Psychiatrists in Graceville, FL
![Photo of Kiumars Shams - Sunshine Behavioral Medicine, M, D, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea1a6191-6e08-4289-ad75-f6bb599d94ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wherever you go Mental Health or Illnes will follow… Sunshine Behavioral Medicine provides the Tri-state area with Excellence in Psychiatry and Mental Health Services. We are discreetly located at our Graceville, FL facility. As a private mental health facility, we frequently treat conditions including: Addiction Disorder, Alzheimer Disease, Anxiety, Panic, Fears and Phobias, Adult Attention Deficit Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Bipolar Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). We also provide specialized psychiatric programs. Please visit us sunshine2000.com
Wherever you go Mental Health or Illnes will follow… Sunshine Behavioral Medicine provides the Tri-state area with Excellence in Psychiatry and Mental Health Services. We are discreetly located at our Graceville, FL facility. As a private mental health facility, we frequently treat conditions including: Addiction Disorder, Alzheimer Disease, Anxiety, Panic, Fears and Phobias, Adult Attention Deficit Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Bipolar Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). We also provide specialized psychiatric programs. Please visit us sunshine2000.com
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kayla Renae Sherrouse, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bf5106c-a8ec-4b43-a86f-f3f8c395b924/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kayla Renae Sherrouse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bonifay, FL 32425
Hey there, my name is Kayla Sherrouse. I take the time to listen to the patient as a whole and work one on one with the patient to have a holistic view of the patient and together formulate a treatment plan.
Hey there, my name is Kayla Sherrouse. I take the time to listen to the patient as a whole and work one on one with the patient to have a holistic view of the patient and together formulate a treatment plan.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Tara Kidd, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e78f82e-5ba4-4fba-94fb-be27f92fda07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tara Kidd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Tara Kidd is a board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She provides care to patients struggling with mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and other behavioral and mood disorders. She is a member of the American Nurse Association, American Psychiatric Nurses Association, The American Association of Nurse Practitioners, and International Association of Forensic Nurses.
Tara Kidd is a board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She provides care to patients struggling with mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and other behavioral and mood disorders. She is a member of the American Nurse Association, American Psychiatric Nurses Association, The American Association of Nurse Practitioners, and International Association of Forensic Nurses.
![Photo of Erika Regis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1edaecc9-12ed-407a-a502-7fa50746561d/1/320x400.png)
Erika Regis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32301 (Online Only)
Erika Regis, APRN-PMHNP-BC, is a seasoned Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a professional history spanning many years in the nursing field. Specializing in the treatment of adults and geriatrics, Erika's approach to care is holistic, underpinned by her belief in the essential synchrony between mind and body for optimal health.
Erika Regis, APRN-PMHNP-BC, is a seasoned Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a professional history spanning many years in the nursing field. Specializing in the treatment of adults and geriatrics, Erika's approach to care is holistic, underpinned by her belief in the essential synchrony between mind and body for optimal health.
![Photo of Magenta Hall - Healthy Self Mental Wellness, DNP, PMHNP , APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fc7fee6-578e-496a-b0da-af240033a5a9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Healthy Self Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP , APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32308 (Online Only)
I am the founder of Healthy Self Mental Wellness. I am board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. I have over 11 years of experience in the mental health setting. My education includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The Florida State University, a Masters of Science in Nursing, psychiatric nurse practitioner specialization, from The University of South Alabama, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from The University of South Alabama.
I am the founder of Healthy Self Mental Wellness. I am board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. I have over 11 years of experience in the mental health setting. My education includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The Florida State University, a Masters of Science in Nursing, psychiatric nurse practitioner specialization, from The University of South Alabama, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from The University of South Alabama.
![Photo of Therese J Calabrese, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13d38686-b2f5-4a70-8e15-3b64025567c9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Therese J Calabrese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Destin, FL 32541 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via tele-psychiatry, a virtual practice, I provide psychiatric/mental health management with a holistic approach. Specializing in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. Treatment is provided in a judgement free atmosphere from the initial evaluation, ongoing medication management and psychotherapy working in a partnership, establishing goals and providing the tools for you to achieve them. Through telehealth I am able to see patients in New York, Colorado and FLorida.
Accepting new patients via tele-psychiatry, a virtual practice, I provide psychiatric/mental health management with a holistic approach. Specializing in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. Treatment is provided in a judgement free atmosphere from the initial evaluation, ongoing medication management and psychotherapy working in a partnership, establishing goals and providing the tools for you to achieve them. Through telehealth I am able to see patients in New York, Colorado and FLorida.
![Photo of Shaquitia Jones, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04cd334d-633c-4802-8526-122cf0e814bc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shaquitia Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32303 (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Shaquitia, owner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for Hopeful Harmony Mental Health LLC. Devoted to your mental well-being, I bring over two decades of clinical experience. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a particular focus on mental healthcare for the past six years, my commitment is to use my wealth of experience to nurture the mental and physical health of those navigating mental health challenges throughout the diverse communities across the state of Florida.
Hello, I’m Shaquitia, owner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for Hopeful Harmony Mental Health LLC. Devoted to your mental well-being, I bring over two decades of clinical experience. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a particular focus on mental healthcare for the past six years, my commitment is to use my wealth of experience to nurture the mental and physical health of those navigating mental health challenges throughout the diverse communities across the state of Florida.
![Photo of Lorraine Black, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eefe59bd-2b2c-4f8a-b345-42ec43ccfd26/4/320x400.jpeg)
Lorraine Black
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Have you ever felt like your mental health needs more attention, support, or understanding than it's currently receiving?
Have you ever felt like your mental health needs more attention, support, or understanding than it's currently receiving?
![Photo of Anne Ananga - Ability Plus Mental Health LLC, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc0b9d69-2012-4299-8606-93a629b1f629/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ability Plus Mental Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32312 (Online Only)
Visit us at https://www.abilityplusmentalhealthllc.com/**Dr. Anne Ananga is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health and family nurse practitioner working for Ability Plus Mental Health LLC in Tallahassee Florida. She completed her doctorate and master’s degree from The University of Alabama Birmingham. We provide individualized psychiatric medication management while incorporating aspects of physical wellbeing, lifestyle choices, and emotional health. Get the help you need; we work collaboratively with you as a patient to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to meet your specific needs.
Visit us at https://www.abilityplusmentalhealthllc.com/**Dr. Anne Ananga is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health and family nurse practitioner working for Ability Plus Mental Health LLC in Tallahassee Florida. She completed her doctorate and master’s degree from The University of Alabama Birmingham. We provide individualized psychiatric medication management while incorporating aspects of physical wellbeing, lifestyle choices, and emotional health. Get the help you need; we work collaboratively with you as a patient to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to meet your specific needs.
![Photo of Kathryn Werner, MPAS, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4784de79-fede-43fe-af0e-60402f7faafe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Werner
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32304 (Online Only)
Anxiety, OCD and 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 tag, 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.
Anxiety, OCD and 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 tag, 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 Dr. Maryam Davari, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30658635-c41e-4fa0-bd6f-383678765ff7/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
![Photo of Kelli Elizabeth Pruitt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87b4ee69-4898-47b3-a8e1-513c31985b65/1/320x400.png)
Kelli Elizabeth Pruitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Niceville, FL 32578 (Online Only)
I'm Kelli, and I hold dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Florida and Mississippi, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
I'm Kelli, and I hold dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Florida and Mississippi, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
![Photo of Angela Sanders - Seaside Wellness & Peace of Mind Psychiatry, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, AGPCNP, ADHDCSP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba784d6c-77fe-48d0-9c7f-4eb028030076/1/320x400.jpeg)
Seaside Wellness & Peace of Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, AGPCNP, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
Navarre, FL 32566
I am a integrative family psychiatric mental health and adult gerontology primary care nurse practitioner. I specialize and am certified as an ADHD clinical service provider and mental health integrative practitioner. I am here to help you overcome obstacles, restore balance, and renew mental, physical, emotional and spiritual well being. I am currently accepting new patients in Nevada and Florida.
I am a integrative family psychiatric mental health and adult gerontology primary care nurse practitioner. I specialize and am certified as an ADHD clinical service provider and mental health integrative practitioner. I am here to help you overcome obstacles, restore balance, and renew mental, physical, emotional and spiritual well being. I am currently accepting new patients in Nevada and Florida.
![Photo of Brandi Richardson, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adcf58fe-5f57-4d9e-b655-49204f66c797/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am the founder of Stay Healthy! I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner. I am enthusiastic to utilize my experience, skills and knowledge to establish an enduring and trusting relationship with clients and significantly make a difference in the lives of others. As a dual certified nurse practitioner I understand the complexity of mental health, wellness, health promotion, and the effects of stress and chronic illness. My goal is for you to stay healthy to meet your individual needs and goals. Access to quality healthcare is what inspired me to establish my practice
I am the founder of Stay Healthy! I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner. I am enthusiastic to utilize my experience, skills and knowledge to establish an enduring and trusting relationship with clients and significantly make a difference in the lives of others. As a dual certified nurse practitioner I understand the complexity of mental health, wellness, health promotion, and the effects of stress and chronic illness. My goal is for you to stay healthy to meet your individual needs and goals. Access to quality healthcare is what inspired me to establish my practice
![Photo of Hina Smith - Healing Horizons, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b456aca8-1ef3-4c47-88c2-8cb6cf459863/1/320x400.jpeg)
Healing is on the Horizon We understand that depression affects each person uniquely, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. Our experienced providers use evidence-based techniques and a person-centered approach to tailor your treatment plan to your specific needs and goals. We believe in a holistic approach to healing, addressing not only the symptoms of depression but also the underlying causes, helping you build resilience, and fostering a sense of empowerment.
Healing is on the Horizon We understand that depression affects each person uniquely, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. Our experienced providers use evidence-based techniques and a person-centered approach to tailor your treatment plan to your specific needs and goals. We believe in a holistic approach to healing, addressing not only the symptoms of depression but also the underlying causes, helping you build resilience, and fostering a sense of empowerment.
![Photo of Kelli E. Pruitt, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/550db90c-2743-494b-9263-36a647733bce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelli E. Pruitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crestview, FL 32539 (Online Only)
I'm Kelli, and I hold dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Florida and Mississippi, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
I'm Kelli, and I hold dual board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Over the years, I've honed my skills in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings. My true passion lies in mental health, and I'm committed to delivering high-quality and empathetic mental health and primary care services to individuals of all ages. I currently provide care to patients in Florida and Mississippi, addressing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various other behavioral health concerns, in addition to general primary care.
![Photo of Sheila Barthelemy, PMHNP-B, APRN , MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa449607-427b-4cbe-b21d-710b5eaeaacc/2/320x400.png)
Sheila Barthelemy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN , MPH
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32312
Do you seek to understand your emotions, manage stress, and build resilience? Do you face anxiety or depression, seeking tools to navigate life's challenges? You crave a safe space to express yourself, fostering self-awareness and empowerment. Your goal is holistic well-being, aiming for inner peace and a fulfilling life. You want to thrive, not just survive, embracing your journey with courage and compassion.
Do you seek to understand your emotions, manage stress, and build resilience? Do you face anxiety or depression, seeking tools to navigate life's challenges? You crave a safe space to express yourself, fostering self-awareness and empowerment. Your goal is holistic well-being, aiming for inner peace and a fulfilling life. You want to thrive, not just survive, embracing your journey with courage and compassion.
![Photo of Nancy Hart, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2e511ce-5d9f-4b86-8664-7129dd0d1559/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner based in Florida. I do medication management, equine therapy and traditional therapy. I am Board Certified in Psychiatric and Mental Health for the past 19 years. I am familiar with mental health medications as well as various counseling techniques. In addition to my education as a Nurse Practitioner, I have a master's degree in counseling psychology.
I am an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner based in Florida. I do medication management, equine therapy and traditional therapy. I am Board Certified in Psychiatric and Mental Health for the past 19 years. I am familiar with mental health medications as well as various counseling techniques. In addition to my education as a Nurse Practitioner, I have a master's degree in counseling psychology.
![Photo of Daniel B Wright - Daniel B Wright DNP LLC., DNP, APRN, MSA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35100868-d7ed-47ba-9550-dbebddf481a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel B Wright DNP LLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, MSA
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32301 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a board certified, doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner licensed in Georgia and Florida. I've been in practice over 13 years, working with patients struggling to manage disorders involving addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice focus is on adults; however, I will see adolescents on a case by case basis. I am a Christian provider with a holistic perspective. While I respect all spiritual backgrounds, my faith provides context to my worldview, and thus my clinical practice. My practice is located in Tallahassee Fla. and Moultrie. Ga
Hello! I am a board certified, doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner licensed in Georgia and Florida. I've been in practice over 13 years, working with patients struggling to manage disorders involving addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. My practice focus is on adults; however, I will see adolescents on a case by case basis. I am a Christian provider with a holistic perspective. While I respect all spiritual backgrounds, my faith provides context to my worldview, and thus my clinical practice. My practice is located in Tallahassee Fla. and Moultrie. Ga
![Photo of Julianne Kay Fountain - Lifespan Psychiatry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7af19716-f72e-45c7-993c-9336e5f5f166/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lifespan Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32308
I have a vast array of knowledge and experience that lends to my ability to treat many conditions. I can prescribe medications to manage Eating Disorders, PTSD, complicated grief, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and insomnia.
I have a vast array of knowledge and experience that lends to my ability to treat many conditions. I can prescribe medications to manage Eating Disorders, PTSD, complicated grief, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and insomnia.
See more therapy options for Graceville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Graceville, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Graceville, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Dual Diagnosis |
Average years in practice
34 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Graceville, FL 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 Graceville?
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.