Psychiatrists in Lonoke County, AR
![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 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 Melissa Bell, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a1f621f-c559-43fa-9d84-2e42e0632a09/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Melissa. I'm a Nurse Practitioner, board certified in both Psychiatry & Family Practice. I practice in Conway AR at Christian Perspective Counseling and online throughout Arkansas). I have a relational practice style that encourages open and professional communication, with goals of providing individualized and compassionate care. I believe that shame dies when shared in safe spaces. My clients will feel heard, believed, and valued for who they were, who they are, and who they want to be.
Hi, I'm Melissa. I'm a Nurse Practitioner, board certified in both Psychiatry & Family Practice. I practice in Conway AR at Christian Perspective Counseling and online throughout Arkansas). I have a relational practice style that encourages open and professional communication, with goals of providing individualized and compassionate care. I believe that shame dies when shared in safe spaces. My clients will feel heard, believed, and valued for who they were, who they are, and who they want to be.
![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
Cabot, AR 72023
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 Deena Garner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, PNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c16ea522-b022-4c55-ab78-ee6148f09cf9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deena Garner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, PNP
Verified Verified
Cabot, AR 72023
Are you tired of feeling like every day is a struggle? Are you ready to change your life? Are you looking for more joy, motivation, focus, or just need some support? I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, medication management and supportive therapy of individuals with a variety of mental health issues. Some of the most common are trauma-related disorders, ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety and mood disorders, as well as issues with grief, self-esteem and self-worth issues. I enjoy working with families and couples to improve their communication and interactions.
Are you tired of feeling like every day is a struggle? Are you ready to change your life? Are you looking for more joy, motivation, focus, or just need some support? I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, medication management and supportive therapy of individuals with a variety of mental health issues. Some of the most common are trauma-related disorders, ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety and mood disorders, as well as issues with grief, self-esteem and self-worth issues. I enjoy working with families and couples to improve their communication and interactions.
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 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 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 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 Kristin Kiernan, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/561cbb55-8c74-4725-91b4-c9b628099bef/1/320x400.png)
Kristin Kiernan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryant, AR 72022
Welcome to a safe space where your mental health and well-being is my top priority. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, committed to helping you achieve a brighter, more fulfilling life. I believe in the power of empathy, active listening, and evidence-based practices to guide you towards mental wellness. With over 12 years of nursing experience, I am your trusted partner in overcoming life's challenges. We all struggle, but you are not alone!
Welcome to a safe space where your mental health and well-being is my top priority. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, committed to helping you achieve a brighter, more fulfilling life. I believe in the power of empathy, active listening, and evidence-based practices to guide you towards mental wellness. With over 12 years of nursing experience, I am your trusted partner in overcoming life's challenges. We all struggle, but you are not alone!
![Photo of Melissa Krisht, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0150df3f-9367-402c-8488-9e853cb744d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa is proficient in modalities like Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems, using guided meditation techniques to address trauma. She is passionate about the evolving field of psychiatry, particularly the integration of psychedelic medicine. Beyond clinical practice, Melissa empowers her clients by educating them to actively participate in their healthcare journey.
Melissa is proficient in modalities like Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems, using guided meditation techniques to address trauma. She is passionate about the evolving field of psychiatry, particularly the integration of psychedelic medicine. Beyond clinical practice, Melissa empowers her clients by educating them to actively participate in their healthcare journey.
![Photo of Cathy Petty, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5cc0135-9fea-49fb-8477-df7cce0b2730/2/320x400.png)
Cathy Petty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Little Rock, AR 72116 (Online Only)
Cathy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Arkansas. She is qualified to diagnose, manage, provide psychotherapy, and prescribe medications to children, adolescents, and adults with mental health disorders. Cathy has experience working with individuals who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, impulsivity, behavioral issues, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and psychosis. She is passionate about providing comprehensive mental health services with a holistic approach to individuals of all ages.
Cathy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Arkansas. She is qualified to diagnose, manage, provide psychotherapy, and prescribe medications to children, adolescents, and adults with mental health disorders. Cathy has experience working with individuals who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, impulsivity, behavioral issues, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and psychosis. She is passionate about providing comprehensive mental health services with a holistic approach to individuals of all ages.
![Photo of Michelle Head, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37a9a681-0c4c-4956-9e8f-02e3bfdfc003/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Head
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211 (Online Only)
Michelle Head is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is new to the profession, but has diverse experience in mental health, and is always looking to better her practice through implementing new research.
Michelle Head is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is new to the profession, but has diverse experience in mental health, and is always looking to better her practice through implementing new research.
![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 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 Rhonda Mattox, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/784465f1-d1a7-4e44-b447-2fe649e62bb5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rhonda Mattox
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72223 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Mattox specializes in helping people "Rise, Shine, & Transform" after a fall. It's tempting to ruminate and retreat after life's great disappointments (divorce, death, downsize & other devastating blows.) But Dr. Mattox helps you get off the sidelines and get back into the game of life. She serves as a guide to facilitate the process through coaching. Some think they "should be stronger" or that it's weak to invest in coaching. But the truth is that it's not weak to seek feedback. Why do you think Tiger Woods, Venus Williams, and Michael Jordan have coaches? Why do you think Fortune 500 companies have advisory boards? Results!
Dr. Mattox specializes in helping people "Rise, Shine, & Transform" after a fall. It's tempting to ruminate and retreat after life's great disappointments (divorce, death, downsize & other devastating blows.) But Dr. Mattox helps you get off the sidelines and get back into the game of life. She serves as a guide to facilitate the process through coaching. Some think they "should be stronger" or that it's weak to invest in coaching. But the truth is that it's not weak to seek feedback. Why do you think Tiger Woods, Venus Williams, and Michael Jordan have coaches? Why do you think Fortune 500 companies have advisory boards? Results!
![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 Jeremy R Thompson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/147c1dcf-7bf7-42a4-8d04-94023b4f046c/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am a general psychiatrist providing medication management services. I manage most psychiatric conditions including but not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and addiction. My practice includes telehealth. I accept new patients and most insurance plans.
I am a general psychiatrist providing medication management services. I manage most psychiatric conditions including but not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and addiction. My practice includes telehealth. I accept new patients and most insurance plans.
![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 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.
See more therapy options for Lonoke County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lonoke County, AR
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lonoke County, AR who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Grief |
80% | Sleep or Insomnia |
80% | Behavioral Issues |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Blue Cross |
How Psychiatrists in Lonoke 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 Lonoke 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.