Psychiatrists in Nicholasville, KY
![Photo of Michael Sarten, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bd7bb97-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been working in Mental Health since 2011, first as an inpatient psychiatric RN and now as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have practiced as a nurse practitioner in VA hospitals as a psychiatric consultation liaison and at VA community-based outpatient clinics. That’s just a fancy way of saying I have experience working as an inpatient and outpatient clinician. In addition, I have experience working in community mental health, mostly working with clients on Medicaid, many with substance abuse issues. As my well-rounded experience suggests, I respect and enjoy working with clients from all walks of life.
I have been working in Mental Health since 2011, first as an inpatient psychiatric RN and now as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have practiced as a nurse practitioner in VA hospitals as a psychiatric consultation liaison and at VA community-based outpatient clinics. That’s just a fancy way of saying I have experience working as an inpatient and outpatient clinician. In addition, I have experience working in community mental health, mostly working with clients on Medicaid, many with substance abuse issues. As my well-rounded experience suggests, I respect and enjoy working with clients from all walks of life.
![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
Nicholasville, KY 40356
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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Leigh (Ann) Gebhardt, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c62f1afe-5f23-4de0-8ff0-807c6f4e5e9d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leigh Ann Gebhardt, PMHNP Leigh Ann Gebhardt is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2018. She has a BSN (Nursing), an MSN (Nursing Education), an MSN (Family Nurse Practitioner), an MSN Certification (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner), and Juris Doctorate. Leigh Ann believes in a wholistic approach of healthcare and tries to partner with patients to help provide treatment that supports optimal healthcare outcomes.
Leigh Ann Gebhardt, PMHNP Leigh Ann Gebhardt is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2018. She has a BSN (Nursing), an MSN (Nursing Education), an MSN (Family Nurse Practitioner), an MSN Certification (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner), and Juris Doctorate. Leigh Ann believes in a wholistic approach of healthcare and tries to partner with patients to help provide treatment that supports optimal healthcare outcomes.
![Photo of Sabita Ghale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/424936f8-c569-4465-9b1a-5ebde8b339ce/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to delivering compassionate and personalized mental health care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With a solid foundation in psychiatric nursing and a Master’s degree specializing in psychiatric mental health, I guide with both empathy and expertise. I advocate for a holistic approach, addressing physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects of well-being. I aim to foster a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and collaborating on their mental health goals.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to delivering compassionate and personalized mental health care tailored to each individual's unique needs. With a solid foundation in psychiatric nursing and a Master’s degree specializing in psychiatric mental health, I guide with both empathy and expertise. I advocate for a holistic approach, addressing physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects of well-being. I aim to foster a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and collaborating on their mental health goals.
![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.
I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. I treat patients who seek help for a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, difficulties in relationships, underachievement and feeling overwhelmed or stressed. I treat children, adolescents and adults and have extensive experience treating professionals including physicians, lawyers, executives, teachers and mental health professionals. I have worked in student health in a university setting and am experienced treating students facing academic difficulties. I served as Professor of Psychiatry and Neurology, Vice Chair for Education and Director of Residency Training in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Kentucky for many years.
I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. I treat patients who seek help for a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, difficulties in relationships, underachievement and feeling overwhelmed or stressed. I treat children, adolescents and adults and have extensive experience treating professionals including physicians, lawyers, executives, teachers and mental health professionals. I have worked in student health in a university setting and am experienced treating students facing academic difficulties. I served as Professor of Psychiatry and Neurology, Vice Chair for Education and Director of Residency Training in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Kentucky for many years.
![Photo of Magdalen K Mekoh - Magdalen Mekoh - Headway, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e4936de-4d39-4007-835c-a8b04c417541/1/320x400.jpeg)
Magdalen Mekoh - Headway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40514 (Online Only)
I am here to help if you are struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, alcohol and substance use disorder and other psychiatric disorders. If you feel that things are not going well and you want to talk to someone to identify what is wrong, I am here to help. I believe in getting to the root of issues so, I try to provide a platform for patients to express themselves and together we try to touch the root cause of their problems instead of just treating symptoms.
I am here to help if you are struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, alcohol and substance use disorder and other psychiatric disorders. If you feel that things are not going well and you want to talk to someone to identify what is wrong, I am here to help. I believe in getting to the root of issues so, I try to provide a platform for patients to express themselves and together we try to touch the root cause of their problems instead of just treating symptoms.
![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 Dr. Kristin Dawson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/561775e7-08a2-4ac7-a68d-64a919e54f13/2/320x400.jpeg)
Every one of us is on an expedition and most of us have encountered suffering along the way. We are here to act as guides during the most difficult parts of your mental health journey. Your treatment team will assess which stage of the journey you find yourself in now. You may be seeking relief from psychiatric symptoms, exploring healing from trauma, trying to optimize your mind, body and spirit or building a thriving life - Expedition Mental Health is ready to join you on your journey to greater mental health.
Every one of us is on an expedition and most of us have encountered suffering along the way. We are here to act as guides during the most difficult parts of your mental health journey. Your treatment team will assess which stage of the journey you find yourself in now. You may be seeking relief from psychiatric symptoms, exploring healing from trauma, trying to optimize your mind, body and spirit or building a thriving life - Expedition Mental Health is ready to join you on your journey to greater mental health.
![Photo of Michael Rieser, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e548df22-2d24-407c-93b7-a0530328347f/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Rieser received his undergraduate degree with honors from the University of Louisville where he also attended medical school and graduated in 1981. He completed an internship in Internal Medicine and began practicing Emergency Medicine in 1982, receiving Board Certification from the American Board of Emergency Physicians in 1988. He entered training in Psychiatry at the University of California at San Diego in 1990 and completed Adult Psychiatry Residency and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in 1994, retiring from Emergency Medicine practice upon coming home to Kentucky to establish Psychiatric practice.
Dr. Rieser received his undergraduate degree with honors from the University of Louisville where he also attended medical school and graduated in 1981. He completed an internship in Internal Medicine and began practicing Emergency Medicine in 1982, receiving Board Certification from the American Board of Emergency Physicians in 1988. He entered training in Psychiatry at the University of California at San Diego in 1990 and completed Adult Psychiatry Residency and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in 1994, retiring from Emergency Medicine practice upon coming home to Kentucky to establish Psychiatric practice.
![Photo of Kim Smith, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c7eeea2-9a3c-4d0f-888e-a3e4f3e3a97c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40517
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping you overcome your mental health struggles so can lead a meaningful life.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to helping you overcome your mental health struggles so can lead a meaningful life.
![Photo of Jeffrey Tuttle, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f9978aa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed psychiatrist practicing psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. I believe psychotherapy is an important but frequently overlooked treatment for many mental health problems like depression and anxiety. Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis help people address emotional problems and internal conflicts in order to increase self-understanding and freedom. Professional advice about personal issues or emotional concerns can be invaluable in confronting seeming roadblocks that prevent a person from experiencing a sense of emotional freedom. I treat older adolescents and adults.
I am a licensed psychiatrist practicing psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. I believe psychotherapy is an important but frequently overlooked treatment for many mental health problems like depression and anxiety. Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis help people address emotional problems and internal conflicts in order to increase self-understanding and freedom. Professional advice about personal issues or emotional concerns can be invaluable in confronting seeming roadblocks that prevent a person from experiencing a sense of emotional freedom. I treat older adolescents and adults.
![Photo of Rebekah Easton-Hogg, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4827a0e-2d5b-4996-a6cb-8cfbc2ff4af8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebekah Easton-Hogg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40517
We are here to help you identify health care concerns, achieve higher resiliency, and work toward health care goals. We offer medication management, diagnostic clarification, and many additional mental health care services.
We are here to help you identify health care concerns, achieve higher resiliency, and work toward health care goals. We offer medication management, diagnostic clarification, and many additional mental health care services.
![Photo of Cheryl Lynn Marrs, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a40a9915-d1a7-46c2-892e-64e27fc8809b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cheryl Lynn Marrs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40503
We are not born with the skills to handle life or our emotions. If we did not have people surrounding us as we grew who knew these skills and could teach us, then we did whatever we could to get through the emotion or situation we were faced with. This continued and evolved over time-maybe it changed into substance use, maybe into chronic dishonesty, or maybe we just tried to disappear into the background. Eventually these coping skills stopped working and we become desperate for the pain to stop. This is the perfect time a person can completely change their life and become who they were meant to be. THIS is the second chance!
We are not born with the skills to handle life or our emotions. If we did not have people surrounding us as we grew who knew these skills and could teach us, then we did whatever we could to get through the emotion or situation we were faced with. This continued and evolved over time-maybe it changed into substance use, maybe into chronic dishonesty, or maybe we just tried to disappear into the background. Eventually these coping skills stopped working and we become desperate for the pain to stop. This is the perfect time a person can completely change their life and become who they were meant to be. THIS is the second chance!
![Photo of Timothy M Houchin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb74f692-99dd-468d-a6da-492796ba10bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
My team and I pride ourselves on completing a holistic, 360-degree evaluation and may offer fairly specific recommendations. We are well-versed and experienced at treating a variety of mental health problems but certainly enjoy working with individuals who are highly motivated to improve their quality of life.
My team and I pride ourselves on completing a holistic, 360-degree evaluation and may offer fairly specific recommendations. We are well-versed and experienced at treating a variety of mental health problems but certainly enjoy working with individuals who are highly motivated to improve their quality of life.
![Photo of Brittany Robinson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a0d43fa-d330-40e3-8f96-8ba16de76427/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for holistic healing, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to mental wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations with medication management and specialize in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that true healing occurs when we address the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for holistic healing, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to mental wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations with medication management and specialize in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that true healing occurs when we address the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
![Photo of Promise Haynes - Sunrise Mental Health & Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2cb89e3-0e79-4be0-aaaf-65ef63057d2e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sunrise Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40504 (Online Only)
Providing appointments 100% online. Accepting new patients with insurance from anywhere in the state of New York or Kentucky! Cash payment is also available. Do you feel lost in a room full of darkness? Is it hard to get out of bed in the morning? Have you lost joy in what used to be important to you? Are you suffering from anxiety that is preventing you from living your life to the fullest? We can help! At Sunrise Mental Health & Wellness we want to help you find the light in the darkness and bring hope and healing.
Providing appointments 100% online. Accepting new patients with insurance from anywhere in the state of New York or Kentucky! Cash payment is also available. Do you feel lost in a room full of darkness? Is it hard to get out of bed in the morning? Have you lost joy in what used to be important to you? Are you suffering from anxiety that is preventing you from living your life to the fullest? We can help! At Sunrise Mental Health & Wellness we want to help you find the light in the darkness and bring hope and healing.
![Photo of Danielle Bass, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b255f8e-6500-446f-be24-866ca9e1c1b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Bass
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504 (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2021. I have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Walden University, and A BSN degree from Galen College of Nursing. I am currently working towards earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Capella University.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2021. I have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Walden University, and A BSN degree from Galen College of Nursing. I am currently working towards earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Capella University.
![Photo of Dana Ahmed - Tranquility Behavioral Health Clinic, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c384256f-e6cd-43f4-bfce-6bcb99956af7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tranquility Behavioral Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503 (Online Only)
I partner with you to help you achieve your personal best and become the person you aspire to be. Our approach is rooted in creating a friendly, safe, and non-judgmental environment where we can all be our authentic selves. I practice integrated mental health services of traditional and alternative/ holistic approaches. We specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and PTSD just to name a few.
I partner with you to help you achieve your personal best and become the person you aspire to be. Our approach is rooted in creating a friendly, safe, and non-judgmental environment where we can all be our authentic selves. I practice integrated mental health services of traditional and alternative/ holistic approaches. We specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and PTSD just to name a few.
![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
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See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Nicholasville, KY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Nicholasville, KY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Anger Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Medicaid |
50% | Aetna |
50% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Nicholasville, KY see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Nicholasville?
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.