Psychiatrists in Metairie, LA
![Photo of Erik Hanson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e24e59e7-98fc-4c8c-92f4-f4cbb40af4cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erik Hanson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in Louisiana and Mississippi. I realized the struggles that many face when trying to access quality mental health care, so I established my practice to help those navigating their mental health journey get the care they need. I focus on providing a combination of expertise, compassion, and personalized care with the goal to increase the quality of life for those struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar, and PTSD.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in Louisiana and Mississippi. I realized the struggles that many face when trying to access quality mental health care, so I established my practice to help those navigating their mental health journey get the care they need. I focus on providing a combination of expertise, compassion, and personalized care with the goal to increase the quality of life for those struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar, and PTSD.
![Photo of Summer Marshall, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48f75bce-5783-443b-bec0-c684e3e7a4e2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Summer Marshall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001
I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and treatment for ADHD, ADD, depression, Bipolar Disorder, perimenopausal depression, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, Panic Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs using a variety of evidence-based practice treatment modalities. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications and I am very passionate about exercise, nutrition, and helping patients become the best version of themselves. I especially enjoy working with college students, married couples, new parents, and those starting a new career.
I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and treatment for ADHD, ADD, depression, Bipolar Disorder, perimenopausal depression, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, Panic Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs using a variety of evidence-based practice treatment modalities. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications and I am very passionate about exercise, nutrition, and helping patients become the best version of themselves. I especially enjoy working with college students, married couples, new parents, and those starting a new career.
![Photo of Mikayel Currim, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59a48dc1-5ca6-4336-ada1-992a03a15b74/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mikayel Currim is a Staff Psychiatrist for Talkiatry. Previously, he was the Medical Director and Attending Psychiatrist for the 509th Medical Group at Whiteman Air Force Base, where he was an Active-Duty Medical Corps officer and separated at the rank of Major. Prior to that, Dr. Currim completed medical school and residency at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. He received his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Stanford University.
Dr. Mikayel Currim is a Staff Psychiatrist for Talkiatry. Previously, he was the Medical Director and Attending Psychiatrist for the 509th Medical Group at Whiteman Air Force Base, where he was an Active-Duty Medical Corps officer and separated at the rank of Major. Prior to that, Dr. Currim completed medical school and residency at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. He received his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Stanford University.
![Photo of Michael Santone - Always Hope LLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ed4e8d1-e4ac-409a-a1d6-bf3ae7d725cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002
Michael D. Santone, DNP, APRN-BC is a nationally certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is fully licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and fully credentialed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Mike earned his Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA., in 2010. D. Santone has over 25 years experience in behavioral health and chemical dependency. He works with the adult population 18-70 years old and treats all Mood and Thought Disorders. His experience involves private practice, inpatient and outpatient hospitalization, and correctional facilities.
Michael D. Santone, DNP, APRN-BC is a nationally certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is fully licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and fully credentialed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Mike earned his Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA., in 2010. D. Santone has over 25 years experience in behavioral health and chemical dependency. He works with the adult population 18-70 years old and treats all Mood and Thought Disorders. His experience involves private practice, inpatient and outpatient hospitalization, and correctional facilities.
![Photo of Eric S Kramer, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c1d074d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I was raised in the Greater New Orleans area. I attended Florida State University, majoring in Psychology. I was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with Honors. I attended LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans and graduated with a Doctor of Medicine degree. I completed a Psychiatry Residency in the LSU/Ochsner Psychiatry Residency Program. I have practiced in various inpatient, outpatient, community, and private settings throughout my career. I am Board Certified. I am accepting new self-pay and BCBS PPO patients. No other private insurance is accepted at this time. Medicaid/Medicare is not accepted.
I was raised in the Greater New Orleans area. I attended Florida State University, majoring in Psychology. I was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with Honors. I attended LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans and graduated with a Doctor of Medicine degree. I completed a Psychiatry Residency in the LSU/Ochsner Psychiatry Residency Program. I have practiced in various inpatient, outpatient, community, and private settings throughout my career. I am Board Certified. I am accepting new self-pay and BCBS PPO patients. No other private insurance is accepted at this time. Medicaid/Medicare is not accepted.
![Photo of Paula Bland, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/501c6dc3-6189-44e9-b350-6b2e19cb4846/1/320x400.jpeg)
Paula Bland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70005 (Online Only)
I have been a NP for 13 years. I am certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) & a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have practiced in diverse settings, including inpatient and outpatient care. I excel in providing holistic, patient-centered care, focusing on both medical and mental health needs. I am committed to patient education and lifelong learning to ensure a high-quality, evidence-based care model is utilized with each of my patients.
I have been a NP for 13 years. I am certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) & a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I have practiced in diverse settings, including inpatient and outpatient care. I excel in providing holistic, patient-centered care, focusing on both medical and mental health needs. I am committed to patient education and lifelong learning to ensure a high-quality, evidence-based care model is utilized with each of my patients.
![Photo of Kara M. Brown, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4c3e9af-d982-4bf8-b1a6-612ff74e1f53/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with an interest in reproductive psychiatry. I have completed additional training in women's mental health through a fellowship at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, and I have spent several years treating women with a variety of concerns in different clinical settings. While I am able to treat people across the adult lifespan, I particularly enjoy working with individuals who are trying to conceive, pregnant or postpartum. This can be in the form of a one-time consult to provide expert recommendations to be carried out by another treatment team or in the form of ongoing treatment with me.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with an interest in reproductive psychiatry. I have completed additional training in women's mental health through a fellowship at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, and I have spent several years treating women with a variety of concerns in different clinical settings. While I am able to treat people across the adult lifespan, I particularly enjoy working with individuals who are trying to conceive, pregnant or postpartum. This can be in the form of a one-time consult to provide expert recommendations to be carried out by another treatment team or in the form of ongoing treatment with me.
![Photo of Eric Palmer - Always Hope LLC, DNP, PHMNPBC, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b9c0820-7205-4dc1-81a0-04dc18c7432d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNPBC, NP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002 (Online Only)
I am New York transplant who received his Masters degree as a Nurse Practitioner from South University in Savannah Georgia and then went on to pursue a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Chamberlain University. I am nationally board certified in Psychiatric/Mental/Behavioral medicine, Family Medicine, and Emergency medicine. I practice in 3 locations Baton Rouge, Metairie and the Prairieville Office. I believe that mental health is the foundation for physical health. Working as a team with the other medical providers, I want to help patients build that strong foundation.
I am New York transplant who received his Masters degree as a Nurse Practitioner from South University in Savannah Georgia and then went on to pursue a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Chamberlain University. I am nationally board certified in Psychiatric/Mental/Behavioral medicine, Family Medicine, and Emergency medicine. I practice in 3 locations Baton Rouge, Metairie and the Prairieville Office. I believe that mental health is the foundation for physical health. Working as a team with the other medical providers, I want to help patients build that strong foundation.
![Photo of Blanca Osorio Candelaria, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/641ed53f-3bb7-44b2-9773-566bee4beef8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Blanca Osorio-Candelaria is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and has been practicing for over 16 years. Her practice focuses on medication management, which she typically combines with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. If Dr. Osorio-Candelaria feels you would benefit from working with a therapist in conjunction to medication management, she welcomes collaboration with your therapist to make for the best outcome.
Dr. Blanca Osorio-Candelaria is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and has been practicing for over 16 years. Her practice focuses on medication management, which she typically combines with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. If Dr. Osorio-Candelaria feels you would benefit from working with a therapist in conjunction to medication management, she welcomes collaboration with your therapist to make for the best outcome.
![Photo of Latoya Mason - Always Hope LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfddda9f-43d7-4a26-a008-3ae6379307d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002
My name is LaToya Mason, a passionate healthcare professional. Originating from the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, my academic journey led me to Dillard University, where I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. Over the span of a decade, the fast-paced world of the emergency room became my professional home.Here, amidst the chaos, I honed my skills and embraced the challenges that came with providing crucial healthcare services. The experiences in the emergency room not only sharpened my clinical expertise but also fueled my desire to delve deeper into mental health care.
My name is LaToya Mason, a passionate healthcare professional. Originating from the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, my academic journey led me to Dillard University, where I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. Over the span of a decade, the fast-paced world of the emergency room became my professional home.Here, amidst the chaos, I honed my skills and embraced the challenges that came with providing crucial healthcare services. The experiences in the emergency room not only sharpened my clinical expertise but also fueled my desire to delve deeper into mental health care.
![Photo of Ellie Parrish - Always Hope LLC, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e16d792-82db-4c46-a156-7b4cd9619f63/1/320x400.jpeg)
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with clients. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. I see clients at 3 locations - Prairieville, Baton Rouge and our Metairie location.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center. I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services. I possess strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with clients. I follow evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. I see clients at 3 locations - Prairieville, Baton Rouge and our Metairie location.
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![Photo of Mary Braud Hill, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58861178-0781-484b-aed8-c9130686fa79/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Braud Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001
I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and treatment for ADHD, ADD, depression, and anxiety disorders. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs using a variety of evidence-based practice treatment modalities. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications and I am very passionate about exercise, nutrition, and helping patients become the best version of themselves. I especially enjoy working with college students, married couples, new parents, and those starting a new career. Please visit www.crescentcitypsychiatric.com to learn more about my services.
I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and treatment for ADHD, ADD, depression, and anxiety disorders. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs using a variety of evidence-based practice treatment modalities. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications and I am very passionate about exercise, nutrition, and helping patients become the best version of themselves. I especially enjoy working with college students, married couples, new parents, and those starting a new career. Please visit www.crescentcitypsychiatric.com to learn more about my services.
![Photo of Jill Mutavdzic - Always Hope LLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f21b3eda-d34e-4643-b4d5-daa1b3ab788e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002
Jill Mutavdzic has been an RN for over 18 years. She has a bachelor's degree in Speech Pathology, before returning to school to become an RN. She was born and raised in New Orleans and moved to Madisonville, La. after Katrina where she raised her three daughters. She recently moved to Baton Rouge to be closer to her girls who all are students at LSU.
Jill Mutavdzic has been an RN for over 18 years. She has a bachelor's degree in Speech Pathology, before returning to school to become an RN. She was born and raised in New Orleans and moved to Madisonville, La. after Katrina where she raised her three daughters. She recently moved to Baton Rouge to be closer to her girls who all are students at LSU.
![Photo of Timothy Gioe, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26d63467-0649-415f-a274-b61a863a8f52/2/320x400.png)
Timothy Gioe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001 (Online Only)
I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and treatment for ADHD, ADD, depression, and anxiety disorders. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs using a variety of evidence-based practice treatment modalities. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications and I am very passionate about exercise, nutrition, and helping patients become the best version of themselves. I especially enjoy working with college students, married couples, new parents, and those starting a new career. Please visit www.crescentcitypsychiatric.com/blog to learn more about our services.
I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and treatment for ADHD, ADD, depression, and anxiety disorders. After a comprehensive evaluation, I develop a treatment plan best suited to each individual's needs using a variety of evidence-based practice treatment modalities. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications and I am very passionate about exercise, nutrition, and helping patients become the best version of themselves. I especially enjoy working with college students, married couples, new parents, and those starting a new career. Please visit www.crescentcitypsychiatric.com/blog to learn more about our services.
![Photo of Arwen Podesta, MD, ABPN, FASAM, ABIHM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6529e7f9-412a-47fe-bd84-10fb656e5720/1/320x400.jpeg)
As your psychiatrist, my aim is to help you achieve your fullest potential of wellness and health. I am board certified in Adult Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine, Holistic & Integrative Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry. My extensive training helps me deeply understand your neurobiology from a reductionist standpoint, your whole environment and ecology and how that affects your well-being, and how medication, nutrition and lifestyle change can help you feel your best. I use science and evidence based therapies to treat your body, mind and spirit.
As your psychiatrist, my aim is to help you achieve your fullest potential of wellness and health. I am board certified in Adult Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine, Holistic & Integrative Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry. My extensive training helps me deeply understand your neurobiology from a reductionist standpoint, your whole environment and ecology and how that affects your well-being, and how medication, nutrition and lifestyle change can help you feel your best. I use science and evidence based therapies to treat your body, mind and spirit.
![Photo of Ashifur Rahman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df5c95ac-b76a-46e7-8173-0bb3c20bd86b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Is your child or teenager struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavior problems, or mental instability? I will do what it takes to understand your concerns, make the correct diagnosis, and determine the right treatment to help him or her feel and perform better. My goal is to provide a warm, trusting environment where your child and family can actively participate and collaborate in treatment.
Is your child or teenager struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavior problems, or mental instability? I will do what it takes to understand your concerns, make the correct diagnosis, and determine the right treatment to help him or her feel and perform better. My goal is to provide a warm, trusting environment where your child and family can actively participate and collaborate in treatment.
![Photo of Degan J. Dansereau, MD, ABPN, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44b6afa7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. I have held various leadership and director positions in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I currently maintain a private practice that focuses on providing personal, caring and expert treatment of psychiatric illnesses.
I am a board certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. I have held various leadership and director positions in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I currently maintain a private practice that focuses on providing personal, caring and expert treatment of psychiatric illnesses.
![Photo of Gerren Wilson, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41d2b8a3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gerren Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002
I am a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner that services clients across the life span. I am trained in diagnosing and treating numerous mental health disorders such as: depression, anxiety disorders, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and many others. I work closely with my clients and their therapists to develop a treatment plan best suited to their lives and resources.
I am a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner that services clients across the life span. I am trained in diagnosing and treating numerous mental health disorders such as: depression, anxiety disorders, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and many others. I work closely with my clients and their therapists to develop a treatment plan best suited to their lives and resources.
![Photo of Jill Mccall, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4028d50d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat patients with a variety of mental health issues, such as Mood Disorders, including Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I like to work at problems from various angles, which often includes working with patients to assess and treat their physical, emotional, spiritual, and social issues.
I treat patients with a variety of mental health issues, such as Mood Disorders, including Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I like to work at problems from various angles, which often includes working with patients to assess and treat their physical, emotional, spiritual, and social issues.
![Photo of Aldo Mejia, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/441a28a7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mejia has comprehensive experience in diagnosing and treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety & panic disorders, phobias, psychoses, stress-induced adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, adult ADD/ADHD, and substance use disorders. He is a bilingual Spanish-speaking physician who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to individual patient needs, including attention to each patient's personal history and their particular concerns about, or fears of, medications. He approaches each client with patience, warmth, understanding, and helpful explanations that facilitate treatment and the patient's own sense of comfort and trust.
Dr. Mejia has comprehensive experience in diagnosing and treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety & panic disorders, phobias, psychoses, stress-induced adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, adult ADD/ADHD, and substance use disorders. He is a bilingual Spanish-speaking physician who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to individual patient needs, including attention to each patient's personal history and their particular concerns about, or fears of, medications. He approaches each client with patience, warmth, understanding, and helpful explanations that facilitate treatment and the patient's own sense of comfort and trust.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Metairie, LA
30+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Metairie, LA who prioritize treating:
89% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Medication Management |
74% | ADHD |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
66% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
83% | Aetna |
72% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
67% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Metairie, LA see their clients
89% | In Person and Online | |
11% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Metairie?
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.