Psychiatrists in Attalla, AL
![Photo of Jessica Davis - Alabama Psychiatry Gadsden, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/142125ea-a5b4-4b47-a0c3-2d1323248a04/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alabama Psychiatry Gadsden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Attalla, AL 35954
At Alabama Psychiatry Gadsden, YOU are important! Our office of mental health professionals is ready and here to help you. If you are feeling anxious, depressed, stressed or Covid has you out of sorts, let the professionals at Alabama Psychiatry help you, because YOU ARE IMPORTANT!
At Alabama Psychiatry Gadsden, YOU are important! Our office of mental health professionals is ready and here to help you. If you are feeling anxious, depressed, stressed or Covid has you out of sorts, let the professionals at Alabama Psychiatry help you, because YOU ARE IMPORTANT!
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Jarrett Mental Health and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gadsden, AL 35901 (Online Only)
Jarrett Mental Health & Wellness is a psychiatry clinic providing mental health & addiction services for adults and children, court mandated evaluations, and court mandated online classes. Lea Jarrett is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP-BC and Family Nurse Practitioner FNP-C. Lea has many years of psychiatric experience which began with working as a Nurse Practitioner since 2017. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients in both inpatient hospital and outpatient facilities. Lea also has experience treating addiction in outpatient and inpatient detox programs.
Jarrett Mental Health & Wellness is a psychiatry clinic providing mental health & addiction services for adults and children, court mandated evaluations, and court mandated online classes. Lea Jarrett is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner PMHNP-BC and Family Nurse Practitioner FNP-C. Lea has many years of psychiatric experience which began with working as a Nurse Practitioner since 2017. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients in both inpatient hospital and outpatient facilities. Lea also has experience treating addiction in outpatient and inpatient detox programs.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/227573ed-c799-4ba9-b6f3-7dd19138fbe4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e98e89a-fc75-4ab0-884b-120322fe4d07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Michelle Pratt, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4705a2b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help you get back on an even playing field with the rest of the world through better mental health. I welcome diversity of cultures and lifestyles. My part of treatment can be considered treating the brain & symptoms, whereas the psychotherapist could be seen as tending more to the mind and coping strategies for situations. Ultimately, I believe you should have some sense of control in managing your treatment. I will work with you to find a balance in medication and your personal needs. Treatment shouldn't have to be unpleasant.
My goal is to help you get back on an even playing field with the rest of the world through better mental health. I welcome diversity of cultures and lifestyles. My part of treatment can be considered treating the brain & symptoms, whereas the psychotherapist could be seen as tending more to the mind and coping strategies for situations. Ultimately, I believe you should have some sense of control in managing your treatment. I will work with you to find a balance in medication and your personal needs. Treatment shouldn't have to be unpleasant.
![Photo of Autumn Stanford, MSN, CRNP, RN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8940ca0-c547-4ce6-8519-b7fffe57ce31/3/320x400.jpeg)
Autumn Stanford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, RN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242 (Online Only)
Hi! I am so happy you are here! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a Functional + Integrative + Holistic + Evidence-Based approach to Mental Wellness. The mind & body are interconnected, therefore, I see the whole-person, not just the symptoms. It is my passion to educate, empower, and support women & adolescents (ages 14 and up) in their journey to optimal mental wellness.
Hi! I am so happy you are here! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a Functional + Integrative + Holistic + Evidence-Based approach to Mental Wellness. The mind & body are interconnected, therefore, I see the whole-person, not just the symptoms. It is my passion to educate, empower, and support women & adolescents (ages 14 and up) in their journey to optimal mental wellness.
![Photo of Meagan Carson - Nfinite Healthcare Services, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bf808c9-9ccb-4255-9228-fd9ee001b282/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nfinite Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Hello, I am Dr. Meagan Carson and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adult (age 18+) patients who are dealing with depression and anxiety as well as other mental health illnesses. I take a holistic approach with treatment because I understand that all aspects of our lives play a part in our wellbeing. I focus on the individual needs of each patient and cater a treatment plan based on those specific needs.
Hello, I am Dr. Meagan Carson and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adult (age 18+) patients who are dealing with depression and anxiety as well as other mental health illnesses. I take a holistic approach with treatment because I understand that all aspects of our lives play a part in our wellbeing. I focus on the individual needs of each patient and cater a treatment plan based on those specific needs.
![Photo of Quratulain Agha, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e9ecdd9-71e8-4a06-a805-790d5116d20f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Quratulain Agha
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
Waitlist for new clients
My practice offers an approach that combines both psychopharmacology and psychodynamic psychotherapy. I am relatively conservative in the use of medication and prefer engaging patients' use of insight to help relieve them of their symptoms and mental anguish.
My practice offers an approach that combines both psychopharmacology and psychodynamic psychotherapy. I am relatively conservative in the use of medication and prefer engaging patients' use of insight to help relieve them of their symptoms and mental anguish.
![Photo of Stacy E Stuart, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d50a18d1-a2da-45fe-964b-417b62c65fb1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacy E Stuart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35613 (Online Only)
I have years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. I am passionate about all mental health conditions, but I have specialized training in perinatal psychiatry. I utilize the telehealth platform to accommodate the busy lives of my patients and provide mental health treatment all across the state of Alabama. I look forward to working together as a team to create and implement an individualized treatment plan to improve your mental, and therefore, overall health. My motto is, “mental health is not a sprint, it is a lifelong journey.”
I have years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. I am passionate about all mental health conditions, but I have specialized training in perinatal psychiatry. I utilize the telehealth platform to accommodate the busy lives of my patients and provide mental health treatment all across the state of Alabama. I look forward to working together as a team to create and implement an individualized treatment plan to improve your mental, and therefore, overall health. My motto is, “mental health is not a sprint, it is a lifelong journey.”
![Photo of Dr. Phillip Smith, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/427caffe-76c5-4631-8d82-76afa0289b50/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist medical doctor (MD). I will offer you my approach as a physician throughout your treatment journey. I understand the difficulties you face, whether it's battling depression, can't sleep, struggling with inattention, coping with psychosis, or fighting substance use disorders. If your goal is to find relief from these acute and chronic mental health conditions, and I am here to prioritize your journey towards remission.
I am a psychiatrist medical doctor (MD). I will offer you my approach as a physician throughout your treatment journey. I understand the difficulties you face, whether it's battling depression, can't sleep, struggling with inattention, coping with psychosis, or fighting substance use disorders. If your goal is to find relief from these acute and chronic mental health conditions, and I am here to prioritize your journey towards remission.
![Photo of Laura Graham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/519c6bfa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with my patients to develop the best medication treatment plan using the least amount of medications to best treat the symptoms. I believe that everyone is entitled to a compassionate provider who believes in them and will help them work toward their goals.
I work with my patients to develop the best medication treatment plan using the least amount of medications to best treat the symptoms. I believe that everyone is entitled to a compassionate provider who believes in them and will help them work toward their goals.
![Photo of Billie Renee Russell Crnp - Reliance Associates LLC, MSN, RN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b379ce13-b620-442e-a5d8-1e933e8749a5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Reliance Associates LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Sumiton, AL 35148
Seeking care for mental health issues can be difficult. People often feel alone or misunderstood, and suffer in silence, but mental health issues affect more than just the person who is suffering. Mental health issues are more prevalent today than ever. Being able to talk with someone who understands can help relieve this burden.
Seeking care for mental health issues can be difficult. People often feel alone or misunderstood, and suffer in silence, but mental health issues affect more than just the person who is suffering. Mental health issues are more prevalent today than ever. Being able to talk with someone who understands can help relieve this burden.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce82f01a-a7b1-4e03-b555-3a6996beb44d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Dr. Laura Montgomery-Barefield - Ascend Psychiatry Wellness & Consulting Group, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f3fc2ff-6ab9-4772-9291-cc980317d4c8/4/320x400.jpeg)
Ascend Psychiatry Wellness & Consulting Group
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
Dr. Montgomery-Barefield completed her Medical Degree Residency and Fellowship at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Tx. As a former Professor of Psychiatry and Training Director at UAB, she dedicated nearly 20 years of her career to training the next generation of psychiatrists. Dr. Montgomery-Barefield is an American Psychiatry Association Fellow and is board Certified in Adult and Child Psychiatry. She has been in practice for over 30 years and brings a wealth of expertise.
Dr. Montgomery-Barefield completed her Medical Degree Residency and Fellowship at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Tx. As a former Professor of Psychiatry and Training Director at UAB, she dedicated nearly 20 years of her career to training the next generation of psychiatrists. Dr. Montgomery-Barefield is an American Psychiatry Association Fellow and is board Certified in Adult and Child Psychiatry. She has been in practice for over 30 years and brings a wealth of expertise.
![Photo of Valisia Davis, DNP, CRNP-BC, PMHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71ee6df7-d9a9-4240-bc6b-4482244a66a4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Valisia Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP-BC, PMHS
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
My expertise is working with patients who are dealing with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Patients need a trusting place to be honest about their mental health concerns and the confidence they will receive quality care. I have clinical concentration of more than 15 years in pediatric psychiatry. I believe my years of experience working with child psychiatrists and psychologists allows me provide this level care..
My expertise is working with patients who are dealing with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Patients need a trusting place to be honest about their mental health concerns and the confidence they will receive quality care. I have clinical concentration of more than 15 years in pediatric psychiatry. I believe my years of experience working with child psychiatrists and psychologists allows me provide this level care..
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0760a8b0-1d39-4658-8f67-ec3e948425f9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Nakeetsha Dryer - Vision Behavioral Health Services, MSN, RN, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4860ebfd-4d18-4ffb-a0fa-6b5e9ae6b6a3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vision Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Payne, AL 35967
Are you exhausted, lack motivation, or can't seem to find joy in any of things that previously brought you hope and excitement? Does anxiety and worrying keep you up at night? Or maybe you've been secretly dealing with an addiction. There is hope! We have helped hundreds in your situation to find healing and enjoy the life that they desire!
Are you exhausted, lack motivation, or can't seem to find joy in any of things that previously brought you hope and excitement? Does anxiety and worrying keep you up at night? Or maybe you've been secretly dealing with an addiction. There is hope! We have helped hundreds in your situation to find healing and enjoy the life that they desire!
![Photo of Jarrett Mental Health Wellness, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1b2eafe-54b3-4a2a-9c39-f9c2e9dfba3f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jarrett Mental Health Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Chelsea, AL 35043 (Online Only)
A quote by Mariel Hemingway states, "Mental Health and Mental Balance is critical to leading a Healthy Life." In my practice, I believe mental health and addiction treatment should be free from stigma and disability. With telemedicine services you can get the mental health or addiction treatment you need in the privacy of your home.
A quote by Mariel Hemingway states, "Mental Health and Mental Balance is critical to leading a Healthy Life." In my practice, I believe mental health and addiction treatment should be free from stigma and disability. With telemedicine services you can get the mental health or addiction treatment you need in the privacy of your home.
![Photo of Violet Gilbert, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a153b9ec-88b6-4eac-b6d5-e69319508b6a/2/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help restore mental balance through psychological therapy and medication management when needed. I believe in a holistic approach to meet the spiritual, physical and emotional need of every client and their family.
My goal is to help restore mental balance through psychological therapy and medication management when needed. I believe in a holistic approach to meet the spiritual, physical and emotional need of every client and their family.
![Photo of Judy N Clark, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/781637fa-acc1-4ccc-880a-0c03cf68be51/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you're a teen grappling with the pressures of school and social expectations, a college student facing the challenges of independence and academic stress, or a young or middle-aged adult juggling the responsibilities of work, relationships, and personal growth, we recognize the unique difficulties you're facing. Your concerns are legitimate, and your challenges are real. We tailor your care. You don't have to take time off from work. We provide lunchtime, evening, and alternate Saturday appointments to accommodate your schedule.
Whether you're a teen grappling with the pressures of school and social expectations, a college student facing the challenges of independence and academic stress, or a young or middle-aged adult juggling the responsibilities of work, relationships, and personal growth, we recognize the unique difficulties you're facing. Your concerns are legitimate, and your challenges are real. We tailor your care. You don't have to take time off from work. We provide lunchtime, evening, and alternate Saturday appointments to accommodate your schedule.
See more therapy options for Attalla
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Attalla, AL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Attalla, AL who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Uprise Health |
100% | BHS | Behavioral Health Systems |
How Psychiatrists in Attalla, AL see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Attalla?
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.