Psychiatrists in Greenbrier, AR
![Photo of Amber Marengo, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b1ed763-f6db-44b0-88ec-59249ea50963/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Marengo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbrier, AR 72058
Working with women is my main focus - women struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and grief are a few of the issues I have a love for addressing. I am passionate about helping women build stronger, more satisfying lives, and I work hard to help you achieve your goals and begin to thrive instead of just "existing." I currently offer CBT and ACT therapy services with a background as a previous prescriber. I understand both medical and mental health sides of therapy, and I am continually striving to expand my therapy modalities and provide clients with the most effective forms of treatment!
Working with women is my main focus - women struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and grief are a few of the issues I have a love for addressing. I am passionate about helping women build stronger, more satisfying lives, and I work hard to help you achieve your goals and begin to thrive instead of just "existing." I currently offer CBT and ACT therapy services with a background as a previous prescriber. I understand both medical and mental health sides of therapy, and I am continually striving to expand my therapy modalities and provide clients with the most effective forms of treatment!
![Photo of Cathy Pettis, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BCC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fe573c6-1b8c-422f-b25e-5c3d286e014a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cathy Pettis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BCC
Verified Verified
Greenbrier, AR 72058 (Online Only)
Cathy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has over 10 years of nursing experience. Cathy is playful, creative, and compassionate about delivering quality care to those she serves. She believes that everyone has a beautiful destination and at times needs support in arriving. We all aware that life could be extremely stressful and sometimes it feels difficult to navigate alone. Cathy is here to help you to navigate through your life struggles and optimize your quality of life. Her goal is to help our patient to achieve optimal serenity and to bring life back to homeostasis once again.
Cathy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who has over 10 years of nursing experience. Cathy is playful, creative, and compassionate about delivering quality care to those she serves. She believes that everyone has a beautiful destination and at times needs support in arriving. We all aware that life could be extremely stressful and sometimes it feels difficult to navigate alone. Cathy is here to help you to navigate through your life struggles and optimize your quality of life. Her goal is to help our patient to achieve optimal serenity and to bring life back to homeostasis once again.
![Photo of Danielle Jenkins, MNSc, APRN, PHMNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e702bc33-4f39-4e88-8319-cc3e32a80028/3/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PHMNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbrier, AR 72058
My goal is to help patients along their mental health journey. I will work tirelessly to meet you where you are, as well as collaborate with you to develop a cohesive and pharmacologically advised plan to get where you need and, more importantly, want to go. This journey consists of establishing a safe, judgement-free space that encourages honesty to most efficiently and effectively help those in my care. Honesty, communication, and open dialogue are key components to creating a complete and considerate treatment and wellness plan.
My goal is to help patients along their mental health journey. I will work tirelessly to meet you where you are, as well as collaborate with you to develop a cohesive and pharmacologically advised plan to get where you need and, more importantly, want to go. This journey consists of establishing a safe, judgement-free space that encourages honesty to most efficiently and effectively help those in my care. Honesty, communication, and open dialogue are key components to creating a complete and considerate treatment and wellness plan.
![Photo of Scotty Spurlin, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c72031b5-aaa0-4396-b567-7a7cd07da231/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scotty Spurlin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbrier, AR 72058
As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I enjoy helping older children, adolescents, and adults achieve their goals and improve their lives. My emphasis is medication management, but I often also recommend counseling. I welcome members of the LGBTQ+ community. While I do see older adults, I do not specialize in dementia or geriatric psychiatry.
As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I enjoy helping older children, adolescents, and adults achieve their goals and improve their lives. My emphasis is medication management, but I often also recommend counseling. I welcome members of the LGBTQ+ community. While I do see older adults, I do not specialize in dementia or geriatric psychiatry.
![Photo of Alisha McCool, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfcbd1c9-d441-4205-ad64-68bc36386c0d/4/320x400.jpeg)
Alisha McCool
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenbrier, AR 72058
Accepting NEW patients. Email to schedule today. Current wait for an appointment is 1-3 weeks. Hi! My name is Alisha. I have worked in mental health care since 2014 and take great pride in the work I do. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication accordingly. I am here to listen and help you resolve the issues that are bothering you. I enjoy getting to know my patients and helping them understand their diagnosis and how medication will help them.
Accepting NEW patients. Email to schedule today. Current wait for an appointment is 1-3 weeks. Hi! My name is Alisha. I have worked in mental health care since 2014 and take great pride in the work I do. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication accordingly. I am here to listen and help you resolve the issues that are bothering you. I enjoy getting to know my patients and helping them understand their diagnosis and how medication will help them.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Whitney H Reed, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed72f379-f0ce-4bcd-a7cc-ad31dc0f321f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whitney H Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountain Home, AR 72653 (Online Only)
An ideal client is someone that needs support in navigating and understanding how medication management can be an important component in meeting their treatment goals. My ideal client communicates with me openly about their response to medication, both good and bad. They are willing to be open-minded and are interested in learning about their medication and advocating for themselves when something isn't right.
An ideal client is someone that needs support in navigating and understanding how medication management can be an important component in meeting their treatment goals. My ideal client communicates with me openly about their response to medication, both good and bad. They are willing to be open-minded and are interested in learning about their medication and advocating for themselves when something isn't right.
![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 Melanie J Sterling, MSN, CNS, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0193bd7-5cb4-4723-b88f-0ff3bd2e0dc9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melanie J Sterling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNS, APRN
Verified Verified
Searcy, AR 72143 (Online Only)
I have 22 years experience working as a Psychiatric APRN and am I ANCC board certified. I thoroughly discuss treatment options for clients. I empower my clients to be involved in their plan of care and I give them the knowledge to make an informed decision.
I have 22 years experience working as a Psychiatric APRN and am I ANCC board certified. I thoroughly discuss treatment options for clients. I empower my clients to be involved in their plan of care and I give them the knowledge to make an informed decision.
![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.
![Photo of Lindsay Van Parys, MNSc, CPNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df3f3ccd-b44a-47ba-9330-5b49ef05b015/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay Van Parys
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, CPNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Little Rock, AR 72116
Hello! I am a nurse practitioner board-certified in psychiatric mental health and pediatrics. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and therapy of individuals of all ages with autism, ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety and mood disorders. I am also passionate about helping with sleep problems, parent-child interactions, and substance use. I have a way of helping patients feel comfortable and at ease. My patients are encouraged to be themselves and openly discuss any and all things. I enjoy working with individuals from various backgrounds and openly welcome LBGTQ+ individuals.
Hello! I am a nurse practitioner board-certified in psychiatric mental health and pediatrics. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and therapy of individuals of all ages with autism, ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety and mood disorders. I am also passionate about helping with sleep problems, parent-child interactions, and substance use. I have a way of helping patients feel comfortable and at ease. My patients are encouraged to be themselves and openly discuss any and all things. I enjoy working with individuals from various backgrounds and openly welcome LBGTQ+ individuals.
![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 Dawn Lindsey, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7478070-9deb-4eeb-9810-5bdf612260b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dawn Lindsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryant, AR 72022
You are not alone; we all struggle. I believe that everyone is a little broken by life and I am here to support anyone who has experienced this burden. My aim is to work collaboratively with you, to meet mutually set goals. In my office you will not be judged, nor will you feel displaced in my care. I believe patients should have a voice and a choice when it comes to the care provided to them. My treatment approach is multifaceted, as I follow a Biopsychosocial (BPS) Model, simply put, mental health and wellness is directly affected by a person’s genes, lifestyle, and social constructs.
You are not alone; we all struggle. I believe that everyone is a little broken by life and I am here to support anyone who has experienced this burden. My aim is to work collaboratively with you, to meet mutually set goals. In my office you will not be judged, nor will you feel displaced in my care. I believe patients should have a voice and a choice when it comes to the care provided to them. My treatment approach is multifaceted, as I follow a Biopsychosocial (BPS) Model, simply put, mental health and wellness is directly affected by a person’s genes, lifestyle, and social constructs.
![Photo of Elizabeth A. Fiser, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9dc295d-93f3-4307-9525-b464a69394af/4/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth A. Fiser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Cabot, AR 72023
Elizabeth A. Fiser is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who graduated with Honors from Walden University. Elizabeth believes in complete transparency. She is living proof that past experiences should not limit who someone can become. Providing hope, knowledge, and encouragement with truth and veracity can change a life!
Elizabeth A. Fiser is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who graduated with Honors from Walden University. Elizabeth believes in complete transparency. She is living proof that past experiences should not limit who someone can become. Providing hope, knowledge, and encouragement with truth and veracity can change a life!
![Photo of Devin Chatman, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d5a870-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Devin Chatman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryant, AR 72022 (Online Only)
I am board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), who provides psychiatric assessments, diagnostic services and medication management with brief psychotherapeutic interventions. I seek to provide psychiatric services for individuals across the lifespan from children to older adults. I primarily see clients suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD/Trauma. My approach to care is of a holistic, collaborative, empowering, practical and evidence-based nature in order to improve the lives of those of whom I serve. My goal, above all else, is to empower you to take charge of your own well-being.
I am board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), who provides psychiatric assessments, diagnostic services and medication management with brief psychotherapeutic interventions. I seek to provide psychiatric services for individuals across the lifespan from children to older adults. I primarily see clients suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD/Trauma. My approach to care is of a holistic, collaborative, empowering, practical and evidence-based nature in order to improve the lives of those of whom I serve. My goal, above all else, is to empower you to take charge of your own well-being.
![Photo of Kelsey McClellan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e35e37fb-9e60-4788-bbc4-630d00077302/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed medical doctor specializing in psychiatric medication management services for adults and children. I primarily treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, gender dysphoria, and women’s issues such as postpartum depression and PMDD. I have a special interest in treating the psychiatric manifestations of chronic illnesses such as Ehler's Danlos syndrome, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, mast cell activation, and dysautonomia.
I am a licensed medical doctor specializing in psychiatric medication management services for adults and children. I primarily treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, gender dysphoria, and women’s issues such as postpartum depression and PMDD. I have a special interest in treating the psychiatric manifestations of chronic illnesses such as Ehler's Danlos syndrome, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, mast cell activation, and dysautonomia.
![Photo of Dr. Andreya Reed, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bb25eb4-7450-419a-8c38-63a268a82f31/1/320x400.png)
Have you found yourself navigating a crossroads of emotions, where challenges feel overwhelming and the way forward seems unclear? You're not alone. My name is Dr. Andreya Reed, and as a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult mental health, I'm here to guide you on a journey of understanding, healing, and rediscovery. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other mental health concern, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore your unique experiences with compassion and without judgment.
Have you found yourself navigating a crossroads of emotions, where challenges feel overwhelming and the way forward seems unclear? You're not alone. My name is Dr. Andreya Reed, and as a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult mental health, I'm here to guide you on a journey of understanding, healing, and rediscovery. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other mental health concern, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore your unique experiences with compassion and without judgment.
![Photo of Jennifer M Hernandez, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31154a9f-10cf-4ab1-9d08-e3bc4854b56e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer M Hernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72201 (Online Only)
My passion is to provide mental health care to each client in a safe and supportive environment. Professional nursing experience includes 16 years of inpatient oncology/stem cell transplant, palliative care, and mental health serving as an advocate in quality care. I have a special interest in helping women and special populations/cultures that feel dismissed or misunderstood. My personal multicultural lifestyle enriches my understanding of diverse experiences and viewpoints. If you are experiencing any struggles or simply want someone to chat with, please click the link to my website to schedule an appointment .
My passion is to provide mental health care to each client in a safe and supportive environment. Professional nursing experience includes 16 years of inpatient oncology/stem cell transplant, palliative care, and mental health serving as an advocate in quality care. I have a special interest in helping women and special populations/cultures that feel dismissed or misunderstood. My personal multicultural lifestyle enriches my understanding of diverse experiences and viewpoints. If you are experiencing any struggles or simply want someone to chat with, please click the link to my website to schedule an appointment .
![Photo of Zack Coco, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50fed27b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Zack Coco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72211
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, insomnia, and substance abuse disorders. Being certified in mental health treatment throughout the lifespan, I am able to see children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. I offer medication management, Spravato (esketamine) treatments, and IM and IV Ketamine infusions for treatment resistant issues.
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, insomnia, and substance abuse disorders. Being certified in mental health treatment throughout the lifespan, I am able to see children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. I offer medication management, Spravato (esketamine) treatments, and IM and IV Ketamine infusions for treatment resistant issues.
![Photo of Amanda Smith, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f891296-525a-4e0b-beb4-90135761eb51/1/320x400.png)
Finding the right support on your mental health journey can feel overwhelming, but you've taken a brave step by being here. I'm Dr. Amanda Smith, a board-certified psychiatrist with a warm heart and a passion for helping adults like you navigate life's challenges. I have a special interest in Bipolar Disorder. However, my expertise encompasses a wide range of conditions, including: Anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, etc.) Depression and mood disorders, Trauma and Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and ADHD and Attention Disorders.
Finding the right support on your mental health journey can feel overwhelming, but you've taken a brave step by being here. I'm Dr. Amanda Smith, a board-certified psychiatrist with a warm heart and a passion for helping adults like you navigate life's challenges. I have a special interest in Bipolar Disorder. However, my expertise encompasses a wide range of conditions, including: Anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, etc.) Depression and mood disorders, Trauma and Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and ADHD and Attention Disorders.
![Photo of Jennifer Shuler, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31819efd-7f7d-443d-9383-272687402610/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72205
I seek to serve women who are worn out. So much of being a woman is being told to be a certain way, and it's making us ill. As a critical care nurse who burned out and clawed my way back to purpose, I seek to support those in helping positions or professions who realize their coping mechanisms just aren't enough anymore. I'm tired of seeing people at the end of their journey, suffering from a life of stress that has caused physical harm; and want to help people shift into wellness now. A full life with purpose is possible!
I seek to serve women who are worn out. So much of being a woman is being told to be a certain way, and it's making us ill. As a critical care nurse who burned out and clawed my way back to purpose, I seek to support those in helping positions or professions who realize their coping mechanisms just aren't enough anymore. I'm tired of seeing people at the end of their journey, suffering from a life of stress that has caused physical harm; and want to help people shift into wellness now. A full life with purpose is possible!
See more therapy options for Greenbrier
Nearby Searches for Greenbrier
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Greenbrier, AR
< 10
Psychiatrists in Greenbrier, AR who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Sleep or Insomnia |
60% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Greenbrier, AR see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Greenbrier?
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.