Psychiatrists in Wailea, HI
![Photo of Dennis D' Arcy Banks, MD, JD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/985bd6a6-6684-4671-bbf1-fa6dbfd2cb8c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I currently practice psychiatry in Wailea,Hawaii as Founder/Chairman of Maui Psychiatry LLC.Since 1999 I was Consulting Psychiatrist for the Greenwich,Connecticut Board of Education. I graduated Yale Medical School and completed residency training at Stanford University Hospital and the McAuley Neuropsychiatric Institute in San Francisco. My primary objective as a psychiatrist is to accurately assess whatever challenges are being faced by my patients and to address them as quickly and sympathetically as possible.I am available for Skype and FaceTime appointments and offer a Concierge Program for individuals who desire or require a more intensive therapeutic experience.
I currently practice psychiatry in Wailea,Hawaii as Founder/Chairman of Maui Psychiatry LLC.Since 1999 I was Consulting Psychiatrist for the Greenwich,Connecticut Board of Education. I graduated Yale Medical School and completed residency training at Stanford University Hospital and the McAuley Neuropsychiatric Institute in San Francisco. My primary objective as a psychiatrist is to accurately assess whatever challenges are being faced by my patients and to address them as quickly and sympathetically as possible.I am available for Skype and FaceTime appointments and offer a Concierge Program for individuals who desire or require a more intensive therapeutic experience.
![Photo of Nikki Miller, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05e127ee-b305-434b-b429-8b9021071875/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nikki Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wailea, HI 96753
My areas of expertise include treating Post Traumatic Stress and Trauma-Related Disorders. My approach to therapy includes promotion of healing through cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based therapy, as well as innovative evidence-based practices. With a focus on exploring lifestyle changes and skill building through therapeutic processing in conjunction with pharmacological influences. My background with SART/SANE has provided me with experience that helps me aid clients in making educated choices while processing stressful, traumatic life experiences or challenging circumstances.
My areas of expertise include treating Post Traumatic Stress and Trauma-Related Disorders. My approach to therapy includes promotion of healing through cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based therapy, as well as innovative evidence-based practices. With a focus on exploring lifestyle changes and skill building through therapeutic processing in conjunction with pharmacological influences. My background with SART/SANE has provided me with experience that helps me aid clients in making educated choices while processing stressful, traumatic life experiences or challenging circumstances.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Michael Rimm, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6eaced-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
"Whatever it takes," describes Dr. Rimm's 30 years of gratifying experiences as a facilitator of change (Child/Adol/Adult Psychiatrist) for so many. Comfort and confidence are a priority as each individual invests in a potential life changing experience. "Change is always possible," we are reminded by "systems theory," as one thing effects the next, which effects the next, etc. Dr. Rimm has the expertise to determine whether only one or a few things require focus, such as a specific evidenced based therapy, medicine, alternative, or if there are many more unique opportunities to identify and focus on a "much broader canvas."
"Whatever it takes," describes Dr. Rimm's 30 years of gratifying experiences as a facilitator of change (Child/Adol/Adult Psychiatrist) for so many. Comfort and confidence are a priority as each individual invests in a potential life changing experience. "Change is always possible," we are reminded by "systems theory," as one thing effects the next, which effects the next, etc. Dr. Rimm has the expertise to determine whether only one or a few things require focus, such as a specific evidenced based therapy, medicine, alternative, or if there are many more unique opportunities to identify and focus on a "much broader canvas."
![Photo of Nagaprasad B Murthi - N B Murthi MD PC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42673a60-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Experienced and compassionate adult outpatient psychiatrist, with 35+ years experience in the diagnosis and treatment of severe and persistent mental disorders including Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety and Panic Disorders. Additional experience in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness in the Developmentally Disabled.I recently relocated to Hawaii from Michigan and currently practice in Wailea HI in Maui County.
Experienced and compassionate adult outpatient psychiatrist, with 35+ years experience in the diagnosis and treatment of severe and persistent mental disorders including Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety and Panic Disorders. Additional experience in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness in the Developmentally Disabled.I recently relocated to Hawaii from Michigan and currently practice in Wailea HI in Maui County.
![Photo of Brian Teliho - Maui Mind Care, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/438d82c1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Aloha! Welcome to Maui Mind Care, where we are pleased to bring the latest and most advanced psychiatric treatments to the Valley Isle. Whether you are struggling with mild anxieties, or profound mood or thought disorders, we are here to help. We are the first and only center on Maui to offer transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS therapy. We also offer expertise in psychopharmacology, both in person and via tele-medicine to other islands. Our staff is caring and well qualified, with years of experience in psychiatric treatment, research, and teaching. Contact us today. Let us bring you peace of mind.
Aloha! Welcome to Maui Mind Care, where we are pleased to bring the latest and most advanced psychiatric treatments to the Valley Isle. Whether you are struggling with mild anxieties, or profound mood or thought disorders, we are here to help. We are the first and only center on Maui to offer transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS therapy. We also offer expertise in psychopharmacology, both in person and via tele-medicine to other islands. Our staff is caring and well qualified, with years of experience in psychiatric treatment, research, and teaching. Contact us today. Let us bring you peace of mind.
![Photo of Molly Palmer, APRN-Rx, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17e75f7a-035e-4c59-9ddd-c4576777223b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Molly Palmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-Rx, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753
As a Nurse Practitioner, Molly has experience treating Post Traumatic Stress and Trauma-Related Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Substance Use Disorders. She is a strong believer in team work and collaboration with clients and their families to help them manage symptoms, enhance functioning, and improve quality of life. She attends monthly community meetings with Maui County Police Department, networks with other mental health providers, pharmacists, and engages with public health agencies to improve access and quality of care to individuals with mental illness.
As a Nurse Practitioner, Molly has experience treating Post Traumatic Stress and Trauma-Related Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Substance Use Disorders. She is a strong believer in team work and collaboration with clients and their families to help them manage symptoms, enhance functioning, and improve quality of life. She attends monthly community meetings with Maui County Police Department, networks with other mental health providers, pharmacists, and engages with public health agencies to improve access and quality of care to individuals with mental illness.
![Photo of Ashley Hinojosa, MSN, APRN-Rx, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8a93c72-ddda-460b-83f2-a0420cf17728/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Hinojosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-Rx, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753
Accepting new patients and offering in-person sessions or remote telehealth sessions which are conveniently accessible from your phone or computer. Wherever you are, help is just a call away. Imagine waking up not feeling controlled by your thoughts. What if you weren't caught in the constant tug-of-war with depression, anxiety, the echoes of past traumas, or the relentless whirl of ADHD? So many people carry the weight of these struggles silently, wondering if there's a way to feel balanced, understood, and genuinely happy. If reading this feels like I'm describing your daily battle, know that you're not alone, and there is hope.
Accepting new patients and offering in-person sessions or remote telehealth sessions which are conveniently accessible from your phone or computer. Wherever you are, help is just a call away. Imagine waking up not feeling controlled by your thoughts. What if you weren't caught in the constant tug-of-war with depression, anxiety, the echoes of past traumas, or the relentless whirl of ADHD? So many people carry the weight of these struggles silently, wondering if there's a way to feel balanced, understood, and genuinely happy. If reading this feels like I'm describing your daily battle, know that you're not alone, and there is hope.
![Photo of Konstantina Rose, FNP-BC, APRN-Rx, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfa8fdef-4e91-4927-afcb-0109fde547ba/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Family Nurse Practitioner, a nurse, a Nursing Instructor and a future Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I will always strive for excellence and compassionate patient management. I strongly believe in promoting patient autonomy. In my practice, I utilize a holistic approach in which the coordination of mind, body, spirit, and psychosocial concerns are emphasized and employed.
As a Family Nurse Practitioner, a nurse, a Nursing Instructor and a future Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I will always strive for excellence and compassionate patient management. I strongly believe in promoting patient autonomy. In my practice, I utilize a holistic approach in which the coordination of mind, body, spirit, and psychosocial concerns are emphasized and employed.
![Photo of Daniel Mattox - ADHD Wellness Hawai'i, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d28a4856-e042-4941-88e3-9189e8cf3a1e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Text or call: 808-563-4128. At ADHD Wellness Hawai'i our unwavering commitment is to cater to the unique needs of adults grappling with ADHD. We understand that navigating daily life with ADHD can be challenging, impacting not only personal well-being but also interpersonal relationships and professional pursuits. Our clinic stands out as a beacon of understanding and support, offering a personalized approach that goes beyond mere diagnosis and med management. We pride ourselves on being readily available to YOU when you need a last minute appointment, forgot to request that med refill, or don't want to wait months for an appt.
Text or call: 808-563-4128. At ADHD Wellness Hawai'i our unwavering commitment is to cater to the unique needs of adults grappling with ADHD. We understand that navigating daily life with ADHD can be challenging, impacting not only personal well-being but also interpersonal relationships and professional pursuits. Our clinic stands out as a beacon of understanding and support, offering a personalized approach that goes beyond mere diagnosis and med management. We pride ourselves on being readily available to YOU when you need a last minute appointment, forgot to request that med refill, or don't want to wait months for an appt.
![Photo of Arica Keyser, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87aea2f4-215e-406e-84ea-c464f33f0585/1/320x400.jpeg)
I've embarked on a lifelong journey of education both through formal trainings and programs, and also acknowledge that I've learned just as much from my clients and colleagues over the years. Clients can expect to feel respected, listened to, and most importantly, that they have someone on their team working with them to meet their goals.
I've embarked on a lifelong journey of education both through formal trainings and programs, and also acknowledge that I've learned just as much from my clients and colleagues over the years. Clients can expect to feel respected, listened to, and most importantly, that they have someone on their team working with them to meet their goals.
![Photo of Sharilyn J Scoppettone-Butteling - Maui Counseling Group, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4681e4b4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere for my clientele. My goal is to work as a team to help you get the best treatment available for you during this difficult time. Whether it is therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, we will work together to help you process your life experiences and concerns for the future. I don't want my clients feeling just "ok", I want them to feel better about themselves mentally, spiritually and physically.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere for my clientele. My goal is to work as a team to help you get the best treatment available for you during this difficult time. Whether it is therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, we will work together to help you process your life experiences and concerns for the future. I don't want my clients feeling just "ok", I want them to feel better about themselves mentally, spiritually and physically.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Thomas Cook, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ed1a37b-e8e8-4912-a62f-4331bb420694/1/320x400.png)
I am a board certified psychiatrist taking new patients in Honolulu. I specialize in the rapid treatment of depression, and in the transition to more effective alternatives, such as TMS, ketamine, medical cannabis, and more. Taking pills everyday is at times indicated, but often there are more sensible options. I sometimes prescribe books, and my style is upfront, down to earth, out of the box, and interactive. Please visit --> www.drcook.org.
I am a board certified psychiatrist taking new patients in Honolulu. I specialize in the rapid treatment of depression, and in the transition to more effective alternatives, such as TMS, ketamine, medical cannabis, and more. Taking pills everyday is at times indicated, but often there are more sensible options. I sometimes prescribe books, and my style is upfront, down to earth, out of the box, and interactive. Please visit --> www.drcook.org.
![Photo of Elizabeth Bush - Pacific Academy of the Healing Arts, APRN, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d73b1d3c-0795-4229-9fca-5043cacda388/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pacific Academy of the Healing Arts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Kamuela, HI 96743 (Online Only)
Elizabeth (Liz) Bush has practiced mental health nursing on the Big Island since 1999 and trains substance abuse counselors in her spare time. She has also served as a mental health provider in the immediate vicinity of the September 11th tragedy and has worked with Combat Veterans, Native American tribes and Pacific Islanders, as well as in East coast inner cities.
Elizabeth (Liz) Bush has practiced mental health nursing on the Big Island since 1999 and trains substance abuse counselors in her spare time. She has also served as a mental health provider in the immediate vicinity of the September 11th tragedy and has worked with Combat Veterans, Native American tribes and Pacific Islanders, as well as in East coast inner cities.
![Photo of Shameca Hudson, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8493bcfe-c3cd-45fe-83c1-b214828a50fc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shameca Hudson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734 (Online Only)
Dr. Shameca Hudson is a Board Certified - Family and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience treating adults, children, and families with mental illness. She takes an integrative and individualized approach to care. She is interested in culture and its impact on mental health..
Dr. Shameca Hudson is a Board Certified - Family and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience treating adults, children, and families with mental illness. She takes an integrative and individualized approach to care. She is interested in culture and its impact on mental health..
![Photo of Tara Knight - Ohanapsych, PMHNPBC, APRN-RX, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af0bf1ff-a5b8-4bd2-a9fe-fcae1fd68b2c/1/320x400.png)
Tara Knight - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN-RX
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817
Tara has completed a child and adolescent psychiatric fellowship at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and became nationally board certified as a PMHNP in 2019. Prior to that, she has 12 years of nursing experience including trauma, progressive care nursing, and psychiatric emergencies before graduating with a Master of Science (MSN) advanced training at the University of San Diego. She also served in the United States Air Force as a flight nurse and nursing services instructor and manager.
Tara has completed a child and adolescent psychiatric fellowship at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and became nationally board certified as a PMHNP in 2019. Prior to that, she has 12 years of nursing experience including trauma, progressive care nursing, and psychiatric emergencies before graduating with a Master of Science (MSN) advanced training at the University of San Diego. She also served in the United States Air Force as a flight nurse and nursing services instructor and manager.
![Photo of Carter Doyle, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e66a939e-77f8-4880-b141-45db2df68a70/2/320x400.png)
Carter Doyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96801
I help clients find relief through therapy and wholistic treatment plans that can include medication management. Together we will gently dig beneath the surface of pain and distress, and begin to work towards a deep wholeness and healing. We work together to find the roots of pain and distress, and then provide help and healing to those parts that need care. I practice by the mantra "Be curious, not judgmental."
I help clients find relief through therapy and wholistic treatment plans that can include medication management. Together we will gently dig beneath the surface of pain and distress, and begin to work towards a deep wholeness and healing. We work together to find the roots of pain and distress, and then provide help and healing to those parts that need care. I practice by the mantra "Be curious, not judgmental."
![Photo of Dr. Susan Magorno, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8be4cccd-87c3-4829-9668-62aa2c24315d/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Susan Magorno
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Kaneohe, HI 96744 (Online Only)
I am a firm believer in the holistic approach to care and my goal is to work together for a happier, more fulfilled you. I use medications as a bridge for many conditions but most importantly, I focus on lifestyle modifications to ensure continued success. Please call for possible openings outside of listed availability.
I am a firm believer in the holistic approach to care and my goal is to work together for a happier, more fulfilled you. I use medications as a bridge for many conditions but most importantly, I focus on lifestyle modifications to ensure continued success. Please call for possible openings outside of listed availability.
![Photo of Mariam Myers - Ohanapsych, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8e14df2-96cb-40f9-be43-5fdc27bce5f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mariam Myers - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Haiku, HI 96708 (Online Only)
As a resident of Maui for the past 10 years, Mariam has focused on acute psychiatric care, correctional and addiction nursing. As a PMHNP-BC she will take care of all ages and psychiatric conditions. She will work with you to achieve the goals that are important to you.
As a resident of Maui for the past 10 years, Mariam has focused on acute psychiatric care, correctional and addiction nursing. As a PMHNP-BC she will take care of all ages and psychiatric conditions. She will work with you to achieve the goals that are important to you.
![Photo of Riggs Bailey Roberts, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50ad5913-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a fifth generation physician in the practice of Psychiatry on Maui Hawaii for >37 years. I come by my passion for psychiatry and the study of the mind via the tragedy of my older brothers unfortunate passage into schizophrenia which started at his age of 12 years old. Uniquely, this whole life challenge has prepared me to meet the full spectrum of adult mental health issues with a dedication and focus upon achieving recovery into fully functioning adults. The secret to our success is in the restoration of Meaning and Purpose to our lives despite how confusing life can become. As always, I look forward to your challenge.
I am a fifth generation physician in the practice of Psychiatry on Maui Hawaii for >37 years. I come by my passion for psychiatry and the study of the mind via the tragedy of my older brothers unfortunate passage into schizophrenia which started at his age of 12 years old. Uniquely, this whole life challenge has prepared me to meet the full spectrum of adult mental health issues with a dedication and focus upon achieving recovery into fully functioning adults. The secret to our success is in the restoration of Meaning and Purpose to our lives despite how confusing life can become. As always, I look forward to your challenge.
![Photo of Betty King - Ohanapsych, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da286c4a-8906-43f6-a5f1-50692317d638/3/320x400.jpeg)
Betty King - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817 (Online Only)
Since 1983 Betty has devoted her life to nursing. Her education includes double Bachelor’s degrees in Nursing and Psychology from Arkansas Tech University and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. Since becoming Board Certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Betty has worked with children and adolescents in psychiatric inpatient and outpatient settings in Arkansas. Betty has additional training as an Addiction Professional and a Christian Counselor, and she has volunteered at a substance abuse program for homeless adults.
Since 1983 Betty has devoted her life to nursing. Her education includes double Bachelor’s degrees in Nursing and Psychology from Arkansas Tech University and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. Since becoming Board Certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Betty has worked with children and adolescents in psychiatric inpatient and outpatient settings in Arkansas. Betty has additional training as an Addiction Professional and a Christian Counselor, and she has volunteered at a substance abuse program for homeless adults.
See more therapy options for Wailea
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Wailea, HI
< 10
Psychiatrists in Wailea, HI who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Dissociative Disorders (DID) |
Top 3 insurances accepted
50% | Aetna |
50% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
50% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Wailea, HI see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Wailea?
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.