Psychiatrists in Manchester, CT

Breakaway Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS APRN, FNP-c, PMHNP-c
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06040
After more than 40 years working in healthcare, I have witnessed a gradual decline in the amount of time spent with patients. These and many other changes have had a negative effect of the patient- provider experience. My goal in private practice is to take the time that is needed to thoroughly address the patients issues and concerns. We are all patients and deserve to be heard. Therefore, all initial appointments are allotted 1 hour and follow up appointments are typically allotted 30 minutes.
After more than 40 years working in healthcare, I have witnessed a gradual decline in the amount of time spent with patients. These and many other changes have had a negative effect of the patient- provider experience. My goal in private practice is to take the time that is needed to thoroughly address the patients issues and concerns. We are all patients and deserve to be heard. Therefore, all initial appointments are allotted 1 hour and follow up appointments are typically allotted 30 minutes.
(860) 935-2927 View (860) 935-2927
Photo of Psych On Demand and Man Up Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Psych On Demand and Man Up Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06040  (Online Only)
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am an expert in clinical psychopharmacology and I treat all adult and pediatric disorders I see individuals from their early teens through middle age and beyond.
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am an expert in clinical psychopharmacology and I treat all adult and pediatric disorders I see individuals from their early teens through middle age and beyond.
(860) 288-5571 View (860) 288-5571
Photo of Emmaus Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Emmaus Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06040
Not accepting new clients
Our small, outpatient private practice creates a welcoming, personalized treatment environment without stigma for adults seeking treatment for substance-use disorders. We offer education, options, and peer support. We will partner with you to develop a long-term plan for your health and well-being. Our method blends Medication for Addiction Treatment (MAT) with psychosocial nursing interventions and recovery coaching. We individualize your care based on past experiences and your current goals. Our patients receive thorough screening, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment with availability of 24 hour, on-call care.
Our small, outpatient private practice creates a welcoming, personalized treatment environment without stigma for adults seeking treatment for substance-use disorders. We offer education, options, and peer support. We will partner with you to develop a long-term plan for your health and well-being. Our method blends Medication for Addiction Treatment (MAT) with psychosocial nursing interventions and recovery coaching. We individualize your care based on past experiences and your current goals. Our patients receive thorough screening, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment with availability of 24 hour, on-call care.
(860) 791-4010 View (860) 791-4010
Photo of Teryn Andy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Teryn Andy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06040  (Online Only)
*We only offer telehealth services* At Sacred Space Psychiatry, we aim to take a holistic approach to assessment and treatment. We believe in a balance between traditional western medicine and complementary therapies as the best solution to treating mental health disorders. We work with adults with a range of mental health concerns including people who struggle with moderate depression or anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, insomnia, and more.
*We only offer telehealth services* At Sacred Space Psychiatry, we aim to take a holistic approach to assessment and treatment. We believe in a balance between traditional western medicine and complementary therapies as the best solution to treating mental health disorders. We work with adults with a range of mental health concerns including people who struggle with moderate depression or anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, insomnia, and more.
(860) 453-6177 View (860) 453-6177
Photo of Claire Spencer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Claire Spencer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06040
Each of us carries a unique life story that is rich with experience. Whether you have youth on your side or wisdom in your wrinkles, these experiences have left you with distinct gifts and challenges that are specific to you and you alone. Sometimes, the weight of these challenges becomes too hard to bear, and you find yourself stuck in patterns of “yuck.” Acknowledging you need help is extremely brave, and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, it would be my honor to walk alongside you on your journey to mental wellness.
Each of us carries a unique life story that is rich with experience. Whether you have youth on your side or wisdom in your wrinkles, these experiences have left you with distinct gifts and challenges that are specific to you and you alone. Sometimes, the weight of these challenges becomes too hard to bear, and you find yourself stuck in patterns of “yuck.” Acknowledging you need help is extremely brave, and as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, it would be my honor to walk alongside you on your journey to mental wellness.
(860) 782-6094 View (860) 782-6094
Photo of Michael Charry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Michael Charry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06040
At Sacred Space Psychiatry, we support a holistic approach to assessment and treatment and view our clients as a whole person rather than just a set of symptoms. We believe that medications have a time and place and that they are all too often over prescribed. As a result, we strive to work collaboratively with our clients to make mutually agreed upon decisions around medications. We work with adults struggling with a range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, mood disorders, and insomnia.
At Sacred Space Psychiatry, we support a holistic approach to assessment and treatment and view our clients as a whole person rather than just a set of symptoms. We believe that medications have a time and place and that they are all too often over prescribed. As a result, we strive to work collaboratively with our clients to make mutually agreed upon decisions around medications. We work with adults struggling with a range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, mood disorders, and insomnia.
(860) 266-4790 View (860) 266-4790
Photo of Lawrencia Addo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Lawrencia Addo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06040  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in both Connecticut and Maryland. I have worked in the mental health field for over twelve years. I specialize in treating psychiatric conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, insomnia, and substance use disorders. My passion is to enhance the quality of life of my patients and provide compassionate individualized care with medication management.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in both Connecticut and Maryland. I have worked in the mental health field for over twelve years. I specialize in treating psychiatric conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, insomnia, and substance use disorders. My passion is to enhance the quality of life of my patients and provide compassionate individualized care with medication management.
(475) 405-2322 View (475) 405-2322
Photo of Amer Nabil, Connecticut ADHD treatment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Amer Nabil, Connecticut ADHD treatment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06040
Welcome to Half Full Psychiatry, where my objective as a medication prescriber and a mental health provider is to build a "glass half full perspective". This does not mean I primarily rely on medications to solve an individual's problem. I value knowing about you as an individual to be able to offer solutions, whether they involve medication, psychotherapy or productivity skills. I am currently a father of young children, a husband, a caregiver to my elderly father, a son who lost my mother abruptly. I was also once a student who found it difficult to navigate the social and academic life.
Welcome to Half Full Psychiatry, where my objective as a medication prescriber and a mental health provider is to build a "glass half full perspective". This does not mean I primarily rely on medications to solve an individual's problem. I value knowing about you as an individual to be able to offer solutions, whether they involve medication, psychotherapy or productivity skills. I am currently a father of young children, a husband, a caregiver to my elderly father, a son who lost my mother abruptly. I was also once a student who found it difficult to navigate the social and academic life.
(860) 339-0606 View (860) 339-0606
Photo of Irene Ann Flynn-Lombardi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Irene Ann Flynn-Lombardi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06040
The goal is healing & living as best as you can. I provide both therapeutic and medication management for the treatment of mental health disorders. If it is determined that medication may be helpful in relieving your distress, various options may be discussed. My goals are to remain conservative and cautious in my use of medications. I am committed to educating you about your treatment options and addressing all your concerns regarding your mental health. I want to assure that all my patients understand the purpose and expected benefits of their medication, as well as potential risks. My webpage offers all information and costs.
The goal is healing & living as best as you can. I provide both therapeutic and medication management for the treatment of mental health disorders. If it is determined that medication may be helpful in relieving your distress, various options may be discussed. My goals are to remain conservative and cautious in my use of medications. I am committed to educating you about your treatment options and addressing all your concerns regarding your mental health. I want to assure that all my patients understand the purpose and expected benefits of their medication, as well as potential risks. My webpage offers all information and costs.
(860) 901-1790 View (860) 901-1790
Photo of Christine Aigbobun, Physician Assistant in Manchester, CT
Christine Aigbobun
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06040  (Online Only)
Christine believes in treating people so that their individual and therapeutic goals are met and is dedicated to serving and healing the community through patient-centered care. Treatment should be an avenue to show compassion and understanding to patients and their needs without judgment or stigma whether it is through mediation, therapy, or both.
Christine believes in treating people so that their individual and therapeutic goals are met and is dedicated to serving and healing the community through patient-centered care. Treatment should be an avenue to show compassion and understanding to patients and their needs without judgment or stigma whether it is through mediation, therapy, or both.
(475) 275-6779 View (475) 275-6779
Photo of Wholistic Perspective, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06040
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
(203) 433-6890 View (203) 433-6890
Photo of Merit Nwosu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Merit Nwosu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06041  (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.
(860) 791-1805 View (860) 791-1805
Photo of Five Corners Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Five Corners Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MPH, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06040
Marti Stewart is a Nurse Practitioner who is board certified in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine. She sees patients age 16 and up. Marti’s specialties include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Depression.
Marti Stewart is a Nurse Practitioner who is board certified in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine. She sees patients age 16 and up. Marti’s specialties include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Depression.
(860) 821-7678 View (860) 821-7678
Photo of Angela Olivia Roberts, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Angela Olivia Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06040  (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.
(959) 207-1951 View (959) 207-1951
Photo of John Graziano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
John Graziano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06040
John Graziano, APRN, PMHNP has a philosophy that care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with John, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfillment. That’s because – with a board certification in psychiatry and experience in a variety of settings such as inpatient, community, and outpatient – John is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
John Graziano, APRN, PMHNP has a philosophy that care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with John, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfillment. That’s because – with a board certification in psychiatry and experience in a variety of settings such as inpatient, community, and outpatient – John is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
(860) 847-8294 View (860) 847-8294
Photo of Sound Mynd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Sound Mynd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN,, APRN, FNP-C, PMHPBC
Verified Verified
Manchester, CT 06040
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, stuck, uncertain about your life; making decision, and unable to cope and concentrate? I am here to help. I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia. No long wait times, same-day or next-day appointments available, and flexible virtual visits. I strive to offer a safe and therapeutic environment to enable my patients to create the change they are seeking.
(860) 775-6069 View (860) 775-6069

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Omolola Aragbada, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Omolola Aragbada
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSNPH
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095
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?
(203) 718-0672 View (203) 718-0672
Photo of Amazing Victory Health and Wellness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Amazing Victory Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartford, CT 06103  (Online Only)
Does untreated mental health issues make daily life a struggle? Is anxiety or depression making you struggle just to get out of bed? Does your trauma history keep you from sleeping enough to support your busy life? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you were meant to enjoy. Maybe you’ve tried talking to other medical professionals about mental health care but felt rushed or dismissed. You want to loosen the grip mental illness has on your life but don’t know where to start. Patient-centered mental health and medication management may help.
Does untreated mental health issues make daily life a struggle? Is anxiety or depression making you struggle just to get out of bed? Does your trauma history keep you from sleeping enough to support your busy life? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you were meant to enjoy. Maybe you’ve tried talking to other medical professionals about mental health care but felt rushed or dismissed. You want to loosen the grip mental illness has on your life but don’t know where to start. Patient-centered mental health and medication management may help.
(203) 902-4707 View (203) 902-4707
Photo of Straun Health & Wellness, Psychiatrist in Manchester, CT
Straun Health & Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06105
It is the sincere belief of our practice that it is the RELATIONSHIP between health care provider and patient that greatly influences care. Dr. Straun is a dedicated medical professional with a wide-ranging skillset suitable for individuals seeking anything from general care to state-of-the-art, evidence based treatment. Focused on patient-centered service, Dr. Straun is committed to providing individualized, comprehensive treatment plans that address physical, mental and spiritual needs. He believes that the optimal way to provide excellent care is by meeting patients where they are; and through focused treatment and attention empowering them to find hope and experience joy.
It is the sincere belief of our practice that it is the RELATIONSHIP between health care provider and patient that greatly influences care. Dr. Straun is a dedicated medical professional with a wide-ranging skillset suitable for individuals seeking anything from general care to state-of-the-art, evidence based treatment. Focused on patient-centered service, Dr. Straun is committed to providing individualized, comprehensive treatment plans that address physical, mental and spiritual needs. He believes that the optimal way to provide excellent care is by meeting patients where they are; and through focused treatment and attention empowering them to find hope and experience joy.
(860) 378-8099 View (860) 378-8099
Photo of Ericka Gardener, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Manchester, CT
Ericka Gardener
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06105  (Online Only)
Ericka is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who treats a wide range of mental health concerns including adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, thought disorders, sleep issues, and substance use disorders. She is passionate about providing holistic care and is a fervent client advocate, ensuring that the client's needs are at the center of care and ensuring that clients are connected to appropriate resources when gaps in healthcare are identified. Ericka received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Saint Joseph.
Ericka is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who treats a wide range of mental health concerns including adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, thought disorders, sleep issues, and substance use disorders. She is passionate about providing holistic care and is a fervent client advocate, ensuring that the client's needs are at the center of care and ensuring that clients are connected to appropriate resources when gaps in healthcare are identified. Ericka received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Saint Joseph.
(860) 855-7744 View (860) 855-7744

See more therapy options for Manchester

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Manchester, CT

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Manchester, CT who prioritize treating:

88% Depression
88% Anxiety
81% Bipolar Disorder
81% Medication Management
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
69% Trauma and PTSD
56% ADHD

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Cigna and Evernorth
81% Aetna
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Manchester, CT see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Manchester?

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

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

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

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

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

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

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

Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?

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

Do psychiatrists offer therapy?

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

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

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

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

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