Psychiatrists in Mount Sterling, 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 Katie Gogel, APRN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4675f6f5-5739-4938-8986-ae8465796408/1/320x400.png)
Katie Gogel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40218 (Online Only)
I have climbed the healthcare ladder. I have been a CNA, LPN, ASN-RN, BSN-RN, and finally MSN- FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner). I have worked in healthcare for the last 13 years all the while being a full-time student for 8 of those years. I am often told that I am the first person that listened to them. I strive for that experience with all of my patients.
I have climbed the healthcare ladder. I have been a CNA, LPN, ASN-RN, BSN-RN, and finally MSN- FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner). I have worked in healthcare for the last 13 years all the while being a full-time student for 8 of those years. I am often told that I am the first person that listened to them. I strive for that experience with all of my patients.
![Photo of Mark Bush, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb426730-2cfa-43db-93c4-a69efbab316b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mark Bush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40241
Accepting New Patients. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of helping people manage their mental health wellness. I believe that mental wellness is a key foundation for overall health. I understand that all my clients are unique and valued individuals who deserve acceptance, appreciation, support, and compassion. My perfect client would be someone struggling with life’s challenges who wants to obtain optimal happiness and wellness. My goal is simple - to assist you to live your very best life. Everyone deserves that!
Accepting New Patients. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of helping people manage their mental health wellness. I believe that mental wellness is a key foundation for overall health. I understand that all my clients are unique and valued individuals who deserve acceptance, appreciation, support, and compassion. My perfect client would be someone struggling with life’s challenges who wants to obtain optimal happiness and wellness. My goal is simple - to assist you to live your very best life. Everyone deserves that!
![Photo of Erin Whitehouse, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53cb1eed-583b-4592-9ecd-f4032d639a28/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Whitehouse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40217 (Online Only)
I find empathy and unconditional positive regard to be healing in and of itself; however, I also understand the value of clinical training and learning to implement interventions according to my client’s needs.
I find empathy and unconditional positive regard to be healing in and of itself; however, I also understand the value of clinical training and learning to implement interventions according to my client’s needs.
![Photo of Brittany Stark, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61604c41-fb01-4c1a-a035-592341e05765/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Stark, PMHNP Brittany Stark is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University. Brittany believes in providing a holistic, collaborative, and individualized approach to mental healthcare so that optimal mental healthcare goals are attainable and sustainable. In her spare time, Brittany enjoys hiking, camping, painting, writing, reading, traveling, music and being with her family.
Brittany Stark, PMHNP Brittany Stark is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University. Brittany believes in providing a holistic, collaborative, and individualized approach to mental healthcare so that optimal mental healthcare goals are attainable and sustainable. In her spare time, Brittany enjoys hiking, camping, painting, writing, reading, traveling, music and being with her family.
![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 Jen Sherohman, APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0c4ffdb-6823-4180-933e-0df410c6f2cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jen Sherohman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40218 (Online Only)
Ready for a change but don't know where to start? At the end of your rope and struggling to hang on? Having panic attacks and feel like no one gets it? Mind all over the place and you can't keep your focus? Struggling with up and down moods? Having flashbacks or nightmares? You are not alone!
Ready for a change but don't know where to start? At the end of your rope and struggling to hang on? Having panic attacks and feel like no one gets it? Mind all over the place and you can't keep your focus? Struggling with up and down moods? Having flashbacks or nightmares? You are not alone!
![Photo of Isabel Jones, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf7a41af-f9e9-4318-bf05-634908e36e14/1/320x400.jpeg)
Isabel Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40511
Hello. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in nursing and psychiatry across the lifespan. I believe that mental health is as important as physical health. I am committed to providing client centered care and believe that successful treatment involves a collaboration between provider and client.
Hello. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in nursing and psychiatry across the lifespan. I believe that mental health is as important as physical health. I am committed to providing client centered care and believe that successful treatment involves a collaboration between provider and client.
![Photo of Victoria Spreitler, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d36338f6-89a9-47f7-9554-af173b7e3955/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Spreitler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40241
Feeling overwhelmed with life’s demands? Juggling too much and don’t know where to turn for help? Life can be tough, especially if you’ve sought out help but didn’t feel like you were truly being heard. Vicki Spreitler is not just any Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner; she’s one who cares. Born and raised in Kentucky with over 15 years of diverse experience, including pediatrics, emergency medicine, primary and acute care, and mental health, Vicki has a wealth of knowledge to help you face your biggest fears. Vicki knows firsthand the challenges of balancing a hectic life—she’s been there as a single mom raising two boys.
Feeling overwhelmed with life’s demands? Juggling too much and don’t know where to turn for help? Life can be tough, especially if you’ve sought out help but didn’t feel like you were truly being heard. Vicki Spreitler is not just any Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner; she’s one who cares. Born and raised in Kentucky with over 15 years of diverse experience, including pediatrics, emergency medicine, primary and acute care, and mental health, Vicki has a wealth of knowledge to help you face your biggest fears. Vicki knows firsthand the challenges of balancing a hectic life—she’s been there as a single mom raising two boys.
![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
Lexington, KY 40503
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 Kayla Lesher, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81ffed63-c09f-4547-bce1-d38680b6fbfe/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kayla Lesher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223
Appointments available for in person and Telehealth! At Inclusion Mental Health, we have 5 practitioners available with full prescriptive authority. Please visit inclusionmentalhealth.com to get to know our providers!
Appointments available for in person and Telehealth! At Inclusion Mental Health, we have 5 practitioners available with full prescriptive authority. Please visit inclusionmentalhealth.com to get to know our providers!
![Photo of Elizabeth Smoot, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/447918be-3270-4815-ab2f-7187c34e531e/1/320x400.png)
Ann Smoot is a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse. She has over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and mental health in inpatient, school-based, outpatient and community settings. She received her master's degree in nursing from the University of Louisville. She specializes in medication management for the treatment of adult attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, and bipolar.
Ann Smoot is a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse. She has over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and mental health in inpatient, school-based, outpatient and community settings. She received her master's degree in nursing from the University of Louisville. She specializes in medication management for the treatment of adult attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, anxiety, and bipolar.
![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.
![Photo of Jill Patterson, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8aa5278f-1a93-445f-be48-0ababfb79a7e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Patterson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40514 (Online Only)
I am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing for 25 years. I have practiced inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. I am excited to be offering medication management telehealth. Psychiatry is my passion and I pride myself on my diagnosis and treatment skills, but also the commitment I have to provide my clients with devoted attention to their own specific treatment plan.
I am a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing for 25 years. I have practiced inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. I am excited to be offering medication management telehealth. Psychiatry is my passion and I pride myself on my diagnosis and treatment skills, but also the commitment I have to provide my clients with devoted attention to their own specific treatment plan.
![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 Heather King, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a22c44c-5472-44b7-9561-d3631da49e4b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202 (Online Only)
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of EKU. I started my nursing career as a psychiatric RN. A few of my professional research interests are integrating alternative treatments into mental healthcare, and furthering our reach with technology. I have a master’s degree in nursing informatics and a post master’s degree as a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner across the lifespan. I love seeing individuals of all ages.
I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a graduate of EKU. I started my nursing career as a psychiatric RN. A few of my professional research interests are integrating alternative treatments into mental healthcare, and furthering our reach with technology. I have a master’s degree in nursing informatics and a post master’s degree as a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner across the lifespan. I love seeing individuals of all ages.
![Photo of Dr. Meredith C Wood, DNP, ANP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d248bf2-ec53-4b10-9798-7c21e0fd99d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Meredith C Wood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ANP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, KY 40475 (Online Only)
I am accepting new patients age 12 years and older for medication management. I have over 19 years of healthcare experience. All appointments are via telehealth using doxy.me. At PsychMind, we have a team of mental health professionals who also provide therapy. Call or email for any questions or to get started with scheduling.
I am accepting new patients age 12 years and older for medication management. I have over 19 years of healthcare experience. All appointments are via telehealth using doxy.me. At PsychMind, we have a team of mental health professionals who also provide therapy. Call or email for any questions or to get started with scheduling.
![Photo of Nicole Fletcher-Griggs, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4042c1cb-30ff-497c-a54a-79ceb63041f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Fletcher-Griggs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40228 (Online Only)
In my psychiatric practice, trust is paramount. I'm committed to nurturing a safe, supportive environment where your voice is valued and respected. With empathy and compassion, I seek to cultivate a collaborative therapeutic bond grounded in mutual trust and openness. I firmly believe in holistic care, delving into both symptoms and underlying causes of mental health struggles. Together, we'll design a tailored treatment strategy aligned with your aspirations and beliefs. My practice is rooted in evidence-based approaches, integrating the latest research and best practices to empower you on your path to healing.
In my psychiatric practice, trust is paramount. I'm committed to nurturing a safe, supportive environment where your voice is valued and respected. With empathy and compassion, I seek to cultivate a collaborative therapeutic bond grounded in mutual trust and openness. I firmly believe in holistic care, delving into both symptoms and underlying causes of mental health struggles. Together, we'll design a tailored treatment strategy aligned with your aspirations and beliefs. My practice is rooted in evidence-based approaches, integrating the latest research and best practices to empower you on your path to healing.
![Photo of Melissa Barnett, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a262a1-18d4-42c8-8def-1c4d0fe71e47/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Irvine, KY 40336
The majority of my professional career has been spent caring for individuals in Central and Eastern Kentucky, thus, providing me with a greater appreciation of the unique circumstances facing my patients. My passion for behavioral health and addiction medicine lead me to Trinity Health Group where I hope to continue providing exceptional care to individuals in Estill and surrounding counties.
The majority of my professional career has been spent caring for individuals in Central and Eastern Kentucky, thus, providing me with a greater appreciation of the unique circumstances facing my patients. My passion for behavioral health and addiction medicine lead me to Trinity Health Group where I hope to continue providing exceptional care to individuals in Estill and surrounding counties.
![Photo of Elizabeth Templeman, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/587216cd-03c7-4bc3-a297-12217c4e965d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Templeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
Embrace Integrative Behavioral Health will be opening in June of 2024. Website under development. I blend traditional psychiatric approaches with complementary therapies to provide holistic care for my patients. By integrating medication management with techniques like lifestyle modification, mindfulness, neurofeedback, and nutritional medicine, I aim to address the root causes of mental health issues and promote long-term wellness. My goal is to empower patients to take an active role in their treatment journey by fostering a collaborative approach in a supporting, therapeutic environment.
Embrace Integrative Behavioral Health will be opening in June of 2024. Website under development. I blend traditional psychiatric approaches with complementary therapies to provide holistic care for my patients. By integrating medication management with techniques like lifestyle modification, mindfulness, neurofeedback, and nutritional medicine, I aim to address the root causes of mental health issues and promote long-term wellness. My goal is to empower patients to take an active role in their treatment journey by fostering a collaborative approach in a supporting, therapeutic environment.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Mount Sterling, KY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Mount Sterling, 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 Mount Sterling, 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 Mount Sterling?
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.