Psychiatrists in Hartford, CT
![Photo of Dr. Amy R. Salerno - Dr. Amy R. Salerno, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ada3688-b2e1-492f-a429-d658b4d6b6c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
PLEASE note: I am taking a limited number of new patients at this time. I am a Board Certified Physician with extensive experience in mental health issues across all life stages. I am Fellowship trained in both Integrative Psychiatry and Maternal Child Health. I offer holistic, culturally competent care, in both English and Spanish.
PLEASE note: I am taking a limited number of new patients at this time. I am a Board Certified Physician with extensive experience in mental health issues across all life stages. I am Fellowship trained in both Integrative Psychiatry and Maternal Child Health. I offer holistic, culturally competent care, in both English and Spanish.
![Photo of Merit Nwosu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4b8c0a9-a1bf-4652-8bbf-23dc1f602104/1/320x400.jpeg)
Merit Nwosu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06103 (Online Only)
Are you suffering from a mood disorder such as depression or anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder, or OCD? Have you tried therapy before, but you just don’t seem to find someone you feel a connection with? Mental health challenges can keep you from living the life you want. You may feel lost, hopeless, or disempowered, but you don’t have to struggle alone. Connect with Merit today to learn important tools to nurture your mental health and make life more enjoyable and fulfilling. Merit offers a blend of individual therapy and medication management and is ready to help you reach the fulfilling life you deserve.
Are you suffering from a mood disorder such as depression or anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder, or OCD? Have you tried therapy before, but you just don’t seem to find someone you feel a connection with? Mental health challenges can keep you from living the life you want. You may feel lost, hopeless, or disempowered, but you don’t have to struggle alone. Connect with Merit today to learn important tools to nurture your mental health and make life more enjoyable and fulfilling. Merit offers a blend of individual therapy and medication management and is ready to help you reach the fulfilling life you deserve.
![Photo of Howard Kenneth Weiner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/461aef43-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help each person reach his/her maximum potential as a human being. This includes not only relief from troubling symptoms, but also overcoming barriers to living life richly. Often, the troubled past casts a long shadow on the present; understanding and working through these echoes of hurts from long ago can inform and free the person to fully live in the present. I hope to help my patients find the meaning of their lives, improve relationships, free themselves from problems with self esteem, and to live with joy.
My goal is to help each person reach his/her maximum potential as a human being. This includes not only relief from troubling symptoms, but also overcoming barriers to living life richly. Often, the troubled past casts a long shadow on the present; understanding and working through these echoes of hurts from long ago can inform and free the person to fully live in the present. I hope to help my patients find the meaning of their lives, improve relationships, free themselves from problems with self esteem, and to live with joy.
![Photo of Sabine Cayo-Saylor - H.O.P.E through Healing Wellness Center PLLC, APRN, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe11f679-19cb-4684-a444-c437eb83f2be/1/320x400.png)
H.O.P.E through Healing Wellness Center PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartford, CT 06106 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
NOT currently accepting new clients. Welcome to H.O.P.E through Healing Wellness Center, where your journey to mental health wellness begins. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion to help others, create a life filled with purpose, intention, and happiness. We provide virtual mental health services where you need it, at your comfort. We promote overall wellness, elevating/excelling through healing with pharmacotherapy in diagnosing, treating and managing common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD for individuals age 18+. Psychotherapy is not currently offered.
NOT currently accepting new clients. Welcome to H.O.P.E through Healing Wellness Center, where your journey to mental health wellness begins. As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion to help others, create a life filled with purpose, intention, and happiness. We provide virtual mental health services where you need it, at your comfort. We promote overall wellness, elevating/excelling through healing with pharmacotherapy in diagnosing, treating and managing common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD for individuals age 18+. Psychotherapy is not currently offered.
![Photo of Angela Olivia Roberts, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99b920c5-53e7-4ea6-863a-ac7338838d57/3/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Olivia Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartford, CT 06101 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion to help others create a life filled with purpose, intention, and happiness. I possess over 10 years of experience in the mental health field- both inpatient and outpatient. My extensive work history has afforded me the opportunity to provide care to patients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions. I have been providing medication management and supportive therapy for patients between the ages of 14-98 years old and enjoy helping others.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a passion to help others create a life filled with purpose, intention, and happiness. I possess over 10 years of experience in the mental health field- both inpatient and outpatient. My extensive work history has afforded me the opportunity to provide care to patients with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions. I have been providing medication management and supportive therapy for patients between the ages of 14-98 years old and enjoy helping others.
![Photo of Betsy LaRose - SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services , PCCN, APRN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7aa0beaf-7c47-4f5a-9d74-382475c957d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PCCN, APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06103
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. 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. We have experience in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses. We help women and families.
![Photo of Alicia Ana Rodriguez, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86ebbc60-0611-466c-8d85-734a76127fe1/1/320x400.png)
Alicia Ana Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06105
My ideal client is someone who has perinatal mental health needs. A pregnant mother, a new mother, a woman struggling with infertility. I also specialize in ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, and Major Depressive Disorder.
My ideal client is someone who has perinatal mental health needs. A pregnant mother, a new mother, a woman struggling with infertility. I also specialize in ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, and Major Depressive Disorder.
![Photo of Veronica O’Meally-Tully - SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa98ec4e-cd26-4837-a34a-b61d767f6b46/1/320x400.jpeg)
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06103
Are the complexities of your family dynamics overwhelming you? Do you have a child suffering from ADHD who needs compassionate guidance? Is anxiety or depression ruling your life every day? It can be hard to see the positive in life when mental health issues drain you. You keep thinking about reaching out for help but aren’t sure where to start. Now is the time to connect with our experts at SMPsychotherapy & Counseling. We are dedicated to being a trusted companion on your unique mental health journey.
Are the complexities of your family dynamics overwhelming you? Do you have a child suffering from ADHD who needs compassionate guidance? Is anxiety or depression ruling your life every day? It can be hard to see the positive in life when mental health issues drain you. You keep thinking about reaching out for help but aren’t sure where to start. Now is the time to connect with our experts at SMPsychotherapy & Counseling. We are dedicated to being a trusted companion on your unique mental health journey.
![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 Douglas Zelisko, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dff9a1b1-d7f6-43d3-a313-eac28fb3b9ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Making the decision to seek help with your challenges can feel both empowering and vulnerable. I offer a safe and compassionate, non-judgmental space for us to start the process and talk. I strive to help adults with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, focus, and physical ailments among others. I provide both medication management, as well as individual psychotherapy. I primarily practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, however am trained in other modalities to best help you through the emotional challenges you face and allow a greater understanding of yourself.
Making the decision to seek help with your challenges can feel both empowering and vulnerable. I offer a safe and compassionate, non-judgmental space for us to start the process and talk. I strive to help adults with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, focus, and physical ailments among others. I provide both medication management, as well as individual psychotherapy. I primarily practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, however am trained in other modalities to best help you through the emotional challenges you face and allow a greater understanding of yourself.
![Photo of Matthew Campbell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f99ce985-c2c9-45d7-8fdb-cef40bb65e76/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Matthew Campbell received his medical degree from the University of Washington. He completed psychiatry residency and an addiction fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein. He provides telepsychiatry for adults throughout Connecticut. He is currently taking new patients interested in CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training.) This is an evidenced based therapy for people (CSO) affected by someone (IP) with an addiction. It has 3 goals of: improved mental health/quality of life of CSO, decreased substance use by IP and much higher treatment engagement to address substance use for IP.
Dr. Matthew Campbell received his medical degree from the University of Washington. He completed psychiatry residency and an addiction fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein. He provides telepsychiatry for adults throughout Connecticut. He is currently taking new patients interested in CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training.) This is an evidenced based therapy for people (CSO) affected by someone (IP) with an addiction. It has 3 goals of: improved mental health/quality of life of CSO, decreased substance use by IP and much higher treatment engagement to address substance use for IP.
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![Photo of Juleen Mason, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0963c46-c0bf-46e2-b6c6-6808f5ba12a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Juleen L Mason I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I am dedicated in providing a holistic approach to treating patients who suffers form mental health issues. I come form a background that each individual is unique and should be treated as such.
My name is Juleen L Mason I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I am dedicated in providing a holistic approach to treating patients who suffers form mental health issues. I come form a background that each individual is unique and should be treated as such.
![Photo of Betsy LaRose, PCCN, FNP-C, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7d391d2-abd5-4e20-bcdf-dd9ec2a3400a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
![Photo of Karina Weiss, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b54cf924-a311-4c87-8dbb-64aea6ed3e8c/2/320x400.jpeg)
A psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience, Dr. Weiss earned her Bachelors of Science, from Brown U., her MD at U. of Louisville followed by training at 3 Harvard Hospitals, then serving as Chief Resident. She has been providing care to adult outpatients in the Hartford area for over 10 years. Now in private practice, her clinical approach to treating adults emphasizes trust and nurturing a therapeutic partnership. She provides full psychiatric services to help people recover from stumbling blocks they may encounter. She values proper diagnosis and evidence-based treatment.
A psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience, Dr. Weiss earned her Bachelors of Science, from Brown U., her MD at U. of Louisville followed by training at 3 Harvard Hospitals, then serving as Chief Resident. She has been providing care to adult outpatients in the Hartford area for over 10 years. Now in private practice, her clinical approach to treating adults emphasizes trust and nurturing a therapeutic partnership. She provides full psychiatric services to help people recover from stumbling blocks they may encounter. She values proper diagnosis and evidence-based treatment.
![Photo of Njideka Ikeakor, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61f677af-0813-4ba4-87bc-d137fd12baf7/1/320x400.png)
Njideka Ikeakor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartford, CT 06105 (Online Only)
Mental health and substance abuse are my passion. With an extensive work history with special populations and covering the full spectrum of mental health issues. I provide medication management, counseling, assessments among other services. I'm committed to provide a highly professional, confidential service in an environment that is safe and promotes personal growth and healing. WITH 24/7 direct access for established patients.
Mental health and substance abuse are my passion. With an extensive work history with special populations and covering the full spectrum of mental health issues. I provide medication management, counseling, assessments among other services. I'm committed to provide a highly professional, confidential service in an environment that is safe and promotes personal growth and healing. WITH 24/7 direct access for established patients.
![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 Rebecca Brady, APRN, PMHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff3f81f9-4530-49f1-b9a0-9359ef234f0f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Brady
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHS
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06105 (Online Only)
I am a Pediatric APRN and a Pediatric Primary Care Mental Health Specialist. I enjoy collaborating with children, teens, young adults and their families to promote their wellness and success in life. I currently provide medication management.
I am a Pediatric APRN and a Pediatric Primary Care Mental Health Specialist. I enjoy collaborating with children, teens, young adults and their families to promote their wellness and success in life. I currently provide medication management.
![Photo of Briana Komar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49e50217-1eab-4da0-bbff-88cb7a8b36a1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Everyone has a unique story to tell, and by getting to know people on a deeper level, I believe it is possible to address traumatic histories, problematic belief systems, physical ailments, and lifestyle issues which may be manifesting themselves as psychiatric symptoms.
Everyone has a unique story to tell, and by getting to know people on a deeper level, I believe it is possible to address traumatic histories, problematic belief systems, physical ailments, and lifestyle issues which may be manifesting themselves as psychiatric symptoms.
![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 Dr. Cynthia B McNeill, PhD, MSN, NP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cdbfca7-f71d-4bfe-908a-1554ba6e1631/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cynthia B McNeill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, NP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06108 (Online Only)
Dr. McNeill is a dedicated PMHNP-BC (Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner) specializing in family medicine and psychiatry, with expertise in treating anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. She holds a PhD in Human Services with a focus on Healthcare Administration from Capella University, an MSN from the University of South Alabama, and a BSN from Emory University.
Dr. McNeill is a dedicated PMHNP-BC (Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner) specializing in family medicine and psychiatry, with expertise in treating anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. She holds a PhD in Human Services with a focus on Healthcare Administration from Capella University, an MSN from the University of South Alabama, and a BSN from Emory University.
See more therapy options for Hartford
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hartford, CT
70+
Average cost per session
$212
Psychiatrists in Hartford, CT who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
92% | Anxiety |
85% | Bipolar Disorder |
81% | Medication Management |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | ADHD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
84% | Aetna |
81% | Cigna and Evernorth |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Hartford, CT see their clients
55% | Online Only | |
45% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hartford?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.