Psychiatrists in Fort Smith, AR
![Photo of Melinda Marie Justice, PMHNPBC, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67d52e07-1597-4086-b1fe-d66d79ce5158/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melinda Marie Justice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, RN
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72901
It is my privilege to help others cope with real problems during the most challenging times of their lives. Personally as a widow and mother of two children, I do understand that life can be very challenging for all of us. My only goal is to see improvement from where you were the day we first met. It is my pleasure to serve others in my own community. I look forward to working with you to meet your goals and improve the quality of your life.
It is my privilege to help others cope with real problems during the most challenging times of their lives. Personally as a widow and mother of two children, I do understand that life can be very challenging for all of us. My only goal is to see improvement from where you were the day we first met. It is my pleasure to serve others in my own community. I look forward to working with you to meet your goals and improve the quality of your life.
![Photo of Christina Sullivan, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30c29fa0-6bac-42e2-ab6e-24ae7eb20b2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Sullivan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72903 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with the ups and downs of depression or anxiety, going through a major or unexpected life change, experiencing postpartum, or surviving trauma? I’m here to provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard without the worry of being judged. I believe it’s a complete privilege to work with those on their journey of wellbeing and no two individuals are the same. This is why I focus on what you want to achieve through our work together and believe that your success is best when we get to a point of feeling comfortable working as a team.
Are you struggling with the ups and downs of depression or anxiety, going through a major or unexpected life change, experiencing postpartum, or surviving trauma? I’m here to provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard without the worry of being judged. I believe it’s a complete privilege to work with those on their journey of wellbeing and no two individuals are the same. This is why I focus on what you want to achieve through our work together and believe that your success is best when we get to a point of feeling comfortable working as a team.
![Photo of Heather R Hodgson - Integrated Wellness and Mental Health, LLC, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1884568-e932-46d2-93fd-981e97f2986b/1/320x400.png)
Integrated Wellness and Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72903
We treat the Mental Health needs of adult and geriatric patients.
We treat the Mental Health needs of adult and geriatric patients.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Emily Healy, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84073530-3e54-4048-a6c8-78ef3f90385b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Healy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I’m a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). My mission is to help people heal from the inside out. I've dedicated my career to treating a wide range of mental health conditions. From anxiety and depression to more complex disorders like addiction, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, I'm here to support you.
Hello and welcome! I’m a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). My mission is to help people heal from the inside out. I've dedicated my career to treating a wide range of mental health conditions. From anxiety and depression to more complex disorders like addiction, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, I'm here to support you.
![Photo of Danielle Griffin, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53417195-2835-4ef9-8003-ac521ea99756/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Griffin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72704
Danielle Griffin is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients across the lifespan. She has experience working in the inpatient psychiatric setting, intensive outpatient programming, and outpatient medication management. Currently accepting patients 10 and up.
Danielle Griffin is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients across the lifespan. She has experience working in the inpatient psychiatric setting, intensive outpatient programming, and outpatient medication management. Currently accepting patients 10 and up.
![Photo of Dr. Dianna Esmaeilpour, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a56b99b-fd55-479e-8ea9-5326de0a3c6c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new patients at Capstone Psychiatry. Dr. Esmaeilpour is a Child and Adult Psychiatrist. She treats mood, anxiety, and thought disorders as well as PTSD and neurodevelopmental disorders. She believes that a good patient physician relationship is the foundation for good care.
Now accepting new patients at Capstone Psychiatry. Dr. Esmaeilpour is a Child and Adult Psychiatrist. She treats mood, anxiety, and thought disorders as well as PTSD and neurodevelopmental disorders. She believes that a good patient physician relationship is the foundation for good care.
![Photo of Dr. Charla Watkins, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/358cb78f-d695-4935-9f3b-b2bd8ffcfa86/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Charla Watkins
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, BC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72703
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice specializing in trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety and grief. I also provide EMDR therapy which is excellent for recovery of trauma. I provide psychotherapy/counseling and medication management individualized for each patient in a safe and therapeutic environment that promotes healing and thriving.
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice specializing in trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety and grief. I also provide EMDR therapy which is excellent for recovery of trauma. I provide psychotherapy/counseling and medication management individualized for each patient in a safe and therapeutic environment that promotes healing and thriving.
![Photo of Shawnte' Farmer, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aee837a7-f258-463a-bd98-4f4c679e704a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shawnte' Farmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
I believe a holistic approach in treating both mind and body is needed to create significant and lasting positive change. Implementing these changes includes a wide variety of services, to both assess, diagnose, and treat mental and physical needs individually. Psychiatric assessments provide a foundation for creating a unique, individualized, and collaborative treatment plan to address current symptoms, and, more importantly, the core issues that need to be addressed to find relief and pave the way for future success. I treat a variety of mental health conditions including depression, OCD, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and insomnia.
I believe a holistic approach in treating both mind and body is needed to create significant and lasting positive change. Implementing these changes includes a wide variety of services, to both assess, diagnose, and treat mental and physical needs individually. Psychiatric assessments provide a foundation for creating a unique, individualized, and collaborative treatment plan to address current symptoms, and, more importantly, the core issues that need to be addressed to find relief and pave the way for future success. I treat a variety of mental health conditions including depression, OCD, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and insomnia.
![Photo of Jessica Gutting, APRN, MSNC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72eee7c3-30fd-44a8-a861-dc6a281cbaea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Gutting
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSNC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, AR 72601
My ideal client is a person that I would not consider a client at all, but a coworker who will work with myself and other providers to develop a treatment plan that can be utilized to improve the client’s overall wellbeing. Issues would include anxiety, mood, personality, or psychotic disorders as well as addiction and trauma. The needs of the client may include medication management, therapy, or a combination of treatments. Goals would include being actively involved in a client-centered treatment plan, such as taking medications as prescribed and attending therapy sessions because the client wants to improve overall wellbeing.
My ideal client is a person that I would not consider a client at all, but a coworker who will work with myself and other providers to develop a treatment plan that can be utilized to improve the client’s overall wellbeing. Issues would include anxiety, mood, personality, or psychotic disorders as well as addiction and trauma. The needs of the client may include medication management, therapy, or a combination of treatments. Goals would include being actively involved in a client-centered treatment plan, such as taking medications as prescribed and attending therapy sessions because the client wants to improve overall wellbeing.
![Photo of Rebecca Webb, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cefc19b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Webb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Many patients I see are seeking change. Change from their current symptoms, history of family dysfunction, or response to the world around them. They are pursuing fulfillment. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my focus is medication management. My aim is to collaborate with patients and set mutual goals to help in this pursuit of fulfillment. I believe the foundation of a strong relationship is honesty and empathy, this is true of the working relationship between provider and patient. I have long had an interest in mental health, first earning a degree in psychology prior to becoming a nurse.
Many patients I see are seeking change. Change from their current symptoms, history of family dysfunction, or response to the world around them. They are pursuing fulfillment. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my focus is medication management. My aim is to collaborate with patients and set mutual goals to help in this pursuit of fulfillment. I believe the foundation of a strong relationship is honesty and empathy, this is true of the working relationship between provider and patient. I have long had an interest in mental health, first earning a degree in psychology prior to becoming a nurse.
![Photo of Lindsey Adams, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f2b95de-4e87-4ccd-b1ba-a072cc62ded5/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is someone who has struggled to find a provider that listens and cares about their mental and physical health. I offer an individualized and comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic process that allows clients to feel understood. Managing psychiatric medication can be a journey, I aim to make the process stress-free. While my specialty is medication management, my ultimate goal is holistic health. My practice is located in a space that offers a wide range of therapies, yoga, Reiki, massage, and nutritional services. Having easy access to these services, I am confident you will find the perfect treatment modality.
My ideal client is someone who has struggled to find a provider that listens and cares about their mental and physical health. I offer an individualized and comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic process that allows clients to feel understood. Managing psychiatric medication can be a journey, I aim to make the process stress-free. While my specialty is medication management, my ultimate goal is holistic health. My practice is located in a space that offers a wide range of therapies, yoga, Reiki, massage, and nutritional services. Having easy access to these services, I am confident you will find the perfect treatment modality.
![Photo of Stephanie Bohannon, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/143962cf-11b7-48c5-994b-c08d091ddda2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Bohannon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72703
Stephanie Bohannon is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience treating patients across the lifespan. She believes in treating the patient holistically by using a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, exercise, nutrition, and procedures, such as Spravato and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). While developing a treatment plan, she considers the patient’s mental, physical, and spiritual health. Additionally, she strongly believes in empowering her patients by educating them on different treatment options and making them an active part of their treatment.
Stephanie Bohannon is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience treating patients across the lifespan. She believes in treating the patient holistically by using a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, exercise, nutrition, and procedures, such as Spravato and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). While developing a treatment plan, she considers the patient’s mental, physical, and spiritual health. Additionally, she strongly believes in empowering her patients by educating them on different treatment options and making them an active part of their treatment.
![Photo of Kaitlin Hiddle, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/393488c1-a84b-4ae6-be66-d7a88eb1a678/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kaitlin Hiddle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Kaitlin helps all people young or old, small or great find gentle care and wise counsel for a better future.
Kaitlin helps all people young or old, small or great find gentle care and wise counsel for a better future.
![Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/673a95bb-4938-4f94-9c01-80792c34c424/1/320x400.png)
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
![Photo of Mark Andersen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d864ed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
During my 30 years of practicing psychiatry, I've come to firmly believe that our connection as caregiver and patient is the single biggest reason clients either get healthier or continue to struggle. This means it's crucial for us to spend time connecting. It means I need to hear your story, the ups and downs, the successes, the failures and the frustrations with previous treatment. More than anything though, it means that we need to be honest with one another. Only then, in the midst of hearing about your journey, can I give my greatest effort to help you. If you're ready and willing to teach me about you, I'm ready to learn.
During my 30 years of practicing psychiatry, I've come to firmly believe that our connection as caregiver and patient is the single biggest reason clients either get healthier or continue to struggle. This means it's crucial for us to spend time connecting. It means I need to hear your story, the ups and downs, the successes, the failures and the frustrations with previous treatment. More than anything though, it means that we need to be honest with one another. Only then, in the midst of hearing about your journey, can I give my greatest effort to help you. If you're ready and willing to teach me about you, I'm ready to learn.
![Photo of Jennifer Penne, APRN, MNSc, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4092963e-1874-4562-b547-f026d4202738/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Penne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MNSc, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72703
Jennifer Penne is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients across the lifespan. She has worked in various settings including community mental health, outpatient, inpatient, residential, and emergency crisis settings. Jennifer’s experience includes working with children and adolescents in therapeutic foster care, therapeutic day treatment, and school-based programs as well as adults. Jennifer believes in treating the whole person: mind, body, and spirit.
Jennifer Penne is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients across the lifespan. She has worked in various settings including community mental health, outpatient, inpatient, residential, and emergency crisis settings. Jennifer’s experience includes working with children and adolescents in therapeutic foster care, therapeutic day treatment, and school-based programs as well as adults. Jennifer believes in treating the whole person: mind, body, and spirit.
![Photo of Lauren Nguyen, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/297d6db4-ca15-45d7-a0bb-2c5b4f1a6930/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental illness who is looking to improve their quality of life and overall wellness. It is someone who needs help with diagnosis and treatment of mental illness and is willing to be open and honest about their symptoms and progress.
My ideal client is someone struggling with mental illness who is looking to improve their quality of life and overall wellness. It is someone who needs help with diagnosis and treatment of mental illness and is willing to be open and honest about their symptoms and progress.
![Photo of Sarah Cloud, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92f1eb87-afbf-48a6-b496-25ec44112d28/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Cloud
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71913 (Online Only)
I am passionate about caring for the whole person with a focus on mental health. I place an emphasis on the most up-to-date evidence-based research in combination with individualized care that is specific for you, including what will work best for you and your goals of treatment.
I am passionate about caring for the whole person with a focus on mental health. I place an emphasis on the most up-to-date evidence-based research in combination with individualized care that is specific for you, including what will work best for you and your goals of treatment.
![Photo of Richard Flanigin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39e1dbbb-61fd-46ba-a7c0-2c60d38fe0f8/2/320x400.png)
I treat mood disorders (depression & bipolar), anxiety & thought disorders such as schizophrenia.
I treat mood disorders (depression & bipolar), anxiety & thought disorders such as schizophrenia.
Stacey Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Mitchel
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I decided to become a nurse to have a positive impact on the lives of my clients. My favorite quote is “Your illness does not define you. Your strength and courage do.” – Unknown. I have experience working with patients struggling with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, gender dysphoria, panic attacks, ADHD (children and adults) and PANDAS. I enjoy working with all conditions. I also work with patients dealing with substance use disorders.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I decided to become a nurse to have a positive impact on the lives of my clients. My favorite quote is “Your illness does not define you. Your strength and courage do.” – Unknown. I have experience working with patients struggling with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, gender dysphoria, panic attacks, ADHD (children and adults) and PANDAS. I enjoy working with all conditions. I also work with patients dealing with substance use disorders.
See more therapy options for Fort Smith
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Fort Smith, AR
< 10
Psychiatrists in Fort Smith, AR who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Borderline Personality (BPD) |
100% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Ambetter |
67% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Fort Smith, AR see their clients
67% | In Person and Online | |
33% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Fort Smith?
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.