Psychiatrists in Russellville, AR
![Photo of Ariella Frazier, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4918bab2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ariella Frazier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Russellville, AR 72802
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.
![Photo of Melissa Bell, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a1f621f-c559-43fa-9d84-2e42e0632a09/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Bell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
21 Endorsed
Russellville, AR 72801
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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Shawnte' Farmer, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aee837a7-f258-463a-bd98-4f4c679e704a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shawnte' Farmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
I believe a holistic approach in treating both mind and body is needed to create significant and lasting positive change. Implementing these changes includes a wide variety of services, to both assess, diagnose, and treat mental and physical needs individually. Psychiatric assessments provide a foundation for creating a unique, individualized, and collaborative treatment plan to address current symptoms, and, more importantly, the core issues that need to be addressed to find relief and pave the way for future success. I treat a variety of mental health conditions including depression, OCD, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and insomnia.
I believe a holistic approach in treating both mind and body is needed to create significant and lasting positive change. Implementing these changes includes a wide variety of services, to both assess, diagnose, and treat mental and physical needs individually. Psychiatric assessments provide a foundation for creating a unique, individualized, and collaborative treatment plan to address current symptoms, and, more importantly, the core issues that need to be addressed to find relief and pave the way for future success. I treat a variety of mental health conditions including depression, OCD, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and insomnia.
![Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/673a95bb-4938-4f94-9c01-80792c34c424/1/320x400.png)
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
![Photo of Christa Jones, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83b2ab52-5c84-4e10-9801-4f6c087f6e90/1/320x400.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 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 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 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 Arif K Mirza - Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0fa1955-0b31-4403-b12d-637a2b4b8334/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72205 (Online Only)
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
![Photo of Christina Sullivan, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30c29fa0-6bac-42e2-ab6e-24ae7eb20b2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Sullivan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72903 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with the ups and downs of depression or anxiety, going through a major or unexpected life change, experiencing postpartum, or surviving trauma? I’m here to provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard without the worry of being judged. I believe it’s a complete privilege to work with those on their journey of wellbeing and no two individuals are the same. This is why I focus on what you want to achieve through our work together and believe that your success is best when we get to a point of feeling comfortable working as a team.
Are you struggling with the ups and downs of depression or anxiety, going through a major or unexpected life change, experiencing postpartum, or surviving trauma? I’m here to provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard without the worry of being judged. I believe it’s a complete privilege to work with those on their journey of wellbeing and no two individuals are the same. This is why I focus on what you want to achieve through our work together and believe that your success is best when we get to a point of feeling comfortable working as a team.
![Photo of Amanda Ryals, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d90c7cc6-e991-49ec-87a3-d16ff54ee58c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Ryals
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Little Rock, AR 72116 (Online Only)
My ideal client is anyone open to learning and change to improve their mental health. Life can be hard, from navigating day-to-day stressors to coping with loss, mental or physical illness. It takes a tremendous amount of courage to seek help. I tend to take a straightforward, honest, and nonjudgmental approach by meeting you where you are now and working collaboratively to address your personal goals and to improve your mental health.
My ideal client is anyone open to learning and change to improve their mental health. Life can be hard, from navigating day-to-day stressors to coping with loss, mental or physical illness. It takes a tremendous amount of courage to seek help. I tend to take a straightforward, honest, and nonjudgmental approach by meeting you where you are now and working collaboratively to address your personal goals and to improve your mental health.
![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 Alicia Baros, PhD, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93f82bc1-9eab-4fcc-9fda-4a4a289990a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia Baros
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNPBC
Not Verified Not Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211 (Online Only)
Dr. Alicia Baros earned her doctorate in pharmacology at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, Tennessee, and completed a post-doctoral fellowship in research addiction medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina where she was appointed Research Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.
Dr. Alicia Baros earned her doctorate in pharmacology at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, Tennessee, and completed a post-doctoral fellowship in research addiction medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina where she was appointed Research Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.
![Photo of Chloe Ward, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/516e35af-ee55-40fb-8d7f-6cc546d72a47/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chloe (Cyd) Ward is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has provided clinical services for adults with serious mental illnesses as well as for individuals with traumatic stressors or difficulty managing anxiety and depression. She understands that being diagnosed with a serious mental illness doesn’t have to define you, but rather is just one component of who you are. She believes in addressing the root cause of an illness whether that be an addiction, childhood trauma, or wellness concerns. Cyd is an empathic listener and cares deeply for her patients, colleagues, friends, and family.
Chloe (Cyd) Ward is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has provided clinical services for adults with serious mental illnesses as well as for individuals with traumatic stressors or difficulty managing anxiety and depression. She understands that being diagnosed with a serious mental illness doesn’t have to define you, but rather is just one component of who you are. She believes in addressing the root cause of an illness whether that be an addiction, childhood trauma, or wellness concerns. Cyd is an empathic listener and cares deeply for her patients, colleagues, friends, and family.
![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 Martha Shaw, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afe04c30-c97d-45fe-b2a5-82c102af10f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Martha Shaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Little Rock, AR 72116 (Online Only)
Martha "Mattie" Shaw is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is board certified to manage a wide range of mental health issues which include PTSD, depression, insomnia, and anxiety. Mattie's role as a PMHNP includes assessing, diagnosing, making treatment recommendations, and medication management.
Martha "Mattie" Shaw is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is board certified to manage a wide range of mental health issues which include PTSD, depression, insomnia, and anxiety. Mattie's role as a PMHNP includes assessing, diagnosing, making treatment recommendations, and medication management.
![Photo of Lindsey Adams, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f2b95de-4e87-4ccd-b1ba-a072cc62ded5/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is someone who has struggled to find a provider that listens and cares about their mental and physical health. I offer an individualized and comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic process that allows clients to feel understood. Managing psychiatric medication can be a journey, I aim to make the process stress-free. While my specialty is medication management, my ultimate goal is holistic health. My practice is located in a space that offers a wide range of therapies, yoga, Reiki, massage, and nutritional services. Having easy access to these services, I am confident you will find the perfect treatment modality.
My ideal client is someone who has struggled to find a provider that listens and cares about their mental and physical health. I offer an individualized and comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic process that allows clients to feel understood. Managing psychiatric medication can be a journey, I aim to make the process stress-free. While my specialty is medication management, my ultimate goal is holistic health. My practice is located in a space that offers a wide range of therapies, yoga, Reiki, massage, and nutritional services. Having easy access to these services, I am confident you will find the perfect treatment modality.
![Photo of 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 Mary Turner - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d1dc077-0dd0-49d9-a75d-b7826fc6d5ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72207 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![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.
See more therapy options for Russellville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Russellville, AR
< 10
Psychiatrists in Russellville, AR who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Other |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
50% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Other |
100% | Blue Cross |
How Psychiatrists in Russellville, 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 Russellville?
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.