Psychiatrists in Santa Rosa County, FL
![Photo of Nicole Calleiro Miller, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c10c0cbd-bece-40cb-8967-a7a1f18b7a4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Calleiro Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Navarre, FL 32566
Not accepting new clients
A compliant patient is my ideal patient. It does not matter what the patient's issues, needs, or goals are; if they do not intend to put in the work, then poorer outcomes for these patients can be expected. I have found that patients are more compliant with medications if they participated in treatment planning and agreed to their treatment. I come up with possible treatment plans and I have the patient choose the one they are most comfortable with. My patient outcomes are impeccable using this approach and my patients love the amount of time spent during their appointments.
A compliant patient is my ideal patient. It does not matter what the patient's issues, needs, or goals are; if they do not intend to put in the work, then poorer outcomes for these patients can be expected. I have found that patients are more compliant with medications if they participated in treatment planning and agreed to their treatment. I come up with possible treatment plans and I have the patient choose the one they are most comfortable with. My patient outcomes are impeccable using this approach and my patients love the amount of time spent during their appointments.
![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 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 Angela Doughty Sanders, DNP, AGPCNP, PMHNP, CMHIP, ADHDCSP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/decb4e0c-6289-466d-9920-14d4bb1b7406/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Doughty Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGPCNP, PMHNP, CMHIP, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Navarre, FL 32566
I am certified and trained to treat and manage medical and psychiatric conditions. I focus on prevention, wellness (women's and men's healthcare) , and treat and manage chronic illnesses. I am a certified ADHD Clinical Services Professional and certified as a Mental Health Integrative Nurse Practitioner. I am experienced in treating psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, eating disorders, ADHD/ADD, sleep disorders, and substance abuse to include suboxone therapy. We also offer IV nutrition therapy and somatic psychotherapy/energy healing.
I am certified and trained to treat and manage medical and psychiatric conditions. I focus on prevention, wellness (women's and men's healthcare) , and treat and manage chronic illnesses. I am a certified ADHD Clinical Services Professional and certified as a Mental Health Integrative Nurse Practitioner. I am experienced in treating psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, eating disorders, ADHD/ADD, sleep disorders, and substance abuse to include suboxone therapy. We also offer IV nutrition therapy and somatic psychotherapy/energy healing.
![Photo of Dr. Randy Neil, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45b4728b-3525-4133-b4a7-f598738d4bc5/3/320x400.png)
Board Certified provider accepting Tricare, Florida Blue, Cigna Insurance patients. As a Medical Doctor (MD), my goal is working with individuals and helping them 'moving forward'. We are often limited by by own beliefs and sometimes achieve only a fraction of what we are capable because of the "old story" we tell ourselves. When it come to medications, I will ask "what is your long term goal" and work from there... Let's have the tough conversation on front end - This is NOT a practice prescribing benzodiazepines long term. If you feel it might be a good fit, then you can go to website and fill out patient intake form.
Board Certified provider accepting Tricare, Florida Blue, Cigna Insurance patients. As a Medical Doctor (MD), my goal is working with individuals and helping them 'moving forward'. We are often limited by by own beliefs and sometimes achieve only a fraction of what we are capable because of the "old story" we tell ourselves. When it come to medications, I will ask "what is your long term goal" and work from there... Let's have the tough conversation on front end - This is NOT a practice prescribing benzodiazepines long term. If you feel it might be a good fit, then you can go to website and fill out patient intake form.
![Photo of Ashley Black, ARPN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43eab854-31aa-48fd-8d67-a4d6707648a4/1/320x400.png)
Ashley Black
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARPN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gulf Breeze, FL 32561
Accepting New Patients in person or online. No long waits. Ms. Black is a dedicated board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, helping people with negative mental health symptoms. Ms. Black helps people with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, Bi-polar, autism, and more. One thing that makes Ms. Black stand out, is that she truly listens to her patients and spends time with them in order to really hear what they are in need of. It is important to her that she finds the best medication to help you with the symptoms you are experiencing.
Accepting New Patients in person or online. No long waits. Ms. Black is a dedicated board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, helping people with negative mental health symptoms. Ms. Black helps people with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, Bi-polar, autism, and more. One thing that makes Ms. Black stand out, is that she truly listens to her patients and spends time with them in order to really hear what they are in need of. It is important to her that she finds the best medication to help you with the symptoms you are experiencing.
![Photo of Andrea Lloyd, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90ae7847-3f81-476f-898c-93500efcd42e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for psychiatric care, a medication evaluation, or medication management for anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, or other issues? I am accepting new patients and congratulate you on taking steps toward your mental well-being! I offer comprehensive, compassionate, individualized psychiatric care working with you to meet your goals and find relief. I have been in the nursing world for almost 30 years, have been practicing psychiatric medicine for over a decade, and look forward to being a part of your medical care team.
Are you looking for psychiatric care, a medication evaluation, or medication management for anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, or other issues? I am accepting new patients and congratulate you on taking steps toward your mental well-being! I offer comprehensive, compassionate, individualized psychiatric care working with you to meet your goals and find relief. I have been in the nursing world for almost 30 years, have been practicing psychiatric medicine for over a decade, and look forward to being a part of your medical care team.
Online Psychiatrists
![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 Denayer Mueller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9ffc59b-b690-4efd-bac8-b34e8e41c22f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Denayer Mueller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Panama City, FL 32403 (Online Only)
As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in providing personalized mental health care through both outpatient and inpatient settings. With extensive experience in tele-psychiatry and treating diverse patient populations, I am dedicated to offering compassionate, evidence-based care.
As an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in providing personalized mental health care through both outpatient and inpatient settings. With extensive experience in tele-psychiatry and treating diverse patient populations, I am dedicated to offering compassionate, evidence-based care.
![Photo of Dr. Kameko McGuire - Kameko McGuire - New Hope Mental Health & Wellness, DNP, PMHNPBC, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9ca0d9c-a889-43dc-9fe5-2388f84c37c1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kameko McGuire - New Hope Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, NP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mary Esther, FL 32569
I pride myself on being approachable. I have worked with clients of all ages. I feel it is imperative to decrease the stigma associated with mental health care. How can I help? I am your mental health advocate, and as a team, we will work on getting you what you need to be the best version of yourself. Please review my list of accepted insurances. I do not accept Medicaid at this time.
I pride myself on being approachable. I have worked with clients of all ages. I feel it is imperative to decrease the stigma associated with mental health care. How can I help? I am your mental health advocate, and as a team, we will work on getting you what you need to be the best version of yourself. Please review my list of accepted insurances. I do not accept Medicaid at this time.
![Photo of Holly Gardner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7dac39b-a916-411a-9ac0-f0e9a3233270/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holly Gardner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (Online Only)
Welcome! Holly Gardner is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is Board Certified. She has over 24 years of medical experience behind her with over 8 years of experience treating child, adolescent, adult, and geriatric clients Across the Lifespan. She is also a veteran with over 19 years of experience working directly with the military and veterans.
Welcome! Holly Gardner is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is Board Certified. She has over 24 years of medical experience behind her with over 8 years of experience treating child, adolescent, adult, and geriatric clients Across the Lifespan. She is also a veteran with over 19 years of experience working directly with the military and veterans.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28820c59-25ab-4ca0-910c-ea4442a8a527/2/320x400.png)
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Lisa Anne Youngblood, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bec8c40-5b78-490c-b6a1-7296285405db/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Anne Youngblood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Panama City, FL 32404 (Online Only)
What sets my practice apart from other providers is my specialty in women mental health needs as they navigate the hormonal changes through each phase of their lives. These transitions and conditions include PMDD, PMS pregnancy, perimenopause, menopause and post menopause. My dual degree as a family nurse practitioner has allowed me the expertise in this area and to offer a unique servce to all my clients. I offer an integrated and holistic approach that is dedicated to helping you create an emotionally balanced life.
What sets my practice apart from other providers is my specialty in women mental health needs as they navigate the hormonal changes through each phase of their lives. These transitions and conditions include PMDD, PMS pregnancy, perimenopause, menopause and post menopause. My dual degree as a family nurse practitioner has allowed me the expertise in this area and to offer a unique servce to all my clients. I offer an integrated and holistic approach that is dedicated to helping you create an emotionally balanced life.
![Photo of Kelli Elizabeth Pruit, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/487c151a-3a5b-4990-82d2-8dabe82ab4e7/1/320x400.png)
Kelli Elizabeth Pruit
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 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 Timothy Gooden - JourneyPure Behavioral Health Counseling, Alcohol, & Drugs, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52ad2e68-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
JourneyPure Behavioral Health Counseling
Psychiatrist, Alcohol, & Drugs
Verified Verified
Panama City Beach, FL 32413
SUBOXONE® helps you accept treatment when it feels like living without drugs is impossible. The medication is coupled with therapy that fits into your everyday schedule, an iPhone app with games that reinforce healthy habits and your personal Recovery Coach available 24/7. You'll get down to the core of what's fueling the drugs and alcohol use, including issues like depression and anxiety.
SUBOXONE® helps you accept treatment when it feels like living without drugs is impossible. The medication is coupled with therapy that fits into your everyday schedule, an iPhone app with games that reinforce healthy habits and your personal Recovery Coach available 24/7. You'll get down to the core of what's fueling the drugs and alcohol use, including issues like depression and anxiety.
![Photo of Lyssa Brooks, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba6c3d13-f30e-456a-a89b-7c5bba7338c1/2/320x400.png)
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may struggle with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may struggle with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
![Photo of Kimberly Murphy, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a61e718-8b99-456d-8d91-88085909b5b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Kimberly Murphy and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I believe there is no true benefit to the traditional fast-paced outpatient psychiatric environment and feel a patient care model should give more input to the treatment care plan where it belongs...the patient. If you choose to join me at Essential Grace Mental Health Services, LLC, you will find that I provide a compassionate and evidence-based treatment approach to help patients manage their mental health. You will also find I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and live a fulfilling life.
My name is Kimberly Murphy and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I believe there is no true benefit to the traditional fast-paced outpatient psychiatric environment and feel a patient care model should give more input to the treatment care plan where it belongs...the patient. If you choose to join me at Essential Grace Mental Health Services, LLC, you will find that I provide a compassionate and evidence-based treatment approach to help patients manage their mental health. You will also find I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and live a fulfilling life.
![Photo of Summer Sievert, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b25bb1d7-e0ad-48ad-b3a1-1f677a653caf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Summer Sievert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crestview, FL 32536 (Online Only)
Depressed? Anxious? Moods Up & Down? Can't Focus and Concentrate? New Patient Management from $200 and follow ups from $75. Insight Psychiatry is the innovative way to get the mental healthcare you need. With our telemedicine platform that can be accessed across Florida and Kentucky, we make it much more convenient for you to have access to psychiatric care. Or see us in person in Central and North Florida or Bowling Green, KY. We are dedicated to providing high-quality treatment with an attitude of understanding so you feel comfortable communicating openly about your needs.
Depressed? Anxious? Moods Up & Down? Can't Focus and Concentrate? New Patient Management from $200 and follow ups from $75. Insight Psychiatry is the innovative way to get the mental healthcare you need. With our telemedicine platform that can be accessed across Florida and Kentucky, we make it much more convenient for you to have access to psychiatric care. Or see us in person in Central and North Florida or Bowling Green, KY. We are dedicated to providing high-quality treatment with an attitude of understanding so you feel comfortable communicating openly about your needs.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b94f056-8957-4785-a3e9-56297c86d1cd/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
See more therapy options for Santa Rosa County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Santa Rosa County, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Santa Rosa County, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
86% | ADHD |
86% | Medication Management |
71% | Eating Disorders |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
71% | Aetna |
71% | TRICARE |
71% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Santa Rosa County, FL see their clients
86% | In Person and Online | |
14% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Santa Rosa County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.