Psychiatrists in Independence, KY
![Photo of Ofonime J. Ekpe - Gloxel Mental and Behavioral Health LLC, PMHNP -, BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6e948f2-aafb-4509-b1d7-c00bbcc8f04b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gloxel Mental and Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP -, BC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, KY 41051
Are you experiencing less interest in your regular hobbies or not just "caring anymore?" Are you experiencing excessive fear and anxiety that is hard to explain sometimes? Are you thinking maybe I have ADHD? Or wondering if perhaps the cause of your day-to-day struggles might be related to your past trauma? Do not carry the burden alone anymore. We can work together using an individualized treatment plan specific to your needs.
Are you experiencing less interest in your regular hobbies or not just "caring anymore?" Are you experiencing excessive fear and anxiety that is hard to explain sometimes? Are you thinking maybe I have ADHD? Or wondering if perhaps the cause of your day-to-day struggles might be related to your past trauma? Do not carry the burden alone anymore. We can work together using an individualized treatment plan specific to your needs.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Lonna Louise Larger, PMHNPBC, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db691ccc-59f5-4823-a7c3-fdf2c4f20095/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! I am Lonna Larger and I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I look forward to getting to know you and helping you on your path to wellness. I practice evidence-based medicine with a focus on trauma-informed care. Are you struggling with anxiety or flashbacks? Do you feel as if no one listens? Please come see me. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. If you would like to schedule an intake with me, please call 859-572-0400.
Hi there! I am Lonna Larger and I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I look forward to getting to know you and helping you on your path to wellness. I practice evidence-based medicine with a focus on trauma-informed care. Are you struggling with anxiety or flashbacks? Do you feel as if no one listens? Please come see me. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. If you would like to schedule an intake with me, please call 859-572-0400.
![Photo of Rachel Byrd, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24c923ec-f9d2-4d86-8f91-69f3339f1011/1/320x400.jpeg)
At CHNK Behavioral Health, we serve children, adolescents, adults, and families who have mental health barriers, need addiction treatment, or are exhibiting other behaviors that negatively impact their daily lives at home, in the classroom, or at work.
At CHNK Behavioral Health, we serve children, adolescents, adults, and families who have mental health barriers, need addiction treatment, or are exhibiting other behaviors that negatively impact their daily lives at home, in the classroom, or at work.
![Photo of David Payne, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25fc8388-004b-4c52-9304-de7541cd9e0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
David Payne, PMHNP, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to LifeStance Health, serving patients across Kentucky. With 20 years of military experience, David offers specialized treatment for PTSD, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. His dedication to providing tailored care for activeduty military and veterans sets him apart in the field of mental health. David is particularly passionate about treating traumarelated conditions. Having served in the military, he understands the unique challenges faced by service members and veterans.
David Payne, PMHNP, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to LifeStance Health, serving patients across Kentucky. With 20 years of military experience, David offers specialized treatment for PTSD, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. His dedication to providing tailored care for activeduty military and veterans sets him apart in the field of mental health. David is particularly passionate about treating traumarelated conditions. Having served in the military, he understands the unique challenges faced by service members and veterans.
![Photo of Janecia King - New Concepts II, LLC, DNP, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a01ed0b-a40c-4a1b-9a6f-39bdc747ba88/2/320x400.png)
New Concepts II, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Covington, KY 41011
At New Concepts II, LLC, your privacy and mental well-being are our top priority. We are a psychiatric and addiction clinic in Cincinnati, Ohio, and provide services throughout Ohio and Kentucky. New Concepts II, LLC is a women, minority, and veteran-owned business. " Every Story Has a Purpose"
At New Concepts II, LLC, your privacy and mental well-being are our top priority. We are a psychiatric and addiction clinic in Cincinnati, Ohio, and provide services throughout Ohio and Kentucky. New Concepts II, LLC is a women, minority, and veteran-owned business. " Every Story Has a Purpose"
![Photo of Dr. Tamera Kim Meyer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dc79ce6-ef3c-4ec9-b25b-4161ae57a64f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am here to assist with improving your mental health so that you can reach your full potential in life. Unlike other mental health practices, I am always accessible to my patients. I offer telehealth, in-person, and in-home services to accommodate patient needs. I practice general psychiatry for patients 13 years of age and older.
I am here to assist with improving your mental health so that you can reach your full potential in life. Unlike other mental health practices, I am always accessible to my patients. I offer telehealth, in-person, and in-home services to accommodate patient needs. I practice general psychiatry for patients 13 years of age and older.
![Photo of Markquetta Jackson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3a693bb-61e6-41a6-aaa5-52153dbfecc7/2/320x400.png)
Markquetta Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Covington, KY 41018 (Online Only)
Hello there, I'm Markquetta! Do you every feel overwhelmed, stressed and drained from daily life and the situations that may arise in it? Are you overthinking, worried, scattered brain, and have racing thoughts? Do you feel sad, moody, and want to isolate yourself from other people? I can help you achieve that sense of calm and mental wellbeing you are searching for.
Hello there, I'm Markquetta! Do you every feel overwhelmed, stressed and drained from daily life and the situations that may arise in it? Are you overthinking, worried, scattered brain, and have racing thoughts? Do you feel sad, moody, and want to isolate yourself from other people? I can help you achieve that sense of calm and mental wellbeing you are searching for.
![Photo of Promise Haynes - Sunrise Mental Health & Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2cb89e3-0e79-4be0-aaaf-65ef63057d2e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sunrise Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Covington, KY 41018 (Online Only)
Providing appointments 100% online. Accepting new patients with insurance from anywhere in the state of New York or Kentucky! Cash payment is also available. Do you feel lost in a room full of darkness? Is it hard to get out of bed in the morning? Have you lost joy in what used to be important to you? Are you suffering from anxiety that is preventing you from living your life to the fullest? We can help! At Sunrise Mental Health & Wellness we want to help you find the light in the darkness and bring hope and healing.
Providing appointments 100% online. Accepting new patients with insurance from anywhere in the state of New York or Kentucky! Cash payment is also available. Do you feel lost in a room full of darkness? Is it hard to get out of bed in the morning? Have you lost joy in what used to be important to you? Are you suffering from anxiety that is preventing you from living your life to the fullest? We can help! At Sunrise Mental Health & Wellness we want to help you find the light in the darkness and bring hope and healing.
![Photo of John Christopher Dixon, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5464ae56-b2aa-4399-9b62-0e5484b6d81e/1/320x400.jpeg)
John Christopher Dixon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Covington, KY 41018 (Online Only)
Meet your ideal client—the courageous seeker of mental well-being. Struggling with diverse challenges like anxiety, depression, or life transitions, they yearn for understanding, healing, and inner harmony. Their goal is to reclaim joy and lead a fulfilling life, unburdened by mental health obstacles. Through a compassionate and holistic approach, I empower them to thrive on their transformative journey. Let's embark together towards a brighter, resilient future. Welcome to the path of healing.
Meet your ideal client—the courageous seeker of mental well-being. Struggling with diverse challenges like anxiety, depression, or life transitions, they yearn for understanding, healing, and inner harmony. Their goal is to reclaim joy and lead a fulfilling life, unburdened by mental health obstacles. Through a compassionate and holistic approach, I empower them to thrive on their transformative journey. Let's embark together towards a brighter, resilient future. Welcome to the path of healing.
![Photo of Annette Reynolds, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8db996d5-ec5f-4190-8b7c-ff9615f20898/1/320x400.jpeg)
I trained at the University of Kentucky in both Adult and Child Psychiatry. I have worked in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. I treat a range of mental health conditions including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, and Bipolar Disorder. I specialize in the areas of ADHD, anxiety, and trauma. I treat ages 3 to 103. If you become my patient, you will be listened to and heard. I hope to see you soon!.
I trained at the University of Kentucky in both Adult and Child Psychiatry. I have worked in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. I treat a range of mental health conditions including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, and Bipolar Disorder. I specialize in the areas of ADHD, anxiety, and trauma. I treat ages 3 to 103. If you become my patient, you will be listened to and heard. I hope to see you soon!.
![Photo of Danielle Bass, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b255f8e-6500-446f-be24-866ca9e1c1b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Bass
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Covington, KY 41018 (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2021. I have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Walden University, and A BSN degree from Galen College of Nursing. I am currently working towards earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Capella University.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2021. I have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Walden University, and A BSN degree from Galen College of Nursing. I am currently working towards earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Capella University.
![Photo of Brenda Smith, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89a10ba8-a00c-454b-9bee-35ccfebeb795/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brenda Smith is a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse. She has over 6 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and mental health including inpatient and outpatient settings. Prior to practicing in psychiatry, she worked as a Registered Nurse in a hospital setting for 20 years. She received her master's degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University. She is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
Brenda Smith is a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse. She has over 6 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and mental health including inpatient and outpatient settings. Prior to practicing in psychiatry, she worked as a Registered Nurse in a hospital setting for 20 years. She received her master's degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University. She is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
![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
Covington, KY 41018 (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 Tracey Nearon, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbc893d6-c01b-459a-b670-d5d43a7e7543/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tracey Nearon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, KY 41001
Tracey is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Ohio and Kentucky. She earned her associate degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnati Raymond Walters, her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Ohio University, and her master’s degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University. She has worked in healthcare for over 15 years with clinical experience in residential, inpatient acute care, and outpatient settings. Her scope of practice includes all ages across the life span.
Tracey is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and licensed by the states of Ohio and Kentucky. She earned her associate degree in nursing from the University of Cincinnati Raymond Walters, her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Ohio University, and her master’s degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University. She has worked in healthcare for over 15 years with clinical experience in residential, inpatient acute care, and outpatient settings. Her scope of practice includes all ages across the life span.
![Photo of Martha Lee Walden - Ascend Behavioral Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da68f5f1-cf82-476a-855d-57d411e60583/3/320x400.jpeg)
We treat patients with all varieties of mental illness on an outpatient basis. We are within walking distance of a full service hospital which can be utilized in an emergent basis. We work well with individuals from all walks of life without discrimination.
We treat patients with all varieties of mental illness on an outpatient basis. We are within walking distance of a full service hospital which can be utilized in an emergent basis. We work well with individuals from all walks of life without discrimination.
![Photo of Justine Sever Chilelli, DO, ABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4418407c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am happy to be offering psychiatric treatment to the Northern Kentucky area. Dual board certification in both general psychiatry as well as child & adolescent psychiatry allows me to treat a wide age range of patients from age 5 through age 60; however my primarily areas of interest align with child, adolescent, and transitional adults.
I am happy to be offering psychiatric treatment to the Northern Kentucky area. Dual board certification in both general psychiatry as well as child & adolescent psychiatry allows me to treat a wide age range of patients from age 5 through age 60; however my primarily areas of interest align with child, adolescent, and transitional adults.
![Photo of Kurt Kristiansen, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7aac5871-d7fe-4f79-aaea-ec1caaf7447c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kurt Kristiansen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Covington, KY 41018 (Online Only)
Schedule now through www.leafytreepsychiatry.com. Dr. Kristiansen has seen a wide variety of patients as both a critical care nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and that experience enables him to provide comprehensive care and treatment to patients. He understands that mental health struggles can be just as serious as a physical injury, and he desires to help each and every one of his patients overcome their difficulties. He is a compassionate, understanding, and sensitive listener who is dedicated to finding solutions which will help patients live healthy, happy lives.
Schedule now through www.leafytreepsychiatry.com. Dr. Kristiansen has seen a wide variety of patients as both a critical care nurse and psychiatric nurse practitioner, and that experience enables him to provide comprehensive care and treatment to patients. He understands that mental health struggles can be just as serious as a physical injury, and he desires to help each and every one of his patients overcome their difficulties. He is a compassionate, understanding, and sensitive listener who is dedicated to finding solutions which will help patients live healthy, happy lives.
![Photo of Angela Miller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33a754ad-1a2c-46d6-9937-1b85d96da57d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Miller is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2011. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Southern Mississippi and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. Angela believes in providing individualized treatment to her clients. She takes a unique approach in providing mental health services. Angela is approachable, attentive, and respects the decisions you make regarding your treatment. She looks forward to meeting you and planning your journey to a more fulfilling life.
Angela Miller is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2011. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Southern Mississippi and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. Angela believes in providing individualized treatment to her clients. She takes a unique approach in providing mental health services. Angela is approachable, attentive, and respects the decisions you make regarding your treatment. She looks forward to meeting you and planning your journey to a more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Summyji Groom, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7478a346-c635-4c5b-af0e-bf6550cd5562/2/320x400.jpeg)
Summyji Groom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Covington, KY 41011 (Online Only)
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
![Photo of Arnold G Shapiro, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5cbea69-7753-4631-a228-63f52d18b192/1/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I've been in private practice in OH and KY for many years. My primary clinical focus is the treatment of ADHD, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Depression. My primary goal as a physician is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them and their families. I am proud to treat my patients who started as patients when they were children, who now also bring their children to me for treatment.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I've been in private practice in OH and KY for many years. My primary clinical focus is the treatment of ADHD, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Depression. My primary goal as a physician is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them and their families. I am proud to treat my patients who started as patients when they were children, who now also bring their children to me for treatment.
See more therapy options for Independence
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Independence, KY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Independence, KY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Spirituality |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Dissociative Disorders (DID) |
Average years in practice
1 Year
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Independence, KY see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Independence?
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.