Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, KY
![Photo of Shawnda Carter, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca1f690e-aa39-4569-a1ad-c30d2dba7b46/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shawnda Carter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Sterling, KY 40353
Hello, my name is Shawnda Carter and I am here to help you navigate your individualized mental health needs. I enjoy treating those with addiction, eating disorders, ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, and depression. I believe that treatment should be individualized based on each individual and that there is no "one-size fits all or most". I will listen to your concerns and work with you to develop a plan of care that suits your individual goals. Let's work together to achieve a better tomorrow!
Hello, my name is Shawnda Carter and I am here to help you navigate your individualized mental health needs. I enjoy treating those with addiction, eating disorders, ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, and depression. I believe that treatment should be individualized based on each individual and that there is no "one-size fits all or most". I will listen to your concerns and work with you to develop a plan of care that suits your individual goals. Let's work together to achieve a better tomorrow!
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Mary Rollins, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce9898a8-e631-47db-aacb-d4da3f161973/2/320x400.jpeg)
I won’t say that I necessarily have an “ideal” client. I chose to do what I do because I want to help people. I’m comfortable with any and all situations. My goal is to help people to be able to help themselves to meet the mental health goals they have set. I want to help spread positivity and decrease the stigma on mental health.
I won’t say that I necessarily have an “ideal” client. I chose to do what I do because I want to help people. I’m comfortable with any and all situations. My goal is to help people to be able to help themselves to meet the mental health goals they have set. I want to help spread positivity and decrease the stigma on mental health.
![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 Ashley Staten - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/766f4037-9241-47b4-8872-d8b24e2f6f75/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![Photo of Ora Frankel - The Couch Immediate Mental Health Care, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0754121a-9f63-4fe9-842c-7abe8cfe7df9/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Couch Immediate Mental Health Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
The Couch is Louisville's first and only immediate mental healthcare center,founded to help patients who are experiencing mental health problems such as depression, anxiety panic attacks, phobias, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, etc. Our mission is to provide patients with immediate support during a crisis, and to perform a complete psychiatric evaluation. We believe patients should be helped immediately when a mental health crisis arises. In these situations, patients who seek help are often facing two inadequate choices: waiting weeks to be seen by a psychiatrist, or going to the emergency room. We welcome walk-in patients.
The Couch is Louisville's first and only immediate mental healthcare center,founded to help patients who are experiencing mental health problems such as depression, anxiety panic attacks, phobias, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, etc. Our mission is to provide patients with immediate support during a crisis, and to perform a complete psychiatric evaluation. We believe patients should be helped immediately when a mental health crisis arises. In these situations, patients who seek help are often facing two inadequate choices: waiting weeks to be seen by a psychiatrist, or going to the emergency room. We welcome walk-in patients.
![Photo of Nick Bischoff, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15f97565-833b-4eb7-a6f9-df350e95603d/1/320x400.png)
Hello! I'm Nick. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am deeply committed to redefining mental health care by focusing on holistic approaches. This commitment stems from witnessing the effects that an over reliance on prescription medication can have on individuals and our society. My approach is grounded in the philosophy that medication should be a bridge, not a barrier, to achieving mental health. I strive to help my patients achieve optimal wellness, through fostering an environment where they feel heard, understood, and actively involved in their care decisions.
Hello! I'm Nick. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am deeply committed to redefining mental health care by focusing on holistic approaches. This commitment stems from witnessing the effects that an over reliance on prescription medication can have on individuals and our society. My approach is grounded in the philosophy that medication should be a bridge, not a barrier, to achieving mental health. I strive to help my patients achieve optimal wellness, through fostering an environment where they feel heard, understood, and actively involved in their care decisions.
![Photo of Treven Back, APRN , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51038fbc-4023-4969-b00d-fcb98e2e9594/2/320x400.jpeg)
Treven Back
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
As a provider, I believe in treating everyone has human and not labeling someone based on their diagnosis. As the need for mental health care continues to increase, I provide a warm and opening setting for clients to seek help. My focus is on the client and making sure that they are prepared to face everyday life.
As a provider, I believe in treating everyone has human and not labeling someone based on their diagnosis. As the need for mental health care continues to increase, I provide a warm and opening setting for clients to seek help. My focus is on the client and making sure that they are prepared to face everyday life.
![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
Lexington, KY 40504 (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 Barbara Jean Holbrook, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1ddb613-c4af-45dc-8ca3-a3ef1c9ec2cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara Jean Holbrook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40220 (Online Only)
I graduated with my Associate's degree in 2010. Prior to obtaining my nurse practitioner license in 2020 I spent most of my nursing career working in the mental health field. I have worked in acute crisis settings, outpatient settings, inpatient settings and with populations that include: severely mentally ill, forensics, dual diagnostic, substance abuse, pediatrics, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. This experience has been invaluable to me in my role as a provider, enabling me to interact comfortably with individuals of all ages and needs. Through compassionate, genuine care I build trusting relationships with my clients.
I graduated with my Associate's degree in 2010. Prior to obtaining my nurse practitioner license in 2020 I spent most of my nursing career working in the mental health field. I have worked in acute crisis settings, outpatient settings, inpatient settings and with populations that include: severely mentally ill, forensics, dual diagnostic, substance abuse, pediatrics, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. This experience has been invaluable to me in my role as a provider, enabling me to interact comfortably with individuals of all ages and needs. Through compassionate, genuine care I build trusting relationships with my clients.
Jessica Price is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She holds active memberships in the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APRN) and the American Nurses Association (ANA). She received her master's degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University and her bachelor's degree in Nursing from Kentucky State University. Her previous work experience includes both hospital and private practice settings in both inpatient and outpatient units.
Jessica Price is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She holds active memberships in the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APRN) and the American Nurses Association (ANA). She received her master's degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University and her bachelor's degree in Nursing from Kentucky State University. Her previous work experience includes both hospital and private practice settings in both inpatient and outpatient units.
![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 Sarah Thomas - Sarah Thomas | The Lotus Connection, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27f04d74-0b1f-4b06-ac1f-0fd13ff007a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Thomas | The Lotus Connection
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223 (Online Only)
My mission at The Lotus Connection is to normalize mental health as a part of the human experience and allow everyone to love and accept every part of themselves; knowing they are uniquely and beautifully made; accepting that we are each perfectly imperfect! Regardless of circumstances you feel you may presently be or have been in, you can rise above and blossom Beautifully and Gracefully as the Lotus Flower. I specialize in medication management for Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, Social Anxiety), Depression, ADHD, Mood Disorders (Bipolar and Schizophrenia), and SUD.
My mission at The Lotus Connection is to normalize mental health as a part of the human experience and allow everyone to love and accept every part of themselves; knowing they are uniquely and beautifully made; accepting that we are each perfectly imperfect! Regardless of circumstances you feel you may presently be or have been in, you can rise above and blossom Beautifully and Gracefully as the Lotus Flower. I specialize in medication management for Anxiety Disorders (OCD, PTSD, Social Anxiety), Depression, ADHD, Mood Disorders (Bipolar and Schizophrenia), and SUD.
![Photo of Angel Opara, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e115638-09a3-4c4d-bfd2-71ef4b97d720/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angel is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is originally from Nigeria but has called Lexington her home since 2016. Angel attended midway university for her undergraduate studies in nursing. While in nursing school, she worked at Baptist health as a patient care technician. She found psychiatry particularly interesting and decided to become a psychiatric nurse at eastern state hospital where she has worked as a registered nurse for about four years now. Angel went on to pursue her MSN at Herzing University. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she is committed to providing compassionate, holistic an
Angel is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is originally from Nigeria but has called Lexington her home since 2016. Angel attended midway university for her undergraduate studies in nursing. While in nursing school, she worked at Baptist health as a patient care technician. She found psychiatry particularly interesting and decided to become a psychiatric nurse at eastern state hospital where she has worked as a registered nurse for about four years now. Angel went on to pursue her MSN at Herzing University. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she is committed to providing compassionate, holistic an
![Photo of Teresa Ament, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c19ade13-7ebc-4ce2-9e02-b42be45adc18/1/320x400.jpeg)
Teresa "Terre" Ament, APRN is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2006. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Kentucky, a Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies from the University of Louisville, and a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Kentucky. Terre believes that people respond positively to unconditional acceptance, active listening, and gentle encouragement. She incorporates these skills into every patient visit.
Teresa "Terre" Ament, APRN is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2006. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Kentucky, a Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies from the University of Louisville, and a Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Kentucky. Terre believes that people respond positively to unconditional acceptance, active listening, and gentle encouragement. She incorporates these skills into every patient visit.
![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
Louisville, KY 40220 (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 Megan Eing, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b8e71a6-1af0-4686-80fc-22780ed6ea62/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Eing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, KY 41102
Passionate about mental health disorders, I am dedicated to providing the best possible care to patients. Staying current with the latest evidence-based practices is a cornerstone of my approach, ensuring that patients receive the most effective and up-to-date treatments available. Creating a safe and comfortable space for patients is my priority.
Passionate about mental health disorders, I am dedicated to providing the best possible care to patients. Staying current with the latest evidence-based practices is a cornerstone of my approach, ensuring that patients receive the most effective and up-to-date treatments available. Creating a safe and comfortable space for patients is my priority.
![Photo of Dr. Sarah Parsons, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37612bce-99a1-4155-9b6d-4d3c2c7c2203/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello - I am Sarah Parsons DO – a Kentucky based, Christian, triple boarded psychiatrist dedicated to helping others. I offer in-person and tele-psychiatry appointments for patients in KY, IN, and AL. I was born and raised in Lexington, Ky and attended Centre College and Pikeville University School of Osteopathic Medicine. I completed residency in Psychiatry & Neurology at ETSU, in Johnson City, TN. I then completed fellowship in Consult Liaison Psychiatry at Case Western Reserve in Cleveland, OH, specializing in women’s mental health, transplant psychiatry, HIV psychiatry, psychodermatology, psychooncology, and ICU psychiatry.
Hello - I am Sarah Parsons DO – a Kentucky based, Christian, triple boarded psychiatrist dedicated to helping others. I offer in-person and tele-psychiatry appointments for patients in KY, IN, and AL. I was born and raised in Lexington, Ky and attended Centre College and Pikeville University School of Osteopathic Medicine. I completed residency in Psychiatry & Neurology at ETSU, in Johnson City, TN. I then completed fellowship in Consult Liaison Psychiatry at Case Western Reserve in Cleveland, OH, specializing in women’s mental health, transplant psychiatry, HIV psychiatry, psychodermatology, psychooncology, and ICU psychiatry.
![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 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
Lexington, KY 40509
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 Erica Cecil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b278c2f-1def-43d9-a7e8-aa0e50783644/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been working as a psychiatric- mental health nurse practitioner since 2017 after graduating from Eastern Kentucky University. Prior to this, I obtained my BSN from the University of Kentucky in 2012. I have experience working in the outpatient and inpatient psychiatric setting. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I understand each circumstance is special and I like to incorporate issues with any stressors that may be impacting your mental health. I as well welcome the LGBTQ+ community!
I have been working as a psychiatric- mental health nurse practitioner since 2017 after graduating from Eastern Kentucky University. Prior to this, I obtained my BSN from the University of Kentucky in 2012. I have experience working in the outpatient and inpatient psychiatric setting. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I understand each circumstance is special and I like to incorporate issues with any stressors that may be impacting your mental health. I as well welcome the LGBTQ+ community!
See more therapy options for Montgomery County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, KY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, KY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Grief |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Medicaid |
100% | Elevance |
How Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, 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 Montgomery 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.