Psychiatrists in Lawrence County, AR
![Photo of Haley Mills, APRN-CN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c264202a-26fa-4d08-a469-edd2c83e12b1/1/320x400.png)
Haley Mills
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-CN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Ridge, AR 72476
Honest and truthful, willing to use therapy and medication management. Able to work together towards goals. I worked as an RN in the ER for 10 years before completing my training as a PMHNP. I feel like I have strengths in medication education, high anxiety situations, and particularly the aging older adult population. Before I started as a PMHNP, I worked 10 years in acute care nursing. During this time Covid-19 hit and medical teams were experiencing high rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide.
Honest and truthful, willing to use therapy and medication management. Able to work together towards goals. I worked as an RN in the ER for 10 years before completing my training as a PMHNP. I feel like I have strengths in medication education, high anxiety situations, and particularly the aging older adult population. Before I started as a PMHNP, I worked 10 years in acute care nursing. During this time Covid-19 hit and medical teams were experiencing high rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide.
Online Psychiatrists
![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 Mallory Broadaway - Jonesboro Wellness, mind + body, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d78cebb-d749-44a8-be08-5cc4005faad8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jonesboro Wellness, mind + body
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, AR 72401
At Jonesboro Wellness, mind + body our goal is to provide a comfortable and calm setting so we can begin to discuss and work towards your concerns. We offer psychiatric medication management with emphasis on whole body nutrition along with other non- medication modalities. We want you to feel your best while providing holistic and traditional care. We want you to be apart of your treatment options and have a voice in the matter.
At Jonesboro Wellness, mind + body our goal is to provide a comfortable and calm setting so we can begin to discuss and work towards your concerns. We offer psychiatric medication management with emphasis on whole body nutrition along with other non- medication modalities. We want you to feel your best while providing holistic and traditional care. We want you to be apart of your treatment options and have a voice in the matter.
![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 Dawn Lindsey - Omni Health & Wellness, APRN, LCSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6471d5d-9424-407e-a40e-50ba69322e04/1/320x400.jpeg)
OMNI Health & Wellness is a mental and behavioral health practice for individuals age 14 and up. We offer individual therapy and medication management. Each of our Therapists and Nurse Practitioners are specialists in particular areas and regularly collaborate on patient care. We utilize evidence based treatments and tailor it to each individual client. Our goal is to provide each client the best, most comprehensive care that we can.
OMNI Health & Wellness is a mental and behavioral health practice for individuals age 14 and up. We offer individual therapy and medication management. Each of our Therapists and Nurse Practitioners are specialists in particular areas and regularly collaborate on patient care. We utilize evidence based treatments and tailor it to each individual client. Our goal is to provide each client the best, most comprehensive care that we can.
![Photo of Katie Smith, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/931c16d6-6225-487d-8208-fa12562c7aa8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Piggott, AR 72454
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner with 22 years combined experience. I help Individuals from age 10 through adulthood who are struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, BPD, PTSD, ADHD, addiction and other psychiatric conditions, while assisting in working towards relief from unwanted thoughts, decreasing overwhelming guilt, anxiety, relief from nightmares and addiction symptoms and many other psychiatric symptoms while setting goals of regaining happiness, joy and wonder in their daily lives and restoring healthy productive relationships.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner with 22 years combined experience. I help Individuals from age 10 through adulthood who are struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, BPD, PTSD, ADHD, addiction and other psychiatric conditions, while assisting in working towards relief from unwanted thoughts, decreasing overwhelming guilt, anxiety, relief from nightmares and addiction symptoms and many other psychiatric symptoms while setting goals of regaining happiness, joy and wonder in their daily lives and restoring healthy productive relationships.
![Photo of Venita Ninemire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2203cd53-979f-4fc8-b39b-4d3768affb01/1/320x400.jpeg)
Venita Ninemire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, AR 72401 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
![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
Conway, AR 72032 (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 Stephanie Patterson, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed0e4bad-e781-4561-9ae6-ee38117b2db0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Patterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jonesboro, AR 72401
My name is Stephanie Patterson. As a practitioner, I aim to provide kind, personable, and compassionate care to each patient throughout their healing journey. I have more than 19 years of experience in nursing care. And 2+ years’ experience as a mental health nurse. In my new role as psychiatric nurse practitioner, it is my goal to genuinely hear your concerns, provide a safe space and to form the best possible, individualized treatment plan. I believe in holistic care and offer interventions such as psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and psychedelic mental health treatment with other wellness techniques to treat the mind and body.
My name is Stephanie Patterson. As a practitioner, I aim to provide kind, personable, and compassionate care to each patient throughout their healing journey. I have more than 19 years of experience in nursing care. And 2+ years’ experience as a mental health nurse. In my new role as psychiatric nurse practitioner, it is my goal to genuinely hear your concerns, provide a safe space and to form the best possible, individualized treatment plan. I believe in holistic care and offer interventions such as psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and psychedelic mental health treatment with other wellness techniques to treat the mind and body.
![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 Sarah Weatherford, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff64ec5f-c49b-49e4-903c-1697501dc992/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Weatherford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MNSc, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, AR 72401
Sarah Weatherford is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Bachelor of Nursing from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and then later returned to the college to earn her Master of Nursing Science with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health. Sarah spent her first years working as a nurse in an inpatient setting for children with psychiatric disorders. She learned the importance of implementing trauma-informed care for improving patient outcomes. She understands the importance of being an empathic listener in being an effective care provider to her patients.
Sarah Weatherford is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Bachelor of Nursing from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and then later returned to the college to earn her Master of Nursing Science with a specialty in Psychiatric Mental Health. Sarah spent her first years working as a nurse in an inpatient setting for children with psychiatric disorders. She learned the importance of implementing trauma-informed care for improving patient outcomes. She understands the importance of being an empathic listener in being an effective care provider to her patients.
![Photo of Christa Jones, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d85e10b-63dd-43c2-a69d-384536da8579/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christa Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72032
Christa is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Nurse Educator holding Masters degrees in both specialties. She has a strong passion for mental health and educating her client as she feels knowledge is power. Christa utilizes evidence-based treatments and research as well as compassion and empathy to provide a holistic approach for individuals. She believes in taking time with her clients to not only get to know them but to also work together as a team to navigate treatment options that best benefit the client and support their overall health.
Christa is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Nurse Educator holding Masters degrees in both specialties. She has a strong passion for mental health and educating her client as she feels knowledge is power. Christa utilizes evidence-based treatments and research as well as compassion and empathy to provide a holistic approach for individuals. She believes in taking time with her clients to not only get to know them but to also work together as a team to navigate treatment options that best benefit the client and support their overall health.
![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
Conway, AR 72032
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.
![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 Stacey Danielle Lynch - Renew Mental Health and Wellness, FPMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccdaf014-f241-41b6-9142-060b30fd911a/1/320x400.png)
Renew Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, APRN
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Jonesboro, AR 72401
Renew Mental Health & Wellness warmly welcomes you just as you are! Our commitment lies in supporting our patients through personalized medication management. We're proud to offer GeneSight testing, a comprehensive genetic analysis that guides us in tailoring your care journey based on vital DNA variations. Additionally, for those facing treatment-resistant depression, our clinic provides Spravato treatment as an available option. Your well-being is our priority
Renew Mental Health & Wellness warmly welcomes you just as you are! Our commitment lies in supporting our patients through personalized medication management. We're proud to offer GeneSight testing, a comprehensive genetic analysis that guides us in tailoring your care journey based on vital DNA variations. Additionally, for those facing treatment-resistant depression, our clinic provides Spravato treatment as an available option. Your well-being is our priority
![Photo of Amanda Smallmon, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1112bb86-c874-4e62-94a7-45229e223f92/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Smallmon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Piggott, AR 72454
Ideal clients have a desire to live life to the fullest and are ready to work as a team to find the unique plan to meet their goals.
Ideal clients have a desire to live life to the fullest and are ready to work as a team to find the unique plan to meet their goals.
![Photo of Kellie Cox, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0af6287-093e-4aa8-b844-9d8b54060bab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kellie Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jonesboro, AR 72401
My ideal clients are individuals or families seeking holistic healing and mental wellness support. They include parents dealing with children's mental health issues, adolescents facing anxiety, trauma survivors, and mothers grappling with fertility issues or loss. They seek a compassionate, understanding provider committed to a comprehensive healing approach. They want empowerment, knowledge, and coping skills, and a safe, non-judgmental space. If this resonates with you, I'm here to support your journey to optimal health and well-being.
My ideal clients are individuals or families seeking holistic healing and mental wellness support. They include parents dealing with children's mental health issues, adolescents facing anxiety, trauma survivors, and mothers grappling with fertility issues or loss. They seek a compassionate, understanding provider committed to a comprehensive healing approach. They want empowerment, knowledge, and coping skills, and a safe, non-judgmental space. If this resonates with you, I'm here to support your journey to optimal health and well-being.
![Photo of Casie Moore, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdba5459-9474-49cc-b11b-b7b0664683e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with irritability, feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, sadness, or tearfulness? Anxiety, depression (including both postpartum), and other mental health disorders can present unique symptoms for each person. If you're seeking someone to listen to your experiences and help you navigate towards a better version of yourself, let's schedule an appointment!
Are you struggling with irritability, feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, sadness, or tearfulness? Anxiety, depression (including both postpartum), and other mental health disorders can present unique symptoms for each person. If you're seeking someone to listen to your experiences and help you navigate towards a better version of yourself, let's schedule an appointment!
![Photo of Scotty Spurlin, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c72031b5-aaa0-4396-b567-7a7cd07da231/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 Ariella Frazier, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4918bab2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have an interest in treating the mental health care needs of the adult and older adult populations. I primarily treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD disorders. I offer medication management and supportive therapy for clients. I also incorporate a collaborative approach and may refer to more specialized therapy options that could be beneficial.
I am a licensed, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have an interest in treating the mental health care needs of the adult and older adult populations. I primarily treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD disorders. I offer medication management and supportive therapy for clients. I also incorporate a collaborative approach and may refer to more specialized therapy options that could be beneficial.
See more therapy options for Lawrence County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lawrence County, AR
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lawrence County, AR who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Chronic Pain |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Medicare |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Lawrence County, AR see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lawrence County?
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.