Psychiatrists in Ocean View, DE
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Check out psychiatrists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Delaware below.More Psychiatrists Nearby
Dr. Xiaojing Shi is a board-certified general adult psychiatrist. She is a dedicated and experienced community outpatient psychiatrist who graduated from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School Psychiatry Residency Program, formerly worked as an outpatient psychiatrist and a faculty of Case Western Reserve University in Department of Psychiatry, MetroHealth System in Cleveland. She has working experience in treating depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety, ADHD, dementia and many other psychiatric diseases. She provides psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services.
Dr. Xiaojing Shi is a board-certified general adult psychiatrist. She is a dedicated and experienced community outpatient psychiatrist who graduated from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School Psychiatry Residency Program, formerly worked as an outpatient psychiatrist and a faculty of Case Western Reserve University in Department of Psychiatry, MetroHealth System in Cleveland. She has working experience in treating depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety, ADHD, dementia and many other psychiatric diseases. She provides psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services.
![Photo of Ellen Meshileya, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccb8742f-45ce-4bfe-bef5-d33d41d0c6eb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ellen Meshileya is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Delaware. Ellen provides a safe space for clients to receive appropriate help for their specific mental health diagnosis. Outside of work, Ellen enjoys spending time with family, traveling, going for walks on the beach, and watching movies.
Ellen Meshileya is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Delaware. Ellen provides a safe space for clients to receive appropriate help for their specific mental health diagnosis. Outside of work, Ellen enjoys spending time with family, traveling, going for walks on the beach, and watching movies.
![Photo of Dia Arpon, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b51afb42-e87d-4a3b-8a22-be635cad3ad6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dia Arpon is a Psychiatrist in Delaware who has been practicing since 2006. Dr. Arpon provides empathy, knowledge, experience, family medicine and general psychiatry training. She is trained in multiple therapy approaches such as trauma focused therapy, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, supportive, and motivational interviewing. Dr. Arpon specializes in PTSD, substance abuse, LGBTQI issues, community, women's health, Depression, and Anxiety. Outside of work, Dr. Arpon is an avid reader, movie goer, music fan, and world traveler.
Dr. Dia Arpon is a Psychiatrist in Delaware who has been practicing since 2006. Dr. Arpon provides empathy, knowledge, experience, family medicine and general psychiatry training. She is trained in multiple therapy approaches such as trauma focused therapy, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, supportive, and motivational interviewing. Dr. Arpon specializes in PTSD, substance abuse, LGBTQI issues, community, women's health, Depression, and Anxiety. Outside of work, Dr. Arpon is an avid reader, movie goer, music fan, and world traveler.
![Photo of Candace Thune, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80ec412d-f152-4bf5-8602-c32d33f4b849/1/320x400.jpeg)
Candace Thune
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethany Beach, DE 19930
Our mission is to create trust and a personal relationship between the individual and provider for a more calming and communicative experience. Insight Health and Wellness prioritizes mental health needs and mindfulness practices where the individual is at the forefront of each appointment. We are accepting new patients for medication management and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Our mission is to create trust and a personal relationship between the individual and provider for a more calming and communicative experience. Insight Health and Wellness prioritizes mental health needs and mindfulness practices where the individual is at the forefront of each appointment. We are accepting new patients for medication management and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
![Photo of Shashikala Venkatachalapathy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c5f103e-38e6-417b-ab64-6e1abad31d53/1/320x400.jpeg)
I treat all the psychiatric disorders. I believe in therapy however, my expertise is in psychopharmacology/Medication management. I'm empathic and a good listener. I believe in educating my patients about their illness, treatments and give them hope.
I treat all the psychiatric disorders. I believe in therapy however, my expertise is in psychopharmacology/Medication management. I'm empathic and a good listener. I believe in educating my patients about their illness, treatments and give them hope.
![Photo of Chloe Griffith, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b367c37-8316-464a-98e3-9a584f51a109/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millsboro, DE 19966 (Online Only)
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
![Photo of Chloe Griffith, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04d38a48-daf1-44fc-9c83-b043da89963f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millsboro, DE 19966 (Online Only)
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Catherine Asem, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9dfdd09-7ecc-4d60-9578-c24f8791133b/2/320x400.png)
Catherine Asem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
New Castle, DE 19720 (Online Only)
I am a licensed Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over a decade of experience as a provider. With experience in various settings from primary care to addiction medicine, I have a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health disorders across different populations. I assist clients in managing their mental health conditions and learning new ways of coping with life stressors. I also specialize in medical weight management.
I am a licensed Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over a decade of experience as a provider. With experience in various settings from primary care to addiction medicine, I have a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health disorders across different populations. I assist clients in managing their mental health conditions and learning new ways of coping with life stressors. I also specialize in medical weight management.
![Photo of Katelin Talbert, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5027124f-17f8-4197-b575-158af02b0fe6/1/320x400.png)
Offering in-person and online mental and behavioral health evaluations and medication management for patients aged 4-40. Telehealth appointments will be offered on a case-by-case basis.
Offering in-person and online mental and behavioral health evaluations and medication management for patients aged 4-40. Telehealth appointments will be offered on a case-by-case basis.
![Photo of Dr. Heather John, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5178c6a3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
In this Chester County & Wilmington practice, Dr. Heather John, MD, works with adults (18 or older) with a variety of mental health difficulties, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, interpersonal issues, & sleep issues. For more details, to initiate a referral, or contact Dr. John, visit www.terrafirmapsychiatry.com. This practice is currently accepting new patients for psychotherapy, with the addition of medications when appropriate; it is not currently accepting new patients for medication management-only, or for split treatment (medication management in this practice, & psychotherapy with another professional).
In this Chester County & Wilmington practice, Dr. Heather John, MD, works with adults (18 or older) with a variety of mental health difficulties, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, interpersonal issues, & sleep issues. For more details, to initiate a referral, or contact Dr. John, visit www.terrafirmapsychiatry.com. This practice is currently accepting new patients for psychotherapy, with the addition of medications when appropriate; it is not currently accepting new patients for medication management-only, or for split treatment (medication management in this practice, & psychotherapy with another professional).
Creative Medical Consulting, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Odessa, DE 19730
Creative Medical Consulting, is passionately committed to providing personalized services that embrace a holistic approach to wellness. We provide quality therapeutic interventions to children, adolescents and adults that promote improved mental health & wellbeing through education, support and advocacy. At Creative Medical Consulting, we promote comprehensive care which focuses on social, emotional, physical, medical and behavioral wellbeing.
Creative Medical Consulting, is passionately committed to providing personalized services that embrace a holistic approach to wellness. We provide quality therapeutic interventions to children, adolescents and adults that promote improved mental health & wellbeing through education, support and advocacy. At Creative Medical Consulting, we promote comprehensive care which focuses on social, emotional, physical, medical and behavioral wellbeing.
![Photo of Leslie Feggans-Haynes, PMHNP, CRNP, MEd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cc2e8a3-6e0e-4bb5-80df-5bcf6246df7e/1/320x400.png)
Leslie Feggans-Haynes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CRNP, MEd
Verified Verified
Hockessin, DE 19707 (Online Only)
Hello, I am a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with a passion for people and mental health advocacy. I started my professional career in the pharmaceutical industry as a Research & Development Scientist. However, I was driven to make a broader impact in the lives of others and returned to school for my healthcare degrees. My passion for mental health and nursing led me to specialize in psychiatric mental health care. I enjoy working closely with individuals of diverse ages and backgrounds across the lifespan in various settings.
Hello, I am a double board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with a passion for people and mental health advocacy. I started my professional career in the pharmaceutical industry as a Research & Development Scientist. However, I was driven to make a broader impact in the lives of others and returned to school for my healthcare degrees. My passion for mental health and nursing led me to specialize in psychiatric mental health care. I enjoy working closely with individuals of diverse ages and backgrounds across the lifespan in various settings.
![Photo of Erika Stewart, MS, CRNP, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddc6135b-34dd-4439-843e-9075069386b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erika Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, CRNP, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients! My name is Erika Stewart and I'm a board certified psychiatric mental health practitioner. My specialties are perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma related symptoms. I see clients from ages 18 and up. I currently have immediate openings for telehealth only. I have been a nurse since 2009 and I absolutely love what I do! I provide a holistic and compassionate approach to mental health. I just do not focus on medication, but I look at all aspects of your life and to determine what changes need to be made for you to feel better. Call me today if you are ready for a change
Now Accepting New Clients! My name is Erika Stewart and I'm a board certified psychiatric mental health practitioner. My specialties are perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma related symptoms. I see clients from ages 18 and up. I currently have immediate openings for telehealth only. I have been a nurse since 2009 and I absolutely love what I do! I provide a holistic and compassionate approach to mental health. I just do not focus on medication, but I look at all aspects of your life and to determine what changes need to be made for you to feel better. Call me today if you are ready for a change
![Photo of Elizabeth (Elissa) Seward, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31186fb5-6dfe-4ffe-a8ed-3c7163af0e16/2/320x400.jpeg)
I strongly believe that mental healthcare relies on a culture of acceptance and understanding. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, it is my goal to provide care for those that struggle to be heard and those that feel they do not belong. I plan to help manage my patient's treatment plans with compassion. l view individuals as more than their illness and treat holistically. I encourage my patients to practice self advocacy and autonomy. You are ultimately in charge of your life. I am simply here to help guide and assist you in finding happiness and peace with my acquired skill set from years of experience and advanced education.
I strongly believe that mental healthcare relies on a culture of acceptance and understanding. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, it is my goal to provide care for those that struggle to be heard and those that feel they do not belong. I plan to help manage my patient's treatment plans with compassion. l view individuals as more than their illness and treat holistically. I encourage my patients to practice self advocacy and autonomy. You are ultimately in charge of your life. I am simply here to help guide and assist you in finding happiness and peace with my acquired skill set from years of experience and advanced education.
![Photo of Laura Hummel, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59e211fe-1c46-42cf-9e38-6282e6cce7d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura B. Hummel is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Delaware who has been practicing since 1990. She received her BSN from the University of Delaware and her MSN from the University of Pennsylvania. Currently she holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Alabama. In this day and age no one should have to suffer. There are many solutions to life's stressors. When it comes to medication, Laura believes in trying to find the medication that has the least side effects and is the most effective treatment. Taking medication should be like taking a vitamin.
Laura B. Hummel is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Delaware who has been practicing since 1990. She received her BSN from the University of Delaware and her MSN from the University of Pennsylvania. Currently she holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Alabama. In this day and age no one should have to suffer. There are many solutions to life's stressors. When it comes to medication, Laura believes in trying to find the medication that has the least side effects and is the most effective treatment. Taking medication should be like taking a vitamin.
![Photo of Renata Nkeze - Comprehensive Health and Behavioral services, DNP, APRN, PMH-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5d11ac5-31cc-47a1-aee3-4b0414e0bf80/1/320x400.jpeg)
Comprehensive Health and Behavioral services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, DE 19709 (Online Only)
Dr Renata Nkeze, popularly called” Dr Nkeze” by her patients is trained as a Nurse Practitioner with specialty in Psychiatry and Mental health. She studied and completed her Masters in Nursing in University of South Alabama and Doctorate in Wilmington University in DE. She has been practicing for the past 8 years serving both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry in Prince George’s, Howard, Montgomery and Anne Arundel County in MD. She is rated by her patients as one of the best providers they have come across as she is dedicated to her patients. She is a member of ANCC. She is License in three States .
Dr Renata Nkeze, popularly called” Dr Nkeze” by her patients is trained as a Nurse Practitioner with specialty in Psychiatry and Mental health. She studied and completed her Masters in Nursing in University of South Alabama and Doctorate in Wilmington University in DE. She has been practicing for the past 8 years serving both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry in Prince George’s, Howard, Montgomery and Anne Arundel County in MD. She is rated by her patients as one of the best providers they have come across as she is dedicated to her patients. She is a member of ANCC. She is License in three States .
![Photo of Sheila J Cannon, PhD, PMHNP, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a4fdcea-3bfd-4fc7-9b15-87bcf6430d93/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila J Cannon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Magnolia, DE 19962 (Online Only)
Dr. Sheila Cannon’s experiences in psychiatry have spanned over 36 years. She has been an RN for 39 years and an educator for 29 years. She is a board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist in psychiatric mental health (PMHCNS), a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and an approved Buprenorphine provider. She has years of practice experience in inpatient psychiatric arenas and as a psychopharmacologist and psychotherapist in VA, MA, NC & DE. She is licensed to practice in NC and DE. She has expertise in trauma-informed CBT and specializes in PTSD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and many others.
Dr. Sheila Cannon’s experiences in psychiatry have spanned over 36 years. She has been an RN for 39 years and an educator for 29 years. She is a board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist in psychiatric mental health (PMHCNS), a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and an approved Buprenorphine provider. She has years of practice experience in inpatient psychiatric arenas and as a psychopharmacologist and psychotherapist in VA, MA, NC & DE. She is licensed to practice in NC and DE. She has expertise in trauma-informed CBT and specializes in PTSD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and many others.
![Photo of Dr. Dominic Marano, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8946c3d1-7ae8-4ebe-8476-abe2971a8391/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dominic Marano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810
At Dominic Marano LLC, my mission is to provide compassionate care and support to those struggling with mental health issues. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care and we strive to make that a reality for our clients. Please go to website address: dominicmaranollc.com/request-an-appointment to submit requests for or call initial consultations. Thanks!
At Dominic Marano LLC, my mission is to provide compassionate care and support to those struggling with mental health issues. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care and we strive to make that a reality for our clients. Please go to website address: dominicmaranollc.com/request-an-appointment to submit requests for or call initial consultations. Thanks!
Circle of Hope Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, DE 19977
Making the decision to seek help is always a difficult one due to the stigma associated wit with Mental health disorders. Circle of Hope Services understand this patient dilemma. We provide a holistic environment that treats both body and soul making our clients feel welcomed and accepted. We utilize best possible outcomes that are evidence-based and have proven to work well with most patients. Our professionals have many years of experience working with mental health co-occurring, and dual diagnosis clients. If you have been putting your treatment on hold, now is the time. Our patients are our priority and we are ready to help.
Making the decision to seek help is always a difficult one due to the stigma associated wit with Mental health disorders. Circle of Hope Services understand this patient dilemma. We provide a holistic environment that treats both body and soul making our clients feel welcomed and accepted. We utilize best possible outcomes that are evidence-based and have proven to work well with most patients. Our professionals have many years of experience working with mental health co-occurring, and dual diagnosis clients. If you have been putting your treatment on hold, now is the time. Our patients are our priority and we are ready to help.
![Photo of Nicole Jackson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e98152f-b886-41bd-96d6-49fc2afafd10/2/320x400.png)
Nicole Jackson is dually certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate degree at Drexel University and her graduate degree at Wilmington University. Nicole works with individuals throughout the lifespan whom are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach.
Nicole Jackson is dually certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She completed her undergraduate degree at Drexel University and her graduate degree at Wilmington University. Nicole works with individuals throughout the lifespan whom are looking to gain insight into themselves and improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand each individual holistically, including their backgrounds and the strengths they already possess to provide an individualized approach.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Ocean View, DE
< 10
Psychiatrists in Ocean View, DE who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Ocean View, DE see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Ocean View?
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.