Psychiatrists in Grayson County, KY
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Check out psychiatrists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Kentucky below.Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Sooksai Kaewbua - New Horizons Psychiatry, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62fef9e6-a88e-4ad1-bff5-039de498fdd1/2/320x400.jpeg)
New Horizons Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
New Horizons Psychiatry is a private, outpatient, mental-health practice that offers evidence-based and patient-centered mental-health care in a private, discrete, and convenient setting in downtown Frankfort. I will see psychiatric mental-health clients of all ages for evaluation and medication management. I have experience working with children and adults of all ages, including veterans and police officers. I have helped clients with depression, bipolar, anxiety, psychosis, ADHD, PTSD, etc. My training has prepared me to understand the relationship between physical and mental health. Now accepting new clients!
New Horizons Psychiatry is a private, outpatient, mental-health practice that offers evidence-based and patient-centered mental-health care in a private, discrete, and convenient setting in downtown Frankfort. I will see psychiatric mental-health clients of all ages for evaluation and medication management. I have experience working with children and adults of all ages, including veterans and police officers. I have helped clients with depression, bipolar, anxiety, psychosis, ADHD, PTSD, etc. My training has prepared me to understand the relationship between physical and mental health. Now accepting new clients!
![Photo of Heather King, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a22c44c-5472-44b7-9561-d3631da49e4b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of EKU. I started my nursing career as a psychiatric RN. A few of my professional research interests are integrating alternative treatments into mental healthcare, and furthering our reach with technology. I have a master’s degree in nursing informatics and a post master’s degree as a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner across the lifespan. I love seeing individuals of all ages.
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of EKU. I started my nursing career as a psychiatric RN. A few of my professional research interests are integrating alternative treatments into mental healthcare, and furthering our reach with technology. I have a master’s degree in nursing informatics and a post master’s degree as a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner across the lifespan. I love seeing individuals of all ages.
![Photo of Laura Quesenberry, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d81759da-53fb-43e8-84cf-ebd108755aa3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Quesenberry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223
Laura is board-certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has extensive experience in the field of neurology as well as assessing, diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health issues using evidence-based methods. She is passionate about fostering a welcoming and accepting environment. She believes in collaborating closely with each patient and understanding their unique situation in order to help each person attain their optimal level of health.
Laura is board-certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has extensive experience in the field of neurology as well as assessing, diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health issues using evidence-based methods. She is passionate about fostering a welcoming and accepting environment. She believes in collaborating closely with each patient and understanding their unique situation in order to help each person attain their optimal level of health.
![Photo of Dr. Cody B. Pittman - Healing Neurons Psychiatry, LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0eb9b3c2-4bac-4c60-a5c9-e0dabbca8b87/1/320x400.jpeg)
Healing Neurons Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223
Serving ALL of Kentucky! Hello! Welcome to Healing Neurons Psychiatry, where we are healing the mind for a better tomorrow. We all know how difficult managing stress, anxiety, depression, and everyday life can be. However, you don't have to do it alone!
Serving ALL of Kentucky! Hello! Welcome to Healing Neurons Psychiatry, where we are healing the mind for a better tomorrow. We all know how difficult managing stress, anxiety, depression, and everyday life can be. However, you don't have to do it alone!
![Photo of Kim Vilt, APRN, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8e9dc45-e931-4ac0-ab76-5d8fd73ea7e9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Vilt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
Accepting New Patients May 28, 2024. Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner experienced working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. I welcome the opportunity to work with you and support you on your journey to better mental health. I am experienced in helping adult patients navigate depression, anxiety, Bipolar Spectrum Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia Disorders and cognitive challenges. I particularly enjoy providing care to individuals who are experiencing emotional and psychological challenges during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Accepting New Patients May 28, 2024. Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner experienced working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. I welcome the opportunity to work with you and support you on your journey to better mental health. I am experienced in helping adult patients navigate depression, anxiety, Bipolar Spectrum Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia Disorders and cognitive challenges. I particularly enjoy providing care to individuals who are experiencing emotional and psychological challenges during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
![Photo of Cheryl Gore, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b32b62a4-9a4d-450d-a614-b2174a417d4c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cheryl Gore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Bowling Green, KY 42103
Shortly after becoming a nurse in the early 90s, I began working with clients in need of Mental Health Services. Over the years I have held various positions; Staff Nurse to Administrative roles. I have found that I prefer patient care. I have a passion for helping those struggling with mental health issues. I have been a psychiatric nurse for over 25 years; have been practicing as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2014. During that time I have worked in a variety of settings: inpatient, outpatient, community mental health, telepsychiatry and currently in private practice.
Shortly after becoming a nurse in the early 90s, I began working with clients in need of Mental Health Services. Over the years I have held various positions; Staff Nurse to Administrative roles. I have found that I prefer patient care. I have a passion for helping those struggling with mental health issues. I have been a psychiatric nurse for over 25 years; have been practicing as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2014. During that time I have worked in a variety of settings: inpatient, outpatient, community mental health, telepsychiatry and currently in private practice.
![Photo of Melissa Bishop, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/871b058f-03e5-4ec1-b68a-14cbab0745a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Bishop is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience. She received her master's degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University. She also received a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a bachelor's degree in Nursing from Radford University. She is experienced in providing medication management in both child and adolescent populations and adult populations in an outpatient setting.
Melissa Bishop is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience. She received her master's degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University. She also received a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a bachelor's degree in Nursing from Radford University. She is experienced in providing medication management in both child and adolescent populations and adult populations in an outpatient setting.
![Photo of Brooke Bischoff, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d82b16f7-acf1-435e-9758-37e760f15dae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brooke Bischoff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
Accepting New Patients! I know asking for help in mental health can be challenging. My goal is to provide a a safe space for you to feel supported, heard and have your goals met beyond medication and diagnosis. If you are looking for someone who provides compassionate care, patient centered care, and a supportive therapeutic relationship; I would love to work together to help guide you through your mental health journey.
Accepting New Patients! I know asking for help in mental health can be challenging. My goal is to provide a a safe space for you to feel supported, heard and have your goals met beyond medication and diagnosis. If you are looking for someone who provides compassionate care, patient centered care, and a supportive therapeutic relationship; I would love to work together to help guide you through your mental health journey.
![Photo of Kimberly Mosley, MSN, APRN, ANP-C, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84869eae-e29f-4422-bad7-e98d77732fa2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Mosley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, ANP-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40218
Management of mental health issues has three components: you, your therapist, and your PMHNP. There is no one component that is better than the next. Mental health care is an ongoing treatment that relies on positive intentions and manifestations. The combined work of the client (you), therapist, and medication provider (PMHNP), allows the client to reach the goal of being the best version he/she can be.
Management of mental health issues has three components: you, your therapist, and your PMHNP. There is no one component that is better than the next. Mental health care is an ongoing treatment that relies on positive intentions and manifestations. The combined work of the client (you), therapist, and medication provider (PMHNP), allows the client to reach the goal of being the best version he/she can be.
![Photo of Morgan Smither, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0df07c36-942f-4c8b-b06f-cfc3a0a0419d/1/320x400.png)
Morgan Smither is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Kentucky and her master's degree in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Her specialty areas include the treatment of chronic mental illness, bipolar disorder, addiction and depression. Morgan Smither treats patients starting at 16 years old.
Morgan Smither is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Kentucky and her master's degree in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Her specialty areas include the treatment of chronic mental illness, bipolar disorder, addiction and depression. Morgan Smither treats patients starting at 16 years old.
![Photo of Noreen Mason, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1230475a-c98f-4631-8ab1-aee1830e97f0/4/320x400.jpeg)
Noreen Mason is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in psychopharmacology across the lifespan. She completed her initial training as a Nurse Practitioner in 2003 and thereafter achieved dual board certification as an Adult Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Her extensive and wide ranging 20 year experience as a medical provider, coupled with natural curiosity and empathy, provide a distinctive approach. She considers a multitude of root causes that are often overlooked in Psychiatry, and is uniquely positioned to help those who have not found relief.
Noreen Mason is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in psychopharmacology across the lifespan. She completed her initial training as a Nurse Practitioner in 2003 and thereafter achieved dual board certification as an Adult Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Her extensive and wide ranging 20 year experience as a medical provider, coupled with natural curiosity and empathy, provide a distinctive approach. She considers a multitude of root causes that are often overlooked in Psychiatry, and is uniquely positioned to help those who have not found relief.
![Photo of Adam Michael Steele, PMNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9d8c01c-2512-42fb-b988-14d4cdc3b32e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Michael Steele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bardstown, KY 40004
Serving ALL of Kentucky! Immediate openings available! Hello! Welcome to Healing Neurons Psychiatry, where we are healing the mind for a better tomorrow. We all know how difficult managing stress, anxiety, depression, and everyday life can be. However, you don't have to do it alone!
Serving ALL of Kentucky! Immediate openings available! Hello! Welcome to Healing Neurons Psychiatry, where we are healing the mind for a better tomorrow. We all know how difficult managing stress, anxiety, depression, and everyday life can be. However, you don't have to do it alone!
![Photo of Katie Gogel, APRN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4675f6f5-5739-4938-8986-ae8465796408/1/320x400.png)
Katie Gogel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40218 (Online Only)
I have climbed the healthcare ladder. I have been a CNA, LPN, ASN-RN, BSN-RN, and finally MSN- FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner). I have worked in healthcare for the last 13 years all the while being a full-time student for 8 of those years. I am often told that I am the first person that listened to them. I strive for that experience with all of my patients.
I have climbed the healthcare ladder. I have been a CNA, LPN, ASN-RN, BSN-RN, and finally MSN- FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner). I have worked in healthcare for the last 13 years all the while being a full-time student for 8 of those years. I am often told that I am the first person that listened to them. I strive for that experience with all of my patients.
![Photo of Ron McGavic - Kentucky Psychiatry Louisville, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a76b890-006c-4951-ab8b-f576ed0dd046/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am open to caring for most all patients with most all diagnoses. I, in particularly enjoy treating patients with TRAUMA and PTSD, Attention Deficit and Obsessive Compulsive disorders. I am very skilled, experienced, and capable of treating these and other common mental health issues like anxiety and depression, as well as personality disorders like bipolar disorder. If you or someone you know needs assistance in living and dealing with these types of issues I can certainly help you on the road to a better life.
I am open to caring for most all patients with most all diagnoses. I, in particularly enjoy treating patients with TRAUMA and PTSD, Attention Deficit and Obsessive Compulsive disorders. I am very skilled, experienced, and capable of treating these and other common mental health issues like anxiety and depression, as well as personality disorders like bipolar disorder. If you or someone you know needs assistance in living and dealing with these types of issues I can certainly help you on the road to a better life.
![Photo of Lauren M Williams, MSN, APRN, ANP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/840338e5-1fae-4838-97b4-5ed7b39a4519/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren M Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, ANP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
Lauren Williams is a double board-certified adult nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over 14 years of experience working as a nurse and nurse practitioner with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky and her master’s degree from Ball State University and Maryville University. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. She works with children and adults, ages 8 and older, and specializes in assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders.
Lauren Williams is a double board-certified adult nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has over 14 years of experience working as a nurse and nurse practitioner with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky and her master’s degree from Ball State University and Maryville University. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. She works with children and adults, ages 8 and older, and specializes in assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental health disorders.
![Photo of Isabel Jones, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf7a41af-f9e9-4318-bf05-634908e36e14/1/320x400.jpeg)
Isabel Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40241
Hello. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in nursing and psychiatry across the lifespan. I believe that mental health is as important as physical health. I am committed to providing client centered care and believe that successful treatment involves a collaboration between provider and client.
Hello. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in nursing and psychiatry across the lifespan. I believe that mental health is as important as physical health. I am committed to providing client centered care and believe that successful treatment involves a collaboration between provider and client.
![Photo of Dr. Reisha Lynn Caudill, APRN , FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/932ccc2b-94c1-4c66-85f8-2b8f60ababd4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Reisha Lynn Caudill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207 (Online Only)
My specialties include depressive disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, anxiety, psychotic disorders, and ADHD. I treat clients ages 5 and up with a wide range of psychiatric and mental health issues. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and offer Behavioral/Mental Health services and medication management through Telehealth across all of Kentucky.
My specialties include depressive disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, anxiety, psychotic disorders, and ADHD. I treat clients ages 5 and up with a wide range of psychiatric and mental health issues. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and offer Behavioral/Mental Health services and medication management through Telehealth across all of Kentucky.
![Photo of Jessica Ortega Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CCDS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e9532f8-28d4-4c5b-b9d7-72e95943ba8f/1/320x400.png)
Jessica Ortega Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CCDS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Shelbyville, KY 40065
Taking NEW Patients! At Renewing Minds Psychiatry & Wellness, Jessica specializes in medication management and therapy with supporting children (ages 6 and up), adolescents, and adults who are experiencing nervousness, inability to focus, and feeling down to find within themselves the ability to feel better again.
Taking NEW Patients! At Renewing Minds Psychiatry & Wellness, Jessica specializes in medication management and therapy with supporting children (ages 6 and up), adolescents, and adults who are experiencing nervousness, inability to focus, and feeling down to find within themselves the ability to feel better again.
![Photo of Aiyesha Stiles, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09ef8358-b3d1-43b2-9f55-7ff8079ac51e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aiyesha Stiles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202 (Online Only)
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 21 years of experience in healthcare. I have worked multiple specialties and multiple states. I have also taught mental health at a local nursing school. I have been treating people with mental illness for the past 5 years.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 21 years of experience in healthcare. I have worked multiple specialties and multiple states. I have also taught mental health at a local nursing school. I have been treating people with mental illness for the past 5 years.
![Photo of Dr. Ethan Short, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a619a83-6e0d-4ed8-bcce-c238dacb5176/1/320x400.jpeg)
My calling is to care for those struggling under the gravity of severe mental illness including schizophrenia and bipolar disorders, addictions (opiates, methamphetamine, benzodiazepines, alcohol, tobacco, etc.), PTSD, depression and anxiety disorders, and adult ADHD. I am trained in multiple psychotherapies, but primarily practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as an alternative to medication, or as an adjunctive treatment for the above conditions.
My calling is to care for those struggling under the gravity of severe mental illness including schizophrenia and bipolar disorders, addictions (opiates, methamphetamine, benzodiazepines, alcohol, tobacco, etc.), PTSD, depression and anxiety disorders, and adult ADHD. I am trained in multiple psychotherapies, but primarily practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as an alternative to medication, or as an adjunctive treatment for the above conditions.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Grayson County, KY
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Psychiatrists in Grayson County, KY who prioritize treating:
How Psychiatrists in Grayson County, KY see their clients
2% | Online Only | |
1% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Grayson 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.