatment methods when possible.
I am a child and adolescent mental health clinical nurse specialist and lifespan psychiatric nurse practitioner. I love working with children, adolescents and adults with ADHD, those folk on the autism spectrum and the cooccurring disorders often seen in those with learning and neuro-cognitive differences, including anxiety, trauma and depression. I also have experience helping young women with hormone imbalances related to endometriosis, PCOS and other autoimmune or endocrine disorders. My specialty is in mindful neuropharmacology and medication management as well as integrating complementary and alternative treatment methods when possible.
![Photo of Eli Bogart, LMHC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3323e330-ec51-4b66-8330-fa2ed27ded7a/5/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained as a mental health counselor with a focus on depression, grief and eating disorders. I believe that true healing is possible. When both the client and practitioner deeply respect and understand the client's struggles and commit to addressing the core conflicts that may lie behind their disorder, healing can take place. I am also a Rabbi and I have been a mentor and teacher at the Rabbinical college of New England for over ten years. Although I do not bring my personal religious beliefs into therapy, my style is informed by my experience as a teacher of ancient wisdom and existential thought.
I am trained as a mental health counselor with a focus on depression, grief and eating disorders. I believe that true healing is possible. When both the client and practitioner deeply respect and understand the client's struggles and commit to addressing the core conflicts that may lie behind their disorder, healing can take place. I am also a Rabbi and I have been a mentor and teacher at the Rabbinical college of New England for over ten years. Although I do not bring my personal religious beliefs into therapy, my style is informed by my experience as a teacher of ancient wisdom and existential thought.
![Photo of Misty Stafford, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a947a4e5-1882-4f71-90ab-542016d53572/1/320x400.png)
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services via telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe it reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services via telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe it reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
![Photo of Jordan Sloshower, MD, MSc, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9b8d910-a497-456a-b4c6-1c287a5bfbf8/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
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Frank John Ninivaggi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06510 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
MD Psychiatric Evaluations & Medication Assessments---Intensive Psychotherapy Limited Practice--offered. Medical psychotherapy includes psychotherapy and medication with follow-up, as well as ongoing medication adjustments as needed. Med reassessments are done for those already on medication. The focus is practical, interpersonal, dynamic, and self-potential enhancement. Board-certified American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Telehealth.
MD Psychiatric Evaluations & Medication Assessments---Intensive Psychotherapy Limited Practice--offered. Medical psychotherapy includes psychotherapy and medication with follow-up, as well as ongoing medication adjustments as needed. Med reassessments are done for those already on medication. The focus is practical, interpersonal, dynamic, and self-potential enhancement. Board-certified American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Telehealth.
![Photo of Eric W Voide - CT Center for Psychiatric Wellness- CCPW, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67b7d971-1bf6-489e-af1b-8cc5b6cd7e4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Centered around a telemedicine model, we are expanding the reach of mental health services to those who might not be able to regularly travel to office visits. From Anxiety & Depression, to ADHD, PTSD, Addiction and LGBTQIA, our providers at CCPW are contemporary with their training and provide therapist designed to maximize every patient's quality of life.
Centered around a telemedicine model, we are expanding the reach of mental health services to those who might not be able to regularly travel to office visits. From Anxiety & Depression, to ADHD, PTSD, Addiction and LGBTQIA, our providers at CCPW are contemporary with their training and provide therapist designed to maximize every patient's quality of life.
![Photo of Michael B Garland, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68a730f6-14d5-495b-b1c9-785fdae50f9d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome, I'm a therapist and psychiatrist with expertise in working with young children, adolescents, and their parents. I completed my medical training at the University of Chicago and the Yale Child Study Center. With your consent, I work collaboratively with the child, parents, schools, and other professionals to personalize a treatment that focuses on your goals, values, strengths, and needs. By integrating what works from up-to-date evidence-based treatments with neuroscience and psychoanalytic ways of understanding a mind's development, I seek to empower my patients to suffer less and live with more authenticity, creativity, and freedom.
Welcome, I'm a therapist and psychiatrist with expertise in working with young children, adolescents, and their parents. I completed my medical training at the University of Chicago and the Yale Child Study Center. With your consent, I work collaboratively with the child, parents, schools, and other professionals to personalize a treatment that focuses on your goals, values, strengths, and needs. By integrating what works from up-to-date evidence-based treatments with neuroscience and psychoanalytic ways of understanding a mind's development, I seek to empower my patients to suffer less and live with more authenticity, creativity, and freedom.
![Photo of Shriya Kaneriya, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b59ce414-8df0-4c45-8395-bbc7fbe5cc71/2/320x400.png)
Hello! I'm an integrative psychiatrist who is passionate about combining traditional psychiatric approaches with evidence-informed holistic methods to help adults overcome anxiety, depression, trauma and life stressors to live more joyful & fulfilling lives. I incorporate judicious use of medication, solution-oriented psychotherapy, mind-body medicine, nutritional supplementation, and lifestyle coaching (i.e. sleep-diet-exercise) into a personalized, comprehensive treatment plan that aligns with your goals. Find more information and request to schedule a free preliminary phone call at my practice website: www.ikigaipsychiatry.com.
Hello! I'm an integrative psychiatrist who is passionate about combining traditional psychiatric approaches with evidence-informed holistic methods to help adults overcome anxiety, depression, trauma and life stressors to live more joyful & fulfilling lives. I incorporate judicious use of medication, solution-oriented psychotherapy, mind-body medicine, nutritional supplementation, and lifestyle coaching (i.e. sleep-diet-exercise) into a personalized, comprehensive treatment plan that aligns with your goals. Find more information and request to schedule a free preliminary phone call at my practice website: www.ikigaipsychiatry.com.
![Photo of Tamanna Rahman - Holistic Psychiatry CT, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f48a749-abe9-46f8-a85a-fecfb9d505b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
My practice style is holistic, collaborative, trauma informed, evidence based, and socially conscious. While my work is grounded in my medical training at Yale, I believe that DSM diagnoses can't capture the complexity of human experience. I explore alternative understandings of mental health alongside my clients. I treat people with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma (including race and identity based traumas), and bipolar disorder. I also enjoy working with people who hear voices or see things. My clients are motivated to explore a broad range of tools for wellness, with medication as one tool in the toolbox.
My practice style is holistic, collaborative, trauma informed, evidence based, and socially conscious. While my work is grounded in my medical training at Yale, I believe that DSM diagnoses can't capture the complexity of human experience. I explore alternative understandings of mental health alongside my clients. I treat people with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma (including race and identity based traumas), and bipolar disorder. I also enjoy working with people who hear voices or see things. My clients are motivated to explore a broad range of tools for wellness, with medication as one tool in the toolbox.
![Photo of Victoria Morrow, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/437e3f9a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Whether practicing insight-oriented psychotherapy or psychoanalysis, I listen to the way a person tries to solve his or her problems and help them to come to a new understanding based on greater tolerance for what they feel. My medical background helps me to be aware of the complicated interplay between what is physical and what is psychological. I help my patients sort out what we can treat with psychotherapy and when medications may make a difference.
Whether practicing insight-oriented psychotherapy or psychoanalysis, I listen to the way a person tries to solve his or her problems and help them to come to a new understanding based on greater tolerance for what they feel. My medical background helps me to be aware of the complicated interplay between what is physical and what is psychological. I help my patients sort out what we can treat with psychotherapy and when medications may make a difference.
![Photo of Dr. Tiffani L Bell Washington, MD, MPH, FAPA, DipABOM, DipABLM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65b541e5-e9c1-44bc-9533-321fd01a2f5c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tiffani L Bell Washington
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, FAPA, DipABOM, DipABLM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Haven, CT 06510 (Online Only)
Are you a busy professional or parent struggling to balance work, family, and personal health while feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or depression? Are you struggling to maintain a healthy weight? If managing your weight seems impossible amid the pressures of daily life, you're not alone. I specialize in helping individuals like you regain control of their health by addressing both the mental and physical challenges you face. Together, we can develop personalized strategies that fit your lifestyle, helping you achieve a healthier, more balanced life. You don't have to do it all alone—let's find the support you need to thrive.
Are you a busy professional or parent struggling to balance work, family, and personal health while feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or depression? Are you struggling to maintain a healthy weight? If managing your weight seems impossible amid the pressures of daily life, you're not alone. I specialize in helping individuals like you regain control of their health by addressing both the mental and physical challenges you face. Together, we can develop personalized strategies that fit your lifestyle, helping you achieve a healthier, more balanced life. You don't have to do it all alone—let's find the support you need to thrive.
![Photo of Hassan Naqvi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2db58459-7ac8-43d6-89d9-587a716b2c99/1/320x400.jpeg)
- - - - - - - - - - Call now for a free consultation! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Appointments available this week! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Feeling overwhelmed, anxious or not yourself? You're not alone. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or more, your well-being is my top priority. As a board-certified psychiatrist, my focus is to support you on your journey towards improved mental health. Our work together won't be just about treating conditions, it will be about recognizing and understanding your unique life circumstances and the social issues that impact your mental health.
- - - - - - - - - - Call now for a free consultation! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Appointments available this week! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Feeling overwhelmed, anxious or not yourself? You're not alone. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or more, your well-being is my top priority. As a board-certified psychiatrist, my focus is to support you on your journey towards improved mental health. Our work together won't be just about treating conditions, it will be about recognizing and understanding your unique life circumstances and the social issues that impact your mental health.
![Photo of Kimberly Jackson - Well Space Women's Mental Health care, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97fc2804-cf38-4711-9987-fc91cd1cb040/1/320x400.jpeg)
Well Space Women's Mental Health care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Haven, CT 06501 (Online Only)
I'm so glad you found me! I have more than 30 years of experience and specialize in women's mental health, perinatal and reproductive psychiatry. I offer free phone consultations and can answer any questions you have before making an appointment. I am one of the few providers in reproductive psychiatry that accepts insurance and we can confirm your benefit coverage before your appointment. Let's work together to decide the best possible treatment options that work for you.
I'm so glad you found me! I have more than 30 years of experience and specialize in women's mental health, perinatal and reproductive psychiatry. I offer free phone consultations and can answer any questions you have before making an appointment. I am one of the few providers in reproductive psychiatry that accepts insurance and we can confirm your benefit coverage before your appointment. Let's work together to decide the best possible treatment options that work for you.
See more therapy options for New Haven
Nearby Searches for New Haven
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in New Haven, CT
80+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in New Haven, CT who prioritize treating:
88% | Anxiety |
83% | Depression |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Bipolar Disorder |
62% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
60% | Medication Management |
60% | Stress |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
84% | Aetna |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in New Haven, CT see their clients
52% | In Person and Online | |
48% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
58% | Female | |
41% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in New Haven?
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.