Psychiatrists in Midway, KY
![Photo of Casey Mattingly, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4f50ae0-0845-4330-a0bd-bbd49baaf796/1/320x400.jpeg)
Casey Mattingly is a Medication Provider, who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Northern Kentucky University with a Master's Degree in Nursing. Casey believes patient should be involved in their care and be an advocate for themselves. Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, and postpartum depression/anxiety. In her spare time, Casey enjoys fishing with her husband and playing with her son.
Casey Mattingly is a Medication Provider, who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Northern Kentucky University with a Master's Degree in Nursing. Casey believes patient should be involved in their care and be an advocate for themselves. Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, and postpartum depression/anxiety. In her spare time, Casey enjoys fishing with her husband and playing with her son.
![Photo of Erica Webb, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b5c54df-e05f-4c8d-ab49-a4cd54fbc420/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erica Webb is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is originally from Michigan and moved to Kentucky 17 years ago after her husband finished his time in the military. She has over 10 years of nursing experience and has worked the last 8 years at the University of Kentucky Hospital working various specialties units with the majority of her time as a pool RN in the Emergency Department. She received her Master's Degree from Eastern Kentucky University and is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association and American Nurses Association.
Erica Webb is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is originally from Michigan and moved to Kentucky 17 years ago after her husband finished his time in the military. She has over 10 years of nursing experience and has worked the last 8 years at the University of Kentucky Hospital working various specialties units with the majority of her time as a pool RN in the Emergency Department. She received her Master's Degree from Eastern Kentucky University and is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association and American Nurses Association.
![Photo of Christian Litman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b3872a7-5d3a-41b9-8836-ef314c2c561a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Harley Litman is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. She earned a Master's of Science in Nursing at Northern Kentucky University. Harley believes a patient should not only be involved in their care but encourage confidence when it comes to advocating for themself. She believes in educating and working with patients with tools in psychotherapy and/or medication management to enjoy and have a better quality of life. Outside of work, Harley loves to spend time with her husband and two kids. She enjoys cooking, gardening, traveling, and reading.
Harley Litman is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. She earned a Master's of Science in Nursing at Northern Kentucky University. Harley believes a patient should not only be involved in their care but encourage confidence when it comes to advocating for themself. She believes in educating and working with patients with tools in psychotherapy and/or medication management to enjoy and have a better quality of life. Outside of work, Harley loves to spend time with her husband and two kids. She enjoys cooking, gardening, traveling, and reading.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Kristen Cox, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7ebacf4-1264-4f7e-aecb-4fbb0634f946/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Cox is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. Kristen implements caring and compassion to her patients. She listens to their needs and uses clinical judgement to best help them. Kristen truly loves what she does, and helping people is a passion of hers. Outside of work, Kristen like to run; she has completed a few half marathons before. She loves spending time with her family and husband and their 12yearold pitbull.
Kristen Cox is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. Kristen implements caring and compassion to her patients. She listens to their needs and uses clinical judgement to best help them. Kristen truly loves what she does, and helping people is a passion of hers. Outside of work, Kristen like to run; she has completed a few half marathons before. She loves spending time with her family and husband and their 12yearold pitbull.
![Photo of David Njong Chindo, DNP, PMNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef63c978-9e64-469a-a934-2e74d1d8719a/1/320x400.png)
David Njong Chindo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Versailles, KY 40383 (Online Only)
Dr. Chindo is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has over 5 years of experience working with individuals with various mental health disorders, across the lifespan and with diverse groups of people. Dr. Chindo diagnose, treat, manage, and prescribe medications to treat various mental health disorders to include anxiety, depression and PTSD. His approach to psychiatric treatment combines therapeutic feedback coupled with the use of medication management to enable individuals to function at the best of their ability. "I believe in the “wholeness” of a person, and that laughter/happiness is always one of
Dr. Chindo is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has over 5 years of experience working with individuals with various mental health disorders, across the lifespan and with diverse groups of people. Dr. Chindo diagnose, treat, manage, and prescribe medications to treat various mental health disorders to include anxiety, depression and PTSD. His approach to psychiatric treatment combines therapeutic feedback coupled with the use of medication management to enable individuals to function at the best of their ability. "I believe in the “wholeness” of a person, and that laughter/happiness is always one of
![Photo of Ramesh Ghanta, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caf984dd-deb0-4df3-82db-a264d445d334/2/320x400.png)
Board certified in Psychiatry Adult/Board certified in addiction medicine.
Board certified in Psychiatry Adult/Board certified in addiction medicine.
![Photo of Holly Gray, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8975a6f1-4176-48a6-9e83-10a4c8d27850/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holly Gray, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Assistant Professor at the University of Kentucky College of Nursing, where she teaches in the DNP program. Dr. Gray received both her BSN and DNP from the University of Kentucky. She practices in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Her clinical interests include adolescent mood and anxiety disorders, severe mental illness, intellectual disability, and substance abuse disorders.
Holly Gray, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Assistant Professor at the University of Kentucky College of Nursing, where she teaches in the DNP program. Dr. Gray received both her BSN and DNP from the University of Kentucky. She practices in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Her clinical interests include adolescent mood and anxiety disorders, severe mental illness, intellectual disability, and substance abuse disorders.
![Photo of Shirley Beth Hicks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6b91815-b363-4ad6-84a2-16defe786b6b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shirley Beth Hicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Stamping Ground, KY 40379
Beth Hicks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. Beth always shows clients empathy for what they've been through and shows personal interest in their care. She builds a good rapport that is healthy and caring. Outside of work, Beth loves yoga, cooking new recipes, traveling, and reading.
Beth Hicks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. Beth always shows clients empathy for what they've been through and shows personal interest in their care. She builds a good rapport that is healthy and caring. Outside of work, Beth loves yoga, cooking new recipes, traveling, and reading.
![Photo of Rebecca O'Hair, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89e70858-aa75-4bac-b96c-4c1ca8e399de/1/320x400.jpeg)
becca is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing with Lifestance since 2021. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with her MSN - APRN. Rebecca believes that listening to the patient is one of the most important parts of developing a good working relationship. Equally important is including the patient in the development of the plan of care and helping them understand all of the options available to them. Particular areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders.
becca is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing with Lifestance since 2021. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with her MSN - APRN. Rebecca believes that listening to the patient is one of the most important parts of developing a good working relationship. Equally important is including the patient in the development of the plan of care and helping them understand all of the options available to them. Particular areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Catherine Permin, DNP, MHNP , APRN, APRN BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7915120b-9b48-4dbd-a22f-82e821659bc3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Permin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MHNP , APRN, APRN BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Versailles, KY 40383 (Online Only)
Dr. Catherine Permin, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, APRN is a nurse practitioner who provides healthcare in the primary care and mental health settings to diverse patients across the lifespan. Dr. Permin was born in a Danish family and spent her childhood in France. Subsequently, she traveled globally working in the horse industry before settling in the central Kentucky area. Dr. Permin is fluent in English, French, and Spanish and this allows her to provide culturally congruent care to patients whose native language may not be English.
Dr. Catherine Permin, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, APRN is a nurse practitioner who provides healthcare in the primary care and mental health settings to diverse patients across the lifespan. Dr. Permin was born in a Danish family and spent her childhood in France. Subsequently, she traveled globally working in the horse industry before settling in the central Kentucky area. Dr. Permin is fluent in English, French, and Spanish and this allows her to provide culturally congruent care to patients whose native language may not be English.
![Photo of Mark Martin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bf49521-e7f7-4a39-ad9c-2f6973c3be94/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mark Martin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2010. Mark believes in treating people with respect and having an unbiased approach to each person's needs. In his spare time, Mark enjoys golf.
Mark Martin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2010. Mark believes in treating people with respect and having an unbiased approach to each person's needs. In his spare time, Mark enjoys golf.
![Photo of Erin Greenlee, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b701993e-f521-4f05-b02e-4d2a06fb287b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Greenlee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Georgetown, KY 40324
I have experience in assessing and treating complex mental health issues in the inpatient and outpatient settings for people of all ages. I am looking forward to treating individuals in the private practice setting with similar mental health concerns.
I have experience in assessing and treating complex mental health issues in the inpatient and outpatient settings for people of all ages. I am looking forward to treating individuals in the private practice setting with similar mental health concerns.
![Photo of Holly Kent, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f804902c-8404-466d-bee9-8eb55b02a0b8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holly Kent is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2021. She graduated from Northern Kentucky University with an MSN of Science in Nursing. Holly has eight years of nursing experience working in a variety of care settings. She is also a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association.
Holly Kent is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2021. She graduated from Northern Kentucky University with an MSN of Science in Nursing. Holly has eight years of nursing experience working in a variety of care settings. She is also a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association.
![Photo of Brian Richardson, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d32e879-e987-4845-a720-70a61e9a6cb4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brian Richardson is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who received his"¯Master's"¯Degree"¯from Northern Kentucky University. "¯ He received a bachelor's degree in nursing and environmental studies from Eastern Kentucky University. "¯ He has"¯experience"¯working"¯at Cardinal Hill dealing with traumatic brain injury patients and"¯the"¯rehabilitative needs of patients with acute medical conditions. "¯ He has"¯also"¯worked at the Ridge inpatient"¯services"¯with children, adolescents, and adult populations. "¯ His special interests include treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
Brian Richardson is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who received his"¯Master's"¯Degree"¯from Northern Kentucky University. "¯ He received a bachelor's degree in nursing and environmental studies from Eastern Kentucky University. "¯ He has"¯experience"¯working"¯at Cardinal Hill dealing with traumatic brain injury patients and"¯the"¯rehabilitative needs of patients with acute medical conditions. "¯ He has"¯also"¯worked at the Ridge inpatient"¯services"¯with children, adolescents, and adult populations. "¯ His special interests include treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
![Photo of Allie Carmichael, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dac3b89a-098d-4530-8d73-6c5a26adf2c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Allie Carmichael is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2022. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Kentucky and her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville. Allie has experience working as a registered nurse in an inpatient psychiatric setting on children, adolescent, and adult units. She has experience as a psychiatric nurse practitioner working with adults in an inpatient psychiatric unit.
Allie Carmichael is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2022. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Kentucky and her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing from the University of Louisville. Allie has experience working as a registered nurse in an inpatient psychiatric setting on children, adolescent, and adult units. She has experience as a psychiatric nurse practitioner working with adults in an inpatient psychiatric unit.
![Photo of Andrea L Semones - Compass Medical Group, PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c1c6552-2f09-43bd-ae46-f18fdffbfe1e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Compass Medical Group, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601
Hello! I am a board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received my masters degree from the University of South Alabama and have over 14 years of experience in my field. I provide medication management in a peaceful, relaxing office space or via telehealth if the patient prefers. I also utilize several tools to help pinpoint your diagnosis to maximize treatment success! Private and secure Telehealth services are a special focus for me and Telehealth is currently the best option to observe health and safety guidelines and pairs perfectly with mental health treatment if preferred.
Hello! I am a board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received my masters degree from the University of South Alabama and have over 14 years of experience in my field. I provide medication management in a peaceful, relaxing office space or via telehealth if the patient prefers. I also utilize several tools to help pinpoint your diagnosis to maximize treatment success! Private and secure Telehealth services are a special focus for me and Telehealth is currently the best option to observe health and safety guidelines and pairs perfectly with mental health treatment if preferred.
![Photo of Jaime Varney - Synergy Psychiatry and Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6fa6e4e-72ac-4b06-b351-f0296d0ba909/1/320x400.png)
Synergy Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Georgetown, KY 40324 (Online Only)
Synergy Psychiatry and Wellness is best-suited for clients that are interested in a holistic and functional approach to mental health. We believe in the mind-body connection and by examining the root causes of mental health disorders, our clients can achieve effective and lasting health and wellness.
Synergy Psychiatry and Wellness is best-suited for clients that are interested in a holistic and functional approach to mental health. We believe in the mind-body connection and by examining the root causes of mental health disorders, our clients can achieve effective and lasting health and wellness.
![Photo of Felix Brown, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd06dd4a-24c4-4718-bd22-f4ccaa622913/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeremy Brown is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Kentucky. He has served as a psychiatric registered nurse for the past 20 years providing care in both inpatient as well as outpatient care settings. He earned his Master of Science in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. Jeremy's areas of specialty include mood and thought disorders as well as treatment-refractory illness.
Jeremy Brown is an advanced practice registered nurse, board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Kentucky. He has served as a psychiatric registered nurse for the past 20 years providing care in both inpatient as well as outpatient care settings. He earned his Master of Science in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. Jeremy's areas of specialty include mood and thought disorders as well as treatment-refractory illness.
![Photo of Ryan Bowlds, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/437a32b9-d59f-4539-b162-78448aeeecc3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Bowlds, PMHNP Ryan Bowlds is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. He graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Bachelor's degree in Nursing and completed a Psychiatric-Nurse Practitioner Master's degree from Western Kentucky University. Ryan offers not only medication management but the ability to provide psychotherapy-based therapeutic interventions. Outside of work, Ryan loves to play music, collect old music records, watch sports, and also play basketball and golf.
Ryan Bowlds, PMHNP Ryan Bowlds is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. He graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Bachelor's degree in Nursing and completed a Psychiatric-Nurse Practitioner Master's degree from Western Kentucky University. Ryan offers not only medication management but the ability to provide psychotherapy-based therapeutic interventions. Outside of work, Ryan loves to play music, collect old music records, watch sports, and also play basketball and golf.
![Photo of Rebecca Feck, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90dc63a0-a975-49d9-8bcd-f85e00285797/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Feck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Georgetown, KY 40324
I am passionate about Mental Healthcare and assisting you in gaining the quality of life you deserve. I believe that through accurate diagnosis and medication management all clients will begin to realize thier personal self worth, believe in their full potential and reach thier individual mental health goals. I practice a holistic approach to mental health by utilizing safe effective medication treatment of your symptoms and educating you regarding your diagnosis and individual treatment plan. By creating a partnership with each client, a level of “teamwork” can be achieved culminating in the best therapeutic outcome for you.
I am passionate about Mental Healthcare and assisting you in gaining the quality of life you deserve. I believe that through accurate diagnosis and medication management all clients will begin to realize thier personal self worth, believe in their full potential and reach thier individual mental health goals. I practice a holistic approach to mental health by utilizing safe effective medication treatment of your symptoms and educating you regarding your diagnosis and individual treatment plan. By creating a partnership with each client, a level of “teamwork” can be achieved culminating in the best therapeutic outcome for you.
See more therapy options for Midway
Nearby Searches for Midway
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Midway, KY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Midway, KY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Midway, KY see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Midway?
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.