Psychiatrists in Birmingham, AL
![Photo of Dr. Laura Montgomery-Barefield - Ascend Psychiatry Wellness & Consulting Group, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f3fc2ff-6ab9-4772-9291-cc980317d4c8/4/320x400.jpeg)
Ascend Psychiatry Wellness & Consulting Group
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
Dr. Montgomery-Barefield completed her Medical Degree Residency and Fellowship at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Tx. As a former Professor of Psychiatry and Training Director at UAB, she dedicated nearly 20 years of her career to training the next generation of psychiatrists. Dr. Montgomery-Barefield is an American Psychiatry Association Fellow and is board Certified in Adult and Child Psychiatry. She has been in practice for over 30 years and brings a wealth of expertise.
Dr. Montgomery-Barefield completed her Medical Degree Residency and Fellowship at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Tx. As a former Professor of Psychiatry and Training Director at UAB, she dedicated nearly 20 years of her career to training the next generation of psychiatrists. Dr. Montgomery-Barefield is an American Psychiatry Association Fellow and is board Certified in Adult and Child Psychiatry. She has been in practice for over 30 years and brings a wealth of expertise.
![Photo of Tiffany Dupree, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ccccb0d-71b8-421a-a66d-279c26baed06/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Dupree
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223 (Online Only)
At Wholeness Psychiatry, I provide innovative mental healthcare to individuals aged 13 and older. This telemedicine practice offers a convenient and secure way to access psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, and medication management from the comfort of your own home. Let me help you begin your journey to mental wellness.
At Wholeness Psychiatry, I provide innovative mental healthcare to individuals aged 13 and older. This telemedicine practice offers a convenient and secure way to access psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, and medication management from the comfort of your own home. Let me help you begin your journey to mental wellness.
![Photo of Miranda Hobbs - The Jackson Center, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f298d89-f2c6-4069-bcd7-7fd269513720/1/320x400.png)
Miranda Hobbs is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She graduated from University of Alabama at Birmingham with her bachelor’s degree in nursing in 2018 and worked as an RN at UAB Hospital. She obtained her masters of nursing practice degree at UAB in 2020, going on to practice psychiatric medicine in the outpatient setting.
Miranda Hobbs is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. She graduated from University of Alabama at Birmingham with her bachelor’s degree in nursing in 2018 and worked as an RN at UAB Hospital. She obtained her masters of nursing practice degree at UAB in 2020, going on to practice psychiatric medicine in the outpatient setting.
![Photo of Bridget Rudolph Roscoe - The Approach Forward, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8f6b39b-ceb4-432e-a955-9e3db885bd97/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Approach Forward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35244 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I'm Bridget, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides medication evaluations and follow-up/medication management assessments. My top priority is the well being of my patients and their families and I pride myself in providing the absolute highest quality of psychiatric care. After an initial session, where together we will discuss your history and concerns, we will formulate a plan for increased well-being, which may include the initiation of psychiatric medications, as well as a plan for other modalities, including diet, exercise and proper rest.
Hello, I'm Bridget, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides medication evaluations and follow-up/medication management assessments. My top priority is the well being of my patients and their families and I pride myself in providing the absolute highest quality of psychiatric care. After an initial session, where together we will discuss your history and concerns, we will formulate a plan for increased well-being, which may include the initiation of psychiatric medications, as well as a plan for other modalities, including diet, exercise and proper rest.
![Photo of Autumn Stanford, MSN, CRNP, RN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8940ca0-c547-4ce6-8519-b7fffe57ce31/3/320x400.jpeg)
Autumn Stanford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, RN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242 (Online Only)
Hi! I am so happy you are here! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a Functional + Integrative + Holistic + Evidence-Based approach to Mental Wellness. The mind & body are interconnected, therefore, I see the whole-person, not just the symptoms. It is my passion to educate, empower, and support women & adolescents (ages 14 and up) in their journey to optimal mental wellness.
Hi! I am so happy you are here! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take a Functional + Integrative + Holistic + Evidence-Based approach to Mental Wellness. The mind & body are interconnected, therefore, I see the whole-person, not just the symptoms. It is my passion to educate, empower, and support women & adolescents (ages 14 and up) in their journey to optimal mental wellness.
![Photo of Ioana N Shirley, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eb18a58-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am Ioana Shirley, medical doctor board certified in Child and Adult Psychiatry. I have 30 years of daily experience in the outpatient treatment of all psychiatric disorders, using a variety of modalities that include therapy, medications, family interventions, TMS, Esketamine etc. I believe that the success of all psychiatric and psychological interventions depends on the provider's training and skills, but also on the relationship between you and this provider. I offer a one stop safe, private and respectful place for psychoeducation, counseling and complex treatments. Healing is the goal in our partnership.
Hello, I am Ioana Shirley, medical doctor board certified in Child and Adult Psychiatry. I have 30 years of daily experience in the outpatient treatment of all psychiatric disorders, using a variety of modalities that include therapy, medications, family interventions, TMS, Esketamine etc. I believe that the success of all psychiatric and psychological interventions depends on the provider's training and skills, but also on the relationship between you and this provider. I offer a one stop safe, private and respectful place for psychoeducation, counseling and complex treatments. Healing is the goal in our partnership.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0760a8b0-1d39-4658-8f67-ec3e948425f9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Leticia Ball, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caee86d0-835a-4fcc-bbb8-277d6525bbf0/1/320x400.png)
Leticia Ball
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35203 (Online Only)
Mental health care is important for individuals of all backgrounds and from all walks of life. Whether it is focusing on your depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, or borderline personality disorder - medication management and therapy are tools useful in enhancing your quality of life.
Mental health care is important for individuals of all backgrounds and from all walks of life. Whether it is focusing on your depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, or borderline personality disorder - medication management and therapy are tools useful in enhancing your quality of life.
![Photo of Dr. Tyler Byrd, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1df12a7b-3715-4d0f-b03a-fb319bb15c17/1/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a board certified psychiatrist providing diagnosis, psychotherapy, and medication management for psychiatric conditions utilizing a comprehensive and integrated approach. I provide a concierge level of care, ensuring maximum privacy and thorough attention to detail. We may choose to opt out of psychiatric medications altogether if you wish - based on the patients beliefs and preferences. Personalized approach can include (but not limited to) addressing diet, exercise, sleep cycles and quality, vitamin/herbal supplementation, and bolstering spiritual and/or social support as needed for a treatment tailored to you.
I’m a board certified psychiatrist providing diagnosis, psychotherapy, and medication management for psychiatric conditions utilizing a comprehensive and integrated approach. I provide a concierge level of care, ensuring maximum privacy and thorough attention to detail. We may choose to opt out of psychiatric medications altogether if you wish - based on the patients beliefs and preferences. Personalized approach can include (but not limited to) addressing diet, exercise, sleep cycles and quality, vitamin/herbal supplementation, and bolstering spiritual and/or social support as needed for a treatment tailored to you.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce82f01a-a7b1-4e03-b555-3a6996beb44d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Valisia Davis, DNP, CRNP-BC, PMHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71ee6df7-d9a9-4240-bc6b-4482244a66a4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Valisia Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP-BC, PMHS
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
My expertise is working with patients who are dealing with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Patients need a trusting place to be honest about their mental health concerns and the confidence they will receive quality care. I have clinical concentration of more than 15 years in pediatric psychiatry. I believe my years of experience working with child psychiatrists and psychologists allows me provide this level care..
My expertise is working with patients who are dealing with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Patients need a trusting place to be honest about their mental health concerns and the confidence they will receive quality care. I have clinical concentration of more than 15 years in pediatric psychiatry. I believe my years of experience working with child psychiatrists and psychologists allows me provide this level care..
15 Second Videos
Chenhang Zou
Ronil Shah
Brightside Health
Alabama Psychiatry Pelham
![Photo of Summyji Groom - Optimal Mental Health Virtual Clinical, PLLC, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9a01e40-51c6-4754-a9a5-c9ebdf2eb137/2/320x400.jpeg)
Optimal Mental Health Virtual Clinical, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35235 (Online Only)
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
![Photo of Mildred Blandamer - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d195fd3-e2fd-4af5-a7b1-628e8ce84e71/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35235 (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 Amin Gilani - Alabama Psychiatry Pelham, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25aecb10-bd73-4669-a69b-d740c73420b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alabama Psychiatry Pelham we believe you are important. We are a dynamic office of highly qualified mental health professionals. If you are a senior, a child or an adult we have the ability to understand what you are going through, and we have the professionals with the ability to treat what ails you. You are important.
Alabama Psychiatry Pelham we believe you are important. We are a dynamic office of highly qualified mental health professionals. If you are a senior, a child or an adult we have the ability to understand what you are going through, and we have the professionals with the ability to treat what ails you. You are important.
![Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Ault, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72167b59-9ef3-4eb3-a1c8-9453cda28a91/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in guiding young and middle-aged adults through difficult life transitions. Facing new academic or work demands, becoming a parent, or navigating relationship dynamics can present many challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma related symptoms, insomnia, or a variety of other mental health symptoms, I want to guide you through these difficult times by building a supportive, non-judgmental relationship through which to collaborate to discover your ideal self. Psychiatry should not be one-size fits all. It is a dynamic art that takes time, attention to detail, and passion.
I specialize in guiding young and middle-aged adults through difficult life transitions. Facing new academic or work demands, becoming a parent, or navigating relationship dynamics can present many challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma related symptoms, insomnia, or a variety of other mental health symptoms, I want to guide you through these difficult times by building a supportive, non-judgmental relationship through which to collaborate to discover your ideal self. Psychiatry should not be one-size fits all. It is a dynamic art that takes time, attention to detail, and passion.
![Photo of Billie Renee Russell Crnp - Reliance Associates LLC, MSN, RN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b379ce13-b620-442e-a5d8-1e933e8749a5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Reliance Associates LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
Seeking care for mental health issues can be difficult. People often feel alone or misunderstood, and suffer in silence, but mental health issues affect more than just the person who is suffering. Mental health issues are more prevalent today than ever. Being able to talk with someone who understands can help relieve this burden.
Seeking care for mental health issues can be difficult. People often feel alone or misunderstood, and suffer in silence, but mental health issues affect more than just the person who is suffering. Mental health issues are more prevalent today than ever. Being able to talk with someone who understands can help relieve this burden.
![Photo of Kathryn Werner, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd31e59b-e90b-4070-bd1d-5f46700a284d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Werner
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35203 (Online Only)
OCD, anxiety, or depression overwhelm are impacting your life, and you’re ready to get some help. You feel like meds might be an important piece of the puzzle, but traditional psychiatry doesn’t quite feel right. You’re not sure exactly what you need, but it’s definitely not inconvenient appointments, phone tags, or a provider who focuses on meds more than on you. You’re looking for a partner in your mental wellness and a process that feels good.
OCD, anxiety, or depression overwhelm are impacting your life, and you’re ready to get some help. You feel like meds might be an important piece of the puzzle, but traditional psychiatry doesn’t quite feel right. You’re not sure exactly what you need, but it’s definitely not inconvenient appointments, phone tags, or a provider who focuses on meds more than on you. You’re looking for a partner in your mental wellness and a process that feels good.
![Photo of Saydie Marshall, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0f4ee35-8345-490b-9b01-593f57c28184/1/320x400.jpeg)
Saydie Marshall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35201
Hi, my is Saydie Marshall and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my BSN from Jacksonville State University in 2020 and in 2023 obtained my MSN from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I have always been very intrigued and interested in psychiatry. My passion for mental health grew as I experienced how underserved the patients were while working as an RN with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients on various acute inpatient psychiatric units in Alabama.
Hi, my is Saydie Marshall and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my BSN from Jacksonville State University in 2020 and in 2023 obtained my MSN from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I have always been very intrigued and interested in psychiatry. My passion for mental health grew as I experienced how underserved the patients were while working as an RN with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients on various acute inpatient psychiatric units in Alabama.
![Photo of Dr. Phillip Smith, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/427caffe-76c5-4631-8d82-76afa0289b50/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist medical doctor (MD). I will offer you my approach as a physician throughout your treatment journey. I understand the difficulties you face, whether it's battling depression, can't sleep, struggling with inattention, coping with psychosis, or fighting substance use disorders. If your goal is to find relief from these acute and chronic mental health conditions, and I am here to prioritize your journey towards remission.
I am a psychiatrist medical doctor (MD). I will offer you my approach as a physician throughout your treatment journey. I understand the difficulties you face, whether it's battling depression, can't sleep, struggling with inattention, coping with psychosis, or fighting substance use disorders. If your goal is to find relief from these acute and chronic mental health conditions, and I am here to prioritize your journey towards remission.
![Photo of Krystal Patrick, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42ad58e8-4289-4924-9f92-1916a27ffd6c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Krystal Patrick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242
My name is Krystal Patrick & I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my MSN from The University of Alabama at Birmingham & I am board certified through ANCC. In 2011, I began working in the mental health field. Since then, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, seniors, and veterans. Currently, I treat individuals 18 and older. I have experience treating individuals with ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, and borderline personality disorder.
My name is Krystal Patrick & I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I obtained my MSN from The University of Alabama at Birmingham & I am board certified through ANCC. In 2011, I began working in the mental health field. Since then, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, seniors, and veterans. Currently, I treat individuals 18 and older. I have experience treating individuals with ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, and borderline personality disorder.
See more therapy options for Birmingham
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Birmingham, AL
20+
Average cost per session
$195
Psychiatrists in Birmingham, AL who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
86% | Bipolar Disorder |
86% | Medication Management |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
62% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
82% | Aetna |
73% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Birmingham, AL see their clients
52% | Online Only | |
48% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Birmingham?
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.