Psychiatrists in Columbia, SC
![Photo of William R. Hall, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0928d4b3-91c2-4c19-b41a-5c300cfd2a98/1/320x400.jpeg)
William R. Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and have been working in mental health for several years now. I have experience with adult and geriatric patients, and specialize in Medication Management treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia and PTSD. As my client, you can expect to have a better understanding of the issues you may struggle with, and I will work with you to develop a mutually agreed upon treatment plan. All of my clients can expect to be treated with empathy, and without judgement. You may use my website link to book your appointment, or call for a free 15 minute phone consultation!
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and have been working in mental health for several years now. I have experience with adult and geriatric patients, and specialize in Medication Management treating ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia and PTSD. As my client, you can expect to have a better understanding of the issues you may struggle with, and I will work with you to develop a mutually agreed upon treatment plan. All of my clients can expect to be treated with empathy, and without judgement. You may use my website link to book your appointment, or call for a free 15 minute phone consultation!
![Photo of Ramesh Gihwala, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/528076a8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you frustrated, discouraged and overwhelmed with all the choices and options you have for getting help? It can be discouraging when you feel like you've bounced around to different doctors and therapists and never experienced true relief for your symptoms. You don't want to deal with the hassle of multiple locations, multiple providers, and trying to get them to communicate about YOUR best treatment. You just want to get help for your issues, not field a bunch of different doctors offices. This is a common frustration in mental health treatment- you as the client don't get the best support because its spread out, not localized.
Are you frustrated, discouraged and overwhelmed with all the choices and options you have for getting help? It can be discouraging when you feel like you've bounced around to different doctors and therapists and never experienced true relief for your symptoms. You don't want to deal with the hassle of multiple locations, multiple providers, and trying to get them to communicate about YOUR best treatment. You just want to get help for your issues, not field a bunch of different doctors offices. This is a common frustration in mental health treatment- you as the client don't get the best support because its spread out, not localized.
![Photo of Dr. Shy Wilson, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/547689cf-fc2b-4c46-ad0f-7102073fab76/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Shy Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
I believe in holistic health: whole person care that addresses the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and temporal dimensions of individuals and families across the lifespan. Mental and emotional health are the bedrock foundation of a healthy, fulfilling life. I partner with motivated clients to create their vision of success through psychiatric assessment, coaching (health, career and life goals), lifestyle modifications (nutrition, exercise, stress reduction) and medication management (traditional and integrative) in a serene, supportive environment for east meets west, truly individualized care.
I believe in holistic health: whole person care that addresses the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and temporal dimensions of individuals and families across the lifespan. Mental and emotional health are the bedrock foundation of a healthy, fulfilling life. I partner with motivated clients to create their vision of success through psychiatric assessment, coaching (health, career and life goals), lifestyle modifications (nutrition, exercise, stress reduction) and medication management (traditional and integrative) in a serene, supportive environment for east meets west, truly individualized care.
![Photo of Demetris Wright - A Practitioner's Touch, LLC, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3e63ea6-0081-4f30-b67a-874725f22285/1/320x400.png)
A Practitioner's Touch, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29203 (Online Only)
Demetris Wright is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Nurse Practitioner, she realizes the challenges to accessible care. As a tele-health provider she will focus on providing convenient but comprehensive care. With a unique perspective in treating patients, Demetris allows the patient to be the center and spokesperson of their own care. She understands wellness extends well beyond medical care but involves both the mind and body.
Demetris Wright is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As a Nurse Practitioner, she realizes the challenges to accessible care. As a tele-health provider she will focus on providing convenient but comprehensive care. With a unique perspective in treating patients, Demetris allows the patient to be the center and spokesperson of their own care. She understands wellness extends well beyond medical care but involves both the mind and body.
![Photo of Kimberly Hammonds, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c26f36b7-5586-45fd-bde3-67ceaac86fdb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kimberly Hammonds is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Dr. Hammonds is trauma informed and provides patient centered care. Dr. Hammonds believes it's important to provide collaborative care, involving patients in their own care and treatment. She feels providing well-rounded care is essential to meeting the needs of each person. In her free time, Dr. Hammonds enjoys going to church, spending time with family, baking, cake decorating, and reading.
Dr. Kimberly Hammonds is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Dr. Hammonds is trauma informed and provides patient centered care. Dr. Hammonds believes it's important to provide collaborative care, involving patients in their own care and treatment. She feels providing well-rounded care is essential to meeting the needs of each person. In her free time, Dr. Hammonds enjoys going to church, spending time with family, baking, cake decorating, and reading.
![Photo of Raynia McGee, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47690a11-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist, I realize the challenges of finding a provider who is caring, compassionate and comprehensive in their care. My clinical background is in providing quality care in way that shows you are valued and understood. I specialize in providing medication management for mental health issues in a professional, thoughtful and non-judgemental environment.
As a psychiatrist, I realize the challenges of finding a provider who is caring, compassionate and comprehensive in their care. My clinical background is in providing quality care in way that shows you are valued and understood. I specialize in providing medication management for mental health issues in a professional, thoughtful and non-judgemental environment.
Omega Psychiatric Solutions, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29203
Our practice motto is "Here your mental health matters." We provide both medication management and therapeutic counseling services. Our psychiatric provider has more than 30 years of experience working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and with various mental health diagnoses. Our therapist has been in the mental health field for almost 10 years. Both of our providers want to meet the client where they are to provide the best services to get our client back to their optimal mental health status.
Our practice motto is "Here your mental health matters." We provide both medication management and therapeutic counseling services. Our psychiatric provider has more than 30 years of experience working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and with various mental health diagnoses. Our therapist has been in the mental health field for almost 10 years. Both of our providers want to meet the client where they are to provide the best services to get our client back to their optimal mental health status.
![Photo of Melissa Harris Kannaday M. D., MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/520ef763-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you living the quality of life that you desire? Perhaps you are struggling with feeling overwhelmed, worrying frequently and feeling anxious? Perhaps you are no longer enjoying the activities you previously enjoyed and want to feel “like yourself” again? Maybe you’ve noticed that you are having issues with your attention, leading to poor school or work performance? Perhaps the way you are feeling is affecting your relationships with your significant other, your colleagues, friends, family, or children? You no longer feel like yourself emotionally and you want to feel better. Dr. Kannaday can develop a plan to help you.
Are you living the quality of life that you desire? Perhaps you are struggling with feeling overwhelmed, worrying frequently and feeling anxious? Perhaps you are no longer enjoying the activities you previously enjoyed and want to feel “like yourself” again? Maybe you’ve noticed that you are having issues with your attention, leading to poor school or work performance? Perhaps the way you are feeling is affecting your relationships with your significant other, your colleagues, friends, family, or children? You no longer feel like yourself emotionally and you want to feel better. Dr. Kannaday can develop a plan to help you.
![Photo of Kimberly G Kinard, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/911a46ca-7787-4424-b5d9-e71ed3bbe6cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now taking new patients! If you're ready to stop suffering and maximize the potential of your medication regimen, I'm the psychiatrist for you. I won't stop trying until we find the right treatment personalized for your needs. I specialize in online telepsychiatry for all mental health diagnoses including depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, and postpartum mood disorders. I have 16 years of experience practicing psychiatry and I am skilled at finding the right medications in as few appointments as possible.
Now taking new patients! If you're ready to stop suffering and maximize the potential of your medication regimen, I'm the psychiatrist for you. I won't stop trying until we find the right treatment personalized for your needs. I specialize in online telepsychiatry for all mental health diagnoses including depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, and postpartum mood disorders. I have 16 years of experience practicing psychiatry and I am skilled at finding the right medications in as few appointments as possible.
![Photo of Dr. Felicia L Walker - Welcome to yOUR Journey with Dr. Walker, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e107a41-c73a-4cab-8b8a-c65caa6ba838/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to yOUR Journey with Dr. Walker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201 (Online Only)
Dr. Walker's philosophy centers on an empathetic, holistic approach to psychiatric care, recognizing the connections between mind, body, and spirit. She employs a biopsychosocial and cultural model, considering various aspects of your life in the journey toward mental wellness. Acknowledging that medication is not always the starting point for everyone, she provides education on a broad spectrum of options—from vitamins and supplements to traditional psychiatric treatments—ensuring you are well-informed to make decisions about your care.
Dr. Walker's philosophy centers on an empathetic, holistic approach to psychiatric care, recognizing the connections between mind, body, and spirit. She employs a biopsychosocial and cultural model, considering various aspects of your life in the journey toward mental wellness. Acknowledging that medication is not always the starting point for everyone, she provides education on a broad spectrum of options—from vitamins and supplements to traditional psychiatric treatments—ensuring you are well-informed to make decisions about your care.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caf8ad6b-92b3-41b8-9313-fc75f3138669/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
15 Second Videos
Welcome to yOUR Journey with Dr. Walker
Brightside Health
Clarence Johnson
Dorothy J Nivens
![Photo of Dr. Joan M Burns, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b84e08e4-4a6c-4d5b-bcb5-f8383bf3de3d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Joan M Burns
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206 (Online Only)
I provide care to patients (14 and older) with a wide range of mental health concerns, specializing in mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, as well as psychotic, neurocognitive and neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, and OCD. I also provide prenatal, perinatal, and postpartum psychiatric care.
I provide care to patients (14 and older) with a wide range of mental health concerns, specializing in mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, as well as psychotic, neurocognitive and neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, and OCD. I also provide prenatal, perinatal, and postpartum psychiatric care.
![Photo of Ashley Staten - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/766f4037-9241-47b4-8872-d8b24e2f6f75/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29205 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![Photo of Clarence Johnson, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f733c6ae-a292-4c89-a23c-26b8ee0fac1b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clarence Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201 (Online Only)
www.reflectivemindsmw.com. Visit my website to request an appointment! Openings within the week! HI! Also treating ADHD! As a compassionate and highly-skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing exceptional care to individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. I have extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, and I strive to empower my patients to achieve optimal mental wellness and improve their overall quality of life.
www.reflectivemindsmw.com. Visit my website to request an appointment! Openings within the week! HI! Also treating ADHD! As a compassionate and highly-skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to providing exceptional care to individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. I have extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, and I strive to empower my patients to achieve optimal mental wellness and improve their overall quality of life.
![Photo of Mary Goldin, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f0cb472-0494-4a54-887b-33b9831536ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Goldin is an energetic, compassionate, and passionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who goes beyond traditional methods to focus on the complete well-being of each individual across the lifespan. Mary meets each person where they are in life, helping to build that bridge to where they strive to be.
Mary Goldin is an energetic, compassionate, and passionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who goes beyond traditional methods to focus on the complete well-being of each individual across the lifespan. Mary meets each person where they are in life, helping to build that bridge to where they strive to be.
![Photo of Patricia Carter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/263ff143-16b8-4503-80ad-6f10c6875c8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201 (Online Only)
Patricia Carter is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. With over 10 years of experience, she is knowledgeable in caring for and treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, crisis, and skilled long-term settings. She is actively involved in promoting recovery for those with mental illness, addiction, and trauma through the integration of innovative and evidence-based clinical practice and psychosocial needs.
Patricia Carter is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. With over 10 years of experience, she is knowledgeable in caring for and treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, crisis, and skilled long-term settings. She is actively involved in promoting recovery for those with mental illness, addiction, and trauma through the integration of innovative and evidence-based clinical practice and psychosocial needs.
![Photo of Jared J. Carbone - Southern Om Telepsychiatric Services , APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34331eea-5a62-4c13-b631-02f8d09fab07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Southern Om Telepsychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29204
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Family Nurse Practitioner, Jared J. Carbone APRN, PMHNP-BC has worked in various settings including both state-run and private mental health outpatient facilities within the state of South Carolina. Jared has had extensive training as a psychiatric nurse prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Jared specializes in treating adult mood and other disorders including depression, anxiety, insomnia, and adult ADHD. Jared incorporates the use of natural over-the-counter remedies in addition to the use of medications for residents of SC.
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Family Nurse Practitioner, Jared J. Carbone APRN, PMHNP-BC has worked in various settings including both state-run and private mental health outpatient facilities within the state of South Carolina. Jared has had extensive training as a psychiatric nurse prior to becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Jared specializes in treating adult mood and other disorders including depression, anxiety, insomnia, and adult ADHD. Jared incorporates the use of natural over-the-counter remedies in addition to the use of medications for residents of SC.
![Photo of Leilani Lee - Total Care Psychiatry LLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d696ad5-81ff-491f-a6d4-f32ba8506de7/2/320x400.png)
As a telehealth company, Total Care Psychiatry focuses on providing comprehensive psychiatric treatment to patients in the comfort of their home. We will work closely with your primary care provider to assure quality care and limit the over prescribing of medications. We aim to provide evidence-based care with proven positive outcomes. Forensic Psychiatry services are also available by a board-certified Forensic Psychiatrist. A board-certified clinical pharmacist, Dr. Katie Touma, is also available for medication consultation and to review your response to medications.
As a telehealth company, Total Care Psychiatry focuses on providing comprehensive psychiatric treatment to patients in the comfort of their home. We will work closely with your primary care provider to assure quality care and limit the over prescribing of medications. We aim to provide evidence-based care with proven positive outcomes. Forensic Psychiatry services are also available by a board-certified Forensic Psychiatrist. A board-certified clinical pharmacist, Dr. Katie Touma, is also available for medication consultation and to review your response to medications.
![Photo of Peter A. Bertelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adab79e3-a902-4394-b911-d0b9daef6626/1/320x400.png)
Ready to embrace change and transform your mental health journey? Are you feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Is anxiety or depression overshadowing your daily life? If you're considering a holistic approach to mental health or questioning the effectiveness of your current medications, you're in the right place.
Ready to embrace change and transform your mental health journey? Are you feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Is anxiety or depression overshadowing your daily life? If you're considering a holistic approach to mental health or questioning the effectiveness of your current medications, you're in the right place.
![Photo of Dr. Dorothy J Nivens, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/745841bc-8a7d-4900-8cb4-682762716bcf/3/320x400.png)
Dr. Dorothy J Nivens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner licensed and accepting new clients in NC, SC, NJ, and MD. My clinical background includes over 28 years of nursing experience in various medical platforms. I am an active Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing member. I work with the clients to develop an individualized, evidence-based care plan that prioritizes their goals. I strive to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space to help those struggling. If you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out. I have experience working with, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner licensed and accepting new clients in NC, SC, NJ, and MD. My clinical background includes over 28 years of nursing experience in various medical platforms. I am an active Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing member. I work with the clients to develop an individualized, evidence-based care plan that prioritizes their goals. I strive to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space to help those struggling. If you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out. I have experience working with, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
See more therapy options for Columbia
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Columbia, SC
20+
Average cost per session
$165
Psychiatrists in Columbia, SC who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
88% | Medication Management |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
84% | Aetna |
84% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Columbia, SC see their clients
52% | Online Only | |
48% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
21% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Columbia?
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.